Pakistan-Russia talks focus on trade, energy cooperation

Pakistan and Russia have explored new opportunities to strengthen economic and strategic cooperation during the

Pakistan and Russia have explored new opportunities to strengthen economic and strategic cooperation during the second session of the Pakistan-Russia Webinar Series, focusing on trade, energy, education, industrial development, and regional connectivity.

The virtual event was organised by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Islamabad, in collaboration with the University of World Civilisations (UWCM), Moscow. It brought together senior policymakers, diplomats, business representatives, and academics from both countries.

The discussions aimed to move beyond political engagement and focus on practical economic initiatives that could enhance bilateral relations in the changing Eurasian landscape.

President of the Institute of Regional Studies, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, said Pakistan and Russia were entering a new phase of cooperation where economic partnerships, institutional collaboration, and people-to-people contacts could further strengthen diplomatic ties.

He stressed that regular policy discussions should be supported by practical steps that create long-term benefits for both nations.

Energy Minister Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to expand international energy partnerships. He said Russia could play an important role in energy security, infrastructure development, technological cooperation, and investment opportunities.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation Alexey V. Gruzdev reaffirmed Moscow’s interest in increasing industrial and commercial cooperation with Pakistan and pointed towards emerging opportunities across Eurasia.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia Faisal Niaz Tirmizi called for converting positive political relations into greater trade, investment, connectivity, and private-sector cooperation.

Russian Foreign Ministry representative Boris Burmistrov also emphasised the importance of deeper cooperation through government-level coordination, stronger economic links, and joint efforts at regional and international forums.

During the sessions, experts discussed ways to improve trade routes, transport connectivity, energy cooperation, education partnerships, and financial collaboration between the two countries.

Participants highlighted the importance of strengthening business-to-business relations, improving banking channels, expanding research partnerships, and increasing academic exchanges.

Experts also suggested promoting language learning programmes, joint research projects, technology transfer, and stronger links between universities and industries.

The speakers agreed that global economic changes have created new opportunities for Pakistan and Russia to diversify partnerships and enhance cooperation in multiple sectors, including trade, science, technology, and human development.