Policy Brief 22/10/2024
Pakistan and Russia have made significant progress in defence, economic, and geopolitical cooperation since the early 2000s. The bilateral relations have improved ever since Pakistan’s active commitment to fight terrorism. The key developments include foreign ministers’ meetings, defence collaborations, and Russia’s support for Pakistan’s access to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Since 2007, relations have strengthened through trade and investment in sectors such as agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and military cooperation, including arms purchases and joint counterterrorism exercises. Russia invests in Pakistan, particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors, and both the nations have special interest in the success of the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which also provides an instant access to Russia to the Indian Ocean via Gwadar Port.
The automotive industry, collaboration in education, strengthening economic ties, increasing trade, and boosting foreign direct investment will be the key to augmenting bilateral relations. Future collaboration on energy transitions and technological advancements could enhance economic growth. The strategic framework outlined in this paper highlight shared interests in areas like technology, infrastructure, and trade, offering both nations a chance to deepen their partnership and achieve broader economic and geopolitical goals through diplomacy, trade, and investment
