ISLAMABAD, October 19, 2026: Pakistan and Russia have underscored the need to strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, education, regional connectivity and security, with a focus on translating growing political engagement into practical benefits for businesses, students and people in both countries.Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Russian Federation, H.E. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, made these remarks during a special talk on “Pakistan–Russia Relations” at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) on Monday.
Emphasising the importance of closer economic engagement, Ambassador Tirmizi highlighted visa facilitation, direct flights and solutions to banking and payment challenges as key priorities for expanding bilateral trade and investment. He also outlined preparations for a bilateral business forum, including advance meetings between companies to identify potential partnerships and investment opportunities.The ambassador stressed the importance of strengthening regional transport and connectivity through Iran, Afghanistan and China to facilitate trade and enhance economic cooperation.
On education, he called for stronger partnerships between universities, increased student mobility and expanded collaboration in science, engineering and agriculture. He also emphasised Russian language teaching, cultural exchanges and closer cooperation between the media and creative sectors to promote mutual understanding.Addressing regional security, Ambassador Tirmizi highlighted opportunities to enhance counterterrorism and law enforcement cooperation, particularly following the recent visit of Russia’s Interior Minister to Pakistan.Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to help ease tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He also expressed concern over reports of terrorist infiltration into Pakistan from Afghan territory and highlighted the adverse impact of border closures on regional trade.Director General ISSI Ambassador Moin ul Haque highlighted the institute’s collaboration with Russian think tanks and its efforts to promote joint research and academic exchanges between the two countries.
In his concluding remarks, Chairman of the ISSI Board of Governors Ambassador Khalid Mahmood noted the growing convergence between Pakistan and Russia on various issues, including counterterrorism, underscoring the potential for deeper bilateral engagement.Organised by ISSI’s Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP), the event brought together diplomats, scholars and researchers for an interactive discussion on strengthening Pakistan–Russia relations and identifying practical avenues for future cooperation.
