A high-level Pakistani delegation met Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk in Moscow on Thursday to strengthen bilateral cooperation across trade, energy, industrial projects, and regional connectivity. The delegation was led by Syed Tariq Fatemi, SAPM on Foreign Affairs, and Haroon Akhtar Khan, SAPM on Industries and focal person for the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) project.
During the talks, Haroon Akhtar Khan underscored the significance of the new Steel Mills project in Karachi, describing it as a key legacy of Pakistan-Russia relations and a potential catalyst for future industrial collaboration. He also highlighted Pakistan’s investment-friendly policies, which have ensured macroeconomic stability. Meanwhile, Fatemi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening ties with Russia, calling it a priority in Islamabad’s foreign policy.
Deputy PM Overchuk, assisted by senior Russian ministers, recalled his 2024 visits to Pakistan and meetings with PM Shehbaz Sharif. He emphasized that President Putin views Pakistan as a critical partner for regional economic growth, particularly in energy and connectivity. Key projects discussed included railway links between Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and Russia, along with a pilot cargo train service set to launch in August 2025.
The two sides also exchanged views on South Asia, Afghanistan, and the Middle East. Overchuk revealed that President Putin looks forward to meeting PM Shehbaz Sharif at the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China, later this month. With growing trade and strategic alignment, this meeting marks another step in Pakistan-Russia relations, signaling deeper cooperation ahead. 🌍🚆