MOSCOW, September 29, 2026: Pakistan has called for direct air links, easier visa procedures and improved transport connectivity with Russia to strengthen bilateral trade, attract business investment and promote tourism between the two countries.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing the opening plenary session of the International Business Trends Forum 2026 at MGIMO University in Moscow.
The forum, organised by MGIMO’s Faculty of International Business under the theme “International Business Trends: Technologies, Markets, People,” brought together diplomats, senior government officials, academics and business leaders to discuss emerging markets, technological innovation and international economic cooperation.
Pakistan identifies three priorities for stronger trade ties with Russia
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Tirmizi identified visa facilitation, direct flights and efficient logistics as three key requirements for expanding economic cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.
He said improvements in these areas could help businesses access new markets, encourage tourism and strengthen people-to-people contacts.
The ambassador observed that changing global power structures were reshaping international trade patterns, creating opportunities for countries to develop new economic partnerships.
He emphasised that stronger connectivity would be essential for translating growing diplomatic engagement between Islamabad and Moscow into practical commercial cooperation.
Pakistan’s location offers access to regional markets
Highlighting Pakistan’s geographical position, Tirmizi described the country as a natural link between Central Asia and South Asia, with land and maritime routes offering opportunities for regional trade and transport connectivity.
He said closer cooperation on transport infrastructure and logistics could facilitate commercial exchanges across the wider Eurasian region.
The ambassador also highlighted Pakistan’s young population, stating that approximately 68 percent of its people were below the age of 26.
He described the country’s demographic profile as both an economic opportunity and a challenge, stressing the need for sustained investment in education, technical skills and employment.
Ambassador calls for stronger business and academic cooperation
Tirmizi also urged closer collaboration between universities, scientific institutions and the private sector to support innovation and economic development.
He said stronger links between research, technology and business could help countries respond to changing market demands and create new opportunities for cooperation.
The ambassador stressed the importance of connecting academic knowledge with commercial applications, particularly as emerging technologies reshape international business.
Russian interior minister expected to visit Pakistan in October
Referring to recent developments in bilateral relations, Ambassador Tirmizi said the Russian interior minister was expected to visit Pakistan in October 2026.
He cited the anticipated visit as an indication of continuing high-level engagement between the two countries.
The ambassador also highlighted the role of regional organisations, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).
He called for more effective use of these platforms to improve trade facilitation, transport networks and economic integration across South Asia, Central Asia and Eurasia.
Pakistan seeks greater people-to-people exchanges
On the sidelines of the forum, Ambassador Tirmizi interacted with MGIMO University students and exchanged views on Pakistan and developments in the international environment.
He encouraged greater academic cooperation, educational exchanges and direct interaction between the people of Pakistan and Russia.
The discussions reflected Pakistan’s efforts to expand its relationship with Russia beyond diplomatic engagement by strengthening commercial, educational and regional connectivity.