| Islamabad: Pakistan and Russia are set to strengthen their bilateral ties by launching a freight train service via the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a 7,200-kilometer trade route connecting Russia, Central Asia, and India through Iran. The trial run of the freight train is scheduled for March 2025, according to Pakistan’s Energy Minister, Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari.
The initiative is part of broader discussions between Islamabad and Moscow aimed at enhancing transport and trade connectivity. Leghari revealed the plan during an interview with RT, highlighting the economic and strategic importance of this project for both nations. “This initiative will significantly boost trade and interaction between businesses in Pakistan and Russia,” he stated.
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The freight train project is a continuation of Pakistan’s commitment to joining the INSTC, which was first announced by Pakistan’s ambassador to Moscow, Muhammad Khalid Jamali, earlier this year at the International IT Forum in Russia. The corridor aims to streamline trade and logistics, offering an efficient route for goods transportation.
In addition to the rail link, both countries are also in talks to establish a direct air service. Leghari noted “mutual interest” in setting up airline connectivity soon, which will further enhance people-to-people and business interactions.
The announcement follows a series of discussions held in October during a visit by Russia’s Federation Council delegation to Islamabad. Chairwoman Valentina Matvienko emphasized the significance of logistics corridors, welcoming Pakistan’s interest in strengthening ties through transport and trade projects.
On Wednesday, Islamabad and Moscow signed eight memorandums of understanding covering various sectors, including health, trade, industrial cooperation, and education. Trade between the two nations has shown positive growth, with turnover reaching approximately $1 billion, though challenges such as trade imbalances remain.
Leghari underscored the need to diversify trade, highlighting Pakistan’s potential as a supplier of agricultural commodities to Russia. Moscow, in turn, is exploring opportunities to participate in oil and gas exploration in Pakistan and expand its oil exports to the country.
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The freight train initiative marks a significant step in the evolving partnership between Pakistan and Russia. By leveraging the INSTC and other transport corridors, both nations aim to create an environment conducive to economic growth and regional connectivity.
This development not only enhances bilateral trade but also underscores the broader geopolitical and economic collaboration between the two countries, setting the stage for a more integrated future. |
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