Pakistan is trying to increase cooperation with Russia amid economic pressure and regional security challenges. Issues like trade, energy, investment and the situation in Afghanistan are likely to be discussed in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s proposed visit to Moscow.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif may visit Russia in the coming weeks. During this visit, he is likely to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, the date of the visit has not been formally announced yet by both the countries. Pakistani newspaper ‘The Express Tribune’ has quoted diplomatic sources as saying that preparations for the visit are underway. This proposed meeting is being considered important at a time when Pakistan is struggling with economic difficulties, energy needs and increasing tension in the surrounding countries. Islamabad may try to advance economic partnership with Russia and strengthen dialogue on regional matters.
Why was the earlier proposed tour postponed?
Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Russia was earlier proposed in March, but it was postponed due to the tense situation in the region. Now both the sides are working towards setting a new date through negotiations. At present it is not clear on which day the Prime Minister will reach Moscow and what will be the final schedule of the meeting.
The news of preparations at the diplomatic level has come at a time when Pakistan is exploring new opportunities for economic cooperation in its international relations. High-level talks with Russia can provide an opportunity to both the countries to discuss mutual priorities.
Islamabad’s efforts amid security challenges
Tension on the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has increased Islamabad’s security concerns. The confrontation and border disputes between the two sides have been taking serious form from time to time. Apart from this, the tension between America and Iran has also affected the broader regional environment.
Under such circumstances, Pakistan may want to discuss regional security with Russia. The situation in Afghanistan can also become an important topic of possible talks, because the developments there impact the security and border management of the surrounding countries.
Emphasis may remain on trade and energy cooperation
Issues related to trade, investment, energy and economic development may remain prominent in the proposed meeting. Pakistan needs international partnerships to meet its energy needs and support its economy. Options to increase cooperation in the energy sector can be considered in talks with Russia.
However, both the governments have not yet officially confirmed the agenda of the meeting. Therefore, these topics should be seen only as issues for possible discussion, and not as an indication of any agreement being reached.
Increased stir after Russian minister’s visit to Pakistan
Russian Internal Affairs Minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev visited Islamabad on October 12. During this period he had held meetings with the civil and military leadership of Pakistan. According to available information, during these contacts, discussions were held to increase cooperation between the two countries in economic and other fields.
Shehbaz Sharif also expressed his desire to take forward partnership with Russia in trade, investment, energy and economic development. Now the proposed Prime Minister level meeting may provide an opportunity to take these discussions forward.
Will Pakistan benefit from Moscow visit?
Pakistan’s efforts to grow closer to Russia can be seen in the context of its broader diplomatic strategy. Cooperation in areas such as energy, investment and security is important for Islamabad, while talks with Moscow could give both countries an opportunity to consider shared interests.
Nevertheless, the success of the visit will depend on whether any concrete agreement is reached after the talks or not. At present, the official announcement of the date and agenda of the tour is awaited.