Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev has reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Pakistan across security, economic, energy, and cultural sectors. He shared these views in an interview with the TASS news agency on February 9.
Regional security remains a top priority. Both countries are focusing on countering international terrorism. Cooperation is also continuing at multilateral forums. These include the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Ambassador Khorev said coordination within these platforms is constructive and effective.
Contacts at the regional level are also growing. Several Russian regions have shown interest in partnerships with Pakistan. These include Moscow, the Republic of Tatarstan, and Primorsky Krai. On the Pakistani side, Punjab and Sindh provinces are exploring cooperation in trade, industry, and development.
Education, science, and culture are key areas of engagement. Russia is actively promoting the Russian language in Pakistan. This is being done through the federal initiative “Russian Teachers Abroad.” Joint scientific conferences are being organized. Cultural and sporting exchanges are also being expanded to strengthen people-to-people ties.
Economic cooperation is expected to gain momentum in the coming years. Ambassador Khorev stressed the importance of boosting bilateral trade. He highlighted the need for reliable alternative payment mechanisms. Several large-scale joint projects are under consideration. These include the revival of Pakistan Steel Mills. Plans for direct rail connectivity between Russia and Pakistan are also being explored.
Energy cooperation holds special importance. Pakistan has expressed interest in working with Russia on oil exploration and production. Moscow is ready to support Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen energy sovereignty. The ambassador recalled that the Soviet Union helped establish Pakistan’s Oil and Gas Development Company Limited in the 1960s. It also assisted in discovering major oil and gas fields across the country.
Healthcare and pharmaceuticals are another focus area. Russia and Pakistan are considering joint ventures to manufacture medicines. The production of insulin is among the key proposals. These projects aim to improve access to essential drugs and reduce reliance on imports.
Within the SCO framework, cooperation remains strong. Both countries prioritize regional stability. Combating terrorism and transnational organized crime remains a shared objective. Ambassador Khorev described Pakistan as a reliable and constructive partner in the organization.
Russia has also welcomed Pakistan’s interest in joining BRICS. According to the ambassador, Islamabad’s possible accession to the New Development Bank could be a practical first step. The bank plays a major role in financing infrastructure and development projects in emerging economies.
Concluding the interview, Ambassador Khorev referred to Russia’s Diplomats’ Day, observed on February 10.
