ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari has said that Pakistan is actively considering joining the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a move aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and enhancing trade links across Eurasia, including potential integration with Gwadar Port.
He made the remarks while addressing a high-level webinar titled “Pakistan–Russia Bilateral Relations at the Cusp of a Shifting Global Order,” jointly organised by the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and the University of World Civilizations, Moscow.
Leghari highlighted expanding cooperation between Pakistan and Russia in key sectors including energy, trade, industry, defence, education, science and technology, and people-to-people exchanges. He said these ties are being reinforced through increasing high-level engagements and the ongoing work of the Pakistan–Russia Intergovernmental Commission.
Describing bilateral relations as steadily strengthening over the past two decades, the minister noted that this progress is taking place amid a rapidly evolving global environment shaped by geopolitical shifts, technological change, and the rise of new economic centres.
He said both countries are well positioned to contribute to regional stability, economic integration, and a more balanced international order.
Referring specifically to connectivity initiatives, Leghari welcomed discussions on Pakistan’s potential participation in the INSTC and its possible linkage with Gwadar Port. He also underscored the importance of the Programme of Economic Cooperation between Pakistan and Russia through 2030.
The webinar also featured participation from senior diplomats, policymakers, and experts from both countries, who discussed the evolving global order and future prospects for bilateral cooperation.
Speakers including Faisal Niaz Tirmizi and other participants highlighted the growing importance of diplomatic engagement and connectivity projects in strengthening Pakistan–Russia relations.
Experts noted that expanding cooperation in energy, trade corridors, transport infrastructure, education, and security could play a key role in advancing regional integration across Eurasia.
Former officials and academics, including Masood Khan, emphasised the potential for broader regional collaboration involving Pakistan, Russia, China, and Central Asian states in a multipolar global framework.
Participants from Moscow also pointed to increasing momentum in bilateral ties, particularly in transport corridors, energy cooperation, academic exchange, and regional connectivity, highlighting Pakistan’s strategic role in Eurasian trade routes.
The webinar concluded that Pakistan–Russia relations are entering a phase of deeper strategic engagement, with growing opportunities for economic cooperation, regional connectivity, and institutional collaboration.
Story by Naveed Siddiqui
