Moscow Supports Pakistan’s BRICS Aspirations, Strengthens SCO Coordination
Islamabad: Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert P. Khorev has outlined Moscow’s key priorities for strengthening bilateral cooperation with Pakistan, emphasizing regional security, counterterrorism, energy collaboration, and expanded engagement in multilateral forums.
In an interview with the TASS News Agency, the ambassador said Russia is prioritizing contacts in regional security and the fight against international terrorism, alongside closer coordination at multilateral platforms, particularly the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). He added that cooperation between cities and regions of the two countries is gaining momentum, with Moscow, the Republic of Tatarstan, and Primorsky Krai expressing interest, alongside Pakistan’s provinces of Punjab and Sindh.
Ambassador Khorev said Russia is placing special focus on strengthening ties in education, science, and culture, including promoting the Russian language in Pakistan through initiatives such as the federal programme “Russian Teachers Abroad.” He noted that both sides are also facilitating joint scientific conferences, cultural exchanges, and sporting events.
Highlighting economic cooperation, the envoy said the coming years will be crucial for expanding bilateral trade, developing alternative payment mechanisms, and implementing major joint projects. These include the revival of Pakistan Steel Mills, establishment of rail connectivity between Russia and Pakistan, cooperation in hydropower development, and the creation of joint ventures for pharmaceutical production, including insulin.
On energy cooperation, Ambassador Khorev said Pakistan is interested in Russian support for oil exploration and production, adding that Moscow is ready to assist Pakistan in strengthening its energy sovereignty. He recalled that the former Soviet Union played a key role in establishing Pakistan’s state-owned Oil and Gas Development Company Limited in the 1960s and assisted in the discovery of several oil and gas fields.
The ambassador acknowledged constructive cooperation with Pakistan within the SCO, reiterating that ensuring regional security and combating terrorism and transnational organized crime remain shared priorities.
Commenting on Pakistan’s interest in BRICS, Ambassador Khorev said Russia welcomes Islamabad’s aspirations, suggesting that Pakistan’s accession to the New Development Bank could serve as a practical step toward deeper engagement with the bloc.
Referring to Russia’s Diplomats’ Day on February 10, Ambassador Khorev extended greetings to Russian diplomats in Moscow and abroad, wishing them success in advancing Russia’s foreign policy objectives globally.
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