Pakistan-Russia trade gets connectivity push

Pakistan wants to widen commerce, tourism and business exchanges with Russia through easier visas, direct flights and stronger logistics, according to Mettis Global. Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi presented these measures at the International Business Trends Forum 2026, held at MGIMO University in Moscow.

Tirmizi argued that changing global trade flows require deeper partnerships and better regional links, adding that Pakistan's location could aid connections between Central Asia, South Asia and the Middle East. He cited regional bodies such as the SCO, D-8, SAARC and ECO as platforms that can improve trade, transport and integration, and said Pakistan's land and sea routes could widen regional commerce if logistics and business facilitation are strengthened.

The ambassador also called for tighter cooperation between companies and research bodies, which he said could drive innovation and lasting growth. He noted that about 68% of Pakistan's population is under 30, a sizeable pool of prospective workers and buyers, and pointed to a planned October visit to Pakistan by the Russian Interior Minister as part of ongoing high-level contact.