Alexei Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, arrived in Islamabad today for a two-day visit, accompanied by a high-level delegation. This visit signals strengthening ties between Russia and Pakistan, particularly in the trade, energy, and connectivity sectors.
Overchuk is set to meet key Pakistani leaders, including the President, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister. These meetings will focus on enhancing cooperation across various sectors, which indicates the increasing trust between the two nations.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson, emphasized the mutual respect and multifaceted cooperation characterizing the Russia-Pakistan relationship. This visit, particularly significant in the energy sector, highlights Pakistan’s escalated engagement with Russia.
Over the past year, Pakistan has been procuring Russian energy supplies to combat rising global fuel prices. Amidst economic challenges such as inflation and a foreign exchange crisis, Pakistan started purchasing Russian crude oil at discounted rates. In September 2023, Pakistan received its first shipment of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Russia, marking a significant development in their energy cooperation.
The visit of Alexei Overchuk represents a crucial moment in the burgeoning relationship between the two countries. It underscoring their commitment to strengthening ties, especially in areas of shared interest like energy and trade. As the discussions advance, both nations aim to deepen their cooperation and explore new collaborative opportunities.
