Pakistan, Russia call for strategic reset as Moscow visit looms

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Russia have been urged to confront emerging geopolitical challenges, deepen mutual understanding, and chart new pathways for sustainable bilateral cooperation, as momentum builds ahead of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s expected visit to Moscow.

Speaking at a session titled “The Perspectives on the Bilateral Relations Development between Russia and Pakistan” during the Pakistan-Russia Media Forum, Dr Roxolana Zigon, head of the Scientific Center of International and Strategic Studies at the University of World Civilization, described the forum as a clear signal of expanding engagement between the two countries.

She noted that shifting global power dynamics have pushed Islamabad and Moscow to recognize converging strategic and geopolitical interests. The forum, she said, is aimed at strengthening collaboration at multiple levels before the prime minister’s Moscow trip. Dr Zigon highlighted Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, its measured handling of tensions with India, and its attempt to assert itself as a responsible “middle power” through proactive global diplomacy.

She emphasized that Pakistan’s diplomatic and military conduct during heightened tensions with India demonstrated restraint and responsibility as a nuclear state, reinforcing its credibility on the global stage.

Former foreign secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry observed that Pakistan-Russia ties have steadily improved since the early 2000s, with both sides building trust and expanding cooperation in defense, energy and regional connectivity.

Sarwat Rauf, head of the Department of International Relations at NUML, described the current phase as a timely opportunity to consolidate gains despite geopolitical headwinds. She underscored the role of academic and intellectual exchanges in strengthening long-term bilateral engagement.

Dr Syed Muhammad Ali, chairperson of the Council of Complaints, outlined emerging sectors for cooperation and stressed the need to cultivate deeper trust. Identifying fourteen key challenges, he proposed measures to address them while expressing optimism that Pakistan-Russia relations are poised for further growth.