Shehbaz Sharif set for official visit to Russia next week

WEB DESK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to undertake an official visit to Russia from 3rd to 5th March, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti has reported, citing a senior Pakistani official.

The visit, confirmed by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, is being prepared as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. Pakistani officials have described the trip as a “historic” opportunity to expand political and economic cooperation.

Diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Russia date back to 1 May 1948, and in recent years, both nations have sought to enhance trade, energy partnerships, and regional security collaboration. The forthcoming visit is expected to include high-level meetings in Moscow, with discussions likely to focus on economic cooperation, regional stability, and strategic dialogue.

A Pakistan–Russia business forum will also take place during the visit, providing a platform for hundreds of Pakistani firms to explore partnerships with Russian counterparts. Analysts suggest the trip could pave the way for strengthened trade relations and increased engagement in infrastructure and energy projects.

Historically, Pakistan–Russia relations have been influenced by broader geopolitical dynamics, but the two nations have maintained a consistent dialogue, particularly in the context of regional security and multilateral organisations such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

With tensions in the region, including along the Pakistan–Afghanistan border, this visit is being closely watched as a potential step towards enhanced regional cooperation and diplomacy.