Pakistan and Russia have strengthened relations in energy, trade, military cooperation.
In recent years, the traditionally distant relations between Pakistan and Russia have witnessed a notable shift towards closer ties, especially in the areas of energy, trade, and military cooperation. This development comes at a time when Pakistan is facing economic challenges and Western sanctions are tightening Russia’s global economic position. With Russia’s long-standing strategic partnership with India, Islamabad-Moscow relations signal a significant shift in regional geopolitics and global alliances.
Historically, Pakistan, Russia ties have often been overshadowed by Russia’s strategic alignment with India, Pakistan’s neighbour and long-time adversary. However, the changing geopolitical dynamics, particularly after the end of the Cold War, have opened avenues for both nations to reevaluate their interests. A crucial factor in this newfound cooperation is the shared goal of diversifying trade and energy partnerships, reducing dependence on traditional Western partners, and navigating sanctions imposed on Russia due to the war with Ukraine.
Energy sector has become one of the key areas in strengthening Pakistan-Russia relations. Both nations are reportedly exploring major energy ventures, including a potential gas pipeline connecting Russia’s vast natural gas reserves to Pakistan, which would alleviate Pakistan’s energy crisis. Russia has also shown interest in supplying Pakistan with petroleum products.
For Pakistan, this cooperation is vital as it grapples with energy shortages, which have crippled industrial growth and resulted in regular power outages. Russia, on the other hand, sees Pakistan as a partner to enhance its reach in South Asia, a region that holds significant economic and strategic value. The bilateral efforts also include potential projects in the development of renewable energy resources, positioning Russia as a critical partner in Pakistan’s long-term energy plans.
In addition, Pakistan’s offer to send agricultural goods to Russia, amidst its ongoing payment struggles reflects Pakistan’s intention to foster closer economic cooperation with Russia in non-traditional sectors. For Russia, this is an opportunity to secure cheaper food imports and reduce dependency on the West, especially amidst ongoing sanctions.
Pakistan-Russia discussions have also focused on increasing trade volumes, with both countries looking to tap into each other's markets.
Military cooperation is another area where Pakistan and Russia have made strides in recent years. While Pakistan's military ties with the United States have been historically significant, Russia’s increasing interest in engaging with Pakistan militarily marks a shift in the region’s security landscape. Some media reports have highlighted Pakistan’s interest in acquiring Russia’s S-350 air defence system, a deal that could strengthen Pakistan's defense capabilities.
This evolving defence cooperation can also alter the balance of power in the region, where both India and Pakistan have historically been rivals. Experts see Russia’s growing role in South Asian security dynamics as a counterbalance to the US-India strategic partnership as it offers Pakistan a diversified military partnership that was once unimaginable, given the alignment of Russia with India.
While Russia has maintained a close relationship with India, the recent warming of ties with Pakistan suggests a recalibration of Moscow’s foreign policy, influenced by both strategic interests and economic pragmatism. Moscow continues to supply India with advanced defence systems and has held joint military exercises with New Delhi. Nonetheless, the dual approach to both South Asian powers reflects Russia's balancing act in the region, emphasising its desire to maintain a broad spectrum of alliances that can secure its interests without alienating any single country.
