Istanbul, Türkiye — Web Desk: Pakistan and Russia have discussed the launch of a direct flight between Moscow and Islamabad as part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral connectivity, trade, and transport cooperation.
The discussions took place on the sidelines of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) ministerial conference in Istanbul, where Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan met Russian Deputy Minister for Transport Zverev Dmitry Stanislavovich.
Both sides agreed on the need to enhance land and air connectivity between the two countries, recognising improved transport links as a key driver of trade and people-to-people exchanges. During the meeting, the Russian deputy minister invited Aleem Khan to attend the International Transport and Logistics Forum scheduled to be held in Saint Petersburg from April 1 to 3, 2026.
Talks also focused on expanding bilateral banking channels and addressing existing barriers affecting trade and transport operations. Aleem Khan discussed practical measures to strengthen cooperation in the transport sector and expressed Pakistan’s commitment to resolving visa and logistical issues faced by Pakistani freight truck drivers.
The Pakistani minister reiterated Islamabad’s interest in developing regional land corridors in coordination with China and other partner countries. He said Pakistan and Russia could potentially be connected through Central Asian states, enhancing regional trade routes and economic integration.
Aleem Khan further said Pakistan was seeking mutual cooperation with Russia in road network development and noted that regional countries could benefit from shared experience and collaboration discussed during the OIC conference.
The Russian deputy minister expressed goodwill and said broader cooperation with Pakistan in the transport and logistics sector was possible, signalling growing engagement between the two countries.
The discussions reflect Pakistan’s push to expand regional connectivity and diversify trade routes, while Russia has been exploring deeper economic and infrastructure partnerships across South and Central Asia.
