Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk is set to lead a high-level delegation on a two-day visit to Pakistan from September 18 to 19, according to an official statement by Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO). The visit marks a significant moment in the ongoing cooperation between Islamabad and Moscow, particularly in the fields of energy and industrial development.
During his visit, Deputy PM Overchuk is scheduled to meet with key figures in Pakistan’s leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar. These meetings are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in light of recent discussions around Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) transactions and industrial collaboration.
The visit comes as both nations continue to explore future LNG trade opportunities. Last month, The News reported that Islamabad and Moscow were discussing potential LNG transactions, with Russia indicating that its LNG export terminals would be ready for gas trade with Pakistan by 2026. This timeline aligns with Pakistan’s re-opening of price negotiations under its long-term LNG agreements with Qatar.
In addition to energy cooperation, Russia’s support in reviving Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) has been a focal point of recent discussions. Earlier this year, President Zardari met with Russian officials who expressed interest in assisting with the revitalisation of PSM, originally established with Moscow’s help. The Ministry of Industries and Production has since submitted a report to the National Assembly, indicating plans to establish a new steel mill at the existing PSM site with Russian assistance.
Russian Consul General Andrey Viktorovich Fedorov previously offered Moscow’s expertise to Islamabad in reviving PSM. An official report to the National Assembly also confirmed that a Russian delegation would visit Pakistan to further discuss the establishment of a modern steel mill.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had earlier met Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of State meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan. The two leaders emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation in various sectors, signalling a continued focus on economic and industrial collaboration.
As Pakistan’s government faces significant challenges, particularly on the economic front, Deputy PM Overchuk’s visit could open new avenues for collaboration and investment between the two nations.