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Pakistan is exploring membership in the INSTC as Russia backs linking the trade corridor with Gwadar Port to strengthen regional connectivity and trade.
Pakistan is moving to become part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a development that could strengthen the country’s role in regional trade and connectivity while opening new avenues for economic cooperation with Russia and other Eurasian states.
The plan was highlighted by Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari during a webinar examining the future of Pakistan-Russia relations amid changing global dynamics. According to the minister, Islamabad is interested in joining the transcontinental transport network as both countries work toward expanding their strategic and economic partnership.
The INSTC is a multi-route transportation system that integrates maritime, rail and road infrastructure to facilitate the movement of goods across a number of countries, including Russia, Iran, Azerbaijan and several Central Asian states. The corridor is designed to improve trade efficiency and reduce transit times between Eurasia and other markets.
Leghari welcomed recent remarks by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk regarding the possibility of linking the transport corridor with Pakistan’s Gwadar Port. Such a connection could enhance regional logistics networks and further integrate Pakistan into emerging trade routes connecting South Asia, Central Asia and beyond.
Discussing the evolution of bilateral ties, the minister said relations between Pakistan and Russia have gained momentum over the past two decades, expanding into areas such as energy, commerce, security cooperation and technology. He noted that continued engagement at the leadership level has contributed to growing trust and stronger institutional links between the two countries.
Leghari also pointed to ongoing cooperation through the Pakistan-Russia Intergovernmental Commission, which serves as a platform for advancing economic and sectoral collaboration. According to him, regular interaction between officials from both sides has helped broaden the scope of the relationship.
Beyond trade and connectivity, Pakistan and Russia are also engaging on regional and international issues through forums such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The minister said both countries support greater cooperation within a multipolar global framework and continue to explore opportunities for coordinated engagement on shared challenges.
Looking ahead, Islamabad and Moscow are preparing to formalize a long-term economic cooperation program extending to 2030. Officials believe the framework could help address barriers to trade, improve business engagement and create new opportunities for investment.
The minister said enhanced connectivity, stronger economic ties and deeper regional integration will remain central to the next phase of Pakistan-Russia relations as both countries seek to expand cooperation across multiple sectors.
