Putin praises Pakistan-Russia ties as ‘genuinely mutually beneficial’

Putin praises Pakistan-Russia ties as ‘genuinely mutually beneficial’

President Vladimir Putin praises Pakistan-Russia ties as ‘genuinely mutually beneficial’. File photo

January, 16 2026

(Web Desk): Russian President Vladimir Putin has called Pakistan Russia relations ‘genuinely mutually beneficial’, highlighting close bilateral cooperation and growing partnership.

Russian President Vladimir Putin described relations with Pakistan as strong and positive, saying Moscow maintains close cooperation with Islamabad on many fronts.

"We maintain close cooperation with Pakistan, a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the largest regional organisation in terms of economic, technological, and human potential," the Embassy of Russia in Pakistan quoted Putin as saying.

The statement came during a formal ceremony at the Grand Kremlin Palace in Moscow, where Pakistan’s ambassador to Russia, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, presented his credentials to President Putin.

Ambassador Tirmizi conveyed greetings and best wishes from President Asif Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the people of Pakistan to the Russian leader.

President Putin referred to Pakistan as a close partner and noted that cooperation is expanding in trade, diplomacy, education, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, railways, industry, health, and information technology.

Pakistan and Russia have increased engagement in recent years, especially after Moscow looked for new energy markets and Islamabad aimed to reduce import costs. Pakistan started purchasing Russian crude oil in 2023.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb earlier said both countries were discussing a possible oil sector agreement. "All of these areas are Russia’s strengths. And we would be very happy if Russia agreed on an agreement in this sector with Pakistan," he said in an interview.

He also shared that talks are underway to build another steel plant in Pakistan, while Russia has discussed upgrading a local refinery with its companies.

Pakistan received its first shipment of Russian crude in June 2023 when a tanker carrying 45,000 tonnes arrived at Karachi port after a government-led deal.

The statement shows warming ties between Pakistan and Russia. Energy and trade remain key areas of interest. Long term cooperation may help both economies grow.