Dr. A. Z. Hilali (IR Expert): In the past, Pakistan and Russia observed ups and downs in their bilateral ties. But due to global and regional changes and Russian concerns regarding the deepening of US-India relations, Moscow has developed a new interest in engaging Islamabad. Both countries are trying to move forward past lingering mistrust. Russia also acknowledges that the Kashmir issue is the main bone of contention between Pakistan and India and it must be resolved through dialogue. The stronger relationship between China and Pakistan has played a key role in Asia’s geopolitics. However, broader regional developments over the last few months also raise the possibility of a new coalition involving Pakistan, China, and Russia. During their telephonic conversation, Prime Minister Imran Khan and Russian President developed good understanding about each other. 

Shahid Amin (Former Ambassador):  Prime Minister Imran Khan during his telephonic conversation with the Russian President discussed regional issues which is a positive development. Russia is increasing diplomatic efforts to revive ties with Pakistan through a $2.5 billion natural gas pipeline that will improve economic ties between the two countries. The 1,100-km pipeline will almost double Pakistan's current capacity to transport 1.2 billion cubic feet of imported natural gas per day from liquid natural gas terminals in the southern port of Karachi to Punjab in the north. The Prime Minister has rightly appreciated the statement of the Russian President regarding Islamophobia. Russia has evolved as a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural state and Russians are used to respecting each other’s’ traditions. The foundation of Russia-Pakistan convergence lies in mutual thinking regarding Afghanistan. Moscow and Islamabad agree that a negotiated peace process is the only viable option for the future stability of Afghanistan.

Mushtaq Ahmed Mehar (Former Ambassador): Pak-Russia bilateral relations in current regional developments are very important. Russia mediated in Pak-India conflict through Tashkent Declaration the resulted in end of war between the two countries. Moreover, Russia also supported Pakistan in establishing Pakistan Steel Mills. The construction work started in 1974 by a consortium of Pakistani companies under the supervision of Soviet engineers and experts and more than 400 Russians were involved in the project. USA’s ebbing and flowing relations spurred Pakistan to reconsider its policy towards Russia. It seems that as the result of US inconsistent policies towards the South Asian region, a new block consisting of Pakistan, Iran, China and Russia is developing. Pakistan needs to strengthen economic ties with Russia as the economic relations have the power to create mutual understanding and amicable relations between the nations. It is a great development that leaders of Pakistan and Russia agreed to have close coordination and consultations on the evolving situation in Afghanistan.

Dr. Huma Baqai (IR Expert): It is unfortunate that culprits involved in white collar crimes including the politicians in Pakistan cannot be brought back if they fly to other countries. There was no legal mechanism or treaty between the United Kingdom and Pakistan that would help tackle the problem of illegal migration and enable the two countries to share criminal records for effective law-enforcement cooperation. With the new development, it is hoped that criminals who escaped would be brought back to face justice in their respective countries.