While us pak and chini pak collaboration are known there do exist a very weak but old paki russia collaboration
Russia-Pakistan Collaborations (Post-1991)
1. Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline Agreement (2016)
: Russia and Pakistan signed an agreement for the Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline (formerly North-South Gas Pipeline) from Karachi to Kasur, aimed at addressing Pakistan’s energy needs. A price accord was reached by December 2016, with Russia’s involvement in financing and constructing the pipeline, leveraging its expertise in oil and gas production. This project is a cornerstone of energy cooperation, given Pakistan’s significant energy demands.
2. Defence Cooperation Agreement (2014)
Signed during the Russian Defence Minister’s visit to Pakistan in November 2014, this agreement marked a shift in Russia-Pakistan relations by lifting Russia’s arms embargo on Pakistan. It facilitated the delivery of four Mi-35 gunship helicopters in 2017 and initiated joint military exercises like the Druzhba (Friendship) series, starting in 2016.
3. Russian-Pakistan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation (2010)
: Established to foster cooperation in trade, science, technology, and education, this commission has driven bilateral trade growth from $92 million in 2003 to $1 billion in 2023, the highest-ever level. It has facilitated agreements in diverse sectors, including agricultural exports like rice and citrus fruits from Pakistan to Russia.
4. Joint Military Exercises – Druzhba Series (2016 Onward)
: The first joint military exercise between Russia and Pakistan, named Druzhba (Friendship), was held in 2016, focusing on counterterrorism and security operations. These drills have continued annually, involving special forces and covering areas like mountain warfare and urban terrorism.
5. Educational and Cultural Agreements (2024)
: During the 9th Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC) meeting in Moscow in 2024, agreements were signed between Russian educational institutions and Pakistani universities like COMSATS and Peshawar University. These focus on academic exchanges, joint research, and capacity-building, alongside cultural programs to foster people-to-people ties.
Soviet-Pakistan Collaborations (1947–1991)
1. Karachi Steel Mills (1970s)
: The Soviet Union provided financial and technical assistance for establishing the Pakistan Steel Mills in Karachi, a landmark project funded with a 160 million Rubles package. This was part of Soviet efforts to support Pakistan’s industrial development during a period of relatively warm relations.
2. Tashkent Declaration (1966)
: The Soviet Union facilitated the Tashkent Summit between Pakistan and India, mediated by Soviet Prime Minister Alexei Kosygin, to end the 1965 Indo-Pakistan War. This diplomatic effort helped de-escalate tensions and resulted in a peace agreement signed on January 10, 1966.
3. Oil and Gas Development Corporation Ltd. (OGDCL) Establishment (1960s)
: The Soviet Union assisted in setting up the Oil and Gas Development Corporation Ltd. (OGDCL), providing technical expertise and equipment to bolster Pakistan’s energy exploration and production capabilities. This support was critical for Pakistan’s nascent energy sector.
4. Thermal Power Facilities (1960s–1970s)
: The Soviet Union aided in constructing major thermal power plants at Muzaffargarh, Multan-II, and Guddu, enhancing Pakistan’s power generation capacity. These projects were part of broader Soviet technical assistance during periods of improved relations.
5. Educational and Cultural Exchanges (1947–1950, 1965–1969)
: During the early years post-independence (1947–1950) and after the 1965 war (1965–1969), the Soviet Union engaged in educational and cultural exchanges with Pakistan, including training programs for Pakistani technicians and engineers in the Soviet Union and barter trade agreements. These initiatives fostered mutual understanding despite ideological differences.
- Significance: Promoted soft power and technical cooperation, creating goodwill during periods of relatively stable relations.
