ISLAMABAD: Russia has offered to help ease tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, calling for an early resolution of border disputes and the reopening of crossings as restrictions disrupt trade across the wider region.
Speaking at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad during a discussion on Pakistan–Russia relations, Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev said Moscow wanted an improvement in the situation between the two neighbouring countries.
His remarks highlighted the broader economic consequences of continued border closures, with commercial links extending beyond Pakistan and Afghanistan also facing disruption.
Khorev said the suspension of movement through border crossings was affecting trade not only between Islamabad and Kabul but also with Central Asian countries and Russia.
He expressed support for resolving tensions promptly and restoring access through the crossings, underscoring the importance of functioning trade routes for regional economic cooperation.
The Russian offer placed renewed attention on diplomatic engagement as a means of addressing disagreements that carry consequences for several countries connected through regional trade networks.
Pakistan Raises Cross-Border Security Concerns
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, said infiltration into Pakistan was taking place from Afghan territory. He described Afghanistan as a complicated challenge that Pakistan and Russia were seeking to address together.
According to Tirmizi, Moscow continues to urge the Taliban authorities to ensure that Afghanistan’s territory is not used against other countries.
He also pointed to the Russian interior minister’s recent visit to Pakistan as evidence of understanding between Islamabad and Moscow, saying the two countries had no differences.
His comments presented security cooperation and engagement over Afghanistan as important elements of the developing bilateral relationship.
Turning to future diplomatic engagement, Tirmizi expressed hope that Russian President Vladimir Putin would visit Pakistan next year to attend a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.
The remarks represented an expression of expectation rather than an announcement of a confirmed presidential visit.
Tirmizi said efforts were continuing to strengthen Pakistan–Russia relations, reflecting Islamabad’s interest in expanding cooperation and maintaining closer contact with Moscow.
Former Pakistani ambassador Masood Khan urged Russia to view Pakistan as an independent partner rather than primarily through its relations with India or Afghanistan.
The discussion brought together concerns over border security, interrupted commerce and diplomatic cooperation, with speakers highlighting opportunities to strengthen ties between Islamabad and Moscow.
