ISTANBUL: Pakistan and Russia have discussed launching a direct flight between Moscow and Islamabad and developing land transport corridors to improve bilateral connectivity and trade cooperation.
The discussion took place on the sidelines of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) ministerial meeting in Istanbul, where Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan met Russian Deputy Minister for Transport Dmitry Stanislavovich Zverev.
According to officials, both sides examined measures to enhance air, road and freight connectivity between the two countries. The proposed direct flight is intended to facilitate business travel and cargo movement.
The Russian deputy minister invited the Pakistani minister to attend the International Transport and Logistics Forum scheduled to be held in Saint Petersburg from April 1 to 3, 2026.
During the meeting, the two sides also reviewed options for expanding banking channels and removing operational barriers affecting bilateral trade and transport services.
Pakistani officials highlighted the need to address visa and operational issues faced by transport operators and emphasized developing regional land routes linking Pakistan with Russia through Central Asia in coordination with regional partners.
Both delegations expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in logistics, freight operations and regional connectivity initiatives.
Officials said improved air links and overland transport corridors could support trade flows and enhance economic engagement between Pakistan, Russia and neighboring countries.
