Moscow: The inaugural Pakistan-Russia Trade and Investment Forum took place in Moscow, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral trade relationship between Pakistan and Russia. Led by Federal Minister for Privatization, Board of Investment & Communication, Mr. Abdul Aleem Khan, a delegation of 60 Pakistani companies aimed to enhance economic ties and explore new business opportunities.

Govt focusing on ease of doing business to attract foreign investment: Jam

The forum was officially opened by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia, HE Mr. Muhammad Khalid Jamali, alongside high-ranking officials from the Russian government, including Mr. Alexey Gruzdev, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade, and Mr. Evgeny Fidchuk, Advisor to the Minister of Transport.

A notable achievement was the signing of the first-ever Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on barter trade, involving Russian company LLC “Astarta Agrotrading” and Pakistani firms Meskay & Femtee Trading Company and National Fruit Processing Factory, facilitating the exchange of goods such as chickpeas, rice, mandarins, potatoes, and red lentils.

The event showcased over 60 Pakistani companies representing a wide array of products and services—including textiles, leather, sports goods, pharmaceuticals, food, agricultural products, logistics, and tourism—with a combined export value exceeding 500 million USD.

On the Russian side, more than 60 officials from various government sectors, including the Ministries of Industry and Trade, Agriculture, and Economic Development, as well as representatives from the Russian Export Centre and regional chambers, participated. Russian banks, such as MKB, also attended to explore potential partnerships.

This inaugural forum signifies a crucial development in the economic ties between Pakistan and Russia.