TIANJIN, August 31, 2025 — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif interacted with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Tianjin, highlighting the steady growth of Pakistan-Russia relations in recent years.
On SCO summit sidelines, Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif meets key global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkiye’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan https://t.co/Q5eLCNhVSn pic.twitter.com/oKDwJFWyEf
— Arab News Pakistan (@arabnewspk) September 1, 2025
Informal Yet Significant Engagement
- The interaction reportedly took place during photo sessions and a welcome banquet hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
- While not a formal sit-down meeting, the exchange underscored the increasing diplomatic warmth between Islamabad and Moscow.
Focus on Expanding Cooperation
- Pakistan and Russia have been working to broaden cooperation in multiple fields, including:
- Energy: Discussions on the import of Russian oil and gas remain ongoing.
- Trade: Both sides are seeking new avenues to boost commerce despite global economic pressures.
- Defense: Engagements continue in training, equipment, and regional security collaboration.
Broader Diplomatic Context
- The interaction comes against the backdrop of shifting global geopolitical alignments. Pakistan’s outreach to Russia has gained momentum in recent years, with both countries finding common ground on energy security and regional connectivity projects.
- The SCO summit provides a unique platform for Pakistan and Russia to coordinate positions on issues of mutual concern, including counterterrorism, regional stability, and economic integration across Eurasia.
Growing Strategic Space
- Analysts note that the Shehbaz–Putin interaction, even in an informal setting, reflects a gradual but clear thaw in bilateral ties.
- For Pakistan, closer engagement with Russia aligns with a multi-vector foreign policy, balancing its relations with traditional allies while expanding strategic options in Eurasia.
Fact Check
- Official statements from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and video footage from Tianjin confirm that PM Shehbaz Sharif did meet and engage with President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the summit.
You May Like To Read:
