ISLAMABAD, 24 October, 2026 (Nosheen): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to undertake a four-day official visit to Russia from November 30, during which he is likely to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in political, diplomatic, trade, economic and energy sectors. According to diplomatic sources, the proposed visit is expected to feature high-level talks on Pakistan-Russia relations, regional developments, economic partnership and international issues of mutual interest. Discussions are likely to focus on expanding bilateral trade, cooperation in energy, oil and gas supplies, investment, industrial development and joint economic projects. Russian cooperation in the rehabilitation and modernisation of Pakistan Steel Mills, development of energy infrastructure, agriculture and food security may also feature on the agenda. The two sides are also expected to discuss facilitating banking and financial transactions, improving trade payment mechanisms and addressing challenges faced by business communities in both countries. Regional and international issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, regional security, stability in South and Central Asia and cooperation at international forums, may also come under discussion. A Pakistan-Russia Business Forum is also expected to be held on the sidelines of the visit, with around 100 Pakistani business leaders and company representatives likely to participate. The forum is expected to provide opportunities for business-to-business meetings, strengthening commercial partnerships, exploring joint investment opportunities and expanding bilateral trade. The Pakistani business delegation is likely to include representatives from the textile, agriculture, food, pharmaceutical, industrial products and energy sectors. Diplomatic sources said a business forum and participation of a sizeable Pakistani business delegation had also been considered during an earlier planned visit, which was subsequently postponed, and key elements of the previous programme are expected to be retained. The prime minister is also likely to meet Pakistani students studying in Russia to discuss their educational experiences, concerns and opportunities for greater academic cooperation between the two countries. In addition, a one-day visit to St Petersburg, Russia’s historic and cultural city, is also being considered as part of the programme. Pakistan and Russia have expanded high-level diplomatic engagement and economic cooperation in recent years, with both countries seeking to deepen ties in trade, energy, industrial development, education and regional connectivity. The proposed visit is expected to provide further impetus to bilateral relations and create opportunities for enhanced economic engagement. However, the final dates of the visit, composition of the delegation and detailed schedule of meetings have yet to be officially announced.