Russia ready to lend helping hand as Energy Minister outlines major cooperation plans for Pakistan

Islamabad: Russia stands ready to “lend a helping hand whenever needed,” said the Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev as he reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to expanding long-term cooperation with Pakistan across energy, pharmaceuticals, education, tourism, and space technology.

He called the 10th meeting of the Pakistan-Russia Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) a “turning point” in bilateral ties.

In an exclusive interview with Pakistan TV, during his visit to Islamabad, Tsivilev highlighted a series of initiatives aimed at deepening collaboration, stressing that both nations are prepared to support each other in times of need.

Russian Delegation Arrives with Cultural, Rescue and Space Missions

Tsivilev noted that the Russian delegation—comprising economic experts, rescue workers, medics, and cultural representatives—began work immediately upon arrival. He referenced a joint concert in Islamabad featuring Russian and Pakistani artists, as well as a special appearance by Russian cosmonaut Yelena Serova to inspire youth as both countries advance cooperation in outer-space research.

Rescue workers who assisted Pakistan during the 2005 earthquake were also honoured during the visit, marking 20 years since their deployment. Tsi said their stories symbolize the “human connection” between the two nations.

Insulin Production in Pakistan a Priority for ‘Pharmaceutical Security’

One of the most concrete proposals discussed was localized insulin production in Pakistan. Tsivilyov said Moscow wants Pakistan to achieve “pharmaceutical security” by manufacturing essential medicines domestically rather than relying on imports.

He confirmed that the final pricing model—aligned with the cost of American-made insulin currently imported by Pakistan—will be discussed during the IGC meeting. He added that Russia is open to jointly producing additional medicines and vaccines, including veterinary vaccines crucial for livestock protection.

Energy Justice: A Shared Vision for Development

The minister reiterated Russia’s global call for “energy justice,” pointing to the urgent need for equal access to reliable electricity in developing regions.

“Energy today defines competitiveness, transport systems, AI infrastructure, even finance through cryptocurrencies,” he said, adding that Russia has raised the issue at BRICS and SCO forums.

Tsivilev said Pakistan-Russia cooperation in the energy sector will expand as new technologies and investments are explored.

Engineering Education: Russia Proposes Joint Schools and Training

A major long-term initiative Tsivilev announced is the potential rollout of Russia’s Engineering Schools Program in Pakistan.

The model begins at the secondary-school level with specialized physics, chemistry, and mathematics tracks, followed by university training and industrial internships.

He said Russia aims to train 300,000 engineers by 2030 and is ready to include Pakistani students in a similar pipeline.

“It’s time to invest in children. In five to seven years, the payback will be far greater than any money spent today,” he said.

Tourism and Direct Flights on the Agenda

Tourism emerged as another expanding avenue, with both sides seeing strong interest from travelers. Tsivilyov said Pakistan and Russia must “remove existing restrictions” and simplify travel, adding that increased tourism flows could justify regular direct flights between the two countries. This issue remained a key focus of working-group meetings ahead of the IGC sessions, he confirmed.

Putin’s Message to Pakistan

Tsivilev said he arrived in Islamabad on the direct instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who conveyed “respect to the Pakistani nation” and expressed hope that bilateral ties will continue to grow stronger each year. Putin, he said, wishes “every success” to the IGC and hopes for the launch of maximum joint projects for the development of both nations.

“Russia Will Always Stand by Pakistan”

The minister said Russia values its friendship with Pakistan and remains ready to assist whenever needed.

“We are always prepared to lend a helping hand to the friendly nation of Pakistan,” he said