Shehbaz Sharif has put off his visit because of ongoing internal and regional developments
The Pakistani government announced that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has deferred his upcoming journey to Russia.
The visit was originally set to take place from March 3 to March 5.
According to a government statement released on Sunday, the postponement was prompted by the prevailing domestic and regional climate.
“While the Prime Minister’s trip to Russia is vital for advancing bilateral ties, the current situation has necessitated a delay,” the statement noted.
A rescheduled date will be established following discussions with Moscow.
Additionally, Sharif expressed his sympathies to the Iranian people following the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
“Pakistan’s government and citizens stand with Iran during this period of mourning, offering heartfelt condolences on the martyrdom of His Eminence Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei,” he shared on X.
The decision to delay the Russian visit coincides with escalating friction between Pakistan and Afghanistan that began last week.
Ties between Islamabad and Kabul have worsened significantly due to reciprocal allegations regarding militant groups. Pakistan claims Afghanistan is providing refuge to Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants, a charge the Taliban rejects.
Russia has called on both nations to cease cross-border hostilities and resolve their differences through diplomacy.
President Vladimir Putin characterized the relationship with Pakistan as mutually advantageous. “Our close partnership with Pakistan persists,” the Russian Embassy in Islamabad cited Putin. “As a full member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Pakistan plays a key role in the region’s largest body for economic, technical, and human resources.”
Previously, the Russian administration sanctioned a cooperation agreement with Pakistan focused on innovation, science, and technology.
According to Rossiskaya Gazeta, the Russian Ministry of Education and Science was slated to engage in discussions with Pakistani officials to finalize the deal.