KARACHI: The 2nd Russia-Pakistan International Conference titled “Evolution of Russia-Pakistan Relations in the Emerging World Order” successfully brought together leading diplomats, academics, researchers, policymakers and institutional representatives from Pakistan and the Russian Federation to promote academic dialogue, scientific cooperation and strategic engagement between the two countries.
The conference, being held in Kazan, Russia, was organised as part of the internationally recognised Russia-Islamic World Kazan Forum 2026 and highlighted the growing importance of academic diplomacy and institutional collaboration in the evolving global landscape.
A major feature of the conference was the active role played by Kazan Federal University and the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST), which were described as key institutions strengthening educational and research cooperation between Pakistan and Russia.
More than eight specialised sessions were organised on science, technology, innovation, research, higher education, cultural harmony, regional connectivity and strategic relations, while over 70 scholars, researchers and academicians from Pakistan and abroad presented research papers on emerging regional and global issues.
Federal Minister for Public Affairs Rana Mubashir Iqbal attended the conference as chief guest, while Talha Burki, holding the status of minister of state, participated as guest of honour. Addressing the inaugural session, Burki emphasised the importance of expanding bilateral cooperation in education, research, trade and regional connectivity.
He stated that Pakistan viewed Russia as an important partner in promoting regional stability, global peace and a multi-polar world order. He also highlighted Pakistan’s interest in becoming part of President Vladimir Putin’s North-South Transport Corridor vision by linking Gwadar Port with the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), which, he said, could significantly enhance regional economic integration.
Welcoming participants, Kazan Federal University Vice Rector for Research Dmitry Albertovich Tayursky underscored the increasing importance of academic diplomacy in the contemporary international environment. He called for enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Russia in science, technology, innovation, research and higher education, and appreciated the efforts of Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia Faisal Niaz Tirmizi in promoting academic and diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
Vice Chancellor of the Federal Urdu University Prof Dr Zabta Khan Shinwari said that Kazan Federal University and FUUAST were playing a pivotal role in deepening academic and research relations between Pakistan and Russia.
He said such international academic engagements not only strengthened strategic and educational cooperation but also created opportunities for young researchers and scholars through joint research initiatives, academic exchanges and global partnerships. He congratulated the organisers on successfully hosting the conference and expressed hope that such collaborations would continue to expand in the future.
Recorded video messages from Pakistan’s Ambassador to Russia Faisal Niaz Tirmizi and Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert P. Khorev were also presented during the conference. Ambassador Khorev welcomed the Pakistani delegation and appreciated the active participation of Pakistani scholars and researchers, stating that such forums opened new avenues for long-term cooperation in education, innovation, research and cultural understanding.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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