LAHORE: Pakistan and Russia are set to strengthen cooperation in the railway sector with the launch of a pilot container freight train, aimed at improving regional connectivity, facilitating international trade and expanding Pakistan Railways’ freight operations.
he Government of Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to closer cooperation with the Russian Federation in the railway sector as part of efforts to modernise Pakistan Railways and establish stronger links with regional and international trade routes.
Under the initiative, Pakistan Railways has entered into a Freight Forwarding Contract with Russian Railways Logistics (RZD Logistics), establishing a framework for cooperation in international freight transportation and multimodal logistics services.
Pakistan-Russia container train planned
As part of the agreement, Pakistan Railways and RZD Logistics have agreed to launch a Pakistan-Russia Pilot Container Freight Train.
The proposed service is intended to promote rail-based trade and strengthen transportation links between Pakistan, Russia and Central Asian countries.
However, the pilot train could not commence as originally scheduled because of the regional conflict.
Despite the delay, Pakistan Railways and RZD Logistics remain committed to the project and are continuing coordination to launch the pilot service as soon as regional conditions permit.
Focus on regional trade and connectivity
The proposed freight train service is expected to provide a more efficient and cost-effective transportation option for international trade while supporting multimodal logistics solutions.
The initiative could strengthen Pakistan’s rail-based freight network and improve connectivity with Central Asian markets and Russia.
Greater use of rail for international freight could also support more sustainable transportation by providing an alternative to longer road-based logistics routes.
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The service could further provide exporters and importers with an additional logistics option for moving goods across regional markets.
Technical cooperation also planned
Cooperation between Pakistan Railways and RZD Logistics is not limited to freight transportation.
The initiative is also expected to facilitate the exchange of technical expertise and best practices in railway freight operations.
Such cooperation could help strengthen Pakistan’s international freight services, improve logistics efficiency and support the modernisation of railway operations.
For Pakistan Railways, expanding international freight operations could also create opportunities to increase revenues and improve the financial sustainability of the state-owned railway.
Potential boost for Pakistan’s freight network
The proposed Pakistan-Russia freight service is being viewed as part of broader efforts to integrate Pakistan more closely with regional and international trade corridors while developing the country’s railway infrastructure and logistics capabilities.
A successful pilot could provide a basis for expanding rail freight services between Pakistan, Russia and Central Asian countries, depending on commercial viability and regional conditions.
The launch date of the pilot train will depend on the regional security situation and further coordination between the two railway organisations.
