Russia, Pakistan Work to Launch First Rail Cargo Route, H.E. Albert Khorev Says

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: Russia and Pakistan are working to establish their first direct rail freight service, with proposed routes linking Moscow with Faisalabad and Karachi, Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert Khorev has said.

Speaking to Izvestia, Khorev said Moscow and Islamabad were jointly working to organize rail cargo services in both directions between the two countries. He added that Belarus could also potentially join the project.

The proposed service would connect Moscow–Faisalabad and Moscow–Karachi, creating a new rail-based freight link between Russia and Pakistan and potentially strengthening trade and transport connectivity across the region.

According to the ambassador, the project has faced repeated delays because of geopolitical tensions in the region during 2025 and early 2026. However, work is now progressing, with the sides nearing completion of the service contract and selecting companies from countries along the proposed route that are interested in transporting cargo.

Khorev said the possible participation of Belarus was also being considered, potentially expanding the scope of the planned rail corridor.

The initiative comes amid broader efforts by Russia to develop alternative transportation routes to international markets. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin previously said Moscow needed to establish a railway route to the Indian Ocean to reduce transportation risks associated with strategic maritime chokepoints, including the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz.

The proposed Russia-Pakistan rail connection could contribute to strengthening bilateral trade, improving regional connectivity and opening new opportunities for cargo transportation between Eurasian markets and Pakistan.