Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has sought Russia’s backing for the country’s bid to join the BRICS intergovernmental organization, according to state media reports on Monday. Zardari emphasized that Pakistan’s inclusion would enhance its role in both regional and global cooperation.
BRICS, originally formed in 2006 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, expanded to include South Africa in 2010. This bloc provides an informal platform for its members to challenge a world order that is often seen as dominated by the United States and its Western allies.
For countries like Pakistan, BRICS represents an alternative to global institutions perceived to be influenced by Western powers, with hopes that membership will unlock benefits such as development finance and increased trade and investment opportunities. Pakistan applied for BRICS membership last year.
During a meeting in Islamabad with Russian Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matvienko and her delegation, Zardari reiterated his request for support, noting that joining BRICS would significantly enhance Pakistan’s cooperative role globally.
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties in areas such as trade, commerce, investment, agriculture, and energy for mutual benefit. In September, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk indicated Moscow’s support for Pakistan’s BRICS membership bid.
Zardari highlighted the mutual respect characterizing the Pakistan-Russia relationship and expressed a desire to expand cooperation, particularly through cultural exchanges and scholarship programs. He urged the Russian delegation to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan, citing the substantial potential for economic collaboration.
The two sides also emphasized the importance of diversifying trade and enhancing regional connectivity through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the North-South Transport Corridor. Zardari expressed gratitude for Russia’s support of Pakistan’s candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Matvienko conveyed that Russia prioritizes its relationship with Pakistan and expressed confidence in enhancing bilateral cooperation during her visit. She also hoped that a Memorandum of Understanding between the parliaments of both countries would further strengthen their ties.
Once rivals during the Cold War, Pakistan and Russia have cultivated closer ties in recent years through increased business and trade interactions. Their relationship improved notably in 2023 when Pakistan began purchasing Russian crude oil at discounted rates.
As Pakistan navigates ongoing economic challenges, it seeks to leverage its strategic geographic position to boost trade and cooperation with Russia and other nations. Earlier this month, Zardari met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at an international forum in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, where both leaders pledged to further strengthen their bilateral relations.
