Pakistan, Russia strengthen ties with new railway service

June 12, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan and Russia declared that railway services between the two countries would begin from June 22, marking a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.

Russia is also planning to invest in the restructuring of Pakistan Steel Mills, expanding its economic footprint in the country.

The declaration was made by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi during a press conference at the office of the Divisional Superintendent of Railways.

He also noted that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) had been signed with the Punjab Information Technology Board as part of the department’s digitalization efforts.

The minister shared that approximately 200 carriages are currently under preparation and are expected to be finalized for mainstream use by 2027, according to the press release.

Since taking office, the ministry has prioritized improvements in three critical areas: punctuality, quality food provision, and cleanliness both at stations and inside coaches.

The MoU, he said, will support the introduction of digital systems, including the provision of free WiFi service across all train services.

Addressing broader modernization and sustainability goals, Abbasi highlighted an agreement with the Forest Department for planting fruit trees along railway tracks.

He emphasized that the MoU with the Punjab IT Board aligns with the prime minister's vision of a digitally connected and efficient railway system.

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