Both Russia and Pakistan are going to initiate the three days crucial talks from today (Monday) here in Islamabad on the much trumpeted North South Gas Pipeline Project (NSGPP) that has already been delayed by five years. Both the countries want to make this project a touchstone for paving more strategic relationships not only in economic, energy and industrial sectors but also in the defence sector.

Russian troops are already in Pakistan for joint exercises. In the past, Russia helped Pakistan build Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM), and country’s flagship organisation in the oil and gas sector –OGDCL. Pakistan is also currently importing wheat from Russia to cater to its food requirement. This time, both the countries are extending the required emphasis to finalise all prerequisites prior to embarking upon the work on approximately $2.25 billion project in an amicable manner.

The NSGPP has already gone through many ups and downs and got delayed by 5 years; even then Russia remained committed with the project, showing how much Moscow is still very much keen to develop strategic stakes in Pakistan.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/744421-russia-pakistan-initiate-crucial-talks-on-nsgpp-from-today