MOSCOW – Top Russian officials attending the Russia-Oman trade forum say the establishment of a land trade corridor through Afghanistan and Pakistan could be an
effective and viable alternative to existing routes. According to officials, the corridor could significantly improve Russia’s access to South Asia and other regional markets.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Murat Khusnullin emphasized that Russia is actively working on diversifying trade routes to strengthen economic cooperation with various countries in Asia. He said the proposed land route through Afghanistan and Pakistan could be extremely promising if regional conditions allow for stable and safe transit.
Khasnullin explained that at present, Russia’s main commercial transportation depends on the “North-South Transport Corridor,” which is mainly active through Iran and the Caspian Sea. Under this system, goods are transported across the Caspian Sea to Iranian ports and then transported southward through Iran’s railway system. to connect to the major sea routes. Although the route is effective, it suffers from logistical problems from time to time, prompting Russia to examine alternative routes.
He said the land corridor through Central Asia to Afghanistan and then into Pakistan could reduce transport time, lower remittance costs, and broaden Russia’s access to regional markets – particularly South Asia and the Middle East. “Considering land routes through Afghanistan and Pakistan gives us additional flexibility. Such routes can complement our existing trade corridors and facilitate access to Russia’s vibrant regional markets.
Economists at the forum said Afghanistan’s geographical location has always made it a potential hub for regional connectivity. Historically, Afghanistan has been an important trade route between Central and South Asia. According to experts, with better infrastructure and stable transit agreements, Afghanistan can once again emerge as an economic bridge in the region.
The Russian delegation added that the establishment of various trade routes is necessary to reduce dependence on geographical tensions, maritime barriers and limited transport corridors. The expansion of trade through land routes is in line with Russia’s long-term strategy aimed at increasing economic resilience and strengthening cooperation with emerging markets.
For Pakistan, such a trade route can increase trade activity through major transport corridors, which will increase the volume of regional trade and create new revenue opportunities. Similarly, Afghan officials have repeatedly expressed that Afghanistan wants to make the country a reliable transit hub by joining regional economic projects.
Although the proposal is still at an early stage, officials expressed hope that the ongoing talks between Moscow, Islamabad, Kabul and other regional capitals could pave the way for multiple trade routes connecting Central Asia and South Asia more effectively.
The Russian-Omanian business forum concluded with a commitment that the two countries will enhance bilateral cooperation, explore new trade opportunities, and strengthen transport links across Eurasia. Further discussions on land corridors are expected in the upcoming regional economic summits.
