In a significant development, Pakistan and Russia have commenced trade operations under the Transport International Routes (TIR) Convention. This historic milestone was achieved as goods trucks from Moscow arrived in Pakistan via the Torkham border crossing. Customs officials have hailed this as a groundbreaking event, marking the first-ever trade under the TIR Convention between the two nations, following the signing of the agreement in March earlier this year.
The customs authorities reported that cargo trucks carrying yarn and beans from Russia entered Pakistan, and once the necessary customs procedures are completed, these trucks will be allowed to proceed to their respective destinations. This development opens up new avenues for trade cooperation between Pakistan and Russia, leading to mutual benefits for both nations.
Under the TIR Convention, Pakistan plans to export a total of 26 commodities to Russia. These include rice, drugs, fruits, and sports goods. On the other hand, Russia will export 11 items to Pakistan, including wheat, lentils, yarn, and oil goods. This bilateral trade agreement paves the way for diversified trade portfolios and strengthens economic ties between the two countries.
Maulana Asad Mahmood, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Communications, expressed his optimism about the commencement of trade between Pakistan and Russia. In a statement, he highlighted Russia’s position as the fourth-largest exporting country globally and emphasized the positive impact of bilateral trade on the economic growth of both nations.
Minister Mahmood added that Pakistan has the potential to export a wide range of products, including dry fruits, clothing, medical tools, and agricultural goods to Russia, thereby fostering a mutually beneficial trade relationship.
The TIR Convention, an international road transport agreement, facilitates seamless transportation of goods between participating countries via road networks. Administered by the United Nations, this convention streamlines the process of receiving and exporting goods by road, eliminating the need for individual customs papers.
The International Road Transport Union oversees all imports and exports conducted under the TIR Convention, providing unique permits for trucks engaged in cross-border transportation.
This achievement also highlights Pakistan’s previous successful endeavor of exporting oranges to Russia in 2021. The significance of the TIR Convention extends beyond the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Russia, as it encompasses a broader network of 66 countries, according to the European Union’s statistics for 2020.
By joining this agreement, countries gain access to a well-established framework for international road transport, facilitating smoother trade operations and promoting economic growth.
The initiation of trade under the TIR Convention between Pakistan and Russia represents a notable step forward in their bilateral relations. It opens up new possibilities for collaboration and economic exchange, benefiting both nations. This landmark achievement underscores the commitment of Pakistan and Russia to foster stronger trade ties, propelling their economies towards greater prosperity and development.
