IRS, ICCA partners to enhance academic, strategic collaboration between Pakistan and Russia

ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ):  The Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Islamabad, and the Institute of China and Contemporary Asia (ICCA) of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in a significant step toward enhancing academic and strategic collaboration between Pakistan and Russia.
The event was graced by senior officials, diplomats, and scholars from both institutions, highlighting the growing importance of academic diplomacy in fostering bilateral ties.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of the Institute of Regional Studies, welcomed the distinguished guests and emphasized the strategic and forward-looking nature of the partnership. He noted that the MoU is more than a formal agreement—it is a gateway to greater engagement between the two institutions and countries.
“This collaboration represents a shared vision for peace, education, and mutual understanding in an era of rapid geopolitical transformation,” Ambassador Saleem stated. “Together, we aim to enhance global and regional insights through joint research, seminars, and scholarly exchanges. Our work will focus on areas of mutual interest such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), and other regional development frameworks.”
He also expressed optimism about co-publishing academic research and organizing joint cultural and scholarly events. “Let this MoU stand as a symbol of educational progress, economic collaboration, and enduring friendship between Pakistan and Russia,” he concluded.
Dr. Kirill Babaev, Director of the Institute of China and Contemporary Asia of the Russian Academy of Sciences, expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and reiterated the importance of academic cooperation between the two institutions.
“We are honored to be part of this promising initiative. This MoU marks a new chapter in our growing relationship with Pakistan—one rooted in mutual respect and shared challenges,” Dr. Babaev said. “Our two countries face common regional issues such as geopolitical complexities, infrastructure development, and education reform. This partnership will enable Moscow and Islamabad to build a trustworthy and productive collaboration.”
He also underlined Pakistan’s important role in fostering regional peace and expressed hope that Pakistan’s experience and position can contribute to building stability in Afghanistan—an objective both Russia and Pakistan share.
“This is an exciting and timely cooperation. I see a strong spirit of partnership and look forward to further visits, dialogues, and collaborative research that will bring our people and institutions closer,” Dr. Babaev added.
The MoU is a testament to the growing strategic, academic, and cultural linkages between Pakistan and Russia. It aims to facilitate collaborative research, scholarly exchanges, joint publications, and dialogue on key regional and international issues.