Pakistan Railways has signed a freight forwarding agreement with Russian Railways Logistics (RZD Logistics) to expand cooperation in international cargo transportation and multimodal logistics.

The agreement includes plans for a pilot container freight train connecting Pakistan with Russia and Central Asian countries. The service would create another rail route for moving goods across the region and support trade between the countries.

The pilot train could not be launched as initially planned due to the regional conflict, according to the government. Pakistan Railways and RZD Logistics are continuing discussions and will launch the service when conditions permit.

The agreement is part of Pakistan’s efforts to expand rail freight services and improve access to regional markets. A direct freight connection with Russia and Central Asia could give businesses an alternative route for transporting goods and increase the use of rail-based trade.

Pakistan Railways and RZD Logistics will also exchange technical knowledge and expertise in freight operations. The cooperation could help improve cargo services, lower transportation costs and make Pakistan’s rail freight network more efficient.

For Pakistan Railways, expanding international freight operations could also generate additional revenue and support its efforts to improve financial performance. Greater access to regional trade routes would further strengthen the railway’s role in Pakistan’s cross-border trade.