Putin's closeness to Shahbaz is a deliberate strategy. The primary reason behind this is to find new markets for the Russian economy, which is struggling under Western sanctions, and to keep Pakistan free from Chinese influence.

Shahbaz Sharif and Vladimir Putin 

Pakistan has signed a major agreement with Russia, considered India's best friend. The agreement was signed at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Home Ministers' meeting in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Pakistan's Interior Ministry stated that the two countries agreed to work together to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

Pakistan's Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi was in Bishkek for this SCO meeting, while Russia's Vladimir Kolokoltsev was present. The agreements signed between the two countries include the deportation of illegal citizens, curbing infiltration, and action against drug trafficking.

What will be the impact of the agreement?

Following this agreement, both countries will assist in identifying and deporting citizens living illegally in each other's countries. To combat illegal immigration, both countries will enhance cooperation to prevent infiltration. In addition, joint action will be taken to prevent drug trafficking.

Pakistan had made this deal with Russia

In July of last year, Pakistan signed another major agreement with Russia to restart the Karachi-based Pakistan Steel Mill (PSM). The deal was signed at the Pakistani Embassy in Moscow, Russia. The Pakistan Steel Mill (PSM) was established in 1973 with Soviet assistance. The deal aims to restart the mill by 2027.

Why is Putin getting closer to Shahbaz?

Putin's closeness to Shahbaz Sharif is a deliberate strategy. The primary motivations are to find new markets for the Russian economy, which is struggling under Western sanctions, expand its influence in South Asia, and keep Pakistan free from Chinese influence. Putin recently stated that Pakistan is not a small country and is not completely under Chinese control.