Russia, Pakistan explore deeper cybersecurity cooperation

Summary Russian and Pakistani experts have discussed new opportunities to strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity and information sovereignty, with both sides highlighting the growing importance of digital security and expert collaboration. Participants discussed the cybersecurity priorities of Russia and Pakistan and examined areas where the two countries could develop closer cooperation. The discussions also highlighted the potential for closer institutional links between Russian and Pakistani organisations working in cybersecurity, public policy and international affairs. AI Generated Summary Russian and Pakistani experts have discussed new opportunities to strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity and information sovereignty, with both sides highlighting the growing importance of digital security and expert collaboration. The discussions took place on August 18 during a hybrid Russian-Pakistani roundtable jointly organised by the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), and the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO). The meeting brought together senior academics, policymakers, diplomats and cybersecurity specialists from both countries. Participants included RIAC Deputy Director General Dr Dmitry Kiku, NUST Jinnah School of Public Policy and Leadership Principal Dr Hassan Jalil Shah, Russian Embassy Cultural Attaché in Islamabad Gleb Shubin, and Egor Rykov, International Business Development Manager at Positive Technologies. Experts from MGIMO and NUST also participated in the discussion and shared their assessments of the evolving cybersecurity environment. The roundtable focused on information sovereignty and the challenges faced by states in protecting their digital infrastructure, data and information systems. Participants discussed the cybersecurity priorities of Russia and Pakistan and examined areas where the two countries could develop closer cooperation. The experts noted that the rapid expansion of digital technologies has increased the need for stronger cybersecurity capabilities. They stressed that cooperation between countries can help address emerging digital threats through the exchange of knowledge, expertise and best practices. The discussions also highlighted the potential for closer institutional links between Russian and Pakistani organisations working in cybersecurity, public policy and international affairs. Academic and expert exchanges emerged as another key area of potential cooperation. Participants underlined the importance of expanding contacts between universities, research institutions and specialists from both countries. They also pointed to the possibility of developing joint research projects and other academic initiatives aimed at examining cybersecurity challenges and information sovereignty. The meeting provided a platform for Russian and Pakistani experts to exchange perspectives on a rapidly changing digital environment. Both sides expressed support for continued dialogue and greater cooperation in areas that could contribute to stronger cybersecurity capacity and deeper bilateral ties.