Pakistan Railways is set to launch a major international freight train operation from Lahore to Russia, marking a significant development in regional trade connectivity. According to officials, all necessary preparations have been completed, and the first train is expected to depart in July. The freight train, consisting of 16 cargo wagons, will travel along a route that passes through Iran, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan, before reaching its final destination in Astrakhan, a key commercial city in southern Russia. Railway authorities have confirmed that the train will carry a variety of export goods from Pakistan to Russia. In return, it will bring imports from Russia, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan back to Pakistan, creating a two-way trade route that has the potential to significantly boost economic ties between South Asia and Central Asia. Initially, the train was scheduled to depart on June 22, but the plan was temporarily suspended due to rising regional tensions following the Iran-Israel conflict. With the situation now stabilizing, the launch has been rescheduled. Speaking to the media, Pakistan Railways Public Relations Officer Babar Raza said that the initiative is part of a broader effort to expand Pakistan’s trade infrastructure and improve connectivity with key regional economies.