NUST–RIAC Roundtable Explores Russia–Pakistan Cybersecurity Partnership

The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), in collaboration with the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), organised an online roundtable titled “Russia–Pakistan Cybersecurity Partnership: Challenges and Opportunities” on 18 August 2026. The discussion focused on the theme “Cybersecurity and National Sovereignty: Shared Challenges for Russia and Pakistan.”

The session brought together experts and academics from Pakistan and Russia to examine the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape and its implications for national sovereignty, digital governance, artificial intelligence, critical infrastructure and international cooperation.

The session was moderated by Dr. Gul-i-Ayesha Bhatti, JSPPL, NUST, The session commenced with opening remarks by Dr. Saqib Anjum, Associate Dean, Jinnah School of Public Policy and Leadership (JSPPL), NUST, who emphasised the importance of academic and policy dialogue on emerging global challenges. Dmitriy Kiku, Deputy Director General, RIAC, followed with opening remarks, appreciating the initiative and highlighting the timeliness of addressing cybersecurity cooperation between Russia and Pakistan.

The first substantive presentation was delivered by Dr. Adeela Ghazanfar, JSPPL, NUST, who examined security beyond the traditional battlefield. She discussed societal resistance, public perceptions and the changing character of contemporary conflict, while also highlighting the importance of secure and responsible approaches to artificial intelligence.

Dr. Hasan Tahir, SEECS, NUST, addressed the regulatory and governance dimensions of cybersecurity, focusing on Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC), GDPR, regulation, policy and compliance. He highlighted the need for effective frameworks to govern cyberspace while maintaining an appropriate balance between digital security and openness.