Russian and Pakistani election authorities review plans for international observers ahead of September 18–20 vote

MOSCOW/ISLAMABAD, Monday, August 24, 2026 (WNP): Chairperson of Russia’s Central Election Commission Ella Pamfilova held bilateral talks with the heads of electoral authorities from Pakistan, Kazakhstan and Türkiye, with preparations for a Pakistani delegation to observe Russia’s forthcoming parliamentary elections among the key issues discussed.

During her meeting with Sikandar Sultan Raja, Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan, Pamfilova discussed arrangements for the participation of a Pakistani delegation as observers during the Russian parliamentary elections scheduled for September 18–20, 2026.

The talks focused on practical arrangements for the Pakistani delegation, reflecting continued engagement between the electoral institutions of Russia and Pakistan.

The meeting was part of a series of bilateral discussions held by the Russian Central Election Commission chairperson with counterparts from several countries.

The planned participation of Pakistani observers is expected to provide an opportunity for representatives of Pakistan’s electoral authorities to observe the electoral process in Russia and gain firsthand experience of the conduct of the parliamentary vote.

The engagement also highlights institutional contacts between the two countries in the field of elections and democratic administration, alongside broader Russia–Pakistan bilateral relations.