Baku: The close relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan are driving the development of cooperation in various fields.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Sabina Salmanova, a member of the Milli Majlis and the Azerbaijan-Pakistan Parliamentary Relations Working Group, described the relationship between the two nations as a vivid example of friendship, brotherhood, and strategic partnership. She emphasized that these ties have been fortified by historical, cultural, and political factors, creating deep bonds between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Pakistan.
Qaiser Nawab, President of the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Alumni Association, noted that the relations between the two countries represent lasting friendship, mutual respect, and shared strategic interests. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Azerbaijan underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their ties across multiple domains, with expanding trade relations, strategic defense partnerships, and growing cultural exchanges pointing to a future ripe with potential for greater collaboration.
The importance of reciprocal visits between leaders of both countries highlights the expansion of Azerbaijan-Pakistan relations. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have underscored the significance of these visits, which demonstrate the friendly relations between the two nations and reaffirm the strategic importance of their cooperation.
Both countries support each other’s just causes on international platforms. Due to Armenia’s occupation of Azerbaijani territories, Pakistan has not established diplomatic relations with Armenia and has not recognized its independence. Azerbaijan, in turn, supports Pakistan’s position on the Jammu and Kashmir issue, advocating for a peaceful resolution in line with international law and UN resolutions.
Economic relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan are seeing significant advancements. Sabina Salmanova highlighted efforts to expand cooperation in economic and trade relations, with a notable increase in exports from Pakistan to Azerbaijan in recent years. The signing of various agreements during Prime Minister Sharif’s visit, including a Memorandum of Understanding between the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan and Pakistan State Oil Company Limited, indicates promising future cooperation.
Pakistani political expert Qaiser Nawab emphasized that economic cooperation forms a critical pillar of the two countries’ relations. With steady growth in trade and the establishment of forums like the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Business Forum, both countries are eager to explore new markets and opportunities, particularly in emerging sectors such as information technology and renewable energy.
Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Pakistan reflects the growing economic relations, with significant fluctuations observed from 2020 to 2024. Discussions on a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) are expected to further increase trade turnover once finalized. Both countries are actively pursuing investment cooperation, implementing joint projects, and strengthening economic ties.
Azerbaijan’s commitment to invest 2 billion USD in Pakistan’s economy is a testament to the deepening strategic partnership. President Aliyev emphasized the importance of increasing trade turnover, with plans announced during his state visit to Pakistan. The investment will target key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and agriculture, aiming to achieve sustainable economic growth and strengthen bilateral ties.
Investment in energy focuses on addressing Pakistan’s energy challenges through projects related to oil and gas exploration and energy infrastructure development. Infrastructure investment will enhance Pakistan’s logistical capabilities, and agriculture sector investment aims to modernize practices and increase productivity.
The processes unfolding between Azerbaijan and Pakistan indicate a momentum-gaining cooperation in various fields, promising a strengthened partnership in the years to come.