Baku: Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, emphasized the high-level geostrategic and political relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan in an interview with Pakistan's PakTVGlobal television channel. Speaking on the sidelines of the 4th Shusha Global Media Forum, Hajiyev highlighted the need to enhance cooperation in specific sectors to further strengthen the bilateral ties.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the Shusha Global Media Forum was an initiative by President Ilham Aliyev aimed at restoring Shusha's historical role as a cultural and intellectual hub in the South Caucasus. The forum serves as a platform for scholars, academics, journalists, and poets to convene and exchange intellectual ideas. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in countering global media attacks against Azerbaijan and promoting open dialogue with the international media. The evolving media landscape, marked by artificial intelligence and social networks, underscores the need for such forums to address disinformation and foster mutual learning.
Hajiyev underscored President Aliyev's model of open dialogue and strategic communication, praising the transparency and unrestricted nature of the discussions at the Shusha Forum. He expressed pride in being part of a leadership that exemplifies transparency in various spheres, including economy, foreign policy, and social affairs. The President's engagement with the media at the forum was characterized as a genuine dialogue rather than mere communication.
The presidential aide also shed light on the strategic partnership and brotherly relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan. He expressed satisfaction with the deep mutual respect between the leaders of both countries. Hajiyev acknowledged Pakistan's unwavering support during Azerbaijan's territorial conflicts and commended its strategic diplomacy in global affairs, particularly during regional conflicts. He emphasized the importance of Pakistan's mediation efforts in fostering peace and stability, highlighting its significant geostrategic role.
Hajiyev pointed out the potential for developing business relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan. While political and geostrategic relations are robust, there is a need to strengthen economic, trade, humanitarian, and cultural cooperation. He cited the example of Pakistani rice imports to Azerbaijan, which improved following the removal of customs duties, as a testament to the potential achievements in trade and economic relations. He also emphasized the importance of enhancing tourism ties, increasing direct flights, and fostering cultural exchanges.
The presidential aide concluded by highlighting the role of media in promoting bilateral relations. He called for greater cooperation between Azerbaijani and Pakistani media to inform societies about each other's culture and business opportunities. The collaboration between AnewZ and PakTVGlobal was noted as a positive step towards achieving this goal, with potential for limitless development in Azerbaijan-Pakistan cooperation.