Pakistan, Azerbaijan Pledge to Enhance Trade, Strengthen Defence Ties

BAKU, Feb 24 (Alliance News): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to boosting trade turnover and strengthening cooperation in defence, transportation, and connectivity.

During a joint press stakeout, both leaders emphasized the need to unlock the full potential of bilateral trade and investment.

Prime Minister Shehbaz welcomed Azerbaijan’s $2 billion investment in Pakistan, stating that a one-month timeline had been set to finalize agreements across multiple sectors, to be signed during President Aliyev’s visit to Pakistan in April.

President Aliyev acknowledged that bilateral trade turnover remained low and underscored the need for rapid expansion.

He confirmed that Azerbaijani representatives were evaluating Pakistan’s proposed projects, covering infrastructure, energy, mining, and economic sectors. Both sides also explored opportunities for joint defence manufacturing, as Azerbaijan has already procured defence equipment from Pakistan and expressed satisfaction with its quality.

The two leaders further discussed enhancing transportation links and strengthening people-to-people ties through regular airline connectivity. President Aliyev praised PM Shehbaz’s economic and political reforms, acknowledging their role in Pakistan’s stability and development.

Prime Minister Shehbaz thanked Azerbaijan for its unwavering support for Kashmir and called for the implementation of UN resolutions on the matter. He also urged the international community to push for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and the realization of a two-state solution.