Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing trade relations and expanding cooperation in key sectors such as defence, transportation, and connectivity. During a joint press appearance on Monday, the leaders expressed their ambition to unlock the full potential of bilateral trade and investment, with several projects already set to take shape.
Prime Minister Shehbaz hailed the $2 billion investment announced by President Aliyev, stating that it will benefit both nations. A one-month deadline has been established to finalise various projects, with the signing of agreements expected during President Aliyev’s visit to Pakistan in April. “This will mark a quantum leap in our trade and investment ties and reflect the true strength of our fraternal relations,” the prime minister said.
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President Aliyev noted the low level of current trade turnover and expressed optimism about boosting it through concrete projects. He emphasized that the initiatives would cover sectors such as energy, mining, infrastructure, and defence. He also discussed the potential for joint manufacturing of defence equipment, which will be another vital aspect of cooperation.
The leaders also highlighted the importance of people-to-people connectivity through regular airline services between the two countries, which they believe will foster closer ties. President Aliyev praised Prime Minister Shehbaz’s reforms, acknowledging their role in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy and political landscape.
Additionally, Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed his gratitude for Azerbaijan’s support for the Kashmir cause and advocated for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, calling for the realization of a two-state solution.
President Aliyev will visit Islamabad in April to formalise the agreements, solidifying the countries’ strategic partnership. Both leaders also expressed satisfaction with their cooperation in international organizations such as the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
