Pakistan and Azerbaijan have agreed to enhance bilateral investment up to $2 billion in mutually beneficial projects, marking a significant step in strengthening economic ties between the two nations. The decision was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev in Baku on Monday.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who arrived at the Presidential Palace in Baku for a two-day official visit, was welcomed with a Guard of Honor, and the national anthems of both countries were played. Speaking alongside President Aliyev, the prime minister described their discussions as “productive and very useful,” reflecting the deep and friendly relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
The prime minister emphasized that all political parties in Pakistan are united in their commitment to fostering the friendship between the two countries. He highlighted the need to expand these cordial relations into the economic domain, expressing confidence that the agreements signed during the visit, as well as those planned for April, would yield significant benefits in the future.
Both leaders also agreed to elevate strategic defense relations to a higher level, with further discussions planned during President Aliyev’s visit to Pakistan in April. Prime Minister Sharif thanked Azerbaijan for its unwavering support for the people of Kashmir, urging the international community to back the cause as well.
President Ilham Aliyev, addressing the conference, reaffirmed the importance of the relationship between the two nations. He stressed the alignment of their views on international development and territorial integrity, underscoring the strong foundation of their partnership.
In addition to the high-level talks, Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Privatization, and Communications Abdul Aleem Khan held a meeting with Israfel Mammadov, CEO of Azerbaijan’s State Oil Fund (SOFAZ), on Sunday. The discussions focused on promoting bilateral investment and exploring business opportunities. Minister Khan noted that the partnership between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is entering a new and brighter phase, particularly for Pakistan.
