Joint Press Statement by President Ilham Aliyev and PM Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: In a significant display of bilateral cooperation and mutual respect, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif made official press statements. The statements underscored the enduring and robust relationship between the two nations, built on historical ties and contemporary mutual interests.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s address highlighted the profound connection between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. He warmly welcomed President Aliyev, expressing the Pakistani people’s joy at his visit and recalling his own memorable visit to Azerbaijan in 2023. The Prime Minister emphasized the productive nature of their discussions, which he noted were rooted in mutual trust and confidence.
A key focus of Prime Minister Sharif’s statement was the enhancement of bilateral trade, which currently stands at less than $100 million. He expressed a strong commitment to elevating this figure, recognizing that it does not adequately reflect the strength of their friendship. The Prime Minister announced an initial discussion about $2 billion in joint investments, with formal agreements expected to be finalized by his visit to Azerbaijan in November. This ambitious target underscores the potential for significant economic collaboration in various sectors, including trade, joint investments, and mutual cooperation.
Prime Minister Sharif also reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for Azerbaijan on the Karabakh issue and thanked Azerbaijan for its consistent support for Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. This mutual support on critical geopolitical issues underscores the deep strategic alignment between the two countries.
President Ilham Aliyev, in his remarks, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted the symbolic nature of his visit, especially in the context of the longstanding relationship between the two nations. He recalled his previous visit in 2017 and noted the historical and cultural ties that bind Azerbaijan and Pakistan.
President Aliyev emphasized the mutual support both countries have extended to each other on international platforms. He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to supporting Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, framing it as a matter of international law and justice. He also acknowledged Pakistan’s support during Azerbaijan’s Second Karabakh War, highlighting the solidarity and political support that strengthened Azerbaijan’s position.
The President’s statement also focused on the practical aspects of bilateral cooperation. He mentioned ongoing discussions about significant investments, particularly in energy, infrastructure, connectivity, and defense industries. The signing of numerous documents, including one on preferential trade, marks a concrete step towards enhancing economic ties. This commitment to economic cooperation is expected to bolster trade and investment between the two countries significantly.
Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations, seeing this visit as a watershed moment that could herald a new era of high-level cooperation. President Aliyev also conveyed his best wishes for the upcoming COP29 summit in Baku, expressing confidence in its success under Prime Minister Sharif’s leadership.
In conclusion, the press statements by President Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reflect a deep, multifaceted partnership between Azerbaijan and Pakistan. Their mutual support on critical issues, commitment to enhancing economic ties, and shared historical and cultural connections underscore a relationship that is both strategic and profoundly brotherly. This visit and the discussions held are poised to pave the way for a new chapter of cooperation and mutual prosperity between the two nations.
