Azernews.Az

By Mahmood Athar I AzerNEWS

Pakistan and Azerbaijan have long been recognized as “brotherly countries,” enjoying deep cooperative relations in the political, cultural, and economic spheres. In the near future, the planned visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to Baku holds special significance as it marks a new phase in the relations between the two countries—one that is more focused on the economic realm. This visit will primarily concentrate on economic cooperation and will serve as a platform to discuss new initiatives and investment opportunities that will further deepen the mutual interests and potential of Pakistan and Azerbaijan.

President Ilham Aliyev has stated on several occasions: “The relationships established between Azerbaijan and Pakistan are based not only on historical values but also on strategic steps aimed at the welfare of future generations. For us, this friendship is one of the most important hopes for the future of the region and the world.” These words have remained a symbol of the strong partnership between the two countries and lay the foundation for future cooperation.

The existing historical and friendly relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan are further supported by the growing influence of both states on the international stage. Following Azerbaijan’s Karabakh liberation operations, its position in world politics has been further strengthened, elevating the strategic partnership between the two countries to new heights. At the same time, Pakistan’s participation in China’s “One Belt, One Road” initiative enhances its integration into the global economic network and increases its strategic importance in the region. In this context, expanding economic ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is considered a necessary step for both countries to participate more actively on the global stage.

The main objective of the upcoming visit is to strengthen economic relations and create new investment opportunities. With its unique regional position and abundant natural resources, Azerbaijan has tremendous potential to invest in Pakistan’s defense and technology industries. In particular, Pakistan’s defense industry, with its adoption of advanced technologies and modernization projects in the industrial sector, offers attractive investment opportunities for Azerbaijani investors. In addition, Pakistan’s pharmaceutical, textile, and mineral sectors also possess significant investment potential. Reforms in these sectors and the modernization of infrastructure attract the attention of regional and international investors, opening up new avenues for mutual economic development.

The recent memoranda of understanding in the field of economic cooperation—especially the agreements signed between SOCAR and Pakistan—guarantee the implementation of new projects and the development of strategic cooperation between the two countries. These documents aim at signing new contracts in the energy sector, expanding trade and investment flows, and increasing the exchange of technological knowledge. At the same time, Azerbaijan’s proposed investment initiative of 2 billion dollars creates great hope for launching new projects in various economic sectors of Pakistan, including defence, technology, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and minerals. This initiative will harness the economic potential of both states synergistically and will make a significant contribution to ensuring peace and stability in the region.

During the Prime Minister of Pakistan’s visit, infrastructure projects such as the north-south corridor proposed by Azerbaijan will also be discussed. This corridor will create new opportunities in transportation and logistics, enabling trade relations to be conducted more efficiently and swiftly. Such infrastructure projects will not only strengthen economic ties but will also further expand regional integration and enhance the role of both countries in the global economic network.

Furthermore, scientific and academic cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is coming to the forefront. Existing collaborative projects and research programs between the universities of both countries can be further developed in the future. Joint research initiatives and the exchange of knowledge in this area open new perspectives for young scientists and researchers, while also accelerating the development of innovative solutions and technological advancements. Academic exchange programs, enhanced cultural dialogue, and increased technological transfer will enable the establishment of strong intellectual ties between the two nations.
Pakistan and Azerbaijan have always supported each other on the world stage, demonstrating a model of mutual trust and cooperation. Both states have made joint efforts in international forums and diplomatic arenas to find a fair solution to the Kashmir issue, ensuring that this matter remains a global focal point.

Pakistan has also expressed its sincere support for Azerbaijan’s accession to the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO). This step further deepens the robust political and economic ties between the two countries and expands regional cooperation. Pakistan’s support contributes to strengthening Azerbaijan’s position on the international stage and advances regional integration.