Ambassador: Pakistan to resume direct flights to Azerbaijan soon

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan Qasim Mohiuddin has said that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is set to resume direct flights to Baku by the end of April this year.

Mohiuddin made these remarks during an event celebrating Pakistan's National Day, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

He expressed optimism that the reinstatement of these flights would boost the number of Pakistani tourists visiting Azerbaijan.

"We deeply admire Azerbaijan's rich culture and history. Last year, over 81,000 Pakistani tourists visited this beautiful country. With PIA’s plans to restart direct flights to Baku by the end of this month, we are hopeful that this year we will exceed 100,000 tourists. This strong friendship and brotherhood between our two nations is a beacon of solidarity and a shining example of cooperation," he stated. 

Highlighting the long-established ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, the ambassador emphasised the mutual respect, collaboration, and shared goals that have shaped the relationship.

"For many years, our countries have stood by each other, reinforcing a partnership that transcends diplomatic relations and includes cultural, economic, and strategic collaboration. The recent high-level meetings between the leaders of both nations are a testament to the enduring bonds between our peoples," he added.

Azerbaijan and Pakistan have been strengthening their economic relations through various initiatives and investments. In 2024, both countries agreed to enhance bilateral trade by investing up to $2 billion in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and information technology. This commitment aims to bolster economic ties and explore new opportunities for collaboration. ​

Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Pakistan has shown positive trends in recent years. In 2020, the trade volume was $13.283 million, which increased to $28.1 million in 2022. By 2023, Pakistan's exports to Azerbaijan reached $20.6 million, while Azerbaijan's exports to Pakistan amounted to $8.2 million. ​

Azerbaijan has also demonstrated support for Pakistan's energy sector by providing liquefied natural gas (LNG) at discounted prices. In June 2023, SOCAR Trading and Pakistan LNG Limited signed a framework agreement to facilitate LNG supplies, with deliveries occurring in December 2023 and February 2024. Additionally, in November 2023, Pakistan's Economic Coordination Committee approved the import of 220,000 tons of urea from Azerbaijan, valued at $85 million, to address agricultural needs. ​

High-level visits have further strengthened bilateral relations. In March 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to Azerbaijan resulted in the signing of multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and agreements. These agreements cover sectors such as trade, energy, tourism, education, defense, and cultural exchange, reflecting a comprehensive approach to enhancing cooperation.

By Naila Huseynova