Azerbaijan, Pakistan step up economic, defence cooperation

Islamabad and Baku are intensifying efforts to deepen economic and defence ties, following a series of high-level meetings and initiatives.

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan, Khazar Farhadov, recently met a delegation from the Azerbaijan Pakistan Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry (APJCCI), led by Chairman Zafar Bakhtawari, at the Azerbaijani Embassy in Islamabad, Caliber.Az reports via Pakistani media.

Discussions focused on boosting trade, investment, and business collaboration between the two countries. Ambassador Farhadov highlighted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had recognised APJCCI’s role in promoting bilateral trade during his recent visit to Baku.

In turn, Bakhtawari commended Farhadov for his efforts to strengthen ties and recommended him for Pakistan’s highest civil award. The delegation also provided an update on its September visit to Baku, where meetings with government bodies and private companies opened new avenues for cooperation.

The Chamber unveiled its official website and confirmed plans for the 7th Islamabad Expo 2025, scheduled for December 6–7 at the Pak-China Friendship Centre, with around ten Azerbaijani companies expected to participate. APJCCI also plans to host the Azerbaijan–Pakistan Business Forum next year.

The visit follows a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Sharif and President Ilham Aliyev in Baku during Azerbaijan’s 50th Victory Day celebrations. The leaders agreed to enhance collaboration in defence, energy, trade, political dialogue, and connectivity. Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir attended the discussions.

Sharif congratulated Azerbaijan on its Karabakh victory, describing it as a “beacon of hope” for the people of Kashmir and Palestine, while Aliyev welcomed Sharif’s invitation to return to Islamabad and praised Pakistan’s support for regional stability.

This year has seen significant progress in bilateral cooperation, including a $2 billion Azerbaijani investment in Pakistan and a contract for Pakistan to supply JF-17 Block III fighter jets to Azerbaijan, reinforcing defence ties.

The two nations continue to work closely within regional and international forums, including the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the Economic Cooperation Organisation, and the United Nations, reflecting their long-standing fraternal relationship.

By Aghakazim Guliyev