Azerbaijan, Pakistan strengthen ties with first direct Lahore-Baku flight PHOTO

On April 20, a significant milestone was reached in the strengthening of ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan with the launch of the first direct flight on the Lahore–Baku route, operated by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

The ceremony, held at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, was attended by officials from the Pakistani Embassy in Azerbaijan, airport management, and journalists, Caliber.Az reports via local media.  

Teymur Hasanov, the Director of Heydar Aliyev International Airport, highlighted the importance of this new route, underscoring that direct flights are vital not only for enhancing air connectivity but also for fostering deeper strategic relations between the two nations.

“We are confident that in the coming months, we will see even more passengers arriving from Lahore, and this air bridge will pave the way for new successes in our bilateral relations,” Hasanov said during his speech.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Qasim Mohiuddin, also expressed his enthusiasm for the direct flights, calling them a significant step toward further enhancing the strategic and economic cooperation between the two countries.

“The resumption of direct flights between Lahore and Baku brings us great joy. We will do everything possible to increase passenger traffic and attract new travelers from Islamabad as well. We are confident that this cooperation will continue to strengthen,” Mohiuddin remarked.

The Lahore–Baku flights will be made twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with plans to increase frequency as demand grows. The new route is expected to play a crucial role in expanding the air travel links between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, contributing to stronger economic and cultural exchanges.

By Naila Huseynova