Azerbaijan is set to receive its first batch of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan in the near future, with the possibility of future joint production, according to Information Minister Atta Tarar. In an interview, Tarar revealed that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has shown significant interest in enhancing defense relations with Pakistan and has committed to a $2 billion investment in the country.
Tarar confirmed that discussions regarding this investment are nearing completion, with agreements expected to be finalized during President Aliyev’s visit to Islamabad in April. The President has expressed particular interest in Pakistan’s defense industry and infrastructure development, with ongoing talks about collaboration in defense, as well as highway construction and other projects.
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Business Forum in Baku, where he and President Aliyev focused on reinforcing defense cooperation. The Prime Minister referred to the North-South Corridor as a “game changer” for the region and highlighted the significance of the JF-17 fighter jet as a symbol of technological collaboration between the two countries. He also announced that the $2 billion investment agreement would be finalized within a month, further strengthening economic ties. PM Sharif urged business communities from both nations to seize emerging investment opportunities.
The visit also saw the signing of several important agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including:
- Amendments to the LNG trade framework agreement between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
- The White Oil Pipeline Project, which will enhance energy connectivity.
- The declaration of Nakhchivan (Azerbaijan) and Lahore (Pakistan) as twin cities, fostering deeper cultural and economic bonds.
