Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, alongside Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, attended the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Business Forum in Baku, emphasizing the deepening defense collaboration between the two nations. He highlighted the North-South Corridor as a transformative project for regional connectivity.
During his address, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan and Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening defense production ties, citing the JF-17 fighter jet as a key example of advanced military cooperation.
$2 Billion Investment Agreement Nears Finalization
The prime minister announced that a $2 billion investment agreement is set to be finalized within a month, further enhancing economic collaboration. He urged business communities from both countries to seize emerging investment opportunities.
Tribute to Karabakh Martyrs
As part of his visit, PM Shehbaz paid homage at the Victory Memorial of the Martyrs of the 44-day Nagorno-Karabakh war. He laid floral wreaths to honor the fallen and was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister for Investment Board, Communications and Privatization Abdul Aleem Khan, and other high-ranking officials.
Grand Reception at Presidential Palace
Upon arriving at the Presidential Palace in Baku, PM Shehbaz received a warm welcome from President Ilham Aliyev and was presented with a guard of honor. The leaders held a one-on-one meeting, followed by delegation-level talks, resulting in key agreements to enhance bilateral cooperation.
Pakistan-Azerbaijan Agreements Signed
Several agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed during the visit, including:
- Amendments to the framework agreement for LNG trade.
- The White Oil Pipeline Project to improve energy connectivity.
- Declaration of Nakhchivan (Azerbaijan) and Lahore (Pakistan) as twin cities to foster cultural and economic ties.
Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening strategic partnerships and expanding economic cooperation. PM Shehbaz expressed optimism about future engagements, noting that President Ilham Aliyev is expected to visit Islamabad in April to formalize further investment agreements.
