Islamabad and Baku are strengthening cooperation under a growing trilateral framework involving Pakistan, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan.
The development was highlighted by Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev during a high-level meeting in Baku with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who is currently on an official visit.
The visit comes as part of Pakistan’s participation in the 13th UN World Urban Forum, where urban development and global cooperation are key discussion points.
Trilateral Cooperation Gains Momentum
During the meeting, President Ilham Aliyev underlined the expanding diplomatic direction between the three countries.
He stated that relations are developing within a structured trilateral format that includes Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Türkiye.
According to an official statement, “President Ilham Aliyev also emphasised that Azerbaijan-Pakistan relations are currently developing within a trilateral framework involving Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Pakistan”.
The leaders also reviewed ongoing cooperation in multiple sectors, including political dialogue, economic engagement, defence collaboration, and cultural exchange.
Moreover, both sides acknowledged the growing strategic partnership and expressed interest in expanding trade and investment opportunities.
High-Level Talks in Baku
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz arrived in Baku on a three-day visit to attend the UN World Urban Forum.
She met President Ilham Aliyev to discuss bilateral ties and broader regional cooperation.
Both sides welcomed the progress in Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations. They also highlighted the importance of interregional collaboration for long-term development.
Officials noted that cooperation is also expanding through governance initiatives, including the implementation of Azerbaijan’s “ASAN Khidmet” service model in Pakistan.
Urban Development and Global Cooperation
The discussion also touched on the importance of urban planning and sustainable city development.
Maryam Nawaz appreciated Azerbaijan’s organisation of the global forum and expressed gratitude for the invitation.
According to the presidential statement, she said that major global urban challenges would be addressed during the event in Baku.
She also described Baku as a modern city that reflects a balance between cultural heritage and contemporary development.
Furthermore, she visited the grave of Azerbaijan’s national leader Heydar Aliyev and paid tribute.
Diplomatic Exchanges and Leadership Messages
During the meeting, Maryam Nawaz conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to President Aliyev.
The Azerbaijani president responded by expressing gratitude and extended his own greetings in return.
The statement also noted historical ties between the leadership families of both countries.
President Aliyev recalled the friendly relations between Heydar Aliyev and Nawaz Sharif, highlighting long-standing diplomatic continuity.
Pakistan’s Urban Vision at UN Forum
Maryam Nawaz is scheduled to present Pakistan’s vision at the UN Urban Forum Leaders Summit.
She is expected to highlight policies focused on safe, inclusive, and resilient cities.
Additionally, she will inaugurate the Pakistan Pavilion at the forum.
The pavilion will showcase development initiatives, including the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” housing program.
Officials stated that the project has approved 160,000 housing loans, with more than 100,000 families already moving into their homes.
Expanding Regional Engagement
The meeting also included members of the Pakistani delegation, including Ali Mustafa Dar, adviser on artificial intelligence and special initiatives.
He described the visit as an honour while accompanying the chief minister during the diplomatic engagement.
Meanwhile, earlier communications between President Aliyev and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed mutual interest in continued cooperation.
Both leaders agreed to maintain close contact and expressed anticipation for future in-person meetings.
As a result, Pakistan, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan continue to deepen their trilateral partnership, focusing on diplomacy, development, and regional connectivity.
