People of Pakistan and Kashmiris all over the world observed ‘Youm-e-Istesal’ to protest against India’s illegal actions of August 05, 2019. It is noteworthy to mention that During the joint press statements of Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on June 15, 2023, in Baku, President Ilham Aliyev told that Azerbaijan always supports and will continue to support Pakistan on the issue of Kashmir. He said Azerbaijan demonstrates this support and solidarity in all international organizations.
He spoke highly of Pakistan’s steadfast support to Azerbaijan during the times of occupation and the 44 days of the Patriotic War of 2020.
The just stance of the Azerbaijani President has not only further elevated his towering stature in the eyes of Kashmiris and people of Pakistan but also the image of his country in the comity of nations. This principled stand is in sharp contrast to the self-serving policies adopted by many other members of the international community that are reluctant to speak clearly in favor of the birth right of Kashmiris mainly because of their economic interests with India. Over the past three decades, Azerbaijan and Pakistan have developed strong interstate relations that have grown into a strategic partnership. This partnership is based on mutual understanding and cooperation on various international issues. This relationship is characterized by strong political, cultural and economic bonds which were highlighted by a recent understanding between the two brotherly countries under which Azerbaijan agreed to provide LNG to Pakistan on concessional rates to help provide relief to businesses and households in Pakistan. This would be a memorable contribution of Azerbaijan to the economic growth of Pakistan and mitigate the sufferings of its people because of the crippling shortage of energy. Azerbaijan has also responded positively to proposals from Pakistan for investment in petro-chemical and solar sectors for the mutual good of the two peoples. The two countries have already agreed to strengthen cooperation in education and as part of this strategy the number of Pakistani students in Azerbaijan, which is currently at 750, would be increased. All these and similar other gestures of intensive engagement of the two countries in different spheres of life are reflective of the deep commitment of President Aliyev to the cause of progress and prosperity of the people of Pakistan.
