The bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is a remarkable story of solidarity, strategic cooperation and shared aspirations—an enduring brotherhood that transcends political rhetoric and resonates deeply with the people of both nations.
The most recent visit of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to Azerbaijan in May 2025 marked a significant chapter in this evolving partnership.
His participation in a high-level trilateral summit in Baku was not merely symbolic; it was strategically aligned with a broader vision of regional cooperation and mutual development.
More importantly, the visit reaffirmed both countries’ shared commitment to advancing national interests, prosperity and global standing.
A Relationship Forged in Trust and Mutual Support: The bond between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is based on unwavering trust and an unflinching commitment to each other’s causes.
During the 44-day Patriotic War of Azerbaijan in 2020, Pakistan’s unambiguous moral and diplomatic support was a gesture that resonated deeply within Azerbaijani society.
Pakistan was one of the few nations that stood firmly beside Azer-baijan without hesitation.
The powerful images of Pakistani and Azerbaijani flags wav-ing together in Baku still evoke emotional resonance—symbols of true brotherhood that words alone cannot capture.
Azerbaijan, in turn, has always demonstrated consistent support for Pakistan on regional and global issues, especially on the matter of Kashmir.
During the recent tensions between Pakistan and India, President Ilham Aliyev’s unequivocal stance in favor of Pakistan’s territorial sovereignty was a diplomatic statement of solidarity that Pakistanis deeply appreciate.
From platforms such as the United Nations to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Azerbaijan has proven to be a reliable ally that amplifies Pakistan’s voice on the world stage.
From Friendship to Strategic Partnership: While the emotional and historical bonds are invaluable, the relationship has matured into a robust strategic partnership, especially in defence, trade, energy and connectivity.
Prime Minister Sharif’s visit highlighted growing defence cooperation, with both countries pledging to enhance joint military training, technology exchange and collaborative defence production.
The energy sector also holds immense promise, with Pakistan pursuing diversified energy sources and Azerbaijan’s role as an energy exporter proving pivotal.
Agreements on LNG supply, oil and gas exploration and renewable energy collaboration have opened new economic corridors.
The growing trade relationship is another bright spot.
Though trade volume has remained modest, both governments are working to remove barriers and encourage business-to-business linkages.
From pharmaceuticals and textiles to construction and IT, there is ample room to scale up bilateral commerce.
Special economic zones and joint ventures are paving the way for deeper commercial engagement, signaling a strong commitment to shared economic growth.
Youth and Cultural Diplomacy: Building Bridges for the Future: Youth and cultural diplomacy play a transformative role in sustaining long-term partnerships, comple-menting high-level meetings and agreements that form the backbone of diplomacy.
Peo-ple-to-people connections, particularly among the youth, help build lasting trust and cooperation.
With shared values, cultural resonance and historical appreciation, young people from Pakistan and Azerbaijan are natural allies.
Exchange programs, joint in-novation initiatives, cultural festivals and youth summits nurture this alliance at the grassroots level, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
PAAA has been instrumental in facilitating academic linkages, digital diplomacy and leadership platforms that empower youth to co-create solutions for common challenges such as climate change, digital literacy and entrepreneurship.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s meetings in Baku further emphasized this aspect of diplomacy, with discussions on enhancing educational collaboration and student exchanges.
This growing focus on institutionalizing youth engagement represents a strategic shift that promises generational dividends for the Pakistan-Azerbaijan partnership.
Regional Connectivity and the Baku Vision: Baku, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is emerging as a key player in shaping regional connectivity.
Azerbaijan’s proactive engagement with Central Asia, Turkey and South Asia underlines its geopo-litical relevance.
Pakistan, with its strategic location and close ties with China and the Gulf, complements this vision.
During the recent trilateral summit in Baku, involving Azerbaijan, Pakistan and other regional stakeholders, the focus on building transit corridors, multimodal logistics and digital connectivity was evident.
These initiatives are not only economically beneficial but also strategically significant in promoting peace, interdependence and stability across the broader region.
The Middle Corridor, connecting Central Asia to Europe via Azerbaijan and the Caspian Sea, is of particular importance.
Pakistan’s active interest in integrating with such corridors underlines our commitment to regional integration.
It also opens up opportunities for our youth in the fields of logistics, digital technology and infrastructure development.
A Moment to Reflect, a Future to Build: The enduring Pakistan-Azerbaijan friendship is a purposeful alliance grounded in shared values, strategic convergence and mutual respect.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit reaffirmed this path amid complex regional and global challenges.
Yet, diplomacy must remain peoplecentered.
I urge civil society, academia, business and especially youth to take ownership, giving this brother-hood a human face that celebrates diversity, collaboration and innovation.
In the words of the great poet Allama Iqbal, “Nations are born in the hearts of poets, they prosper and die in the hands of politicians.
” Let us ensure that the Pakistan-Azerbaijan relationship continues to prosper, nurtured by the hearts of young dreamers, responsible leaders and communities committed to peace and progress.
Together, we can build a future that not only honors the legacy of this profound friendship but also inspires the world with a model of unity, dignity and sustainable development.
—The writer is Chairman of Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development BRISD. ([email protected])
