LACHIN (Web Desk) — In a major diplomatic and economic development, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev announced a $2 billion investment package for Pakistan during a high-profile trilateral summit with Pakistan and Turkiye held in Lachin, Azerbaijan.
President Aliyev revealed that the three nations are currently reviewing collaborative projects worth $2 billion, with Pakistan expected to receive the lion’s share. Discussions are reportedly focused on infrastructure, energy, and technology sectors, with delegation-level talks planned in the coming weeks to finalize investment details.
“We are committed to joint growth, regional peace, and deepened economic ties,” Aliyev stated, reaffirming Azerbaijan’s intention to strengthen its alliance with Pakistan.
Pakistan-Azerbaijan: Growing Strategic Partnership
Prior to the summit, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with President Aliyev in a bilateral meeting held in Lachin. The leaders expressed satisfaction over the upward trajectory of bilateral ties, particularly in defence, trade, and cultural cooperation.
PM Shehbaz thanked Azerbaijan for its unwavering support during Pakistan’s recent standoff with India, triggered by unprovoked missile attacks from New Delhi on May 7. He noted Azerbaijan’s vocal solidarity, especially during Pakistan’s defensive operations which resulted in the downing of six Indian jets, including three Rafales, and dozens of drones.
“Azerbaijan stood with Pakistan not only as a friend, but as a brother nation,” said PM Shehbaz.
The meeting, held on the eve of Azerbaijan’s Independence Day, carried deep symbolic meaning and underscored the emotional and historical ties between both nations.
Strategic Highlights from the Summit:
- Joint defence cooperation emphasized as key to regional stability.
- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed strategic ties and condemned the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
- Multiple MoUs and declarations are expected in the coming days.
- Delegations from Pakistan’s military and foreign office, including COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir, participated in the summit.
- PM Shehbaz concluded a five-day diplomatic tour across Iran, Turkiye, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan, aimed at boosting regional unity post-conflict with India.
Regional Peace, Global Messaging
Pakistan has ramped up diplomatic engagement following the four-day military escalation with India. The conflict claimed the lives of over 70 civilians and troops, and was defused via a ceasefire agreed on May 10.
To reinforce Pakistan’s peace-oriented narrative, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will lead a high-level diplomatic mission to brief global leaders and media outlets.
