14:17     22 April 2021    

Pakistan and Azerbaijan ties are firmly based on shared history, culture, religion, and traditions. Pakistan was the second country to establish diplomatic relations with the newly independent state on 9 June 1992.

Pakistan and Azerbaijan ties are firmly based on shared history, culture, religion, and traditions. Pakistan was the second country to establish diplomatic relations with the newly independent state on 9 June 1992. The foundation of our relations is a strong brotherhood, equality, mutual support, and common goals of regional integrity, peace, stability, and prosperity. Both countries share similar views on International affairs and support each other's interests. Pakistan is one of few countries to recognize the Khojaly massacre, allegedly carried out by Armenia against Azerbaijanis, as a genocide. Pakistan also backings Azerbaijan's side of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. In turn, Azerbaijan cares about Pakistan's stance on Kashmir. In April 1993, a meeting of the Security Council of the United Nations, led by Pakistan, was held. The resolution unanimously adopted resolution № 822 regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Both nations have a similar stance on the Afghan-Peace process and other regional issues. Both countries are a member of OIC, BRI, SCO, ECO, etc., regional alliances. Both nations support each other on all international forums, including the UN. High-level mutual visits strengthen our relations further. Almost all heads of states have visited each other since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties. Ministers, Parliamentarians, and senior officials of the two countries also keep in touch with frequent visits. Trade and economic cooperation is overgrowing and have signed several agreements and Memorandum of understandings to facilitate both sides to promote trade and economic activities in each other country. There exists a vast potential and strong will to promote bilateral ties in both nations. I would suggest a few areas of common interests which need to explore further. Education: Pakistan inherited the British educational system, which is the English language taught, and enjoys international recognition. Azerbaijan can be a beneficiary of high-quality Pakistani education. Pakistan can provide training to the Armed forces, Diplomats, and Civil Servants of Azerbaijan. Agriculture: Pakistan is an agricultural country and can ensure Azerbaijan's food security in a very comprehensive manner. WorkForce: Pakistan is a country with a 220 million population, with 70% of its youth under the age of 40-years. Pakistan has an abundance of high-quality workforce and very competitive. Azerbaijan can meet its human resource requirements from Pakistan conveniently. Investment: Pakistan has introduced flexible and attractive investment policies. Azerbaijan's entrepreneurs and investors may be benefitted. Pakistan has launched several Special Economic Zones (SEZs) with high incentives, where Azerbaijan may be involved proactively. Energy Sector: Pakistan is an energy deficient country and meets its energy needs by imports. At the same time, Azerbaijan is Energy rich-nation and can export its oil & gas. People-to-People contacts need to enhance friendship, understanding further and explore opportunities for cooperation. Tourism is another area of mutual interest. The Visa regime needs to be relaxed mutually to facilitate public-level interaction. Scholars, Intellectuals, Think Tanks, Policymakers, and decision-makers may enhance collaboration to explore further the possibilities of strengthening bilateral ties. Media can play a vital role in bringing two brotherly nations closer. It is believed that the real potential of our relations needs to be explored further and exploited fully. The author is the Non-Resident Fellow of CCG (Center for China and Globalization), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan.

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