Islamabad: The 8th Session of the Joint Commission between Pakistan and Azerbaijan began with both nations committing to advance collaboration across multiple areas of mutual interest. Representatives from each country attended the inaugural session.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, the first day of discussions focused on technical-level talks across key sectors such as energy, transport, trade, economic cooperation, and defense industry. Other areas included ICT and digital governance, banking, agriculture and food security, tourism, sports, youth, culture, education and science, health, hydrometeorology, climate change, public service delivery, and social innovations.

Both parties engaged in discussions aimed at finalizing bilateral protocols, marking significant progress. Ms. Sabina Qureshi, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Economic Affairs, highlighted the importance of the Joint Commission in strengthening ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. She noted that finalizing these protocols will lead to tangible outcomes and pave the way for deeper cooperation.

A plenary meeting is scheduled for January 24, 2025, co-chaired by Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Pakistan’s Minister for Defence Production, and H.E. Vugar Valeh oglu Mustafayev, Minister for Defence Industry of Azerbaijan. This meeting will focus on enhancing cooperation in defense, trade, and other strategic areas. Additionally, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister for Science and Education and the Deputy Minister for Economy are expected to make statements on education, innovation, and economic development.