Islamabad: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Pakistan and Azerbaijan have pledged to strengthen their trade and investment ties. The commitment was made during the visit of Azerbaijan’s President to Pakistan, where a high-level Azerbaijani delegation met with Pakistani counterparts to discuss a range of economic initiatives. The meeting underscored the potential for collaboration in sectors like mining, energy, and technology.

According to Press Information Department, the Azerbaijani delegation, led by Minister for Energy Parviz Shahbazov, engaged with Pakistan’s team headed by Dr. Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for Petroleum and Water Resources. The discussions highlighted historic ties and explored new avenues for economic partnership. Dr. Malik detailed potential investment opportunities in Pakistan, emphasizing the need to capitalize on sectors such as mines, minerals, and the burgeoning IT industry.

Both sides identified key areas for collaboration, including the development of Pakistan’s mineral resources, with a focus on gold and copper, where Azerbaijan’s mining expertise could be invaluable. The energy sector was another focal point, with discussions on joint projects to meet Pakistan’s growing demand for energy. The meetings also touched on leveraging advancements in AI and machine learning to enhance technological cooperation.

The Azerbaijani representatives expressed a keen interest in progressing with the proposed initiatives and stressed the importance of setting up working groups to realize these plans swiftly. Commitments were made to appoint focal persons and shortlist projects for early approval by both governments.

Mr. Jam Kamal, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, highlighted the agreements signed during the presidential visit, noting the importance of thorough briefings for the private sectors of both nations. The Azerbaijani side, appreciative of the warm reception and detailed presentations, echoed the sentiment for expedited collaboration and setting a timeline for action.

The meetings concluded with both parties reiterating their commitment to deepening economic ties and swiftly moving forward on the agreed-upon initiatives, aiming to foster a long-term partnership that benefits both countries economically and culturally.