BAKU: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with President Ilham Aliyev during an official visit to Azerbaijan, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation. The visit highlights the strong ties between the two nations, with discussions focusing on increasing trade and investment.

According to a statement by Press Information Department, Prime Minister Sharif was welcomed at the Zu?ulba Palace with a guard of honor from the Azerbaijani armed forces. The leaders held a private meeting to discuss strengthening their countries’ strategic partnership and followed it with delegation-level talks involving key ministers and officials.

Both sides expressed a desire to deepen cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and connectivity. They noted that the current trade volume does not reflect the potential of their political relationship and agreed to boost trade efforts. The discussions also covered Azerbaijan’s planned investment of US$ 2 billion in Pakistan, with President Aliyev indicating his intent to visit Pakistan in April to formalize agreements.

Prime Minister Sharif acknowledged Azerbaijan’s support for the Jammu and Kashmir issue and reiterated Pakistan’s support for Azerbaijan on Karabakh. The meeting concluded with an exchange ceremony of agreements and MoUs to enhance cooperation in various sectors. The Pakistani delegation included several high-ranking ministers and officials.