Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan engaged in a telephone conversation on May 12, 2026, discussing bilateral relations and regional peace efforts.

According to Press Information Department, the leaders exchanged greetings and reaffirmed the strong ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. Prime Minister Sharif conveyed his best wishes for the success of the upcoming World Urban Forum in Baku, expressing confidence in Azerbaijan’s leadership to advance global urban development. Although unable to attend, he assured Pakistan’s representation at the event.

The conversation covered satisfaction with the positive trajectory of bilateral relations, with commitments to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people contacts. Regional developments, particularly peace efforts in the Middle East, were also discussed. President Aliyev praised Pakistan’s initiatives in facilitating a ceasefire between Iran and the U.S., highlighting international trust in Pakistan’s leadership.

Both leaders agreed to maintain close contact and anticipated meeting later in the year. Prime Minister Sharif also reiterated an invitation for President Aliyev to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.