PM Thanks Azerbaijan for Support on Kashmir and Regional Crisis
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reiterated Pakistan’s firm resolve to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of any future aggression, expressing concern over provocative statements by the Indian leadership. In a telephonic conversation with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, the prime minister underlined Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace, emphasizing that the ceasefire understanding with India was upheld in good faith.
Highlighting the root cause of instability in South Asia, the prime minister stressed that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute must be resolved in line with the United Nations Security Council resolutions. He extended heartfelt gratitude to President Aliyev for Azerbaijan’s unwavering and principled support to the Kashmir cause. The prime minister noted that such solidarity from a brotherly nation carried deep significance for the people of Pakistan.
The conversation between the two leaders was marked by warmth and cordiality. Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed special appreciation for President Aliyev’s firm stance during the recent regional crisis, calling it a reflection of his genuine affection for the people of Pakistan. He also acknowledged the Azerbaijani people’s strong expressions of support, terming it as a reaffirmation of the close and enduring ties between the two countries.
Discussing bilateral relations, the prime minister emphasized the historic and brotherly bonds between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding this relationship into a robust economic partnership. He expressed satisfaction over ongoing progress on investment proposals worth USD 2 billion by Azerbaijan in various sectors in Pakistan and extended a cordial invitation to President Aliyev to visit Pakistan, which was graciously accepted.
President Aliyev, while congratulating Prime Minister Shehbaz on Pakistan’s recent diplomatic and regional achievements, welcomed the ceasefire understanding and lauded Pakistan’s efforts for peace. He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to further strengthening its brotherly ties with Pakistan across all sectors, underscoring the mutual trust and respect that define the relationship between the two nations.
