The eighth session of the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Joint Commission concluded in Islamabad, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations. Co-chaired by Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Defense Production Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Azerbaijan’s Minister for Defense Industry Vugar Valeh Oglu Mustafayev, the session reaffirmed commitments across various sectors and set the stage for deeper collaboration.
Enhancing Trade and Economic Cooperation
The two countries agreed to implement the Azerbaijan-Pakistan Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) signed in July 2024. This agreement paves the way for joint ventures and investments by businesses from both nations. Additionally, both sides committed to facilitating cooperation between customs authorities by expediting the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish an Advance Electronic Data Interchange. This measure is expected to streamline trade processes and foster greater economic ties.
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Defense Collaboration
In the defense sector, Pakistan and Azerbaijan agreed to accelerate the signing of an MoU for collaboration on joint production and sale of defense hardware. This initiative will not only strengthen defense capabilities but also enhance the two nations’ strategic partnership.
Energy Sector Initiatives
Discussions in the energy sector focused on advancing Pakistan’s Strategic Underground Gas Storage (SUGS) project, with Azerbaijan invited to participate in energy infrastructure projects. These include the proposed development of a white oil pipeline, which aims to improve energy transport and storage capabilities in Pakistan.
Agricultural Development and Food Security
Agriculture and food security emerged as key areas of focus during the session. Both countries agreed to enhance cooperation through joint research in fields such as cotton, grain cultivation, and seed development. To further boost agricultural trade, the two sides committed to facilitating business-to-business exchanges.
Healthcare Collaboration
In the healthcare sector, Pakistan and Azerbaijan emphasized the importance of sharing expertise in advanced diagnostics, public health emergencies, and medical tourism. Discussions also included exploring avenues for collaboration in health-related research and capacity building, ensuring mutual benefits in tackling health challenges.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Both ministers lauded the progress made in bilateral ties. Khawaja Muhammad Asif highlighted that high-level exchanges, including visits by President Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, have deepened cooperation across multiple sectors. “Over the years, our relationship has grown stronger, and this session reflects our shared commitment to a prosperous future,” he said.
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Minister Mustafayev echoed similar sentiments, stating, “The agreements reached during this session will significantly enhance our bilateral cooperation. The creation of new joint working groups is a step towards more focused and effective collaboration.” The session concluded with an announcement that the ninth Pakistan-Azerbaijan Joint Commission will be held in Baku in 2027. Both countries reaffirmed their dedication to fostering ties for the mutual benefit of their people and long-term development.