ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a warm and cordial telephone conversation with H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, on 10 October 2026, reflecting the enduring bonds of brotherhood and friendship between the two nations. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s deep-rooted, fraternal, and strategic partnership with Azerbaijan, which remains characterized by mutual trust and steadfast support on all issues of core national interest.

Strengthening Economic and Strategic Ties

Reviewing their bilateral ties, both leaders reached a consensus that their exceptional political understanding must now be translated into a strong economic, investment, and commercial partnership. The Prime Minister emphasized that the people of Pakistan held President Aliyev and the brotherly people of Azerbaijan in the highest esteem. This ongoing collaboration is part of a broader government effort to strengthen industrial growth and reform, ensuring that diplomatic goodwill yields tangible fiscal rewards. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the growing momentum in their multifaceted cooperation and reaffirmed their shared determination to advance this mutually beneficial agenda.

Expansion of Public Service Delivery

While discussing progress on ongoing bilateral initiatives, they expressed particular satisfaction at the successful operationalization of the Asaan Khidmat Centre in Islamabad, modeled on Azerbaijan’s ASAN Khidmet service delivery. The leaders described the project as a shining example of the practical benefits of their brotherly partnership for the people of Pakistan. At the Prime Minister’s request, President Aliyev graciously agreed to extend Azerbaijan’s full support and expertise towards the expansion of the Asaan Khidmat network across Pakistan. The Prime Minister warmly thanked President Aliyev for this gesture, describing it as yet another manifestation of Azerbaijan’s abiding friendship and solidarity with Pakistan.

Regional Peace and International Cooperation

The two leaders also exchanged views on the evolving regional and international situation and emphasized the importance of continued consultations and close coordination on issues of mutual interest. The Prime Minister apprised President Aliyev of Pakistan’s sustained diplomatic outreach and constructive efforts to promote peace, dialogue, and de-escalation in the region, noting that maintaining law and order remains a priority for the current administration. President Aliyev deeply appreciated Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue, mediation, and de-escalation, acknowledging the importance of these efforts for regional peace and stability. The conversation concluded with both leaders reiterating their commitment to working closely together to transform their strategic partnership into an enduring relationship of shared progress, prosperity, and mutual benefit for the peoples of the two countries.