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 October 10, 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, characterized by mutual trust and steadfast support on all issues of core national interest. As the government continues to refine its international relations, similar diplomatic efforts are being observed in various sectors, such as the recent initiatives to strengthen security ties with Türkiye, another key regional ally.

Strengthening Economic and Strategic Cooperation

Reviewing their bilateral ties, both leaders agreed that their exceptional political understanding must now be translated into a robust economic, investment, and commercial partnership. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the people of Pakistan hold President Aliyev and the brotherly people of Azerbaijan in the highest esteem. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the growing momentum in their multifaceted cooperation and reaffirmed their shared determination to accelerate trade initiatives. This focus on economic development aligns with broader national strategies, including efforts to explore investment partnerships to boost trade and business cooperation with global partners.

Expanding the Asaan Khidmat Network

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

Regional Peace and International Dialogue

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. President Aliyev expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to facilitate dialogue, mediation, and de-escalation, acknowledging the critical importance of these endeavors for regional peace and stability. Similar to efforts aimed at fostering domestic development, such as the Prime Minister’s call for a comprehensive strategy against the diabetes surge, the government continues to prioritize strategic international cooperation as a pillar of national policy. 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 and prosperity for their respective citizens.