Punjab CM, Azerbaijan President discuss expansion of ties

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif received a grand diplomatic welcome in Baku, where she led a high-level delegation and an important meeting with Republic of Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev.

Continuing the historic ties rooted in relations between Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Heydar Aliyev, both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation and expressed satisfaction over growing collaboration in political, economic, diplomatic and defence sectors, while also emphasizing the strong potential for further expansion of trade and investment relations, said a handout issued here on Sunday.

CM Maryam Nawaz conveyed warm greetings from former prime minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to President Ilham Aliyev, who reciprocated by sending his good wishes to the Pakistani leadership and recalling the cordial relations between the two leadership families.

President Aliyev appreciated Pakistan’s constructive and responsible diplomatic role in regional peace efforts, particularly in the context of recent Iran-US tensions, and acknowledged its continued contribution toward regional stability.

The meeting also discussed institutional cooperation, including initiatives in Pakistan inspired by Azerbaijan’s “ASAN Khidmet” model for efficient public service delivery.

CM Maryam Nawaz thanked President Aliyev for inviting her to participate in the 13th session of the United Nations World Urban Forum and praised the arrangements made in Baku for the global event. She said Azerbaijan’s capital reflects a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern urban planning.

During the visit, the chief minister also visited the mausoleum of Azerbaijan’s national leader Heydar Aliyev and paid tribute to his services and legacy.

Speaking on the occasion, she said Pakistan’s strategic position is vital for regional balance, adding that the country, as the only Muslim nuclear power, holds significant importance on the global stage. She said Pakistan had emerged as an important voice for peace and dialogue in regional conflicts and reaffirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was working tirelessly to ensure economic stability and national progress.

President Ilham Aliyev noted that relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan were strengthening rapidly under the broader regional framework involving Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Pakistan.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026