Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Tuesday, reiterated their shared commitment to deepening cooperation across areas of mutual interest, including trade and investment, energy, and people-to-people contacts.
The prime minister held a telephone call with Azerbaijan president, and both leaders expressed satisfaction on the positive trajectory of bilateral relations.
During their most warm and cordial conversation, the two leaders exchanged greetings and reaffirmed the strong fraternal bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.
The prime minister conveyed his best wishes to President Aliyev for the success of the upcoming World Urban Forum to be held in Baku next week.
He expressed confidence that the forum, under Azerbaijan’s stewardship, would serve as a valuable platform for advancing the global urban development agenda.
He noted that, most regrettably, pressing commitments would preclude his personal attendance at the event, but he had ensured that Pakistan would be well-represented at the forum.
They also discussed regional developments of common concern, particularly the ongoing peace efforts in the Middle East.
President Aliyev expressed his deep appreciation at Pakistan’s remarkably successful initiatives to bring about a ceasefire between Iran and the US.
This was a clear reflection of the trust and confidence of the international community in Pakistan and its leadership, he added.
The two leaders agreed to maintain close contact, and looked forward to their meeting, in person, later this year.
The prime minister also reiterated his cordial invitation to President Aliyev to undertake an official visit to Pakistan, at his earliest convenience.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Tuesday held a telephone conversation with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss recent regional developments and efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region.
According to the FO, the two leaders exchanged views on Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to facilitate engagement between Iran and the United States.
During the conversation, Wang Yi appreciated and supported Pakistan’s “constructive mediation role” in easing tensions and promoting dialogue, the Foreign Office said.
Both sides also underscored the importance of maintaining a durable ceasefire and ensuring normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid evolving regional dynamics.
The two sides agreed to maintain close communication on all matters of mutual interest, the statement added.