Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz holds crucial talks with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in Baku, highlighting strategic cooperation, regional peace, and expanding economic ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
Pakistan and Azerbaijan moved closer toward stronger strategic cooperation as Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz received a warm diplomatic welcome during her official visit to Baku. Leading a high-level delegation, she met Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to discuss bilateral relations, regional stability, and future economic collaboration.
During the meeting, both sides praised the long-standing brotherly ties and strategic partnership between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. Discussions covered political, economic, diplomatic, defense, and trade cooperation, with leaders expressing confidence in expanding bilateral engagement further.
Maryam Nawaz conveyed greetings from former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to President Aliyev. In response, the Azerbaijani president thanked them and requested his greetings be delivered back to Pakistan’s leadership.
President Ilham Aliyev also recalled the historic friendship between Azerbaijan’s national leader Heydar Aliyev and Nawaz Sharif, calling it a foundation for today’s growing partnership between the two countries.
Maryam Nawaz thanked the Azerbaijani leadership for inviting her to attend the 13th session of the United Nations World Urban Forum and appreciated the exceptional arrangements made for the global event. She described Baku as a remarkable blend of cultural heritage and modern urban planning.
The meeting also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic role in easing recent Iran-US tensions. Both sides appreciated the continued diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his team in promoting regional peace and stability.
Speaking during the visit, Maryam Nawaz said Pakistan’s strategic position remains vital for maintaining regional balance. She added that Pakistan, as the Muslim world’s only nuclear power, holds extraordinary importance on the global stage and has emerged as an indispensable mediator through dialogue and wisdom during recent regional tensions.
Discussions further included cooperation on public service reforms inspired by Azerbaijan’s “ASAN Khidmet” model, with possibilities for similar service centers in Pakistan also reviewed.

