By Aflatun Amashov

In the current historical stage, where regional alliances are being reshaped, relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan hold a uniquely distinguished character. The ties between the two states go far beyond diplomatic protocol norms or economic interests; they have risen to the level of unshakable brotherhood and alliance in moral, political, and strategic dimensions. The political axis formed by Baku and Islamabad representing such decisive regions as the South Caucasus and South Asia on the geostrategic map of Eurasia serves not only the national interests of the two countries but also contributes to strengthening the security and stability architecture in a broader geography.

A review of the post-independence period shows that the dynamics of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan have consistently experienced upward development. Pakistan, having been the second country after Türkiye to recognize Azerbaijan’s state independence, remains the only state that refuses to recognize Armenia as a country. This principled stance of Islamabad has led to the emergence of a special environment of trust and appreciation toward Pakistan in Azerbaijan’s foreign policy course. That historic gesture must be regarded as the highest expression of inter-people solidarity and shared moral values.

An analysis of political and military cooperation demonstrates that the parties have managed to stand by each other at the most critical moments. In particular,  Pakistan’s unequivocal political and moral support for Azerbaijan during the Patriotic War left a profound mark on Azerbaijani society. Throughout the 44-day war, Pakistan’s official circles, parliamentarians, and public representatives defended Azerbaijan’s just position across all international platforms, taking firm steps for the restoration of justice. In the post-war period, cooperation in the military sphere has entered a new qualitative phase. Joint military exercises such as “Three Brothers” between the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan and Pakistan, experience-sharing among special forces, and projects in the military-technical field are among the factors shaping a new balance of power in the region. Recent information and finalized agreements on Azerbaijan’s acquisition of modern JF-17 “Thunder” fighter jets produced in Pakistan also indicate the depth of integration in the defense industry. This cooperation holds strategic significance in terms of diversifying the arsenal of the Azerbaijani Air Force and increasing its combat capability.

Furthermore, the intensity of high-level reciprocal visits between the two sides helps maintain the dynamism of bilateral relations. Regular meetings between heads of state, ministers, and parliamentary speakers serve as an invaluable mechanism for defining strategic roadmaps and ensuring swift responses to emerging challenges. Documents signed during President Ilham Aliyev’s visits to Pakistan and the visits of Pakistan’s prime ministers to Azerbaijan have strengthened the legal foundation of cooperation and outlined prospects for future development.

An analytical assessment of economic and trade relations shows that the existing potential has not yet been fully realized; however, significant........

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