ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday held a telephone conversation with President Ilham Aliyev, during which both leaders reaffirmed the strong and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
The exchange was marked by warmth and cordiality, with both sides reiterating their shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation across multiple fields.
The two leaders exchanged greetings and congratulatory messages, reflecting the depth of political understanding and long-standing goodwill between the two countries. The conversation highlighted satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral relations, with both sides acknowledging steady progress in diplomatic engagement and practical cooperation.
During the discussion, PM Shehbaz extended his best wishes to President Aliyev for the successful organisation of the upcoming World Urban Forum scheduled to be held in Baku next week. He expressed confidence that under Azerbaijan’s leadership, the forum would serve as a significant global platform to advance the international urban development agenda and foster meaningful dialogue among participating nations.
I was pleased to speak with my dear brother, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, this evening. During our cordial exchange, we reaffirmed the deep fraternal bonds between Pakistan and Azerbaijan and our shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation in trade,…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 12, 2026The prime minister also conveyed his regret over being unable to attend the forum in person due to unavoidable official commitments. However, he confirmed that Pakistan would be represented at a high-level delegation, ensuring active participation in the global event. Both leaders expressed satisfaction over the positive momentum in bilateral relations and agreed on the importance of maintaining continuity in high-level exchanges.
In their detailed exchange, the two sides reviewed cooperation in key sectors including trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people linkages. Both leaders reaffirmed their shared resolve to further expand economic collaboration and explore new avenues of partnership that could benefit the peoples of both countries.
The conversation also touched upon regional and international developments of mutual concern. In particular, discussions included the situation in the Middle East and ongoing peace efforts, reflecting a shared interest in regional stability and diplomatic solutions to conflicts.
President Aliyev appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in supporting the ceasefire between Iran and the United States, describing them as a clear reflection of Islamabad’s growing global diplomatic credibility. He noted that such efforts demonstrate the confidence and trust the international community places in Pakistan’s leadership and its constructive role in promoting peace.
Both leaders agreed to remain in close contact and continue coordination on matters of mutual interest. They also expressed anticipation of meeting in person later this year to further consolidate bilateral ties. PM Shehbaz reiterated his invitation for President Aliyev to undertake an official visit to Pakistan at a mutually convenient time.