Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Azerbaijan, highlighting the deep-rooted brotherly relations between the two countries and expressing Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, information technology, defence and other key sectors.
Pakistan, Azerbaijan reaffirm strong strategic partnership on “6th Victory Day Anniversary”
By: Shams Abbasi
ISLAMABAD, Nov 03 (APP):Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Azerbaijan, highlighting the deep-rooted brotherly relations between the two countries and expressing Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, information technology, defence and other key sectors.
The minister was addressing a gathering organised by Embassy of Azerbaijan in Islamabad to commemorate the 6th anniversary of Azerbaijan’s Victory Day, observed on November 8, marking the historic victory of the Azerbaijani people in the 44-day Patriotic War in 2020.
On behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan, Shaza Fatima Khawaja extended heartfelt congratulations to President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion.
She paid tribute to the leadership, armed forces and people of Azerbaijan for their courage, determination and sacrifices in securing the country’s victory and restoring its territorial integrity.
The minister also welcomed the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Pakistan, H.E. Irfan Davudov, and expressed confidence that his diplomatic tenure would further strengthen the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two brotherly nations.
Shaza Fatima said that Pakistan and Azerbaijan enjoyed exceptional relations based on mutual trust, respect, solidarity and shared values. She appreciated Azerbaijan’s consistent support for Pakistan at international and multilateral forums, particularly on the Kashmir issue, and reiterated that Pakistan would continue to stand firmly with Azerbaijan in support of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two countries, the minister said that relations between their leaderships remained close and cordial.
She emphasized the need to translate this strong political understanding into greater economic engagement through increased trade, investment and collaboration in emerging technologies.
She particularly underscored the enormous potential for cooperation in the information technology and digital sectors, saying that Pakistan and Azerbaijan could benefit from joint initiatives in digital transformation, innovation and technological development.
The minister also noted that defence cooperation between the two countries was expanding with each passing day. She said that bilateral ties across various sectors reflected the strength of their partnership and the shared commitment of both countries to regional stability and prosperity.
Referring to Pakistan’s recent military and diplomatic achievements, Shaza Fatima acknowledged the role of the country’s civilian and military leadership in defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and national interests during its war with India. She expressed gratitude for Azerbaijan’s support and solidarity with Pakistan during challenging times.
Concluding her remarks, the minister congratulated the Azerbaijani nation once again on its historic Victory Day and expressed her best wishes for continued peace, prosperity and development in Azerbaijan. She reiterated Pakistan’s desire to expand cooperation with Azerbaijan in all fields, saying that the friendship between the two nations was founded on brotherhood, mutual respect and unwavering support.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan H.E. Irfan Davudov highlighted the exceptional historical and national significance of Victory Day, describing it as a defining moment in the modern history of Azerbaijan.
The ambassador said that the 44-day Patriotic War, which began on September 27, 2020, under the leadership of President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, demonstrated the unity, determination and resilience of the Azerbaijani nation.
He said that the Azerbaijani Armed Forces displayed extraordinary courage, heroism and sacrifice during the war, resulting in the liberation of territories that had remained under occupation for many years.
Davudov recalled that the historic victory was achieved on November 8, 2020, with the liberation of the ancient city of
Shusha, regarded as the cultural capital of Azerbaijan and an important centre of the Turkic world.
He observed that the victory was not merely a military achievement but also a defining milestone that strengthened national unity and opened a new chapter in Azerbaijan’s modern history and statehood.
The ambassador emphasised that the conflict had not been Azerbaijan’s choice, maintaining that the country had sought the restoration of its internationally recognised territorial integrity in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. He also referred to the occupation of Azerbaijani territories and the country’s longstanding efforts to achieve a peaceful and just resolution.
Expressing gratitude for Pakistan’s principled position and continued support, Davudov said that the solidarity demonstrated by the Pakistani government and people was deeply valued by Azerbaijan.
He also appreciated the opportunity to celebrate the sixth anniversary of Victory Day with Pakistani friends and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations.
The ambassador concluded his address by expressing confidence that Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations would continue to grow across diplomatic, economic, defence and cultural spheres.
