LACHIN, AZERBAIJAN – Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, met with Azerbaijan’s Defence Minister, Colonel General Hasanov Zakir Asgar Oglu, on Wednesday to discuss evolving regional security dynamics and the future of bilateral defence collaboration.

The meeting, held in the city of Lachin, took place alongside a wider diplomatic mission led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is currently visiting Azerbaijan as part of a four-nation tour aimed at reinforcing strategic partnerships following a recent military standoff with India.

According to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), both sides exchanged views on shared security concerns and agreed to further strengthen defence cooperation between the two “brotherly nations.”

A Unified Front Amid Regional Tensions

During the discussions, Field Marshal Munir praised the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, highlighting their growing cooperation in defence, diplomacy, and strategic affairs.

“Pakistan remains fully committed to deepening defence ties with Azerbaijan,” he stated, noting the mutual benefits of greater military collaboration and intelligence sharing amid rising regional volatility.

The talks emphasized expanding joint military training programs, defence technology exchange, and cooperation on border and counterterrorism strategies.

Part of a Wider Diplomatic Mission

Field Marshal Munir is accompanying PM Shehbaz Sharif on a five-day regional tour, with Azerbaijan as the third stop following visits to Turkiye and Iran. The Pakistani delegation includes Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, underscoring the strategic importance of the mission.

On Tuesday, PM Shehbaz held a bilateral meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, during which both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties across political, economic, defence, and cultural spheres.

Azerbaijan Backs Pakistan Amid Conflict With India

President Aliyev expressed his country’s unwavering support for Pakistan during the recent escalation with India, triggered by unprovoked missile attacks from New Delhi. PM Shehbaz thanked Azerbaijan for its solidarity, noting that public and official support from Baku during Pakistan’s defensive operation against India was a powerful demonstration of shared values and friendship.

The Pakistani leader also highlighted the symbolic celebrations held in Azerbaijan following Pakistan’s successful military response, which he described as a “tribute to the unity and resilience” of the two nations.

Boosting Economic and Defence Cooperation

The high-level meeting also paved the way for increased economic cooperation. Azerbaijan expressed interest in boosting investments in Pakistan, particularly in energy, infrastructure, and defence production.

Delegation-level talks are expected to be organized soon to discuss concrete steps for enhancing Azerbaijani investment in key sectors of Pakistan’s economy.

“The current momentum in our relationship provides an ideal opportunity to build lasting institutional linkages,” said a senior Pakistani official, referring to proposed joint ventures and technology-sharing initiatives.

Looking Ahead

With both countries facing complex regional challenges, the meeting between Field Marshal Munir and Defence Minister Hasanov served as a critical reaffirmation of their shared strategic interests.

As Islamabad continues to counter Indian aggression diplomatically and militarily, support from trusted allies like Azerbaijan will play an increasingly vital role in ensuring regional stability and strengthening Pakistan’s international position.