Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev announced a significant economic step forward by revealing plans to invest $2 billion in Pakistan, highlighting the enduring support his country has extended toward the sovereignty and security of both Pakistan and Turkey. Speaking at the trilateral summit involving Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan held in the Azerbaijani city of Kalachin, President Aliyev emphasized the strong political and economic ties between the three nations. He noted that Azerbaijan is already investing $20 billion in Turkey, signaling a broader regional partnership built on shared values and strategic cooperation.
The trilateral meeting, now in its second edition following a previous gathering in July last year, reflects a growing alliance among the three countries. President Aliyev stressed that this partnership is founded on mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and justice. He expressed optimism that these meetings will continue to foster deeper ties and collaborative initiatives across various sectors.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also addressed the summit, welcoming the recent ceasefire between Pakistan and India. He praised the constructive and diplomatic approach taken by Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and other government officials during the tensions, calling their efforts commendable. Erdogan reaffirmed that relations between Turkey, Pakistan, and Azerbaijan remain robust, rooted in mutual support and historical solidarity.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, in his address, criticized India’s response to the Pahalgam attack, stating that India rejected Pakistan’s sincere offer for a transparent investigation and failed to provide credible evidence. He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to peace and diplomacy but insisted that sustainable peace in the region is only achievable through meaningful dialogue on critical issues, including the longstanding Kashmir dispute. The Prime Minister also pointed out that steps are underway to ensure India respects the Indus Waters Treaty, underlining Pakistan’s resolve to uphold international agreements while pursuing regional stability.
