Formality Aside | By Mushtaq A. Sarwar
The brotherly Islamic country of Azerbaijan has always been a sincere and devoted friend of Pakistan. Now, this camaraderie and friendship are stepping into a new era marked by mutual trust and economic cooperation. It is a moment of pride that Azerbaijan has announced investment in Pakistan, signaling a new chapter of enduring friendship.
The people of Azerbaijan are emotionally connected to Pakistan, as if they themselves were Pakistani. When Pakistan recently triumphed over India in a conflict and thwarted its designs, the joy in Azerbaijan matched the jubilation felt in Pakistan.
The recent announcement of Azerbaijani investment in Pakistan was like a breath of fresh air for the people of both nations. On the changing canvas of global politics and economy, where relations are often shaped by vested interests, the decision of a brotherly Islamic country to join hands with Pakistan and invest here is not only a welcome step, but also a new example of fraternity and solidarity.
The relationship between Azerbaijan and Pakistan is not merely diplomatic — it is deeply rooted in love, cooperation, and shared Islamic heritage. Whenever Pakistan has faced challenging times, Azerbaijan has stood by its side. On the Kashmir issue, Azerbaijan has always supported Pakistan’s stance, just as Pakistan has raised a strong voice for Azerbaijan regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This is a bond that goes beyond words and is evident in actions. History has shown that whenever either nation faced difficulty, the other stood by firmly.
Azerbaijan’s investment has the potential to bring economic stability to Pakistan, creating opportunities for employment, access to modern technology, and entry into global markets. Pakistan’s sectors like energy, agriculture, technology, construction, and infrastructure offer great potential for Azerbaijani investments, which could accelerate Pakistan’s development. Pakistan holds one of the largest workforces in the world, while Azerbaijan possesses capital, advanced technology, and business experience.
Energy cooperation could be especially transformative — increasing electricity production and helping to resolve Pakistan’s chronic load-shedding issues. Azerbaijan’s energy resources, particularly in oil and gas, could prove to be invaluable for Pakistan. Similarly, partnerships in agriculture and food processing could uplift rural areas in Pakistan.
In the defense sector, too, there is room for deep collaboration. Pakistan’s defense industry enjoys global recognition and can assist in fulfilling Azerbaijan’s defense needs. Joint military exercises can enhance training and coordination between the two forces. Cooperation in counterterrorism, border security, and advanced weapons development will not only strengthen both nations’ security but also deepen mutual trust.
Yet, true friendship is not solely built on economics or defense, but on people-to-people connections. Pakistan and Azerbaijan must promote academic exchanges, cultural delegations, and media cooperation. Scholarships for Pakistani students in Azerbaijan and vice versa will help strengthen ties between the peoples of both nations. Joint cultural programs, music, literature, and sports exchanges can bring this friendship to the grassroots level.
Pakistan can also learn from Azerbaijan’s success in the tourism sector. By studying the foundations of Azerbaijan’s booming tourism industry, Pakistan could revamp and modernize its own tourism strategy.
For Azerbaijan, Pakistan offers not only a large trade market but also a reliable and trustworthy ally. Sectors like defense, textiles, agriculture, and services in Pakistan can bring diversity and value to Azerbaijan’s economy. On the other hand, Pakistan can benefit from Azerbaijan’s modern technology, investments, and access to European and Central Asian markets. Together, both nations can support and uplift each other’s economies.
But to ensure the sustainability of this relationship, formalities must be set aside.
So the key question is: How can these ties become strong and lasting?
The simple answer is: By removing formality.
We must move beyond ceremonial statements, paper agreements, and photo opportunities. Real partnership is only possible when the leaderships and peoples of both countries come closer with open hearts and genuine intentions. There must be transparency in policies, seriousness in implementation, and consistency in decisions. Understanding each other’s challenges, providing timely support, and strengthening public-level friendship will be the pillars of this enduring relationship.
Pakistan and Azerbaijan are both part of the Islamic world. The roots of their brotherhood lie in the teachings of Islam. If this bond is seen not merely as political or economic, but as a spiritual and cultural connection, it will not only become stronger but serve as an example for others.
What is needed now is to ensure that the bilateral ties between these two states are not left to protocol alone, but that this bond of friendship and fraternity is built on practical grounds. We must go beyond hollow gestures and staged smiles. A genuine partnership with Azerbaijan should be forged — one that touches the hearts of both peoples, a friendship that endures for generations and becomes a harbinger of peace, development, and prosperity for both nations.
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