Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has hailed the landmark peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, signed at the White House under the patronage of US President Donald Trump, as a “new era of peace, stability, and cooperation” in the South Caucasus.
The accord, which ends decades of conflict between the two neighbours, was finalised during a summit hosted by President Trump, bringing together Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian leaders. Both nations pledged to cease hostilities permanently, open diplomatic channels, and enhance trade and travel while respecting each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Pakistan’s Message of Solidarity with Azerbaijan
Congratulating President Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan, PM Shehbaz called the development a “manifestation of wisdom and foresight” and reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for its “brotherly” ally. He also lauded Washington’s role in facilitating the breakthrough, noting that the agreement could unlock new opportunities for regional trade, connectivity, and integration.
“This milestone serves as a reminder that persistent dialogue and international mediation can turn entrenched disputes into opportunities for progress,” Shehbaz said, expressing hope that the spirit of diplomacy demonstrated in the South Caucasus would inspire peace efforts in other conflict-hit regions.
Decades-Long Dispute Over Nagorno-Karabakh
The decades-long Armenia-Azerbaijan dispute, primarily over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, has led to two major wars. Azerbaijan’s 2023 military offensive reclaimed the territory, triggering the exodus of over 100,000 ethnic Armenians.
Strengthening Pakistan-Azerbaijan Ties
Pakistan and Azerbaijan share close diplomatic, economic, and defence ties. In recent years, cooperation has expanded to include a $2 billion Azerbaijani investment in Pakistan and a contract for the supply of JF-17 Block III fighter jets. PM Shehbaz’s frequent visits to Baku and meetings with President Aliyev underscore Islamabad’s push to enhance trade and offer Azerbaijan access to Pakistan’s southern ports in Karachi and Gwadar.
Peace, Trade, and Regional Connectivity
With Pakistan navigating its economic recovery under a $7 billion IMF program, the premier sees such diplomatic breakthroughs as essential for fostering regional connectivity, attracting investment, and ensuring long-term stability.
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