ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received a warm welcome in Azerbaijan on Monday, where he was given a guard of honour at the Zagulba Presidential Palace. This ceremonial reception marked the beginning of his official two-day visit to the country, at the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev.
Upon his arrival, President Aliyev personally greeted Prime Minister Shehbaz, underscoring the significance of this bilateral visit. The national anthems of both Pakistan and Azerbaijan were played, setting the stage for a formal display of respect and diplomatic ties. A contingent of Azerbaijan’s armed forces performed the guard of honour, symbolizing the strong relationship between the two nations.
The prime minister, accompanied by a high-level delegation, is on his second visit to Azerbaijan since assuming office in March 2024. During his time in Baku, he is expected to hold in-depth talks with President Aliyev, focusing on strengthening cooperation across several key areas, including trade, investment, energy, and defense.
After the guard of honour, both leaders proceeded to a bilateral meeting and delegation-level discussions to explore opportunities for closer ties. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements are expected to be signed, aimed at further bolstering the relationship between the two countries.
