Islamabad (PEN)– The Embassy of Azerbaijan in Pakistan hosted an official reception to celebrate the 106th anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The event, graced by Honorable Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Madam Romina Khurshid Alam, diplomatic dignitaries, colleagues, media representatives, and distinguished participants, highlighted the enduring friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Pakistan.
In his address, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan, Khazar Farhadov, emphasized the historical significance of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, established on May 28, 1918, as the first democratic republic in the Muslim East. Despite its brief existence of 23 months, the Republic laid a solid foundation for Azerbaijan’s future independence and democratic traditions.
“The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic played a pivotal role in the formation of our national statehood and the sentiments of freedom and independence. The independent Republic of Azerbaijan, restored in 1991, continues to honor these values under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev,” the Ambassador stated.
The Ambassador also expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s unwavering support to Azerbaijan, both bilaterally and within international organizations. He highlighted the significance of the 2020 liberation of Azerbaijan’s territories under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, fulfilling UN Security Council resolutions from 1993.
Azerbaijan’s active role in global organizations was also noted, including its recent hosting of the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue and the upcoming COP29 in December 2023. These events underscore Azerbaijan’s commitment to addressing global challenges such as climate change.
“The diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, established on June 9, 1992, continue to grow in all fields. The direct flights between our countries and the simplified visa process for Pakistani citizens further strengthen our bond,” the Ambassador added.
He highlighted the trade relations, noting that the trade turnover between the two countries reached up to 100 million dollars, facilitated by Azerbaijan’s exemption of import customs duty on Pakistani rice in December 2022.
The event concluded with a note of thanks from the Ambassador, celebrating the strong and growing relationship between Azerbaijan and Pakistan.