Pakistan, Azerbaijan Reaffirm Defence and Strategic Cooperation During High-Level Meeting

Islamabad — Pakistan and Azerbaijan have reiterated their strong commitment to advancing defence collaboration, with a focus on training, modernization, and multi-domain warfare readiness during a high-level meeting in Islamabad.

A defence delegation led by Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister and Director General of Defence, Agil Gurbanov, visited Air Headquarters, where he held discussions with Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force (PAF). The talks highlighted the deep cultural, religious, and historical bonds that underpin Pakistan–Azerbaijan relations.

Key Areas of Cooperation

• PAF Capacity Support: Air Chief Marshal Sidhu briefed the delegation on PAF’s modernization initiatives, operational concepts, and evolving doctrine. He assured Azerbaijan of PAF’s support in areas such as human resource development, training, and technical expertise.

• Joint Training & Interoperability: Both sides stressed the importance of bilateral exercises and joint training to enhance interoperability and raise professional standards. Gurbanov commended PAF’s professionalism and operational excellence, noting its value as a model for Azerbaijan’s defence transformation.

• Multi-Domain Warfare Cooperation: The Azerbaijani side expressed particular interest in PAF’s multi-domain operational capabilities, with Gurbanov highlighting its relevance for Azerbaijan’s future training and doctrine development.

Strengthening Strategic Ties

This engagement builds on the deepening defence partnership between the two nations. In 2024, Azerbaijan procured JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets from Pakistan under a major US$1.6 billion agreement, later expanded to a US$4.6 billion contract for 40 aircraft, underscoring long-term collaboration in advanced defence technology.

Beyond equipment and training, both nations maintain a strong alignment on strategic issues. Pakistan has consistently supported Azerbaijan’s position on Nagorno-Karabakh, while Azerbaijan has extended firm diplomatic backing to Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, reflecting the depth of mutual trust.

Institutional ties have been further reinforced through platforms such as the 11th Working Group Meeting on Defence Cooperation, which addressed training, technology transfer, and operational collaboration, leading to formal agreements between the two countries.

Shared Outlook

The Islamabad meeting marks a significant step forward in Pakistan–Azerbaijan defence relations, setting the stage for broader cooperation in multi-domain operations, capacity building, and joint strategic objectives. Both countries reaffirmed their determination to contribute to regional peace and stability through a durable, mutually beneficial partnership.