General Sahir Shamshad Mirza meets with Azerbaijani leadership to enhance military cooperation and address security challenges

On October 30, 2024, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, met with President Ilham Aliyev and senior civil and military officials of Azerbaijan to discuss the deepening of defence ties between the two nations. This meeting, reported by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), highlights the commitment of both countries to enhancing their military collaboration in light of evolving regional dynamics.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, Pakistan and Azerbaijan have enjoyed a cooperative relationship that spans various sectors, including trade, defence, and energy. Their ties have been further solidified through a series of agreements and joint military exercises over the years.

During President Aliyev’s visit to Pakistan in July, the two governments signed 15 agreements aimed at boosting cooperation in transit trade, mineral resources, and tourism, signalling a robust partnership that extends beyond military cooperation.

In their recent discussions, both General Mirza and President Aliyev acknowledged the historical and deep-rooted connections between their countries. They focused on mutual interests, particularly regarding regional security dynamics and the need to enhance existing defence arrangements.

General Mirza’s visit included meetings with prominent Azerbaijani officials, including Defence Minister Col General Hasanov Zakir Asgar, Foreign Minister Jeyhun Aziz Oghlu Bayramov, Deputy Defence Minister and Chief of General Staff Col General Karim Tofig Oghlu Valiyev, and Defence Industry Minister Vugar Mustafayev. These discussions underscored the importance of military cooperation in fostering stability in the region.

In a show of commitment to peace and security, General Mirza reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to supporting Azerbaijan in maintaining regional stability. The Azerbaijani leadership reciprocated this sentiment, expressing admiration for the sacrifices and professionalism exhibited by the Pakistani armed forces.

The military collaboration between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is not new. In 2021, Pakistan participated in an eight-day joint military exercise with Azerbaijan and Turkey, reflecting a tripartite military cooperation agreement that aims to bolster defence capabilities. Furthermore, during the 44-day Second Karabakh War between Azerbaijan and Armenian forces in late 2020, Pakistan extended its support to Azerbaijan, reinforcing the bond between the two nations.

As both countries navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the strengthening of defence ties is seen as a proactive step in addressing mutual security challenges and fostering regional stability. This partnership is poised to evolve further as both nations continue to explore opportunities for collaboration in various sectors.