COAS Meets Azerbaijani Defence Minister in Lachin

RAWALPINDI: Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), engaged in discussions with Azerbaijani Minister of Defence, Colonel General Hasanov Zakir Asgar Oglu, on Wednesday in Lachin, Azerbaijan.

According to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the meeting addressed subjects of common concern, the dynamics of regional security, and approaches to deepen defence collaboration between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.

The army chief voiced his appreciation for the robust bilateral ties that exist between the two allied nations. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to bolstering its defence relationship with Azerbaijan.

Field Marshal Munir is accompanying Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on his visit to Azerbaijan for the Pakistan-Turkiye-Azerbaijan Trilateral Summit.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi are also part of the high-ranking delegation.

PM Shehbaz’s arrival in Lachin marked the third leg of a five-day tour focused on regional tensions and relations, following a military escalation triggered by unprovoked acts.

During a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Tuesday, the Prime Minister conveyed gratitude for Azerbaijan’s steadfast support during the recent tensions and lauded the public display of unity from its leadership and populace.

He also reflected on the celebrations held in Azerbaijan to commemorate Pakistan’s triumph, underscoring the strong bonds and mutual assistance shared by the two countries.

During their discussions, both leaders examined the breadth of bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of political, economic, defence, and cultural cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.

The Azerbaijani side consented to exchange delegations concerning advancements in investment by Azerbaijan in Pakistan. In this connection, delegation-level discussions will be organized shortly.