Islamabad
Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has termed Pakistan’s bilateral ties with Azerbaijan deeply rooted in shared religious, cultural and historical bond and both the countries stand by each other in testing times supporting each other’s stance at international forums.
He was addressing the 108th Independence Day of Azerbaijan as Chief Guest. The reception hosted by Ambassador Khazar Farhadov and his spouse at the Movenpick Hotel Wednesday evening brought together an impressive gathering of political leaders, diplomats, parliamentarians, business figures and members of civil society, reflecting the exemplary and time-tested relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan across multiple sectors.
Among the noted guests were Federal Ministers Abdul Aleem Khan, Musadik Malik, Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Tariq Fatemi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, parliamentarian Dr Farooq Sattar, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Turkmenistan Ambassador Atadjan Movlamov, Ambassador of Turkiye Irfan Neziroglu, members of the diplomatic corps and other prominent personalities.
Senior Minister Punjab Marriyum Aurangzeb also attended and conveyed greetings to Ambassador Farhadov and his spouse on behalf of the Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
Chairman Senate Yousaf Raza Gilani reaffirmed the deep-rooted alliance between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, saying the bilateral relationship transcends conventional diplomacy and is anchored in shared religious, cultural and historical bonds. He said both nations have consistently stood by each other in times of joy and adversity, describing the friendship as one of mutual trust and unwavering support.
Gilani highlighted the growing parliamentary cooperation between the two countries and referred to his recent high-level interactions with the Azerbaijani leadership, focusing on coordinated efforts at international forums including the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the Asian Parliamentary Assembly and other global humanitarian and security platforms.
He also appreciated the development initiatives undertaken by Azerbaijan and lauded the declaration of the current year as the “Year of Architecture,” while acknowledging the country’s modern architectural achievements.
It is heartening to note that 11 weekly flights are now operational between Azerbaijan and the Pakistani cities of Islamabad and Lahore that reduced fares and less than three-hour travel time would further boost tourism and business connectivity.
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, while felicitating Ambassador Khazar Farhadov, said Pakistan highly values its relations with Azerbaijan and both countries enjoy an enduring bond of friendship built on mutual respect, brotherhood and shared aspirations.
He said Pakistan considered s Azerbaijan not merely a friendly country but a trusted brotherly partner whose support has always been deeply valued by the people of Pakistan. In his welcome address, Ambassador Khazar Farhadov said Azerbaijan proudly celebrates the 108th anniversary of its independence and the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic on May 28, 1918 — the first secular republic in the Muslim East. He said the historic day symbolizes not only the restoration of sovereignty but also the enduring spirit of resilience, sacrifice and progress of the Azerbaijani people.
Referring to regional developments, Ambassador Farhadov highlighted Azerbaijan’s recent achievements in restoring territorial sovereignty and said major reconstruction, urbanization and smart city projects are currently underway in liberated regions. He also announced that 2026 has been declared the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” in Azerbaijan, reflecting the country’s commitment to sustainable development and innovation.
Welcoming the guests, Ambassador Farhadov said the reception was dedicated to celebrating Azerbaijan’s independence and the enduring brotherhood between the peoples of Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
The ceremony featured the national anthems of both countries, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony. Pakistani and Azerbaijani artists enthralled the audience with patriotic songs and cultural performances, adding colour and warmth to an evening that celebrated diplomacy, friendship and shared heritage between the two nations.
Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Azerbaijan Ambassador Khazar Farhadov, Federal Minister for Communication Abdul Aleem Khan, Ambassador of Turkiye Irfan Neziroglu along with federal ministers, diplomats and distinguished guests cutting the cake to mark Azerbaijan’s 108th Independence Day at Movenpick Hotel.
