Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, while addressing a ceremony held at a local hotel in Islamabad to mark the Independence Day of Azerbaijan, said that relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan are not merely diplomatic in nature, but are rooted in deep religious, cultural, historical, and people-to-people bonds that unite the two brotherly nations.
The event was attended by the Ambassador of Azerbaijan and his spouse, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the Punjab Assembly, members of parliament, and other distinguished guests.
Extending heartfelt congratulations to the leadership and people of Azerbaijan on their Independence Day, the Chairman Senate boted that Pakistan and Azerbaijan have always stood by each other in times of joy and adversity. He noted that when Pakistan achieved success against Indian aggression, the people of Azerbaijan celebrated with the same enthusiasm and spirit as if it were their own victory.
Chairman Senate Gilani said that he had the opportunity to hold several meetings with the President of Azerbaijan and parliamentary leaders, during which bilateral relations, parliamentary cooperation, and coordination at international forums were discussed in detail. He added that the two countries share close understanding and common values at international platforms such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Asian Parliamentary Assembly.
He further stated that Pakistan is pleased to see Azerbaijan introducing modern architectural vision and development initiatives in Islamabad. He appreciated the decision of the President of Azerbaijan to declare the current year as the “Year of Architecture.”
Highlighting the importance of enhancing public and trade relations, the Chairman Senate said that the President of Azerbaijan had informed him that 11 weekly flights for Pakistan had already been launched for Islamabad and Lahore. He noted that the fares have been kept comparatively lower than those of other destinations to facilitate Pakistani travelers. He added that Azerbaijan can now be reached from Pakistan in less than three hours and that the number of flights will further increase in the future to promote tourism and people-to-people connectivity.
Chairman Senate Gilani also referred to the historic “Multani Caravanserai” in Baku, which, according to him, carries a history spanning over 700 years. He said the site stands as a symbol of the long-standing historical ties between the regions, reflecting how traders from the subcontinent, particularly from Multan, used the Silk Route to travel to Azerbaijan. He further noted that UNESCO has also recognized the historical significance of the site, and its original name has been preserved to this day.
Concluding his address, the Chairman Senate raised the slogan of “Long Live Pakistan-Azerbaijan Friendship” and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening the enduring ties between the two brotherly countries.
