Islamabad: The naval leadership of Pakistan and Azerbaijan has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening bilateral defence ties, according to a statement released on Tuesday by the military’s media wing.
Pakistan and Azerbaijan enjoy strong defence relations, which were further highlighted in 2024 when Baku signed a $1.6 billion agreement with Islamabad for the purchase of JF-17 Block III fighter aircraft. The jets are jointly developed by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group.
As per the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf held talks with Commander of the Azerbaijan Naval Forces, Rear Admiral Shahin Mammadov, at Naval Headquarters in Islamabad. During the meeting, both sides agreed to broaden and reinforce the scope of their existing defence cooperation.
Discussions focused on issues of shared interest, the regional maritime security environment, and potential areas for increased collaboration in training and defence sectors.
Upon his arrival at Naval Headquarters, the visiting Azerbaijani naval chief was accorded a guard of honour by a well-presented contingent of the Pakistan Navy. He later paid tribute at the Shuhada’s Monument by laying a floral wreath.
ISPR further stated that the visiting dignitary was briefed on various ongoing projects of the Pakistan Navy.
“Pakistan and Azerbaijan share long-standing brotherly relations underpinned by close naval cooperation,” the statement said, adding that the visit would further strengthen bilateral engagement between the two countries, particularly between their naval forces.
In a related development last August, Azerbaijan’s defence minister conferred a prestigious military decoration on Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir.