Ansar M Bhatti
In Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev was on course for a landslide re-election win, an exit poll showed, in a snap presidential election that is being held in all territories of Azerbaijan, including the liberated areas.
The Pakistani delegation deeply appreciated the warm hospitality extended to them throughout the entire exercise. The bond between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, forged during their shared challenges in the conflict with Armenia, was evident in the overwhelming support from the Azerbaijani people. The moment the locals learned about the Pakistani delegation’s presence, they expressed their gratitude with a heartfelt standing ovation, echoing the solidarity and friendship between the two nations. The gesture resonated not only with the polling staff and local observers but also with the voters, creating a memorable and meaningful connection between the two nations.
Before the Patriotic War, Pakistan was relatively unknown to most Azerbaijanis, with only a handful of people, particularly the elderly, being familiar with it. However, in the aftermath of the war, the awareness of Pakistan has significantly increased, and now, nearly every Azerbaijani, regardless of their age group, recognizes and acknowledges the country.
Pakistan and Azerbaijan enjoy fraternal relations. These relations are established on our past historical traditions. It is no coincidence that Pakistan is one of the first states to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan after Azerbaijan declared its independence. Pakistan whole-heartedly supported Azerbaijan in its Patriotic War against Armenia, in which the valiant Azerbaijani forces inflicted sheer defeat upon the Armenia forces and liberated its territories occupied by Armenia.
In a demonstration of unwavering solidarity, Azerbaijan wholeheartedly stands by Pakistan in the Kashmir issue. Strengthening the bond between the two nations, Azerbaijan has initiated direct flights from Pakistan to Azerbaijan, marking yet another milestone in their flourishing bilateral relations. This move not only fosters greater connectivity but also underscores the mutual commitment to deepening diplomatic and people to people ties and fostering cooperation between the two countries.
