Pakistan PM praises 'enduring bond' with Azerbaijan and Türkiye

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised the enduring partnership among Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye, characterizing the three nations as "brothers whose hearts beat together." Speaking at ceremonies in Baku marking the fifth anniversary of Azerbaijan's Victory Day, Sharif highlighted the symbolic significance of Pakistani and Turkish military contingents marching alongside Azerbaijani forces as evidence of their "unbreakable friendship."

Regional Solidarity and Military Support

The Pakistani leader specifically acknowledged the support provided by Türkiye and Azerbaijan during Pakistan's four-day conflict with India earlier this year, noting that "the entire world witnessed how the great people and resolute leadership of Azerbaijan and Türkiye stood firmly with Pakistan." This public recognition of military cooperation underscores the deepening strategic relationships among the three nations amid regional tensions.

Karabakh Victory as Symbolic Precedent

Sharif characterized Azerbaijan's victory in Karabakh as both a "glorious vindication of a just cause" and a source of inspiration for other nations pursuing sovereignty, specifically mentioning the people of Gaza and Indian-administered Kashmir. His remarks positioned the Azerbaijani military success as a broader symbolic victory for self-determination movements internationally.

Historical Context and Commemoration

The Victory Day ceremonies commemorated Azerbaijan's liberation of most Karabakh territories following nearly three decades of Armenian occupation during the 2020 conflict. The celebration specifically marks the November 8 liberation of Shusha, with the original November 10 commemoration date adjusted to avoid coinciding with the anniversary of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk's passing, reflecting the close historical ties between Azerbaijan and Türkiye.