Baku: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkiye during his address at the Victory Day Parade in Baku, marking the 5th anniversary of the Karabakh war. He remarked that the presence of Pakistan and Turkiye at the parade is a testament to their strong and enduring alliance.
According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized the unity of Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkiye, describing them as three nations whose hearts beat in unison. He noted that the three countries stand united at this significant event, commemorating the collaboration of their armed forces. Sharif recalled the participation of Turkiye and Azerbaijan’s contingents during Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations, illustrating the unity and shared victories of the nations.
During his speech, the Prime Minister honored the Azerbaijani forces by reciting poetry by Iqbal, saluting their courageous actions under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership during the liberation of Karabakh. He affirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Azerbaijan and expressed hope for oppressed regions like Gaza and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, inspired by Azerbaijan’s victory.
Prime Minister Sharif praised Pakistan’s military leadership, highlighting the decisive actions taken under Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and Air Chief Marshall Zaheer Babar Sidhu during the recent conflict with India. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace while asserting its resolve to protect its sovereignty.
Commending President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, Sharif remarked on the rapid reconstruction efforts in Karabakh, particularly in Shusha, and acknowledged the sacrifices made by Azerbaijani soldiers. He also praised former US President Donald Trump’s leadership in fostering peace efforts between Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as facilitating a ceasefire between Pakistan and India.
Sharif thanked Turkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Qatar for their roles in mediating peace talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He lauded Erdogan for Turkiye’s development and strategic growth on the world stage.
The Victory Day Parade featured the national anthems of Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkiye, alongside a moment of silence for the Karabakh war martyrs. Armed forces from the three nations participated, with notable appearances by Pakistani troops and JF-17 Thunder jets, demonstrating their solidarity.
Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, addressing the parade, expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s support during Azerbaijan’s conflict with Armenia, acknowledging the solidarity shown by the Pakistani state throughout the war.