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Ambassador of Pakistan to Azerbaijan: Pakistan and Azerbaijan enjoy very close and cordial relations characterized by shared perceptions, values and cultures - INTERVIEW

29 September 2011 07:42 (UTC +04:00)

- Mr. Ambassador, how do you find bilateral relations between two nations? How do you see political and commercial ties currently between Pakistan and Azerbaijan?

- Pakistan and Azerbaijan enjoy very close and cordial relations characterized by shared perceptions, values and cultures. The leadership of our both states eye to eye with each other on all major regional and international issues. Our commercial ties are, at best, normal, which we intend to take at higher level, to the benefits of both the peoples.

- How do you think, what should be done to boost commercial relations and improve economic ties? What are the main obstacles?

- It is unfortunate that our bilateral political understanding could not been translated into economic cooperation. There are a number of reasons for this--the biggest being that geographical distance between the two countries. Moreover, the businessmen in both our countries have not uncovered the true potentials that exist in the area of trade, which we have now undertaken to change. Although the overall economic environment of Azerbaijan is quite conducive to do business, yet there are certain regulations which hinder growth in bilateral trade (e.g. condition of AZN 50,000 bank account, excessive customs duty as compared to CIS states). We are discussing all these issues, and we hope that in the next meeting of our bilateral joint ministerial commission to be held in Baku this year, solutions would be found. Also, Pakistan has extended invitation to Azeri Heath authorities to visit EXPO Pakistan taking place in Karachi next month. This exhibition is a good opportunity for Azeri businessmen to see the export potential of Pakistan in all areas.

- Should we expect any official visits in the coming months? What kind of issues might be discussed?

- With optimum relations between our states, one can expect highest level visit any time.

- Military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Pakistan is one of the strong links connecting two states. Are there any new projects or plans in order to get closer our states in this area?

- Azerbaijan and Pakistan have friendly relations in defence field. About 118 Azeri officers have been trained in Pakistanâ€™s premier defence training institutes. Apart from that, we have a number of options which we are exploring to enhance defence cooperation.

- Azerbaijan and Pakistan are strong partners at world arena. (UN, OIC). Could Azerbaijan still rely on Pakistani support taking into account major problem for Azerbaijan â€“ Karabakh issue?

- At bilateral or multilateral level, both Pakistan and Azerbaijan have stood side by side. We hope that this spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation will continue in future as well.