On May 28, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, emphasized the growing strategic cooperation among Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Pakistan in energy, transport, defense, and political solidarity during a trilateral summit and Independence Day events in Lachin.
During the summit, Aliyev highlighted that cooperation between Azerbaijan and Türkiye had reshaped the energy landscape, not only regionally but also across a broader geography. He noted the launch of major projects in alternative energy production and export and underscored the strategic importance of transport routes connecting Asia and Europe through Azerbaijan and Türkiye. Aliyev also stressed the countries’ commitment to sovereignty, territorial integrity, and justice, expressing gratitude to Türkiye and Pakistan for their support during the 2020 Second Karabakh War. “We once again reaffirm the unity of our peoples,” he stated.
Shehbaz Sharif praised Azerbaijan’s growing international significance and congratulated the country on its Independence Day. Referencing their shared positions on Karabakh, Kashmir, and Northern Cyprus, he described the trilateral relationship as a bond of brothers and emphasized the intent to deepen partnerships grounded in shared history and values. Sharif declared, “Seeing the flags of Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Pakistan flying together in Lachin fills me with pride.”
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, during the same meeting, welcomed the ceasefire between Pakistan and India and offered Türkiye’s mediation to normalize their relations if needed. Addressing trilateral cooperation, Erdoğan stressed the importance of increasing engagements among the foreign ministers of the three nations and holding regular summits. “We will further strengthen our relations as Türkiye, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan,” he stated, adding that collaboration would expand in defense and transportation.
During the summit, Sharif expressed appreciation to Türkiye and Azerbaijan for supporting Pakistan amid its tensions with India. He acknowledged global economic crises and political instability, noting that Pakistan was fortunate to have steadfast allies like Azerbaijan and Türkiye. He reiterated Pakistan’s readiness for peaceful dialogue with India, particularly on Kashmir and water security issues, stating, “If India is truly ready for dialogue in the fight against terrorism, Pakistan is open to this discussion.”
Later in the evening, ahead of a concert marking Azerbaijan’s Independence Day in Lachin, Aliyev stated that trilateral cooperation had entered a new chapter. He underscored the significance of the agreements reached during the summit and emphasized the enduring solidarity among the three brotherly nations. “In difficult times, we are always by each other’s side, showing solidarity and support,” he stated.
Before the concert, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan recited an excerpt from the poem “Azerbaijan” by national poet Samad Vurgun, as reported. Aliyev thanked Türkiye and Pakistan for their political and moral support during the Second Karabakh War, noting the symbolic importance of standing together in Lachin after three decades of occupation. “Their support inspired us and gave us additional strength,” Aliyev emphasized.
Aliyev further noted that the participation of the Turkish President and Pakistani Prime Minister in the celebrations reflected new global realities shaped by their unity. He affirmed that the unity demonstrated in Lachin would send powerful messages to the international community. “Our strength lies in our unity,” he stated, expressing confidence that the concert’s performances would showcase cultural richness and solidarity.