BAKU, Saturday, November 8, 2025 (WNP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday delivered a powerful and emotive address at Azerbaijan’s Victory Day ceremony, celebrating the fifth anniversary of Azerbaijan’s triumph in the 44-day Patriotic War, where he reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Azerbaijan and Türkiye and paid heartfelt tribute to the martyrs of the liberation struggle.

Speaking before a gathering of world leaders and dignitaries, the Prime Minister said he brought with him “the heartfelt greetings of the people of Pakistan who equally share the pride and joy of their Azerbaijani brothers and sisters on this historic day.”

Shehbaz Sharif praised the unity and brotherhood among Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye, calling it a “proud and scintillating sight” to see the Pakistan Armed Forces marching beside their Azerbaijani and Turkish brothers, as JF-17 Thunder jets roared through the skies—symbolizing the enduring military and diplomatic ties among the three nations.

Recalling Pakistan’s own struggle for independence, the Prime Minister reflected on the courage and conviction that define freedom movements. Quoting Allama Iqbal, he said, “Freedom is not won by force alone, but by the fire of conviction that breaks all chains of bondage.”

He lauded President Ilham Aliyev’s visionary leadership, describing the liberation of Karabakh as “a glorious vindication of a just and fair cause, a beacon of hope for all nations striving for sovereignty and self-determination — including the people of Gaza and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.”

Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support, Shehbaz Sharif declared, “Pakistan stood like a rock with its brotherly country, Azerbaijan, and will continue to stand with our Azerbaijani brothers and sisters for all times to come.”

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the steadfast support extended by Azerbaijan and Türkiye during Pakistan’s four-day conflict with India earlier this year, commending Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the Pakistan Armed Forces for their professionalism and courage in defending the motherland.

“Pakistan, like our Azerbaijani and Turkish brothers, seeks peace—but let there be no doubt that no one can ever be allowed to challenge our sovereignty or undermine our territorial integrity,” he asserted

Turning to global diplomacy, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised former U.S. President Donald Trump for his role in averting conflict in South Asia. “I must acknowledge and appreciate President Donald Trump for his exemplary leadership that culminated in the success of peace efforts. His bold and decisive leadership brought about the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, restoring peace in South Asia, averting a major war, and saving millions of lives,” he said.

He also commended President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the State of Qatar for their “invaluable contributions” in facilitating peace efforts between Pakistan and Afghanistan, describing it as “a true reflection of the strong and time-tested fraternal ties between our countries that stand together through thick and thin.”

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister hailed Azerbaijan’s post-war reconstruction and the return of displaced families to Karabakh, calling it a “testament to President Aliyev’s unwavering commitment to his people’s welfare and progress.” He also praised President Erdoğan’s visionary leadership in transforming Türkiye into “a modern, progressive, and strategic world power.”

In a poignant tribute, Shehbaz Sharif urged that while celebrating victory, the nations must also remember the fallen heroes. “May Allah rest the souls of the martyrs of this glorious struggle of Azerbaijan, who laid down their lives to reclaim their ancestral land with their blood and sacrifice. Their courage, fortitude, and devotion have written an immortal chapter in history that will continue to inspire generations,” he said.

“As the beautiful Khari Bulbul flowers bloom across the liberated land of Karabakh—nurtured by the soil and enriched by the blood of brave sons and daughters—they bring the glad tidings of peace and hope,” the Prime Minister added emotionally.

Concluding his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, “True victory lies not on the battlefield alone, but in building bridges of peace and understanding. May Allah Almighty grant our great nations the strength to continue marching resolutely toward a promising future of progress, prosperity, and unity.”