ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, May 14, 2025 (WNP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed deep gratitude to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan for their unwavering support to Pakistan during the recent tensions in South Asia.

The prime minister conveyed his appreciation during a meeting with the Ambassador of Azerbaijan, Khazar Farhadov, at the Prime Minister’s House, according to a press release from the PM Office.

Terming Azerbaijan’s support a reflection of the enduring friendship between the two nations, Prime Minister Shehbaz said Pakistan valued the steadfast solidarity shown by Baku at a critical time. He also lauded the Pakistan Armed Forces for the successful conduct of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, calling it a historic victory and attributing it to divine support.

“Pakistan is a peace-loving nation,” the prime minister emphasized, “and in this spirit, we agreed to the recent ceasefire understanding with India.” However, he warned that any future act of aggression would be met with a resolute defense of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Highlighting the growing ties between Islamabad and Baku, Prime Minister Shehbaz noted the positive momentum in bilateral cooperation. He termed President Aliyev’s visit to Pakistan in July 2024 as a “milestone” that opened new avenues in trade, investment, and economic collaboration. Recalling his own visit to Baku earlier this year, the premier reaffirmed Pakistan’s desire to transform fraternal relations into a robust economic partnership.

Ambassador Farhadov, while congratulating Pakistan on the recent developments, reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s strong support for peace in South Asia. He underscored President Aliyev’s deep commitment to strengthening brotherly ties with Pakistan and expressed confidence in the full implementation of agreements reached at the leadership level.

Separately, the prime minister also held a telephone conversation with President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In the “warm and cordial” exchange, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended sincere thanks to the UAE for its diplomatic efforts in helping defuse regional tensions. He praised the UAE’s consistent support for Pakistan, especially during challenging times, and expressed satisfaction over the expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic and investment sectors.

He reiterated his resolve to elevate Pakistan-UAE relations into a mutually beneficial economic partnership.

President Mohamed bin Zayed welcomed the ceasefire agreement and acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts in promoting peace. He reaffirmed the UAE’s continued commitment to the stability and security of South Asia.

In closing remarks, Prime Minister Shehbaz made it clear that while Pakistan is committed to peace, it would not allow the sanctity of the Indus Waters Treaty to be compromised under any circumstances.