Pakistan in the Muslim world

Pakistan is a country located in South Asia that shares borders with India, China, Afghanistan, and
Iran. It is home to over 220 million people, making it the fifth most populous country in the world.
Pakistan is a Muslim-majority country, with Islam being the state religion. Its unique geopolitical
location has made it a significant player in the Muslim world, both regionally and internationally.

Pakistan's relationship with the Muslim world is multifaceted and complex, with a history dating
back to the country's creation in 1947. The creation of Pakistan was a defining moment in the
Muslim world, as it became the first and only Muslim-majority country to achieve independence
from British colonial rule. This event led to the birth of a new nation-state, and its creation had a
profound impact on the Muslim world as a whole.

Pakistan's relationship with the Muslim world is based on shared religious and cultural ties, as well
as political and economic interests. Pakistan has always considered itself to be a leader in the
Muslim world, and its foreign policy has reflected this aspiration. Pakistan has played a significant
role in various Muslim countries' affairs, such as Afghanistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the
United Arab Emirates.

One of Pakistan's most significant contributions to the Muslim world has been its role as a nuclear
power. Pakistan is one of the nine countries in the world to possess nuclear weapons, and its
development of nuclear capabilities has been viewed as a deterrent against external aggression.
Pakistan's nuclear program has also been a source of pride and inspiration for many Muslims around
the world, who view it as a symbol of Muslim resilience and technological prowess.

Pakistan has also played a significant role in promoting Islamic unity and solidarity. The country has
been actively involved in various organizations and forums that aim to promote Muslim interests
and address the challenges facing the Muslim world. Pakistan is a member of the Organization of
Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the
United Nations. The OIC represents the collective voice of the Muslim world and serves as a platform
for Muslim countries to address common issues and concerns.

Pakistan has also been actively involved in peacekeeping operations in the Muslim world. Pakistani
troops have been deployed to various Muslim countries, including Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, to
help maintain peace and stability. Pakistan has also played a significant role in peace negotiations in
Afghanistan and has been instrumental in facilitating dialogue between the Afghan government and
the Taliban.

Despite its contributions to the Muslim world, Pakistan has also faced challenges in its relationship
with other Muslim countries. Pakistan's relationship with Saudi Arabia has been strained in recent
years, primarily due to Pakistan's growing ties with Iran. The two countries have also differed on
issues such as the war in Yemen and the blockade of Qatar. Pakistan's relationship with Turkey has
also faced challenges, primarily due to Turkey's growing ties with India and its support for Pakistan's
arch-rival, Armenia.
Pakistan's relationship with the Muslim world is multifaceted and complex. The country's unique
geopolitical location, shared religious and cultural ties, and political and economic interests have
shaped its foreign policy and its relationship with other Muslim countries. Pakistan has played a
significant role in promoting Islamic unity and solidarity, nuclear deterrence, and peacekeeping
operations in the Muslim world. However, it has also faced challenges in its relationship with other
Muslim countries, primarily due to differences on various issues. Despite these challenges, Pakistan
remains committed to promoting Muslim interests and addressing the challenges facing the Muslim
world.

THE ARAB COUNTRIES

Pakistan's relationship with Arab Muslim countries is one of its most significant foreign policy
priorities. The two regions share a deep historical and cultural connection, and their strategic
partnership is rooted in their shared religious and cultural ties. Pakistan's engagement with Arab
Muslim countries is multifaceted, encompassing political, economic, and security dimensions. This
article will provide an overview of Pakistan's relations with some of the key Arab Muslim countries,
highlighting the key aspects of their engagement.

1. Saudi Arabia

Pakistan's relationship with Saudi Arabia is one of its most important bilateral relationships. The two
countries have long-standing cultural, religious, and economic ties, and Saudi Arabia is one of
Pakistan's largest trading partners. Pakistan is also home to a significant number of expatriate
workers in Saudi Arabia, who make up a vital source of remittances for the country.

The two countries' strategic partnership is primarily based on their shared commitment to Islam and
their mutual security concerns. Pakistan has played a crucial role in Saudi Arabia's security, providing
military and intelligence support to the Kingdom over the years. In return, Saudi Arabia has been a
significant donor of aid and investment to Pakistan, providing crucial support to its economy.

However, Pakistan's relationship with Saudi Arabia has faced some challenges in recent years. The
Kingdom has been critical of Pakistan's growing ties with Iran, which have strained their relationship.
Furthermore, Pakistan's decision not to join the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen has also caused some
tension between the two countries.

2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Pakistan's relationship with the UAE is based on their shared commitment to economic growth and
development. The UAE is one of Pakistan's largest trading partners, and many Pakistanis work and
live in the country. Furthermore, the UAE has been a significant source of investment in Pakistan's
infrastructure and energy sectors, providing crucial support to its economic growth.

The two countries also share a common interest in regional stability and security. The UAE has been
a crucial partner for Pakistan in its efforts to combat terrorism, and the two countries have worked
together to support peace initiatives in Afghanistan.

However, Pakistan's relationship with the UAE has also faced some challenges. The two countries
have differed on issues such as the conflict in Yemen and Qatar's blockade, leading to some tensions
in their relationship. Furthermore, the UAE's growing ties with India have also caused some concern
in Pakistan, given the two countries' long-standing rivalry.

3. Qatar

Pakistan's relationship with Qatar has been characterized by growing economic and political ties in
recent years. The two countries have signed several agreements aimed at boosting bilateral trade
and investment, and Qatar has become a significant source of investment in Pakistan's infrastructure
and energy sectors.

The two countries' strategic partnership is also based on their shared commitment to regional peace
and security. Qatar has been a crucial partner for Pakistan in its efforts to facilitate peace talks
between the Afghan government and the Taliban, and the two countries have worked together to
support peace initiatives in the Middle East.

However, Pakistan's relationship with Qatar has also faced some challenges. The blockade of Qatar
by Saudi Arabia and its allies has caused some tension in their relationship, with Pakistan initially
taking a neutral stance on the issue. Furthermore, the growing political influence of Qatar in the
region has caused some concern in Pakistan, given the country's fragile political and security
environment.

4. Egypt

Pakistan's relationship with Egypt is based on their shared commitment to regional stability and
security. The two countries have been important partners in the fight against terrorism, and Egypt
has been a significant supporter of Pakistan's efforts to combat extremism and militancy.

Furthermore, the two countries share a long history of cultural and religious ties, with Pakistan being
home to a significant number of Egyptians who have come to study or work in the country.

However, Pakistan's relationship with Egypt has also faced some challenges. The two countries have
differed on issues such as the conflict in Syria, with Pakistan initially taking a neutral stance on the
issue, while Egypt has been a supporter of the Syrian government. Furthermore, the growing ties
between Egypt and India have also caused some concern in Pakistan, given the two countries' long-
standing rivalry.

5. Kuwait

Pakistan's relationship with Kuwait is based on their shared commitment to economic development
and regional security. Kuwait has been a significant supporter of Pakistan's economic growth,
providing crucial investment in its energy and infrastructure sectors. Furthermore, many Pakistanis
work and live in Kuwait, providing a vital source of remittances for the country.

The two countries have also been important partners in the fight against terrorism, with Kuwait
providing crucial support to Pakistan's efforts to combat extremism and militancy.

However, Pakistan's relationship with Kuwait has faced some challenges in recent years. The two
countries have differed on issues such as the conflict in Yemen, with Pakistan initially taking a neutral
stance on the issue, while Kuwait has been a supporter of the Saudi-led coalition. Furthermore, the
growing political influence of Kuwait in the region has caused some concern in Pakistan, given its
fragile political and security environment.

AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan and Afghanistan are two neighboring countries that share a long and porous border, which
has led to a complex and often volatile relationship. The relationship between the two countries has
been shaped by various factors, including historical, cultural, economic, and political ties.
Historically, Pakistan and Afghanistan have had a complex relationship. The two countries were part
of the British Indian Empire and gained independence in the same year, 1947. After independence,
Pakistan recognized the Durand Line as the official border between the two countries, which was
drawn by the British in 1893. However, Afghanistan has never recognized the Durand Line and
considers the Pashtun-dominated areas on the Pakistani side of the border as part of its territory.

This historical dispute has been a major source of tension between the two countries. Afghanistan
has accused Pakistan of supporting Pashtun insurgents and providing them with safe havens on
Pakistani soil, which has led to instability in Afghanistan. Pakistan, on the other hand, has accused
Afghanistan of supporting anti-Pakistan militants, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and
Baloch separatists, which has led to violence and instability in Pakistan.

In recent years, the relationship between the two countries has been further complicated by the war
in Afghanistan. Pakistan was one of the main supporters of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan during
the 1990s and provided them with training, weapons, and diplomatic support. After the 9/11
attacks, Pakistan became a key ally of the United States in its war on terror and helped topple the
Taliban regime in Afghanistan. However, Pakistan's relationship with the new Afghan government
remained strained, and Pakistan was accused of continuing to support the Taliban and other
insurgent groups.

Despite these challenges, there have also been instances of cooperation between Pakistan and
Afghanistan. Both countries have recognized the need for stability in the region and have worked
together to address common security threats. Pakistan has played a key role in facilitating peace
negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban, and has hosted several rounds of
talks in Islamabad. Pakistan has also taken steps to improve border security and reduce cross-border
attacks, including the construction of a fence along the border.

Economically, the two countries have a lot to gain from increased cooperation. Afghanistan is rich in
natural resources, including minerals and gas, which could be exported to Pakistan and other
countries in the region. Pakistan, on the other hand, could provide Afghanistan with access to its
seaports, which would help boost its trade and economic growth. The two countries have signed
several agreements to increase trade and investment, including the Afghanistan-Pakistan Transit
Trade Agreement (APTTA), which allows Afghan goods to be transported through Pakistani territory
to reach other countries.

Culturally, Pakistan and Afghanistan share many similarities, including language, religion, and
traditions. Both countries have a predominantly Muslim population and have a rich cultural heritage
that is influenced by their shared history and geography. The two countries have also faced similar
challenges, including poverty, terrorism, and political instability, which have led to a common
understanding of the need for cooperation and solidarity.

In conclusion, the relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan is complex and multifaceted,
shaped by historical, cultural, economic, and political ties. Despite the challenges and tensions, there
have also been instances of cooperation between the two countries, especially in the areas of
security and trade. The two countries have a lot to gain from increased cooperation, both
economically and culturally, and it is in their mutual interest to work together towards a stable and
prosperous future.

MUSLIM COUNTRIES (WEST)

Pakistan's relationship with Muslim countries in the West has been shaped by a range of factors,
including shared religious and cultural ties, political and economic interests, and historical
relationships. In this article, we will examine Pakistan's relationship with Muslim countries in the
West, focusing on Turkey, Morocco, Iran, Iraq, and the recent conflict with Armenia.

Turkey:

Pakistan and Turkey have enjoyed a close and enduring relationship for decades. The two countries
share a common history, cultural ties, and a commitment to promoting Muslim interests on the
global stage. The relationship between the two countries has grown stronger in recent years, with
high-level exchanges and cooperation in various fields, including defense, trade, and education.

Historically, Pakistan and Turkey have shared a strong bond, rooted in their common Islamic heritage
and the legacy of the Ottoman Empire. In 1924, Turkey abolished the Ottoman Caliphate, which was
a significant blow to the Muslim world. However, Pakistan emerged as a beacon of hope for Muslims
around the world, with the creation of an independent Muslim-majority state in 1947. Since then,
Turkey has been a steadfast supporter of Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In recent years, the relationship between Pakistan and Turkey has grown stronger, with high-level
exchanges between the two countries. The Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has visited
Pakistan multiple times, and the two countries have signed several agreements to enhance their
bilateral ties. In 2020, Pakistan and Turkey signed a Strategic Economic Framework to strengthen
their economic cooperation, and the two countries have also signed agreements to enhance their
defense cooperation.

Defense cooperation is one of the key areas of cooperation between Pakistan and Turkey. The two
countries have a long history of military cooperation, and they have collaborated on several defense
projects. Pakistan has acquired advanced military hardware from Turkey, including the T-129 attack
helicopters and the Anka unmanned aerial vehicles. The two countries have also conducted joint
military exercises, including the Ataturk-XI exercise in 2019.

In addition to defense cooperation, Pakistan and Turkey have also signed agreements to enhance
their trade and investment ties. Turkey has emerged as one of Pakistan's largest trading partners,
and the two countries have set a target of increasing their bilateral trade volume to $5 billion by
2023. Pakistan has also welcomed Turkish companies to invest in various sectors of its economy,
including energy, infrastructure, and telecommunications.

Pakistan and Turkey have also collaborated on various regional and global issues. Both countries
have supported each other on issues of mutual interest, including Kashmir and Palestine. Turkey has
supported Pakistan's stance on the Kashmir issue and has called for a peaceful resolution of the
dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions. Pakistan has also supported Turkey's
position on the Palestine issue and has called for a just and lasting solution to the conflict.

However, the relationship between Pakistan and Turkey has faced challenges in recent years.
Turkey's growing ties with India, Pakistan's arch-rival, have caused concern in Islamabad. In 2019,
Turkey hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a bilateral meeting, which was viewed as a
departure from Turkey's traditional support for Pakistan on the Kashmir issue. However, Turkey has
maintained that its relationship with India is independent of its ties with Pakistan.

Another area of concern in the Pakistan-Turkey relationship has been Turkey's stance on the Afghan
peace process. Turkey has been involved in efforts to broker a peace deal between the Afghan
government and the Taliban, and it has hosted several rounds of talks. However, Pakistan has been
critical of Turkey's role in the peace process, arguing that the process should be Afghan-led and
Afghan-owned.

The relationship between Pakistan and Turkey is characterized by strong cultural and historical ties,
as well as a commitment to promoting Muslim interests on the global stage. The two countries have
collaborated on various areas, including defense, trade, and education. However, the relationship
has faced challenges in recent years, primarily due to Turkey's growing ties with India and its role in
the Afghan peace process. Despite these challenges, Pakistan and Turkey remain committed to
strengthening their bilateral ties and promoting mutual interests.

Morocco: Pakistan's relationship with Morocco is relatively nascent but has been growing in recent
years. Both countries share a commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Muslim world and
have cooperated on a range of issues, including counter-terrorism and trade. Morocco has also been
an important partner for Pakistan in the area of education, with many Pakistani students studying at
Moroccan universities.

Iran: Pakistan's relationship with Iran has been complex and often strained, particularly due to
differences on issues such as regional security and nuclear proliferation. Despite these challenges,
however, Pakistan has maintained a relatively stable relationship with Iran, recognizing its
importance as a neighbor and regional power.

In recent years, Pakistan and Iran have cooperated on a range of issues, including trade, energy, and
regional security. However, the two countries have also had their share of disagreements,
particularly on the issue of sectarianism and regional conflicts such as the war in Syria and Yemen.

Iraq: Pakistan's relationship with Iraq has been shaped by a range of factors, including shared
religious and cultural ties, political and economic interests, and regional security concerns. Both
countries have cooperated on a range of issues, including trade, energy, and counter-terrorism.
In recent years, Pakistan and Iraq have also strengthened their defense ties, with Pakistan providing
military training and support to the Iraqi armed forces. However, the two countries have also faced
challenges in their relationship, particularly due to Iraq's complex political and security situation.

MUSLIM COUNTRIES (EAST)

Pakistan, being a Muslim-majority country, shares strong historical, cultural, and religious ties with
many other Muslim countries. It has a longstanding relationship with the Muslim countries located
in the East, which includes Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei. The following is an analysis
of Pakistan's relationship with each of these countries.

Bangladesh: Pakistan and Bangladesh share a complex relationship, marked by historical events such
as the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Although the two countries have taken measures to
improve their relationship, historical grievances and political differences continue to hinder their
progress towards a more stable relationship.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1974, the relationship between the two countries
has been largely focused on trade and commerce. However, there have been efforts to improve the
relationship between the two countries in recent years. For instance, in 2018, Pakistan's Foreign
Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi visited Bangladesh to extend an invitation to Prime Minister Sheikh
Hasina to attend the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) conference in Islamabad. Similarly,
the two countries have also taken measures to increase cooperation in areas such as culture,
education, and tourism.

Malaysia: Pakistan and Malaysia share a close relationship based on shared Islamic values and
cultural ties. The relationship between the two countries has been characterized by frequent high-
level visits and growing trade and investment ties.

In recent years, Pakistan has sought to deepen its relationship with Malaysia by expanding
cooperation in various areas such as defense, education, and tourism. In 2019, Pakistan's Prime
Minister Imran Khan visited Malaysia to attend the Kuala Lumpur Summit, which aimed to
strengthen economic and trade ties between Muslim countries. The summit, however, was not
attended by several Muslim countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which
saw it as a threat to their influence in the Muslim world.

Indonesia: Pakistan and Indonesia have a longstanding relationship that dates back to the 1950s. The
two countries have shared cultural and religious ties, with both countries having large Muslim
populations.

Pakistan and Indonesia have cooperated in various areas such as trade, defense, and education. In
2017, Indonesia and Pakistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the
fields of trade, investment, and tourism. Similarly, in 2018, the two countries signed a defense
agreement that aimed to enhance cooperation in areas such as military training and joint exercises.
Brunei: Pakistan and Brunei have a cordial relationship, marked by shared religious and cultural ties.
The relationship between the two countries has been focused on trade and investment, with Brunei
being an important market for Pakistani exports.

In recent years, Pakistan has sought to deepen its relationship with Brunei by increasing cooperation
in various areas such as energy, agriculture, and tourism. In 2017, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid
Khaqan Abbasi visited Brunei to discuss ways to strengthen economic ties between the two
countries. Similarly, in 2019, Brunei's Minister of Energy, Manpower and Industry visited Pakistan to
explore opportunities for cooperation in the energy sector.

In conclusion, Pakistan's relationship with the Muslim countries located in the East is based on
shared religious and cultural ties, as well as economic and strategic interests. Pakistan's relationship
with these countries has been focused on increasing trade and investment ties, expanding
cooperation in areas such as defense, education, and tourism, and promoting Islamic unity and
solidarity. While there have been challenges in some relationships, such as the historical grievances
with Bangladesh, Pakistan remains committed to improving its relationship with these countries and
promoting Muslim interests in the region.

CENTRAL ASIA
Pakistan's relationship with Central Asian countries has been shaped by various factors, including
historical, cultural, economic, and political ties. These countries have a significant Muslim population
and share religious and cultural similarities with Pakistan. Pakistan has been working towards
enhancing diplomatic ties with Central Asian countries. In 2019, Pakistan hosted the first Pakistan-
Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) conference in Islamabad. The conference
aimed to enhance economic and trade ties between Pakistan and Central Asian countries, and it was
attended by representatives from several Central Asian countries.

In addition to economic and diplomatic ties, Pakistan has been working towards enhancing cultural
ties with Central Asian countries. In 2020, Pakistan organized the first-ever Central Asia-South Asia
(CASA) international conference, which aimed to enhance regional cooperation and connectivity
between Central and South Asian countries. The conference was attended by representatives from
several Central Asian countries, and it focused on enhancing economic, trade, and cultural ties
between the two regions.

Kazakhstan:

Pakistan's relationship with Kazakhstan has been characterized by friendly and cooperative ties. The
two countries share a historical and cultural affinity, as both countries have a significant Muslim
population and are former Soviet republics. The two countries have cooperated on various issues,
including economic, trade, and energy cooperation.

Pakistan and Kazakhstan have also cooperated on regional and international issues. The two
countries are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which is a regional security
and economic organization comprising China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and
Uzbekistan. Pakistan and Kazakhstan have also worked together on various United Nations
initiatives, including the promotion of interfaith harmony and counter-terrorism.

Uzbekistan:

Pakistan's relationship with Uzbekistan has been characterized by cooperation and mutual respect.
The two countries share cultural and religious ties, as both countries have a significant Muslim
population. Pakistan and Uzbekistan have cooperated on various issues, including trade, energy, and
regional stability.

Pakistan and Uzbekistan have also cooperated on regional and international issues. The two
countries are members of the SCO, which has served as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on
various issues, including counter-terrorism and regional stability. Pakistan and Uzbekistan have also
worked together on various United Nations initiatives, including the promotion of interfaith
harmony and the prevention of drug trafficking.

Turkmenistan:

Pakistan's relationship with Turkmenistan has been characterized by friendly and cooperative ties.
The two countries share a historical and cultural affinity, as both countries have a significant Muslim
population and are former Soviet republics. The two countries have cooperated on various issues,
including energy, trade, and regional stability.

Pakistan and Turkmenistan have also cooperated on regional and international issues. The two
countries are members of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), which is a regional
economic organization comprising ten countries, including Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan,
Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Pakistan and Turkmenistan
have also worked together on various United Nations initiatives, including the promotion of regional
stability and the prevention of drug trafficking.

Kyrgyzstan:

Pakistan's relationship with Kyrgyzstan has been characterized by friendly and cooperative ties. The
two countries share cultural and religious ties, as both countries have a significant Muslim
population. Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have cooperated on various issues, including economic, trade,
and regional stability.

Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have also cooperated on regional and international issues. The two
countries are members of the SCO, which has served as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on
various issues, including counter-terrorism and regional stability. Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan have also
worked together on various United Nations initiatives, including the promotion of interfaith
harmony and the prevention of drug trafficking.

Tajikistan:

Pakistan's relationship with Tajikistan has been characterized by friendly and cooperative ties. The
two countries share cultural and religious ties, as both countries have a significant Muslim
population. Pakistan and Tajikistan have cooperated on various issues, including economic, trade,
and regional stability.
Pakistan and Tajikistan have also cooperated on regional and international issues. The two countries
are members of the SCO, which has served as a platform for dialogue and cooperation on various
issues, including counter-terrorism and regional stability. Pakistan and Tajikistan have also worked
together on various United Nations initiatives, including the promotion of interfaith harmony and
the prevention of drug trafficking.

Azerbaijan:
Pakistan and Azerbaijan share a deep and longstanding relationship based on historical, cultural, and
religious ties. The two countries have maintained a strong bond since Azerbaijan gained
independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, and their relations have continued to strengthen over
the years.

The relationship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan is built on strong cultural ties, as both countries
share a common cultural heritage. Azerbaijan has a significant Azerbaijani-Turkic population, and
Pakistan has a significant number of people of Turkic descent, which provides a basis for cultural
exchange and understanding. The two countries have also developed a strong relationship based on
their shared religious beliefs, as both countries are predominantly Muslim.

Pakistan was one of the first countries to recognize Azerbaijan as an independent state in 1991, and
since then, the two countries have worked together to strengthen their bilateral ties. Both countries
have established diplomatic missions in each other's capital cities and have signed several
agreements and memorandums of understanding in various fields, including trade, culture,
education, and defense.

Trade is an essential aspect of the relationship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. The two countries
have been working to increase their bilateral trade, which is currently around $15 million. Pakistan
has been exporting pharmaceuticals, textiles, and rice to Azerbaijan, while Azerbaijan has been
exporting oil and gas to Pakistan. There is a significant potential for trade growth between the two
countries, and both governments are taking steps to enhance their economic cooperation.

In recent years, Pakistan and Azerbaijan have been focusing on enhancing their defense cooperation.
Azerbaijan has been purchasing defense equipment from Pakistan, including small arms,
ammunition, and anti-tank guided missiles. In 2020, Azerbaijan also purchased a significant number
of JF-17 Thunder fighter jets from Pakistan. The two countries have also conducted joint military
exercises to enhance their interoperability and military cooperation.

Pakistan has been supporting Azerbaijan on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, which is a long-standing
territorial dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Pakistan has expressed its support for
Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and has condemned the occupation of Azerbaijani territories by
Armenia. Pakistan has also called for a peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and
negotiations.

Cultural exchange is another essential aspect of the relationship between Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
The two countries have been working to enhance their cultural cooperation, including through the
exchange of cultural delegations, exhibitions, and festivals. Azerbaijan has also established a Cultural
Center in Islamabad, which promotes Azerbaijani culture and provides opportunities for cultural
exchange.