Azerbaijan shows interest in Pakistan’s investment opportunities

KARACHI: Federal Minister for Investment, Privatisation, and Communications Abdul Aleem Khan chaired a review meeting to assess progress on investment and privatisation initiatives following a recent high-level Pakistani delegation’s visit to Azerbaijan.

The meeting, attended via video link by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan Qasim Mohi Uddin, highlighted Azerbaijan’s keen interest in investing in Pakistan through a government-to-government (G2G) model. The ambassador informed the participants that Azerbaijani institutions are considering investments in Pakistan’s privatisation sector, particularly in infrastructure projects such as the M6 and M9 motorways.

Minister Khan emphasised his commitment to expediting investment partnerships with Central Asian countries. He directed the Pakistani embassy in Azerbaijan to finalise preparations for the upcoming Pakistan-Azerbaijan Joint Commission meeting, scheduled for December 24-25. The minister also announced plans to hold separate meetings with the ambassadors of Turkey, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan to advance coordinated efforts in privatisation, investment and communication.

The federal minister stressed the strategic importance of Central Asian countries as a gateway for Pakistan to expand trade access into eastern Europe. He also lauded Pakistan’s strong representation at COP29, held earlier this month in Baku, Azerbaijan, which he said had showcased the country’s potential on a global platform. During the meeting, federal secretaries from the privatisation and communications departments, along with the chairperson of the National Highway Authority, provided updates on their respective areas. They assured the minister of swift action on bilateral issues under his directives.