Rawalpindi, 13 August 2025(Kamran Raja): Colonel General Karim Valiyev, First Deputy Minister of Defence and Chief of the General Staff of the Azerbaijan Army, called on Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), at General Headquarters (GHQ) today. During the meeting, both sides discussed matters of mutual interest with a particular focus on the prevailing global and regional security environment. COAS reaffirmed Pakistan’s deep fraternal ties with Azerbaijan and reiterated the resolve to further strengthen bilateral relations. He also congratulated the visiting dignitary on the successful conclusion of the peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Colonel General Karim Valiyev lauded the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces and their successes in Maarka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. He extended best wishes for Pakistan’s upcoming Independence Day and Victory Celebrations. COAS expressed gratitude to Azerbaijan’s leadership and people for their solidarity during Maarka-e-Haq and for sending an Azeri contingent to participate in the Independence Day ceremony. Both military leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing defence cooperation and promoting joint efforts for regional peace and stability.
On the occasion, Colonel General Karim Valiyev, on behalf of President Ilham Aliyev, conferred upon Field Marshal Asim Munir Azerbaijan’s prestigious Patriotic War Medal for “Services in the Field of Military Cooperation” in recognition of his exceptional contributions to Azerbaijan–Pakistan military ties. The visiting dignitary also commended Pakistan’s role in combating terrorism and expressed Azerbaijan’s determination to further enhance cooperation in defence and security.
Earlier, upon arrival at GHQ, Colonel General Karim Valiyev was presented with a guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Army and laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada.