Islamabad (TDI): Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan, Khazar Farhadov, called on Senator Musadik Masood Malik, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Climate Change & Environmental Coordination.
During the meeting, both sides engaged in a detailed discussion on various matters of mutual interest, particularly in the areas of environmental conservation, climate resilience, and carbon offsetting and trading.
Ambassador Farhadov emphasized Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening people-to-people contacts between the two nations, underscoring the pivotal role of the business community in enhancing bilateral relations.
He noted that Azerbaijan views the business community as the backbone of its diplomatic ties with Pakistan and highlighted the potential for deeper collaboration in various sectors.
In response, Minister Malik suggested that Pakistan presents a substantial untapped market for Azerbaijan in the areas of carbon offsetting and trading, particularly through forestry and mangrove projects. He proposed that Azerbaijan can invest in such projects, with the opportunity to sell the resulting carbon credits on the international market, generating returns that could far exceed the initial investment.
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Furthermore, Minister Malik emphasized that Pakistan offers significant investment opportunities in commercially viable solar energy projects. He also shared Pakistan’s growing focus on expanding its green industry, offering fertile ground for various green initiatives aimed at creating a sustainable future.
The Minister invited Azerbaijan to explore opportunities for joint ventures, which could mutually benefit both countries’ investors, while emphasizing that sustainable development depends on strategic relationships and cooperation.
He said, “Pakistan is positioning itself as a hub for green industry, and we encourage international partnerships to develop projects that are not only profitable but also beneficial for the environment. This provides a unique investment opportunity for both Azerbaijani and Pakistani stakeholders, creating a win-win situation for both countries.”
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Ambassador Farhadov expressed enthusiasm for exploring these opportunities, recognizing the potential for Azerbaijan to contribute to Pakistan’s green initiatives and benefit from its growing market for sustainable investments.
In addition to the discussions on environmental matters, Ambassador Farhadov informed the Minister that Azerbaijan has become one of the most favored tourist destinations for Pakistanis. Quoting an official from a Pakistani travel agency, the Ambassador shared that approximately 250,000 Pakistani citizens visited Azerbaijan in 2023, highlighting the growing popularity of Azerbaijan as a travel destination.
This growing trend in tourism reflects the strengthening of cultural and people-to-people ties between the two nations, the ambassador added.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
