The “Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan” signed in 2015 was an important step in the development of relations between the two countries. During the state visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Pakistan in July 2024, as well as the visit of Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif to Baku in February of this year, the areas of cooperation were reviewed again.
Increasing trade turnover, steps taken to implement joint projects in the energy sector, business forums and exhibitions jointly organized by businessmen of both countries have created favorable conditions for the expansion of economic cooperation.
Another project envisaged within the framework of economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Pakistan is the renovation of Islamabad based on the Baku model.
The implementation of large projects in this direction in the capital of Pakistan, Islamabad, has been entrusted to “Baku Maintenance Service”. One of the projects is being implemented on the main highway connecting the city center with the airport. Large-scale renovation works are being carried out along the 25.5-kilometer Srinagar highway. The area is being cleaned and greened based on a new landscape design.
Another project is the improvement and greening of the area around the Congress Center. This center, which was put into operation in 1997, is considered the main venue for international events in Islamabad.
One of the main places where work is underway is “Melody Food Park”. This area is becoming a place of recreation and entertainment for local residents and tourists. The facades of the surrounding buildings are being renovated, and small business facilities are being restored. It is planned that “Melody Food Park”, like Nizami Street in Baku, will become a popular place where national cuisine and local culture are exhibited.
One of the most important projects involves the reconstruction and restoration work carried out in the village of Seyidpur, which has a population of 15 thousand and is rich in historical monuments. Modern communication systems and a sanitary service are being created to manage water resources in this village, which reflects ancient architectural traditions. Although the infrastructure of the village is being completely renovated, Azerbaijani specialists intend to preserve the local aesthetics and color. Various trainings are also organized to improve the service skills of the local population.
The workforce involved in the Islamabad project of the “Baku Maintenance Service” consists of local residents. At the same time, the opinion of Pakistani experts plays an important role in the course of the processes. The involvement of local craftsmen in the restoration and construction is especially important for the “Baku Maintenance Service”. As a result, the efficiency of the work done has increased and new jobs have been created in Islamabad.
Another interesting point is that local raw materials are used in the construction and restoration works in Islamabad. Pakistan has high-quality marble, travertine and valuable types of wood suitable for construction.
Thus, Islamabad, which the Pakistani state established as its new capital in 1960, is entering a modern renaissance phase. These major projects are being implemented thanks to the attention and care of the Azerbaijani state, as well as the efforts of Azerbaijani and Pakistani specialists and businessmen.
