ISLAMABAD: In a significant development underscoring the growing defensepartnership between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani Minister ofDefense visited the stand of Global Industrial and Defence Solutions at theEgypt International Defence Exhibition 2025, where he received a warmreception from Mr. Asad Kamal, the Chief Executive Officer of GIDS. Thedelegation engaged in detailed discussions on Pakistan’s cutting-edgedefense innovations and potential avenues for enhanced industrycollaborations, reflecting the strategic alignment between the two nationsin the realm of military technology.
The visit occurred at Hall 1 of the Pakistan Pavilion, specifically atStand D-30, amid the bustling atmosphere of EDEX 2025, which commenced onDecember 1 and serves as a premier platform for showcasing global defensecapabilities. EDEX, hosted at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre inCairo, attracts representatives from over 80 countries and features morethan 450 exhibitors, providing an ideal venue for forging internationalpartnerships. Pakistan’s participation highlights its robust defensemanufacturing sector, with GIDS positioned as the country’s leadingstate-owned conglomerate responsible for exporting and marketing advancedmilitary products.
During the briefing, the Azerbaijani delegation was apprised of Pakistan’slatest advancements in air defense systems, land-based weaponry, navalsolutions, and integrated security technologies. GIDS, encompassingPakistan’s largest defense manufacturing units, emphasized its portfoliothat includes precision-guided munitions, unmanned aerial vehicles, andelectronic warfare systems. This interaction builds upon the existingfoundation of cooperation, particularly Azerbaijan’s prior acquisition ofthe JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter aircraft from Pakistan. The JF-17,jointly developed by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and China’s ChengduAircraft Corporation, has proven its efficacy in modern aerial combatscenarios, offering cost-effective performance with advanced avionics andweapon integration capabilities.
Azerbaijan’s procurement of the JF-17 Block III variant, part of asubstantial $4.6 billion agreement for 40 aircraft, marks the largestexport contract in Pakistan’s aviation history. Announced in recent years,this deal not only bolsters Azerbaijan’s air force amid regional securitydynamics in the South Caucasus but also signifies Pakistan’s emergence as acredible supplier in the global arms market. The Minister expressed keeninterest in expanding this collaboration, exploring additional equipmentsuch as surface-to-surface guided missiles from the Fatah series and otherindigenous systems showcased by GIDS. Such interests align withAzerbaijan’s efforts to diversify its defense arsenal and enhanceinteroperability with allied nations.
This engagement at EDEX 2025 exemplifies the broader trajectory ofPakistan-Azerbaijan relations, rooted in mutual respect and sharedstrategic interests. Both countries have historically supported each otheron international forums, including issues related to territorial integrityand counterterrorism. The defense sector’s growth in bilateral ties isfurther supported by joint military exercises and technology transferagreements, fostering a resilient partnership amid evolving geopoliticalchallenges.
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As global defense expenditures rise, events like EDEX facilitate criticaldialogues that could lead to multifaceted collaborations. For Pakistan,this visit reinforces its position as an innovative player in defensetechnology, capable of meeting the demands of international partners. Thediscussions held promise for future contracts, potentially encompassingjoint research and development initiatives that could yield mutual benefitsin addressing contemporary security threats.
In conclusion, the Azerbaijani Minister’s visit to the GIDS standrepresents a pivotal moment in strengthening defense linkages, withimplications for regional stability and economic ties. As both nationscontinue to navigate complex international landscapes, such interactionspave the way for sustained cooperation in the defense domain.Source: www.gids.com.pk/”>https://www.gids.com.pk/for Deeper Ties
