ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov called on Minister of State for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik here at his office on Friday.

The focus of discussion was on strengthening Pakistan-Azerbaijan’s brotherly relations and expand the areas of cooperation to include diverse fields. It was agreed that the partnership in oil and gas sector can enhance to other sectors like tourism.

The envoy said that Azerbaijan wishes to transform brotherly relations into economic ties along the lines of Turkey Azerbaijan relations. The Minister lauded the long-standing relations of both the countries and reiterated the resolve of this government to further strengthen them.

He assured his full support to the Working Groups on energy. He said a focal person will be appointed from petroleum division for all energy sector collaborations. The Minister welcomed the investment proposals worth 100 million dollars from Azerbaijan’s state oil company SOCAR in LNG sector varying from terminal establishment to short term loans and deferred payment facility.

With increasing energy needs of the country, such investment and partnership is a tremendous opportunity, the Minister said. It was highlighted during the meeting that Pakistan has huge potential for oil and gas exploration and both the countries will discuss avenues of cooperation in this sector.

The ambassador praised Pakistan’s unconditional support to Azerbaijan and expressed his desire to take relations to new heights. It was hoped that the direct flights operation from Islamabad to Baku starting in June will boost people to people linkages.