Diplomatic front

 

Azerbaijan is one of the Eurasian countries enriched with natural resources and beauty. Though the history of Azerbaijan is very old, but since the freedom from the Soviet Empire, the way Azerbaijan has been developed economically and socially, is commendable. Despite the fact that Azerbaijan is Muslim majority country but it is different from other Muslim countries because it state matters are not under the religion domination. bounded by the Caspian Sea and Caucasus Mountains, which span Asia and Europe.

Geographically, it is bounded by Caspian Sea and Caucasus Mountains, which span Asia and Europe.  Like the armed forces, diplomats used to wrestle with friends and foe round the clock. The only difference is the armed forces fight with ammunition and diplomats use pen and intellect. During the recent war with Armenia, where Azerbaijani forces fought valiantly, diplomats were all set to make its position clear in their respective countries. Pakistan and Turkey stood shoulder to shoulder with Azerbaijan during the war with Armenia. Pakistan being friendly country unconditionally took stand to favor Azerbaijan in its cause.

H E Ali Alizade, ambassador to Pakistan has played vibrant role at his diplomatic front. He took charge in 2016 as an ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan. In a very short time, he was considered one of the popular ambassador in Pakistan. Since his appointment, he has been always at fronline to present his stance and position of his country to Pakistanis. During these years, he became increasingly popular among political elite, business community and journalists. Frankly speaking, as a diplomatic correspondent, I only focused on those countries, with which Pakistan has closer ties leaving some African and central Asian countries including Azerbaijan. However, when I met with ambassador Ali Alizade in 2018 during a reception, I found him friendly and thorough professional diplomat. He has been active meeting with hi-ups in political side, military leadership as well as with business community to strengthen ties between two countries. However, Ambassador Ali Alizade moved into these circles when war broke into with Armenia. Ambassador mobilized his team and intensified meeting with political and military leadership as well as gathered public support.

Azerbaijan already had the support of think tanks, journalists and non-profit organization, but at the same time hoisting the Azerbaijani flag in public was an extraordinary feat thanks to the performance of a diplomatic team led by Ali Alizade. Even during the pandemic, it is due to his extraordinary efforts, he gathered support of Pakistani people and we saw Azerbaijani flags hoisting on private buildings and children exhibited on their faces. The exhibition and tribute to martyrs’ held in Centaurus Mall will remain extraordinary performance by his team. It is due to his diplomatic approach and skills. Certainly, the President Ilham Aliyev will be proud of his performance and support by Pakistani people.      

Apparently Pakistan has no dispute with Armenia but because the love and bilateral relations with Azerbaijan; Pakistan has not established diplomatic relations with Armenia till date. And it is also said that Azerbaijanis claim that as long as Turkey and Pakistan stands by Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan is ready to face any challenge. Since, Ali Alizade has resumed his tenure and making up his way to Baku, we wish him more success and prayers for his life ahead.