Baku: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced that Pakistan and Azerbaijan have the potential to enhance their bilateral trade to two billion dollars. Speaking at the Pakistan-Azerbaijan Business Forum in Baku, he emphasized the growing trade relations between the two countries, highlighting the fruitful and constructive discussions between their leaders.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister underscored the long-standing love and affection between the people of Pakistan and Azerbaijan, which is rooted in sincerity, honesty of purpose, and mutual respect. He expressed his gratitude to the government of Azerbaijan for eliminating the duty on the import of Pakistan's basmati rice, a move that is expected to significantly boost trade.

The Prime Minister identified several areas where bilateral trade could be enhanced, including the import and export of LNG and defense equipment such as JF-17 jet fighters. He also announced the establishment of a Pak-Azerbaijan Permanent Information Bureau to enhance information exchange between the two nations and explore further trade opportunities.

Additionally, Prime Minister Sharif mentioned the development of a North-South Corridor to provide a reliable and cost-effective transportation system and improve connectivity. He highlighted the strategic importance of Gwadar port in promoting trade, emphasizing its pivotal role in this regard.

To facilitate bilateral trade, the Prime Minister noted that the Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce has been established in Islamabad, with branches in Lahore and Gujranwala, to support and promote business activities between the two countries.