Conclusion of MoU between the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), Pakistan and the Institute for Development and Diplomacy (IDD) of ADA University, Azerbaijan

By web desk On Sep 20, 2023

The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) represented by its Director General Ambassador Sohail Mahmood and the Institute for Development and Diplomacy (IDD) of ADA University, Azerbaijan, represented by Director, Dr. Fariz Ismailzade, signed an MoU in a virtual ceremony today.

While speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Bilal Hayee, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan suggested that both Institutes should prepare a future roadmap to strengthen their relationship including mutual exchange of resident fellows. He recommended that both sides could start research collaborations on topics of mutual interest, like regional connectivity, Islamophobia, climate change, regional security issues and disputes.

While admiring the dedication and efforts on both sides, Ambassador Khazar Farhadov, Azerbaijan`s Ambassador to Pakistan said that both Institutes could play pivotal role in initiating intellectual discourse and public debate to strengthen bilateral relations and regional prosperity. They could join hands to promote their shared history, culture and values. He emphasised organizing joint activities to anti-terrorism and misinformation.

In his remarks on the occasion, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI hailed the signing of the MoU. He stressed that bilateral relations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan are extremely fraternal and present an example for inter-state relationships. Both sides support each other in their national causes, like Kashmir and Karabakh. He appreciated Azerbaijan`s support at the OIC contact group on Jammu and Kashmir. He added that bilateral relationship has grown appreciably, while there is a huge potential for future collaboration on subjects of vital interest including trade, energy, cultural and people-to-people contacts, anti-terrorism, and combating misinformation. He reiterated ISSI`s commitment to provide its platform for the promotion of the just cause and sacrifice of the Azerbaijani nation in safeguarding their sovereignty and territorial integrity. DG ISSI also thanked the two Ambassadors for their valuable support in the culmination of this initiative.

Dr. Fariz Ismailzade, Vice Rector of ADA University, in his remarks, expressed his deep gratitude for ISSI. Pakistan and Azerbaijan are brotherly countries supporting each other politically, economically and diplomatically. Both countries are also trying to deepen and expand their relationship in humanitarian and educational fields, he said.