Category: Azer News

Azerbaijan and the United Nations have discussed cooperation on green energy, a just energy transition, energy efficiency, and the development of Azerbaijan’s Roadmap for Sustainable Development Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).

As reported by Azernews, this was shared by Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov, on his official X account .

Minister Shahbazov noted that he met with Vladanka Andreeva, the UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan, on the occasion of the completion of her diplomatic mission in the country. During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on key priorities, including the promotion of green energy, ensuring a fair energy transition, improving energy efficiency, and preparing the SDG 7 Roadmap for Azerbaijan.

The discussions also covered preparations for the 82nd Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), which is planned to be held in Baku in April next year.

The Pakistani news agency, the Dispatch News Desk, has unveiled an in-depth and insightful analysis of Pakistan’s Defence Sector as we approach the end of 2025. The report highlights the crucial role Azerbaijan plays within this strategic framework, positioning it prominently at the forefront of discussions and initiatives shaping the future of defense in the region.

Azernews presents the article:

Pakistan’s defence agreements and international partnerships have further strengthened its international image since the May 2025 Pak-India tensions. From defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia to the export of JF-17 aircraft to countries like Azerbaijan, these agreements have played a key role in projecting Pakistan as a responsible and reliable defense partner. All this has not only highlighted Pakistan’s defense capabilities but also strengthened its position in the international community. Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan and Trkiye have been topped on agenda for defence partnership, export and collaboration.

The year 2025 was of exceptional importance for Pakistan’s defense sector. This year, Pakistan not only strengthened its defense capabilities in the region but also signed several international agreements, including a historic defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, a major sale of JF-17 Thunder aircraft to Azerbaijan, and defense equipment exports with other countries. In addition, Pakistan also conducted successful tests of missiles, drones and other advanced technologies, which further strengthened its defense industry and its role in the region. This comprehensive report presents all the major defense contracts and tests from January 2025 to December 2025 in a month-by-month format, so that readers can get a complete understanding of not only the details of the events but also their background, objectives, financial aspects, and regional and global impacts.

Initial negotiations between Pakistan and Azerbaijan for the sale of JF-17 Thunder Block III aircraft began in January 2025. Azerbaijan decided to modernize its air force after the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and preferred Pakistan’s JF-17 Block III. The initial estimate for the deal included the purchase of 16 aircraft, which was later increased to 40.

Several factors were behind Azerbaijan’s decision: reducing its dependence on Russian-made aircraft, acquiring the capability of modern AESA radar and PL-15 missiles, and consolidating its defense superiority in the region. For Pakistan, the deal was not only financially significant but also a milestone for its defense industry.

JF-17 Block III modernization: Installation of PL-15E missiles

In April 2025, Pakistan began equipping its JF-17 Block III aircraft with Chinese-made PL-15E long-range air-to-air missiles. These missiles have a range of 145 km, and together with the AESA radar, give the Pakistan Air Force a significant advantage in the region.

The move was aimed at improving its air superiority over India’s Rafale and Su-30 MKI aircraft. Although the PL-15E has a shorter range than the Chinese version, its presence has brought about significant changes in Pakistan’s defense strategy. Along with this, Pakistan has also increased the number of JF-17 Block IIIs, in order to modernize the air fleet.

Missile Tests and Defense Readiness: Abdali and Fateh Series Missile Tests

In May 2025, Pakistan successfully tested the Abdali ballistic missile and Fateh series missiles. The Abdali missile has a range of 450 km, while the Fateh series missiles can hit targets up to 120 km. The tests were conducted during the Ex-INDUS military exercise, which was attended by military officers, scientists, and engineers.

The aim of these tests was not only to verify technical capabilities but also to test the operational readiness of the military forces. The missiles included advanced navigation systems, terminal guidance, and the ability to evade anti-ballistic missile systems. The President, Prime Minister, and the military leadership described these tests as important for national defense.

Historic defense deal with Azerbaijan: Sale and investment of 40 JF-17 Block III

A $4.6 billion defense deal was signed between Pakistan and Azerbaijan in June 2025, under which Pakistan will supply Azerbaijan with 40 JF-17 Block III aircraft. This also includes an investment of $2 billion, which is earmarked for joint industrial projects, infrastructure, and possibly local production.

The deal is the largest export deal for Pakistan’s defense industry. Azerbaijan will be supplied with the Block III version, which includes AESA radar, advanced avionics, PL-15 and PL-10 missile capability, and the ASELPOD targeting system. The deal will also see Pakistani pilots and technicians train in Azerbaijan.

20% increase in defense budget

In June 2025, Pakistan increased its defense budget by 20%, mainly due to recent tensions with India and growing threats in the region. The budget allocated Rs2.55 trillion for the army, air force, and navy, which is 1.97 percent of GDP. The budget also includes funds for advanced weapons, drones, and missile systems.

Establishment of Army Rocket Force Command

In August 2025, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the establishment of the Army Rocket Force Command (ARFC). The force aims to consolidate conventional missiles and rocket systems, enhance operational readiness, and counter India’s growing missile capabilities.

The ARFC includes missiles such as Fateh-1, Fateh-2, and Fateh-4, which have ranges ranging from 140 to 750 kilometers. The force was established after the May 2025 Indo-Pakistan conflict, in which India launched Brahmos missiles at Pakistani targets.

Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Defense Agreement (SMDA)

On September 17, 2025, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed the Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA). Under this agreement, an attack on either country will be considered an attack on both countries, and a joint defense response will be given.

Key points of the agreement:

Mutual defense: An attack on either country will be considered an attack on both.

Nuclear umbrella: Pakistan has indicated that it can provide nuclear capabilities to Saudi Arabia if needed, but there is still ambiguity on this aspect.

Defense cooperation: Military training, joint exercises, and cooperation in the defense industry.

Regional stability: The agreement was signed to promote peace and stability in the region.

Economic aspects: Saudi Arabia’s investment in Pakistan, energy, and infrastructure cooperation.

Global media considered the agreement was a change in the balance of power in the region and a milestone for Pakistan’s defense industry.

Fateh-4 cruise missile test

On September 30, 2025, Pakistan successfully tested the Fateh-4 cruise missile, which has a range of 750 kilometers. The missile will be operated under the ARFC and is intended to counter India’s defense capabilities. The test further strengthened Pakistan’s conventional missile capability and added a new dimension to its defense strategy in the region.

Delivery of JF-17 Block III to Azerbaijan

In October 2025, Pakistan delivered the first batch of JF-17 Block III aircraft to Azerbaijan. The delivery was made under a $4.6 billion deal, which also includes training, logistics, and weapons.

The Azerbaijani president described the delivery as crucial for its defense superiority in the region. Under the deal, Azerbaijan was provided not only with modern aircraft but also with Pakistani-trained personnel and technical support.

Dubai Air Show and new JF-17 Block III deal

During the Dubai Air Show in November 2025, Pakistan signed an MoU with a new ‘friendly’ country for the export of JF-17 Block III. Although the country was not named, analysts say the deal could be with a country in the Middle East or Africa.

The deal demonstrated the global popularity of Pakistan’s defense industry and presented the JF-17 Block III as a cheap and modern 4.5-generation fighter jet. Several countries showed interest in the JF-17 at the Dubai Air Show, and more exports are expected in the future.

JF-17 combat success in Nigeria

In December 2025, Nigeria successfully used its JF-17 aircraft to crush a rebellion in Benin. These aircraft targeted insurgent positions with laser-guided bombs, proving their combat capability. This success further boosted Pakistan’s defense exports, and strengthened its defense cooperation in Africa.

Pakistan’s Defense Industry: Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) Kamra

Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra is the hub of the country’s defense industry, where the JF-17, Super Mushtaq, and other aircraft are manufactured. PAC has expanded its capabilities not only for domestic needs but also for export purposes. 58% of JF-17 production is done in Pakistan, and most of its components are manufactured locally.

Global Industrial and Defense Solutions (GIDS)

GIDS is Pakistan’s state-owned defense company, which manufactures Shahpar drones, missiles, and other advanced weapons. The Shahpar-III drone can fly for 30-40 hours, can climb to 35,000 feet, and can carry 6 weapons. The drone is being exported to several countries, including the Middle East, Africa, and Trkiye.

Defense Exports and Financial Aspects

Pakistan’s defense exports have the potential to increase from $500 million to $5 billion annually by 2035, provided industrial reforms, local production, and improved export strategies are implemented. JF-17, Super Mushshak, Shahpar drones, and other weapons are being exported to several countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Export Regulations and Restrictions

Pakistan enacted the Export Control Act in 2004, which imposes strict regulations on the export of nuclear, biological, and missile technology. SECDIV oversees this process, and exports are permitted in accordance with international agreements, such as the NSG, MTCR, and the Australia Group.

Defense Experiments: Missiles, Drones, and Other Technologies

Missile Experiments

Abdali Ballistic Missile: Successfully tested on 3 May 2025 with a range of 450 km.

Fateh series missiles: Tested on May 6, 2025, with a range of 120 km, advanced navigation, and terminal guidance.

Fateh-4 cruise missile: September 30

Tested with 750 km range in 2025, operated under ARFC.

Drones and Unmanned Systems

Shahpar-III drone: Introduced at IDEAS and IDEX exhibitions in 2025, flight up to 30-40 hours, 6 weapons, altitude up to 35,000 feet, SATCOM link, and local production.

Exports: Shahpar-III is being exported to the UAE, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Trkiye, and other countries.

Naval, Artillery, and Rocket Forces

Army Rocket Force Command: Established in August 2025, the operational readiness of conventional missiles, competing with India’s Brahmos and S-400 capabilities.

Naval Cooperation: Pakistan Navy increases joint exercises and defense cooperation with Qatar, UAE, and Oman.

Pakistan’s Defense Industry and Future

Pakistan’s defense industry made significant progress in 2025. PAC Kamra, GIDS, NESCOM, and other institutions are developing advanced aircraft, drones, missiles, and weapons. The JF-17 Block III, Shahpar-III, and Fateh series missiles have made Pakistan a strong defense force in the region. Through increased exports, local production, and industrial reforms, Pakistan can achieve the target of $5 billion annual defense exports by 2035.

Conclusions

In 2025, Pakistan signed several historic agreements in the defense sector, including a strategic defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, a major sale of JF-17 Block III to Azerbaijan, and defense cooperation with other countries. Successful tests of missiles, drones, and conventional weapons have further strengthened Pakistan’s defense capability. The changing geopolitical balance in the region, the new strategies of India and Iran, and relations with the United States and China have given Pakistan an important defense and strategic role.

Recommendations for the future are:

Industrial reforms: Promote local production, supply chains, and technical training.

Export Strategy: Explore new markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

??Legal Oversight: Strictly monitor exports and fully comply with international agreements.

Advanced Research: Prioritize research and development on hypersonic missiles, advanced drones, and cyber defense.

Regional Cooperation: Further expand defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Trkiye, and other friendly countries.

The achievements of Pakistan’s defense industry in 2025 are important not only for domestic security but also for peace and stability in the region. A comprehensive strategy, industrial reforms, and international cooperation are essential to sustain and further promote these achievements in the future.

Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, founder and head of IDEA Public Union, met with the creative team of the ‘ANIMAFILM Studio’.

Leyla Aliyeva had a conversation with the studio staff, exploring the development of animation art in Azerbaijan. Rashid Aghamaliyev, Director of the ‘ANIMAFILM Studio’, Elchin Hami Akhundov, honored culture worker, holder of the individual presidential pension, as well as the studio staff attended the meeting.

Leyla Aliyeva wathched the latest animated films produced by the studio, including the “Earth and Moon short animated film – a joint production of the Azerbaijani and Uzbek animators, as well as the ‘Porridge Monster’ short animated film – a joint production of the Azerbaijani, Polish, and German animators.

Additionally, Leyla Aliyeva watched the initial versions of the first two episodes of the ‘Isi and Piti’ children’s animated series, the latest project of the ‘ANIMAFILM Studio’.

Leyla Aliyeva got acquainted with the first two episodes of the new children’s animated series “Isi v Piti”, which has been started to be produced by “ANIMAFILM Studio”.

Bahar Energy Operating Company Limited (BEOC) has prepared a strategic roadmap for the partial (60-70%) transfer of stakes in the Bahar field, located in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea, to investors, Azernews reports, citing the company.

According to information, the operator of both the Bahar and Gum-Deniz fields, efforts to attract investors under this roadmap will continue in the first quarter of 2026.

It should be noted that the ownership structure of the ‘Bahar’ and ‘Gum-Deniz’ fields has recently changed. As of August 15, 2025, 100% of the shares in BEOC were acquired by the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), bringing the project under SOCAR’s full management within the framework of the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA).

The ‘Bahar’ field has been in operation since 1968, while the ‘Gum-Deniz’ field has been producing oil since 1955. Both fields hold strategic importance for Azerbaijan’s energy sector. The ‘Gum-Deniz’ field stretches approximately 12 km offshore from Qum Island, located south of the Absheron Peninsula in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea, while the ‘Bahar’ field lies roughly 20 km from the coast.

On the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder and head of the IDEA Public Union, a New Year celebration was organised for children living in the city of Yevlakh ahead of the New Year.

IDEA told AZERTAC that, as part of the festive event, 30 children from different age groups were presented with bicycles along with safety equipment. The initiative brought joy and a festive spirit to the children on the eve of the New Year.

It should be noted that, at the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, large-scale projects covering humanitarian, educational, healthcare, social, environmental and other fields are regularly implemented both across various regions of Azerbaijan and in a number of countries around the world. Organising events for children in orphanages, boarding schools, as well as for children in need of treatment and care-particularly during holidays-is one of the key priorities of these initiatives. Such events are held regularly to bring happiness to children deprived of parental care and those in greater need of attention, ensuring they can experience the joy and warmth of the festive season.

The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), scheduled to take place in Baku from May 17 to 22 next year, will serve as a major international platform bringing together global policy dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the exchange of best practices in the field of sustainable urban development.

Azernews reports that, this was stated by Eldar Rasulov, Media Relations Manager of the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operating Company, in comments to journalists.

Rasulov noted that WUF13 is one of the most prestigious international platforms, jointly organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the Government of Azerbaijan.

‘The WUF13 session represents a key milestone in the global urban development agenda. It is an important international event that unites global policy dialogue on sustainable urban development with the exchange of knowledge and advanced practices,’ he said. ‘For the first time, the forum will be held in the Caspian and South Caucasus region, and nearly 10,000 international participants are expected, with total attendance projected at around 30,000 participants.’

Rasulov emphasized that, unlike previous editions of the forum, WUF13 will be attended by numerous heads of state and government.

Within the framework of the forum, 40 main sessions and approximately 350 partner-led events will be organized. The forum’s core sessions will be provided with simultaneous interpretation in eight languages, including sign language, ensuring broad accessibility.

To ensure the high-level organization of WUF13, the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operating Company commenced operations on June 30, 2025. Since then, comprehensive preparations have been carried out across key areas, including institutional readiness, venue infrastructure planning, operational management, transportation, marketing, and communications.

Rasulov added that building a professional organizing team is among the top priorities for the successful delivery of an event of this scale. Currently, a workforce of nearly 300 staff members has been assembled, most of whom are experienced professionals with a background in organizing international events.

Azerbaijani Senior Wrestling Championship will take place on January 7-11, Azernews reports. The names of the national champions in Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestling will be determined at the Baku Sports Palace.

Wrestlers who place in the top three will be included in the national team. Matches will be officiated not only by local referees but also by invited experienced referees of the I-S category from abroad.

Preliminary matches will begin at 10:00, while the decisive bouts will start at 18:00. The opening ceremony of the championship will take place on January 7.

Wrestling continues to be the most popular sport in Azerbaijan and is overseen by the National Wrestling Federation, which was founded in 1993.

The Rio Olympic Games marked a significant milestone in Azerbaijan’s wrestling history, as the country became one of only two nations to increase its medal count in five consecutive Olympics.

In 2020, Azerbaijani freestyle wrestlers secured third place in the overall medal standings at the Individual World Cup held in Serbia, winning two medals-a silver and a bronze-behind Russia, which led the table, and Turkiye.

In 2022, Osman Nurmagomedov (92 kg) claimed the World Championship title in Belgrade, defeating a Russian opponent in the final match.

At the 2024 Summer Olympics, Azerbaijan earned three bronze medals in wrestling: Hasrat Jafarov (67 kg) in Greco-Roman, and Giorgi Meshvildishvili (125 kg) and Magomedkhan Magomedov (97 kg) in freestyle.

Starting January 1, 2026, all foreign nationals entering Georgia will be required to have valid health insurance for the entire duration of their stay in the country.

As reported by Azernews, citing the press service of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), the new rule applies to all foreign visitors entering Georgia for tourism, business, or transit purposes.

AZAL advises passengers planning to travel to Georgia after January 1, 2026, to consider the new requirements during their trip preparation and to obtain health insurance prior to departure.

Under the new regulations, foreign visitors must hold health and accident insurance valid from the date of entry until the date of exit. The minimum coverage amount is 30,000 Georgian Lari (GEL).

Georgian or foreign insurance companies can issue insurance and must be presented in electronic or paper format in either Georgian or English.

The insurance document must include:

The parties to the insurance contract

The territory where the insurance is valid

The subject of the insurance

Start and end dates of coverage

Covered risks

Insurance coverage amounts (limits)

Insurance premium

Payment terms and location

This requirement is introduced under Georgia’s ‘Law on Tourism.’ The Georgian government’s decision titled ‘On Approving the Rules and Conditions for Mandatory Health and Accident Insurance for Tourists Visiting Georgia’ will come into effect on January 1, 2026.

Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder and head of the IDEA Public Union, recently visited the ‘YASA’ Center located in Baku’s historic Icherisheher district to meet with members of the senior community.

At the centre, elderly participants engage in various handicrafts, decorative and applied arts, and other creative activities. Regular educational and cultural events are organised to enrich their lives and foster social interaction.

According to Azernews, during her visit, Leyla Aliyeva held heartfelt conversations with the seniors, listened to their recited poetry, observed their handmade creations, and received information about the content of ongoing activities and the centre’s future plans.

The ‘YASA’ network of centres has been established to support active, healthy, and meaningful lives for older adults. These centres are not only operating in Baku but also in Mingachevir and Shamakhi, providing opportunities for social engagement, learning, and active living for elderly citizens across various regions.

The court hearing scheduled for December 26 in the criminal case against Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan has been postponed, Azernews reports.

The postponement followed an appeal by the defendant’s defense attorney, Emil Babishov, who requested that the hearing be delayed due to health-related issues. The court considered the lawyer’s request and decided to adjourn the proceedings.

The next court hearing in the case is scheduled for December 30.

Ruben Vardanyan is accused of committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, as well as terrorism, financing of terrorism, and a range of other particularly serious offenses under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The charges include planning, preparing and waging a war of aggression; deportation and forced transfer of population; persecution; enforced disappearances; deprivation of liberty contrary to international law; torture; mercenary activity; violations of the laws and customs of war and international humanitarian law; intentional murder and attempted murder; illegal entrepreneurship; terrorism-related crimes; creation of a criminal association; acts threatening aviation safety; forcible seizure or retention of power; creation of illegal armed formations; and illegal crossing of the state border of Azerbaijan.