The rise of the trilateral alliance will change the region’s politics. The trio of Pakistan, Turkey, and Azerbaijan is shifting the power balance. Some rival countries like Israel, India, and Armenia are watching this closely. This strategic triangle will reshape the new counter-bloc in the region. The slogan “Three brothers, One state” is commonly used nowadays for this alliance. Similarly, this was demonstrated in 2021 when they conducted the “Three Brothers – 2021” joint military drills.
Table of Contents
Timeline of the Trilateral Alliance
Pre-2017
Some analysts believe that the journey of the trilateral alliance began right after the independence of Azerbaijan. How remarkable a coincidence that right after Turkey, Pakistan was the second country to recognize this newborn country.
November 2017
The foreign ministers of all-weather friends (Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Pakistan) attended the first trilateral meeting. The foreign ministers signed the “Baku Declaration” and reaffirmed shared respect and support. However, this first meeting was at the foreign ministerial level.
2020
More than 40 days of war between Azerbaijan and Armenia became a true test of their friendship. Islamabad and Ankara were the main supporters of Baku in this conflict.
2021
The first trilateral Meeting of Parliamentary Speakers and the 2nd trilateral Alliance Foreign Ministers’ Meeting took place in 2021. The three nations made headlines in the media by performing joint military exercises named ‘Three Brothers – 2021’.
July 2024
Before 2024, only the foundation of the triple alliance had been laid. In 2024, the idea turned into reality when the first trilateral head-of-state meeting was held in Astana, Kazakhstan.
May 2025
The second milestone was achieved when the 2nd Pakistan-Turkey-Azerbaijan trilateral leaders’ summit was held in Lachin. Aliyev, Shehbaz Sharif, and Erdoğan met at this summit, which was on the independence day of Azerbaijan.
Nov 2025
Just 5 months later, the most recent and third triangular alliance Summit took place in Baku. This shows the leaders of these three countries are committed to taking this to the next level.
Why They Support Each Other
(1) Strategic Interests
Turkey’s Support for Azerbaijan
- Turkey provides full support to Azerbaijan diplomatically and supplied military drones during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
- Turkey was the first country to recognize Azerbaijan.
Turkey’s Support for Pakistan
- Turkey openly supports Pakistan’s stance on the Kashmir dispute.
- During the 2025 Indo-Pak tensions, media reports suggested that several cargo aircraft were deployed to Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Support for Azerbaijan
- Pakistan was the only country that did not recognize Armenia because of its alliance with Azerbaijan.
- Pakistan was one of the countries that immediately recognized Baku’s independence.
- During the Nagorno-Karabakh war, Pakistan remained the biggest supporter.
Pakistan’s Support for Turkey
- Islamabad backs Ankara on the Cyprus issue.
- Pakistan always supports Turkey in its fight against the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party).
Azerbaijan’s Support for Turkey
- Baku also stands in solidarity with Turkey in the Cyprus dispute.
- The Azerbaijani state also opposes the PKK (Kurdistan Workers’ Party).
Azerbaijan’s Support for Pakistan
- Azerbaijan supports Pakistan on the Kashmir issue.
- Baku also backed Pakistan during the 2025 conflict with India.
(2) Mutual Trust
The major reason for the strong relations between these countries is that they have never had tensions or war. That has helped build long-term trust. They have consistently taken the same side in international diplomatic affairs.
(3) People-to-People Ties
These countries love each other not just at a political level but also at a people-to-people level. Many videos and pictures have been shared on social media showing people holding the flags of these countries. After the victory in the Nagorno-Karabakh war, Azerbaijanis took to the streets with all three flags to show solidarity.
(4) Religious Affinity
Another factor that brings them closer is religion. Shared beliefs. Shared values. All three countries are Muslim-majority countries.
Conclusion
The Pakistan-Turkey-Azerbaijan trilateral alliance is on track for a strong relationship. In the new era of geopolitics, new groups of mid-level powers are forming alliances. Geopolitical tensions—such as the US-Iran conflict and attacks on Gulf countries—make regional nations feel insecure. Many countries do not want to be dependent on superpowers anymore. This tripartite alliance aims to diversify its trade and partnerships. Counter-blocs are likely to form across various fronts.
FAQS
Why is Azerbaijan supporting Pakistan?
Because Pakistan was the country after Turkey that openly supported Azerbaijan during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.
Why is Turkey supporting Pakistan now?
Because there is a bond of brotherhood between the two nations that have consistently supported each other in international matters and conflicts without hesitation. Additionally, the Turks have not forgotten the historic support offered by Muslims of this region to the Ottoman Caliphate.
Who is Pakistan’s biggest friend?
In terms of diplomatic, financial, or defense support, Turkey, Azerbaijan, China, and Saudi Arabia are considered the biggest friends of Pakistan.
Is Azerbaijan an ally of Turkey?
Yes, Azerbaijan is considered the closest and most important ally of Turkey. Both nations share strong diplomatic and strategic partnerships.
