Ahmed Shaheer Oghlu, head of Azerbaijan’s Institute for Democracy and Human Rights, has issued a bold rebuke to India’s threats of travel boycotts and economic sanctions, doubling down on Azerbaijan’s steadfast support for Pakistan amid escalating diplomatic tensions.
In a fiery statement posted on X, Dr. Oghlu dismissed Indian efforts to pressure Azerbaijan through economic measures, urging detractors to “study history” before challenging the nation’s resolve. “Azerbaijan has never bowed to threats, and we never will,” he declared. “Our bond with Pakistan is rooted in brotherhood and justice, and no boycott or sanction can sway our principled stance.”
The controversy stems from Azerbaijan’s public endorsement of Pakistan following India’s military operation, which targeted alleged terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Azerbaijan’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes, expressing solidarity with Pakistan and calling for a diplomatic resolution. This position sparked outrage among Indian citizens and travel companies, leading to widespread calls for boycotts of Azerbaijan and Turkey, another nation voicing support for Pakistan.
Dr. Oghlu emphasized the historical and moral ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, stating, “We are a nation that values loyalty over profit. Pakistan has stood by us in our darkest hours, and we will never turn our back on them. Every challenge we face only strengthens our unity.” He acknowledged the potential economic impact of reduced Indian tourism but maintained that “honor and brotherhood outweigh temporary losses.”
Recent data indicates a significant decline in Indian travel to Azerbaijan, with bookings dropping by 60% and cancellations surging by 250% in the past week, according to industry reports. Major Indian travel platforms, including EaseMyTrip and Ixigo, have halted bookings to Azerbaijan, citing alignment with national sentiment. Despite this, Dr. Oghlu remained defiant, concluding, “Let the world know: Azerbaijan stands tall, and our friendship with Pakistan is unbreakable.”
The standoff highlights the growing intersection of geopolitics and tourism, as economic measures become tools of diplomatic protest. As Azerbaijan braces for potential economic ripples, Dr. Oghlu’s remarks underscore a commitment to principle over pragmatism, signaling that Baku will not waver in its support for Islamabad.
