ISTANBUL

Pakistani President Arif Alvi extended congratulations Wednesday to his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev, for his election victory.

Calling Aliyev’s presidential election win "decisive," Alvi said: "Your leadership continues to inspire progress and stability."

"Pakistan looks forward to strengthening our enduring friendship and cooperation. Best wishes for your continued success!" Alvi wrote in a statement that was posted on X by the Pakistani presidential house.

Azerbaijan held presidential elections Wednesday in which Aliyev received more than 92.1% of the vote, according to the Central Election Commission.

Aliyev's closest competitor, independent candidate Zahid Oruj, received 2.2%.

About 6.5 million people were eligible to vote, including citizens based abroad.

The last presidential election, which is held every seven years, was April 11, 2018.

A decree signed by Aliyev late last year moved the vote forward from an initial date in October 2025.