Shusha:The 13th trilateral meeting of defense ministers from Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Georgia took place in Shusha. Participants included Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, Turkey’s Minister of National Defense Yasar Guler, and Georgia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Irakli Chikovani.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, the meeting began with a welcoming speech by Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defense, who highlighted the role of the sincere friendship between the heads of state in fostering high-level relations among the countries. The minister emphasized the successful development of the Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey trilateral cooperation format, which has become a model for regional cooperation contributing to peace, security, and stability.
The ministers expressed condolences to their Turkish counterpart for the servicemen lost in a recent plane crash, showing solidarity with the Turkish people. Discussions focused on the historical good neighborliness and friendship among the three nations, the significance of mutual trust, and the necessity of addressing modern challenges to regional security.
The meeting also underscored the importance of expanding trilateral military exercises and training, with particular emphasis on the ‘Eternity’ and ‘Caucasian Eagle’ exercises. These activities were noted for their role in enhancing cooperation, experience exchange, and strengthening the defense capabilities of the armed forces.
Additionally, the ministers discussed collaboration in military, technical, educational, and medical fields, considering proposals to expand trilateral relations. At the conclusion of the meeting, a protocol was signed, and a press conference was held. Colonel General Zakir Hasanov expressed satisfaction with the cooperation’s progress and the intention to further develop these ties.