Baku: On December 9, the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, met with a delegation led by Rear Admiral Yusuf Karaglle, Deputy Chief of Staff for the Partnerships Directorate at NATO Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). The meeting was part of the ongoing 16th NATO Days in Azerbaijan.
According to Azeri-Press news agency, Colonel General Hasanov emphasized the significance of the relationship between Azerbaijan and NATO, noting how it positively impacts the development of professional military personnel on both sides. He praised NATO’s role in maintaining global peace and security and highlighted Azerbaijan’s commitment to mutual cooperation with the Alliance. The declaration of additional forces to the Operational Capabilities Concept (OCC) Pool of Forces was also underscored as an important step.
Rear Admiral Karaglle expressed a positive outlook on the expansion of Azerbaijan-NATO relations. He acknowledged Azerbaijan’s active participation in NATO’s efforts to promote security and stability, as well as its involvement in crisis-response operations. The effectiveness of mutual visits and meetings held in various formats was particularly highlighted.
The meeting also recognized the professionalism of over 40 Azerbaijani officers serving at NATO headquarters within the Partnership Staff Element Concept. Discussions included the current state and future prospects of Azerbaijan-NATO cooperation in military and military educational fields.
As part of the Partnership for Peace (PfP) programme, it was mentioned that up to 250 representatives of the Azerbaijan Army have participated in 146 international events abroad, with 395 personnel taking part in 33 NATO events held in Azerbaijan.
The 16th NATO Days, which will run until December 12, will see the delegation visiting various military units and special educational institutions at the National Defense University.