Azerbaijan, Iran launch "Araz-2025" joint military exercise to boost defence cooperation PHOTO/VIDEO

An opening ceremony of the "Araz-2025" joint military exercise was held in Azerbaijan, marking a significant step in strengthening the defence cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran.

The ceremony commenced with the Azerbaijani and Iranian exercise leaders, along with other senior officials, visiting a monument to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Motherland, Caliber.Az reports via Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry.

Together, they laid flowers at the monument as a mark of respect and remembrance. The solemn occasion was further underscored by a minute of silence in honor of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs who gave their lives for the territorial integrity of both countries.

The national anthems of Azerbaijan and Iran were then performed, adding a formal and ceremonial tone to the proceedings.

In their speeches, the exercise leaders wished success to the participants, highlighting the importance of the "Araz-2025" exercise as a vital step in enhancing military collaboration between the two neighboring nations. Both sides emphasized that the exercise is not only a testament to the growing strength of Azerbaijan-Iran relations but also a significant contribution to fostering mutual trust and coordination between their armed forces.

The ceremony concluded with a ceremonial march by the military personnel, who paraded in front of the grandstand, showcasing the disciplined unity of both countries' forces.

The "Araz-2025" joint exercise is seen as a critical part of the ongoing efforts to deepen Azerbaijan-Iran military cooperation and to reinforce regional stability through collaborative defence initiatives.

By Vafa Guliyeva