Azerbaijani defence minister congratulates troops on Armed Forces Day

Azerbaijani Defence Minister, Col-Gen Zakir Hasanov, has congratulated the personnel of the Azerbaijani Army on Armed Forces Day, celebrated in the country on June 26.

Zakir Hasanov emphasised in his congratulatory message that the President of Azerbaijan and Supreme Commander-in-Chief, Ilham Aliyev, always keeps the defence of the country as a top priority, Caliber.Az reports, citing the Ministry of Defence.

Hasanov highlighted that as a result of the Azerbaijani Army’s brilliant victory in the 2020 Second Karabakh War and the successful anti-terrorism operation in September 2023, Azerbaijan’s historical lands were liberated Armenian occupation.

“Thus, thanks to the wise and far-sighted policy of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, as well as the strength of our Armed Forces, the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country have been fully ensured,” the message reads.

“Officers, warrant officers, midshipmen, cadets, sergeants, soldiers, sailors, public servants, and civilian employees! I sincerely congratulate you on Armed Forces Day and wish you success in your sacred and honourable service for the benefit of the Republic of Azerbaijan,” Hasanov said.

Earlier today, military parades took place on the central streets, squares, and avenues of Baku, Ganja, Khankendi, and Lachin to mark the 107th anniversary of the establishment of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces.

In 1998, then-President of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev, signed a decree officially designating June 26 as the Day of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Since then, it has served both as a celebration of the country’s military capabilities and a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

By Khagan Isayev