Azerbaijani General Staff chief highlights military reforms ahead of Armed Forces Day

As Azerbaijan gears up to celebrate Armed Forces Day, First Deputy Defence Minister and Chief of the General Staff, Colonel General Karim Valiyev has visited the Heydar Aliyev Military Institute in Baku, where he met with officers, cadets, and faculty, and emphasised the extensive military reforms implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev. 

The visit began with a ceremony honouring the nation's legacy, where Colonel General Valiyev laid flowers at the statue of Azerbaijani national leader Heydar Aliyev and the Memorial Complex dedicated to the martyrs, paying deep respect to those who gave their lives in service to the country, Caliber.Az reports via the ministry. 

In a speech delivered to cadets and staff, Valiyev emphasised that these reforms, enhanced by global military experience and technological innovation, have significantly strengthened military education and scientific advancement within the army. V

aliyev also referred to President Aliyev’s recent remarks at the opening of the “Azerbaijan” residential complex in Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye, using the occasion to underline the growing strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Türkiye. 

He noted that this alliance, founded on shared values and historical ties, continues to evolve and deepen. Addressing the next generation of military leaders, Valiyev urged cadets to remain committed to their personal and professional growth, encouraging them to strive for excellence and integrity as future officers. He offered them his best wishes for a successful military career. 

The visit concluded with the delivery of new directives from the Ministry of Defence aimed at improving the quality of military education. Valiyev instructed the institute leadership to implement these measures effectively, ensuring continued progress in both training and academic performance.

By Naila Huseynova