Azerbaijani, Turkish navies sign new protocol to boost strategic cooperation PHOTO

Azerbaijan and Türkiye have taken another significant step in bolstering their military partnership with the signing of a new protocol aimed at enhancing naval cooperation.

The agreement was reached during the 10th round of Staff Talks between the two countries’ naval forces, held in Ankara and attended by a high-level Azerbaijani delegation, led by First Deputy Commander of the Naval Forces - Chief of Staff, 1st grade Captain Teymur Murshudov, Caliber.Az reports, citing Azerbaijan’s Defence Ministry.

The visit commenced with a series of commemorative gestures, underscoring the deep historical and fraternal ties between the two nation.

The Azerbaijani delegation paid tribute to Azerbaijan’s national leader Heydar Aliyev by laying flowers at his monument in the Heydar Aliyev Park in Ankara. The delegation also visited Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk—the founder of the Republic of Türkiye—honoring his legacy.

During the staff talks, the two sides conducted comprehensive discussions on strengthening naval cooperation. The talks focused on expanding joint initiatives, enhancing operational coordination, and promoting the exchange of military experience and best practices.

Both delegations underscored the strategic importance of the bilateral military partnership, particularly in light of regional security dynamics. A wide range of areas for future collaboration were explored, including joint training, technical cooperation, and capacity-building measures.

The meeting culminated in the signing of a protocol aimed at further developing and institutionalizing cooperation between the Azerbaijani and Turkish navies. The agreement is expected to contribute significantly to the interoperability and readiness of the two allied naval forces, reinforcing the broader defence partnership between Baku and Ankara.

By Vafa Guliyeva