NATO rear admiral praises professionalism of Azerbaijani officers PHOTO

A senior NATO official has commended the professionalism of Azerbaijani military officers during a visit to Baku as part of the 16th NATO Days, which run until December 12.

On December 9, Azerbaijan’s Defence Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, met a delegation led by Rear Admiral Yusuf Karagülle, Deputy Chief of Staff and Head of the Partnership Directorate at NATO’s Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE).

According to the Ministry of Defence, Hasanov underlined the importance of Azerbaijan’s cooperation with NATO, saying the partnership plays a significant role in developing military expertise on both sides.

He noted NATO’s contribution to global peace and security and reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening ties with the alliance, including through additional forces declared under the Operational Capabilities Concept.

Rear Admiral Karagülle welcomed the expansion of NATO–Azerbaijan relations and highlighted the country’s contribution to alliance operations aimed at enhancing stability and security. He praised the professionalism of more than 40 Azerbaijani officers who have served in NATO headquarters, describing bilateral exchanges and visits as highly effective.

Both sides discussed the current state of military cooperation, prospects for further development, and plans in defence education. Officials noted that within the Partnership for Peace programme, up to 250 Azerbaijani service members have taken part in 146 international events, while 395 personnel have joined 33 NATO activities hosted in Azerbaijan.

During NATO Days, the visiting delegation is scheduled to tour several military units and specialised training institutions under the National Defence University.

By Aghakazim Guliyev