Azerbaijan’s Mission to NATO hosted an official reception marking the 108th anniversary of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces.

The event was attended by NATO Secretary General's Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia Kevin Hamilton, ambassadors and military representatives of NATO allies and partner countries, and senior NATO officials, The Caspian Post reports, citing AZERTAC.

Addressing the reception, Head of Azerbaijan’s Mission to NATO Jafar Huseynzade said the occasion honors the service of the country’s armed forces and underscores the importance of independence, sovereignty and strong state institutions. He noted that the military reforms initiated by National Leader Heydar Aliyev are being continued under President Ilham Aliyev, contributing to the restoration of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Huseynzade also said Azerbaijan remains committed to achieving lasting peace in the South Caucasus and highlighted progress in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process.

Source: Azerbaijan's Mission to NATO

He emphasized that Azerbaijan and NATO have built a partnership based on mutual respect and shared interests over more than three decades, noting Azerbaijan’s contributions to NATO-led missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan, as well as its role in strengthening regional energy security and Eurasian transport connectivity.

Military Representative of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces to NATO Military Committee Ramil Hasanov outlined the development of Azerbaijan’s armed forces and key areas of military cooperation with the Alliance.

Kevin Hamilton described Azerbaijan as a reliable and valuable NATO partner, saying the long-standing partnership has supported the professionalization and modernization of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces. He praised Azerbaijan’s contributions to NATO operations, particularly in Afghanistan, and thanked Baku for its support during the allied evacuation, noting that Azerbaijan was the last partner country to leave Afghanistan.

Hamilton also commended Azerbaijan’s contribution to the energy security of NATO allies and welcomed recent progress toward peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, describing it as an important step for regional stability.

The reception featured a photo exhibition highlighting Azerbaijan-NATO cooperation and served traditional Azerbaijani cuisine.