“The value of these NATO Training Day visits to Partner nations has significant and far reaching value. They provide invaluable opportunities to learn from each other, consolidate our understanding and reinforce interoperability. The quality, expertise and professionalism of the Azerbaijani forces is recognized at all levels where their contributions to NATO activities is most welcome,” said Rear Admiral Bulent Turan, Deputy Chief of Staff Partnership Directorate. “I and my team have been hugely impressed by the level of engagement in our discussions, where following our briefings, a high level of professional awareness has been demonstrated. Furthermore open and fruitful dialogue has taken place where we have discussed current matters but also explored other areas where we can benefit each other.”

The Azerbaijani Armed Forces have a long history and strong relationship with NATO in many areas having supported the KFOR Mission, currently with Resolute Support and future involvement in NATO Mission Iraq.

“Azerbaijan fully understands its role and contributions as a key partner in NATO’s operations and we are proud to be part of a wider security framework. This visit has been extremely useful and even more important reflecting 25 years of Azerbaijani NATO co-operation. The NATO team has engaged with junior, middle and senior military management to participate in some very informative briefings and we have had the opportunity to reinforce our special relationship,” said Lieutenant Colonel Ramil Shukurov, Partner Nation Military Representative for the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Permanent Military Representatives within PD provide a vital role in facilitating NATO Partner events and are crucial in representing their respective countries. The Partnerships Directorate, consisting of 41 Partners, provides an important capability to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) through the establishment and enhancement of relationships with NATO’s Partner nations.