Baku: Azerbaijan's State Security Service (SSS) marked the 107th anniversary of the establishment of the country's security agencies with a ceremony on March 28, celebrated as the professional holiday of Azerbaijan security agency employees.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the ceremony began with Colonel-General Ali Naghiyev, Chief of the SSS, and service employees visiting the Alley of Honors. They paid tribute at the grave of Heydar Aliyev, the honorary head of Azerbaijani security agencies. The commemoration extended to the grave of Zarifa Aliyeva, an acclaimed ophthalmologist-scientist, with flowers laid in her honor.

The SSS personnel also visited the Alley of Martyrs, honoring those who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan's independence and freedom, including National Heroes of Azerbaijan from the security agencies. A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the "Eternal Torch" monument.

In the assembly hall of the SSS, employees and veterans gathered for an event that commenced with a minute of silence in memory of the martyrs and National Leader Heydar Aliyev, followed by the National Anthem. Ali Naghiyev addressed the attendees, reflecting on the history of the security agencies and the contributions of Heydar Aliyev. He highlighted the development of Azerbaijan's special service agencies under Ilham Aliyev's leadership to meet modern challenges, ensuring reliable security remains a priority.

Colonel-General Naghiyev discussed the impact of military confrontations, geopolitical situations, and economic challenges on regional operational conditions. He reviewed the SSS's achievements in countering intelligence-disruptive and terrorist activities and detailed various criminal acts thwarted by the agency, including treason, espionage, terrorism, and attempts to destabilize the state.

Additional speakers highlighted the historical evolution of the security agencies and the pivotal role of Heydar Aliyev in shaping the professional ethos of the organization. They noted the continuation of his legacy by the SSS employees.

The ceremony concluded with awards presented to SSS employees receiving high military ranks and state honors. The event wrapped up with the screening of 'Halfway Across', a documentary produced through a collaboration between the SSS and 'AnewZ' television channel.