Baku: The graduation ceremony for the latest cohort of the Reserve Officer Training Course took place at the Heydar Aliyev Military Institute, part of the National Defense University (NDU), as reported by the Ministry of Defense to AZERTAC.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the ceremony began with the NDU leadership laying wreaths at both the bust of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the memorial dedicated to martyrs, as a tribute to their memory. The event, attended by officers and faculty members, continued with a moment of silence in honor of Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation. This was followed by the performance of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

During his address at the ceremony, Major General Gunduz Abdullov, Rector of the National Defense University, congratulated the graduates. He highlighted that the military rank of "Lieutenant" conferred upon them signifies not only distinction but also great responsibility to the Motherland, officerly honor, and fidelity to the military oath.

The rector further emphasized that the graduates, now part of the Azerbaijani Army's officers, are expected to uphold the trust placed in them by the state and the people. They are encouraged to demonstrate professionalism, discipline, and patriotism throughout their military service.

In their speeches, the newly commissioned officers expressed gratitude to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Defense's leadership for their support. They pledged to serve the Motherland, state, and nation with honor and dedication.