Brussels: The Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO hosted an official reception to celebrate the 108th anniversary of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces. The Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO informed APA about the event that gathered distinguished guests, including Ambassador Kevin Hamilton, NATO Secretary General's Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia, and Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Partnerships. Ambassadors and military representatives of Allied and partner countries to NATO, alongside representatives of the International Staff of the Alliance, also attended.

According to Azeri-Press Nws Aency, Jafar Huseynzada, Head of the Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO, articulated the significance of the event as a tribute to the Azerbaijani Armed Forces' dedication and service. He highlighted the foundational role of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in establishing modern military institutions in Azerbaijan, crediting the ongoing military-building policy under President Ilham Aliyev for restoring the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Huseynzada emphasized Azerbaijan's commitment to sustainable peace in the South Caucasus and praised the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process's progress as marked by the Washington Summit.

Azerbaijan's longstanding partnership with NATO was underscored, highlighting over 30 years of mutual respect and shared interests. The Head of Mission noted Azerbaijan's participation in NATO-led operations and its significant role in energy security for NATO allies and partners, and its position as a key Eurasian connectivity hub.

Colonel Ramil Hasanov, Military Representative to NATO's Military Committee, discussed the development of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces and their NATO partnership. Ambassador Kevin Hamilton lauded Azerbaijan as a reliable NATO partner, commending the modernization of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces and their interoperability with NATO standards. Hamilton acknowledged Azerbaijan's contributions to NATO operations, particularly in Afghanistan, and praised the support provided during the Allied withdrawal. He also recognized Azerbaijan's crucial role in energy security and celebrated the progress toward de facto peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia as vital for regional stability.

The reception featured a photo exhibition on Azerbaijan-NATO collaboration and a banquet with Azerbaijani national cuisine, highlighting President Ilham Aliyev's engagements with NATO officials.