By Rashid Shirinov

Russia and Azerbaijan intend to develop all-round cooperation in the military-technical sphere, Azerbaijani Defense Minister Colonel-General Zakir Hasanov told journalists on August 13.

“Our cooperation in the military sphere is developing in many directions – in the field of military-technical cooperation, military education, joint exercises and training,” the minister said. “I think we have great prospects, and we will further develop this cooperation.”

Hasanov reminded that Russia and Azerbaijan carried out joint exercises in the Caspian Sea. Moreover, many officers and cadets from Azerbaijan get education in military educational institutions of the Russian Federation.

The minister reminded that a lot of Russia-produced equipment is being used by the Azerbaijani army.

The Azerbaijani Army is today considered the most modern army in the Caucasus. The skills and combat readiness of the Azerbaijani Army are growing year by year, as the country’s Armed Forces regularly conduct military exercises. The Azerbaijani army is supplied with modern weapons and technical equipment for maintaining a high level of combat capability.

The army building process is of particular importance for Azerbaijan, as twenty percent of the country's territory is under Armenian occupation and the country is in a state of war with Armenia.

Hasanov also praised the organization of the “Tank biathlon” competition, which has been held within the framework of the International Army Games – 2017.

“Russia is the organizer and inspirer of these Games. Army Games gain popularity. More and more countries are involved in the Games every year," Hasanov said.

The defense minister also reminded that Azerbaijan has hosted the “Sea Cup” contest. The competition was held within the Army Games on August 1-11.

As many as 300 personnel of the Navies of Azerbaijan, Russia, Iran and Kazakhstan were involved in the contest, which was held in three stages – artillery firing, ship damage control, ship crew skills and rescue contest. Representatives of the Armed Forces of Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain observed the competition.

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Rashid Shirinov is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @RashidShirinov

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