Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan And NATO Launch Training To Enhance Joint Military Cooperation

On February 17, within the framework of the Partnership for Peace Programme between the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan and NATO for 2026, the "Partner Capacity Coherence Initiative 2026" training course commenced in Baku. The program is being held at the Military Management Institute of the National Defense University. At the outset, participants received detailed briefings on the course objectives, scenario, and assigned tasks. The training, which is regarded as significant for the advancement of international military cooperation, is aimed at strengthening interoperability and coherence during joint exercises, as well as promoting the exchange of professional experience. A total of 28 representatives from Azerbaijan and 38 participants from NATO member and partner states are involved in the course.

On February 19, Lieutenant General Azer Aliyev, the Chief of the Main Operational Department of the Ministry of Defense, along with ministry specialists, met with members of a NATO Mobile Training Team participating in the program. During the meeting, the team’s experts presented information about NATO and outlined the different stages of the course. It was emphasized that the training brings together professionals to enhance joint planning capabilities within multinational headquarters, facilitate knowledge and experience sharing, and reinforce common values. Participants were also briefed on the significance of the discussions and practical sessions conducted as part of the course, highlighting the importance of coordination and mutual cooperation in the context of a modern and rapidly evolving security environment.

Georgia

Paata Patiashvili Visits Italy

On February 18, Paata Patiashvili, the First Deputy Minister of Defense of Georgia, paid a working visit to the Republic of Italy. In Rome, at the Naval Palace, he held talks with Matteo Perego di Cremnago, the Italian Undersecretary of State for Defence, focusing on bilateral cooperation in the defense sphere.

During the meeting, the sides reviewed the current state of Georgian-Italian defense collaboration and explored opportunities for its further expansion. The importance of maintaining high-level dialogue and regular consultations was emphasized, with both parties noting that such engagement contributes to strengthening partnership and mutual trust. Discussions also addressed regional security developments and existing challenges.

The parties agreed to continue coordinated efforts aimed at enhancing cooperation in defense and security matters. As part of the visit, Patiashvili also toured Leonardo S.p.A., the largest company in Italy’s defense industry sector.