Georgian Defence Minister attends Azerbaijan-Turkey-Georgia trilateral ministerial in Ankara

Georgian Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Irakli Chikovani on Thursday took part in the Azerbaijan-Turkey-Georgia Trilateral Defence Ministerial, hosted by Ankara.

During the meeting, Chikovani discussed strategic partnership issues and future plans for trilateral cooperation with his Turkish and Azerbaijani counterparts - Yaşar Güler and Colonel General Zakir Hasanov.

Chikovani highlighted that the trilateral cooperation format between Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Georgia contributed to strengthening interoperability and closer ties between the armed forces of the three countries. He emphasised the importance of the growing dynamics of joint military exercises and collaboration in military education. The trilateral cooperation aims to reinforce regional security and foster closer defence relations among the three nations.

The ministers also exchanged views on the regional security environment, underlining the significance of this trilateral format in promoting peace and constructive cooperation in the region. They shared updates on ongoing defence reforms in their respective countries.

Following the discussions, the defence ministers signed a joint declaration reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening cooperation. Within the ministerial, Chikovani also held bilateral meetings with his Turkish and Azerbaijani counterparts.

The ministerial meeting is held annually on a rotational basis. Next year, the meeting will be hosted by Azerbaijan.