Turkey, Azerbaijan always stand together: Minister

By Sarp Ozer

NAKHCHIVAN, Azerbaijan (AA) - Turkey’s national defense minister on Tuesday voiced solidarity with Azerbaijan both in sorrow and pleasure.

“Turkey and brotherly country Azerbaijan are one and together against any threat and risk, as well as in sorrow and pride,” Hulusi Akar said at a meeting with Vasif Talibov, chairman of the Supreme Assembly of Nakhchivan, and Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov.

Prior to the meeting, Akar also attended a joint military drill launched by Turkish and Azerbaijani land forces dubbed as “Indestructible Brotherhood - 2019”. He said the drill was completed successfully.

The military exercise, launched on June 8, aimed to develop the armies' coordination and ability to conduct joint operations.

Some 5,000 soldiers attended the drill while 200 tanks and armored vehicles, nearly 180 missiles and cannons, as well as 21 warplanes and helicopters were used.

Akar said the world goes through an era of large developments, renovation and changes, and added that this situation brings global and regional problems along with it.

He noted that joint drill activities between countries allow them to observe interoperability of armies and indicate their level of preparation for warfare.

* Writing by Sena Guler