Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Fico signed a Declaration of Strategic Partnership, significantly enhancing their countries’ cooperation, particularly in defense and energy sectors.
During their meetings, which included a joint press appearance, both leaders outlined new avenues of collaboration, notably the future supply of Azerbaijani gas to Slovakia. Such agreements not only bolster Azerbaijan’s position as an energy supplier but also contribute strategically to Slovakia’s energy diversification efforts.
The discussions also prominently featured military cooperation, with President Aliyev revealing that talks had commenced on establishing joint defense production facilities. A memorandum of understanding in the military-technical field was signed by Azerbaijan’s Minister of Defense Industry Vugar Mustafayev and Slovakia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Robert Kalinak, underscoring the practical steps being taken towards this collaboration.
Reflecting on Azerbaijan’s defense ambitions, President Aliyev, during his inauguration on February 14, 2024, highlighted the development of a robust military-industrial complex, signaling a move towards self-sufficiency and increased export capacity in defense products. Azerbaijan, having developed its military-industrial complex from scratch, has already established partnerships with countries like Turkey and Israel, and now adds Slovakia to its growing list of defense partners.
Historically, Czechoslovakia had a notable military-industrial presence, which was split between the Czech Republic and Slovakia post their “velvet divorce”. Both nations have maintained cooperative ties in defense production, which Slovakia now aims to enhance through partnerships with Azerbaijan.
Further, the recent announcement that the Slovak company Excalibur Army will deliver more than 70 units of 155mm/L45 “DITA” self-propelled howitzers to Azerbaijan, as confirmed by Slovak parliamentarian Juraj Krupa, illustrates the tangible outcomes of these defense collaborations. This move may stir concerns in Armenia, particularly given the quality and effectiveness of the weaponry involved.
As Baku and Bratislava take steps towards joint military production aligned with NATO standards, similar to Azerbaijan’s cooperation with Turkey, it’s clear that Azerbaijan is not only focusing on upgrading its military capabilities but is also keen on advancing its own defense industry. This strategic focus aims not just at bolstering national security but also at capturing a share of the global arms market, demonstrating Azerbaijan’s commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
Nurani
Translated from Minval.az
