Strengthening scientific collaborations between the Supreme National Defense University and the National Defense University of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

According to the report of the Communications and International Relations Center of the Supreme National Defense University, on Saturday, 13rd of Jan, 2024 a three-member delegation led by Brigadier General Aref Hassanov, the Scientific Deputy and Head of the Defense Faculty of the NDU of the Republic of Azerbaijan, visited the Supreme National Defense University of Iran.

The Supreme National Defense University hosted a delegation from the National Defense University of the Republic of Azerbaijan as part of its efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation and strengthen scientific diplomacy. During this visit, the delegation had a meeting and discussion with Brigadier General Dr. Ismail Ahmadi-Moghaddam, the President of the Supreme National Defense University. In the meeting, Brig General Dr. Ahmadi-Moghadam highlighted the close ties between Iran and Azerbaijan, stating that Azerbaijan is an integral part of Iran and the Iranian people have always shown great interest in Azerbaijan. He emphasized that the Iranian people, even non-Azerbaijanis, have a deep respect for the independence of Azerbaijan because the Caucasus region is important for the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the developments in this region are significant for us.

Continuing his remarks, the President of the National Defense University addressed the Scientific Deputy of the National Defense University of the Republic of Azerbaijan, stating, "The Islamic Republic of Iran has always strived for peace and brotherhood between our two countries. However, we have also made efforts to assist Azerbaijan in resolving its issues with Armenia, utilizing the longstanding historical relations we have with Azerbaijan."

Brig General Dr. Ahmadi-Moghadam highlighted the position and importance of the National Defense University within the structure of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran. He expressed the university's readiness and interest in accepting Azerbaijani students for doctoral studies in the upcoming academic year.

Brigadier General Aref Hassanov, the head of the Azerbaijani delegation, expressed his gratitude for the warm and heartfelt hospitality extended to them during the visit. He stated that from the moment they entered the Islamic Republic of Iran, they felt as if they were in their own home. Despite having traveled extensively to other countries around the world, they had never experienced this level of intensity in their sense of belonging and comfort.

The Deputy of Scientific Affairs at the National Defense University of Azerbaijan expressed gratitude for the provided explanations regarding the SNDU's activities, which were previously discussed during the meeting attended by Lieutenant General Dr.Bolhassani, the Deputy of the University, and several university officials. He stated that there is readiness for the exchange of a memorandum of understanding between the two universities, and as soon as the draft of this memorandum is ready, the delegation will send it to the SNDU for the initiation of bilateral collaborations at the academic level, including faculty and student exchanges at the doctoral level. Furthermore, this will pave the way for inviting the President of the National Defense University to visit the Republic of Azerbaijan and sign the bilateral memorandum of understanding.

The Azerbaijani delegation familiarized themselves closely with the activities and initiatives of the Supreme National Defense University's faculties, as well as the Faculty of International Students at the university. Following their visit, they concluded their tour after attending a lunch banquet organized in their honor. Additionally, there was an exchange of gifts and university insignia to commemorate the occasion.