On December 23, a panel discussion on the topic “Sovereignty and Defense Industry: The Path of 20 Years” was organized at Azerbaijan Technical University (AzTU) on the occasion of the “Year of Constitution and Sovereignty” and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Ministry of Defense Industry of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

First, the dear memory of the Great Leader Heydar Aliyev and the heroic sons of the Motherland who sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan was commemorated with a minute of silence, and the national anthem was played.

AzTU Rector Vilayat Valiyev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Education Development Fund under the Ministry of Science and Education Nijat Mammadli, Advisor to the Minister of Defense Industry Arif Babayev, and MP Hikmet Babaoglu spoke at the event.

The speakers spoke about the fundamental role of the Constitution and sovereignty in the formation of Azerbaijan as an independent state, the importance of the national statehood strategy defined by the Great Leader Heydar Aliyev, as well as the successful continuation of this political line by the Honorable President, Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief Mr. Ilham Aliyev, which resulted in the full restoration of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of our country.

The discussions reviewed the development path of Azerbaijan's defense industry over the past 20 years, provided information on the work done to form this strategic sector, expand production and technological capabilities, and organize the production of innovative and high-tech military products. It was noted that the development of the defense industry, in addition to playing an important role in ensuring the country's defense capability and security, also makes a significant contribution to the diversification of the economy and strengthening of scientific and technical potential. At the same time, it was emphasized that expanding cooperation between the Ministry of Defense Industry and higher education institutions is of great importance in terms of forming qualified personnel potential and promoting scientific and research.

The panel discussion also discussed the application of innovations in the defense industry, the integration of digital technologies, and the involvement of young specialists in this field.

At the end of the event, plaques of gratitude and souvenirs were presented to the speakers of the panel discussion, as well as to a group of employees of the Ministry of Defense Industry and AzTU, students and graduates of the faculty for their active participation in the activities of the Faculty of Special Equipment and Technology.