06.01.2026 09:05
After the United States kidnapped Venezuelan President Maduro, countries began to increase their military maneuvers. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated that they are conducting cooperation in the format of an alliance that includes mutual military assistance with Turkey, saying, "It would be good for our family of Turkish states to start cooperation in this area as well."
Aliyev, in an interview with local television channels, made evaluations regarding the global security environment, military cooperation within the framework of the Turkic States Organization (TDT), and the Zangezur Corridor.
"DEVELOPMENTS IN THE WORLD ARE FORCING TO INCREASE MILITARY CAPACITY"
Stating that developments in the world are forcing countries to increase their military capacities, Aliyev noted that in the current global order, the principle of "whoever is strong, is also right" is now at the forefront, and this has been confirmed by the developments taking place.
Recalling that at the TDT Summit Meeting in Gabala, he proposed that member countries hold joint military exercises in Azerbaijan this year, Aliyev expressed:
"In my opinion, there is a need for this. We are conducting military exercises in a bilateral format with member countries. Of course, mostly with Turkey, but also with other countries. However, organizing joint military exercises can have both a significant symbolic meaning and a practical necessity. I see that in today's world, there is no issue called 'international law.' Everyone should forget this. There is power, there is cooperation, there is alliance, there is mutual support. Of course, everyone must be sure that they are on the right path. No country, no leader should do anything unjust, should not covet the territorial integrity of any country, and should not occupy any country."
CALL TO TURKIC STATES
Emphasizing that Azerbaijan is increasing its military capabilities, Aliyev stated, "We are conducting cooperation in an alliance format that includes mutual military assistance with Turkey. It would be good for our family of Turkic states to also start cooperation in this area. By proposing this, I am not suggesting the establishment of any military organization. Some interpret it that way. No, this is completely unfounded. While we cooperate in many areas such as energy, transportation, trade, and investment, why shouldn't we cooperate in the military field as well?" he said.
"ZANGEZUR CORRIDOR READY SOON"
Aliyev also mentioned the Zangezur Corridor, which will connect Azerbaijan's western provinces to Nakhchivan via Armenia, stating that the section of this route on Azerbaijani territory will be ready soon.
He said they could accelerate the works but did not see a great need for it since no work has yet been done on Armenian territory, stating, "A 42-kilometer road must be built on Armenian territory. When this project is completed, the cargo transport capacity will be 15 million tons."
Recalling that Turkey has decided to construct a railway between Kars and Nakhchivan, Aliyev stated, "Thus, a full connection will be provided from Nakhchivan to Kars and effectively to Turkey's railway network, which should be considered a very important project. There must be a railway that can connect Nakhchivan with Turkey, and all these projects should certainly be carried out in coordination."
"ARMENIA MUST EMERGE FROM THE CURRENT SITUATION"
In addition to the Zangezur Corridor, Aliyev announced that they would also provide access to Nakhchivan via the Aras Corridor through Iran, emphasizing that the opening of transportation routes would also benefit Armenia.
Aliyev stated, "Armenia can and will emerge from its current deadlock. Roads will be opened between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Roads will be opened between Turkey and Armenia. Armenia will gain access to Iran's railways through Nakhchivan and to Russia's railways through Azerbaijan. In other words, this is also beneficial for Armenia. There will be no losers here."