Azerbaijan’s National Flag Raised at NATO Maritime Security Excellence Center in Istanbul

Istanbul, The Gulf Observer: The National Flag of the Republic of Azerbaijan was officially raised at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Maritime Security Excellence Center (MSC) in Istanbul, Türkiye, marking the country’s formal inclusion as the fifth member of the center.

According to the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan, the flag-raising ceremony was held on June 2 with the participation of NATO MSC personnel. The Azerbaijani flag was ceremoniously hoisted to the stirring notes of the national anthem.

During the event, Captain 1st Rank Mehmet Cengiz Ekren, Chief of NATO MSC, emphasized the essential role maritime security plays in supporting global trade, fostering international collaboration, and ensuring collective defense. He welcomed Azerbaijan’s membership, joining Türkiye, Greece, Portugal, and Romania, and described it as a significant step forward in the shared mission of enhancing maritime security.

Captain Ekren also expressed confidence in Captain 3rd Rank Murad Eldar oglu Muradov, who has been appointed as the “EDU/007 – Education Staff Officer” at the NATO MSC for a three-year term starting in 2025. He praised Captain Muradov’s professional experience and anticipated a positive contribution to the center’s ongoing efforts.

To commemorate Azerbaijan’s accession, a symbolic gift was presented to Captain Muradov at the conclusion of the ceremony.