Azerbaijan's Minister of Defense Industry Vugar Mustafayev has addressed the participants of the ADEX-2026 exhibition.

Operativ Media reports that the address reads:

“Dear exhibition participants, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen!

I am delighted to welcome you to the 6th Azerbaijan International Defense Exhibition, ADEX-2026, and the 15th Anniversary International Exhibition for Internal Security, Safety and Rescue Equipment, Securex Caspian 2026, which are among the region's most prestigious and strategically important military-technological platforms!

As a result of large-scale reforms carried out under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, the worthy successor of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, our country's economy has developed rapidly, achieving great success. Azerbaijan's economic growth and independent policy have transformed it into an important nation not only regionally but also globally. This progress has also strengthened our country's position in security and defense, paving the way for Azerbaijan's growing role in international security affairs.

Azerbaijan's defense industry has entered a new stage in terms of quality and the application of modern, high-tech, and science-intensive production achievements. Thanks to the purposeful and pragmatic state policy pursued by President Ilham Aliyev, our country is no longer just an adopter of modern technologies, but also a developer of innovative solutions that make fundamental contributions to the global security architecture.

The special attention paid by the head of state to the organization and development of the ADEX exhibition has elevated this unique platform to the status of an intellectual hub where future defense doctrines are discussed. The expanding scale of the exhibition year after year, along with the steady increase in the number of participating countries and international companies, is a clear indicator of international trust in Azerbaijan's military-industrial potential.

Today's global developments show that a country's defense capability and reliable security are no longer built on quantity, but on technological superiority, the application of artificial intelligence, and the effectiveness of robotic systems. Standing at the center of this global transformation, ADEX-2026 presents participants with intelligent systems, cybersecurity solutions, and aerospace achievements that address the most complex defense needs.

This exhibition also showcases to the world Azerbaijan's economic and military strength, as well as its new capabilities as a victorious nation that has fully restored its territorial integrity. Azerbaijan's defense industry is now capable of establishing joint production chains with foreign partners, accelerating technology transfer, and exporting competitive products that meet modern requirements. We believe that real security is achieved not through closed systems, but through open and transparent international cooperation, mutual trust, and the application of new scientific achievements.

Today, Baku is a unique venue that brings together the think tanks, engineering community, and innovative technological advancements of the global defense industry for a single goal – a safer and more peaceful future.

Against the backdrop of dynamic global changes and security challenges, the exchange and development of modern technologies and security tools among nations have become even more urgent. Global threats such as terrorism, conflicts, organized crime, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction require states to take a more serious approach to security issues. Alongside the 6th Azerbaijan International Defense Exhibition, ADEX-2026, the 15th Anniversary International Exhibition for Internal Security, Safety and Rescue Equipment, Securex Caspian 2026, serves as an important platform for showcasing advanced security and protection technologies, new equipment, and innovations. This exhibition is an excellent tool for developing global cooperation and exchanging best practices in security and defense.

Through the Securex Caspian exhibition, Azerbaijan is becoming an important strategic partner in security and defense, not only in the region but also globally. Companies and specialists in the security and safety sectors from various countries gather at this exhibition, gaining opportunities to establish business contacts, create new areas of cooperation, and reach mutually beneficial agreements. This also aims to promote Azerbaijan's strong defense industry in the international market and expand cooperation opportunities with more countries.

I am confident that the cooperation and partnerships established, the productive business meetings held, the strategic agreements signed, and the expert discussions conducted within both exhibitions will open new horizons of development for every participating country and company. They will serve to strengthen international security, modernize militaries, and shape next-generation defense strategies. Baku's hospitality and the favorable business environment created here will provide an additional stimulus to your activities, and the ADEX brand will write new successful pages in the history of global military-technical cooperation.

I wish all participants new achievements, mutually beneficial partnerships, and great success!”