The partnership between Azerbaijan and NATO is strengthened through public diplomacy, which plays a crucial role in fostering awareness and understanding of NATO`s policy, as well as Azerbaijan-NATO partnership.
Within the framework of cooperation with NATO's Public Diplomacy Division, numerous seminars, roundtables, and other events covering various aspects of the Azerbaijan-NATO partnership are regularly organized. Notably, several visits to NATO Headquarters have been arranged for students of educational institutions in our country, as well as representatives playing a role in shaping public opinion and young diplomats. Among the most recent visits, the trip of a delegation consisting of representatives responsible for media and public relations from relevant state institutions of our country to NATO Headquarters on June 21–23, 2023, can be highlighted.
During the visit, the delegation participated in briefings and roundtable discussions organized by various NATO structural units. These sessions focused on topics such as the Alliance's experience and approaches in public diplomacy and strategic communications, combating disinformation, the use of social media, the application of technological innovations and innovative methods in the media space, and other similar subjects.
On December 16-17, 2024, a group of young diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan made a two-day visit to NATO headquarters and NATO's Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE). Young diplomats have been briefed on NATO's current agenda, security challenges facing the Alliance, and the organization's hybrid and cyber policies and partnerships.
Standing at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, a key partner connecting NATO to the Caucasus and Central Asia, Azerbaijan is in a unique position to promote intercultural dialogue. Participation of NATO Representatives in the international events hosted by Azerbaijan contributes to public awareness of Azerbaijan-NATO partnership. It was a vivid example of the participation of NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy Ms. Carmen Romero at the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue with the theme “Dialogue for Peace and Global Security: Cooperation and Interconnectivity” which brought together governments, international organizations, scholars, and thought leaders on 1-3 May 2024, Baku, Azerbaijan.
Since 1990, NATO Contact Point Embassies have been operating in partner countries to support public diplomacy policy. These embassies are engaged in activities such as supporting the implementation of agreed-upon initiatives with partner countries, identifying public diplomacy opportunities, and organizing events. From 2025 to 2027, Slovakia and Sweden will serve as NATO Contact Point Embassies in our country.