The State Security Service (SSS) has marked March 28—the professional holiday of Azerbaijan's security service employees—and the 107th anniversary of the establishment of these bodies in Azerbaijan.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the SSS released information regarding the commemorative events. The Chief of the State Security Service, Colonel General Ali Naghiyev, and the agency's personnel visited the Alley of Honor to pay tribute to the memory of National Leader Heydər Aliyev, the honorary head of Azerbaijan's security agencies. The memory of prominent ophthalmologist and scientist Zarifa Aliyeva was also honored, with flowers laid at her gravesite.
Following this, the SSS personnel visited the Alley of Martyrs to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the independence and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, as well as security officers who are National Heroes of Azerbaijan. A wreath was placed before the "Eternal Flame" monument. During a formal assembly held at the Service's assembly hall, Colonel General Ali Naghiyev delivered a keynote speech highlighting the historical development of the security organs. He emphasized the indispensable role of the National Leader in nationalizing the security services and noted that under the leadership and direct support of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has formed special services capable of responding adequately to modern global challenges.
Addressing the current geopolitical landscape, Colonel General Ali Naghiyev noted that military conflicts and economic instability in various parts of the world significantly impact the operational situation in the region. He detailed the successful operations conducted by the SSS to prevent intelligence-disruptive and terror-provocative activities by foreign special services and other hostile forces directed against Azerbaijan. The Service Chief provided extensive information on prevented crimes, including high treason, espionage, terrorism, financing of terrorism, the creation of armed groups for participation in foreign conflicts, and attempts to forcibly change the constitutional order of the state.
The establishment of Azerbaijan's security agencies dates back to March 28, 1919, when the intelligence and counter-intelligence department was formed under the Ministry of War of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. Since the restoration of independence, the SSS has evolved into a modern, high-tech agency focused on protecting the national interests and sovereignty of Azerbaijan. The professional holiday was officially established by a decree signed by National Leader Heydar Aliyev in 1997, recognizing the vital role these agencies play in maintaining domestic stability and regional security.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony for SSS employees who were granted higher military ranks and state decorations by relevant decrees of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The ceremony ended with the screening of the documentary film "Halfway," a joint project between the SSS and the "AnewZ" television channel.
