BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 10. The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) is considering the establishment of a Climate and Green Digital Platform, Trend reports.
The initiative is highlighted in an article by Secretary General Kubanychbek Omuraliev, marking the 15th anniversary of the OTS and reflecting on the organization's activities and prospects.
"In celebrating the 15th anniversary of the OTS, reflecting on our shared journey of progress, unity, and cooperation is crucial. Since its inception, the OTS has evolved into a dynamic platform that brings together Turkic peoples, fosters mutual development, and amplifies our collective voice on the global stage. United by a common history, traditions, language, and culture, our member states have not only enhanced cooperation among themselves but have also made significant strides in addressing global challenges," Omuraliev’s article states.
Nakhchivan Agreement and the Celebration of the Day of Cooperation of Turkic States
Omuraliev proudly announced the 15th anniversary of the Nakhchivan Agreement, which initiated the organization, and the Day of Cooperation of Turkic States.
"On this momentous occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our brothers and sisters in the Turkic world. This significant day, marking the formal recognition of our unity, expresses our gratitude for our shared heritage and the establishment of our cooperation.
Our union, founded on solid principles, grows stronger each year. Today, the OTS is actively engaged in over 35 areas of collaboration, serving as a cornerstone for fostering political, economic, cultural, legal, and social interactions. This remarkable progress reflects the collective will of our member and observer states, working together to forge a prosperous and harmonious future for the entire region," Omuraliev noted.
Looking to the Future
"Since the early days of the Nakhchivan Agreement, which laid the foundation of our organization, we have broadened our agenda to encompass critical areas essential for our common future. These include political and economic cooperation, energy and transport links, tourism, education, culture, the legal sphere, climate change, and sustainable development—all of which address pressing global challenges.
An informal summit of the heads of state of the Organization of Turkic States convened in the Azerbaijani city of Shusha on July 6, 2024, reinforcing the strong unity and shared vision of the Turkic peoples. The summit, themed "Building a Sustainable Future through Transport, Connectivity, and Climate Action," highlighted our collective goals in tackling urgent global issues.
Shusha, as the symbol of Azerbaijan's restored territorial integrity and sovereignty, holds significant importance for the Turkic world. The Karabakh Declaration was adopted during the summit, underscoring the necessity of enhancing cooperation in transport infrastructure, climate change, digital economy, energy integration, and space technologies.
The Declaration also emphasized the creation of trans-regional corridors and recognized projects like the Middle Corridor as vital to fostering economic prosperity and trade. Additionally, the summit acknowledged the importance of implementing sustainable practices, including the development of climate-resilient smart cities, collaboration in renewable energy, and initiatives like the Digital Silk Road. It reaffirmed the commitment of Turkic states to build a sustainable future through collaborative efforts in economic, cultural, and environmental partnerships.
Ultimately, the Shusha Summit became a historic and symbolic event, embodying the spirit of unity within the Turkic world and its readiness to address regional and global challenges collectively. This spirit of unity will surely guide our future cooperation within the OTS.
Our upcoming 11th Summit of the Council of Heads of State, scheduled for November 6 in Bishkek, will focus on the theme “Strengthening the Turkic World: Economic Integration, Sustainable Development, Digital Future, and Security for All.”
The summit will serve as a vital opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to these key issues," the article emphasizes.
Successes in Transport and Connectivity
Omuraliev highlighted that over the past 15 years, the OTS has made significant contributions to enhancing transport and connectivity within the Turkic world. Initiatives like the Middle Corridor have transformed regional trade, making it more efficient and sustainable.
"Key projects, such as the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, exemplify our collective efforts to establish a seamless trade network that links Asia to Europe, promotes economic integration, and strengthens our global presence," the article notes.
In enhancing connectivity across Eurasia, the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project—part of the southern route of the Middle Corridor—has become a cornerstone of regional integration. Once operational, this railway will provide a direct link between China's industrial heartland and emerging markets.
Preliminary estimates suggest that this new route will shorten the distance between the Far East, the Middle East, and Southern Europe by approximately 900 kilometers, reduce delivery times by seven to eight days, and facilitate the transportation of 12 to 15 million tons of cargo annually.
Moreover, the OTS has made significant strides in digitalizing transport procedures to ensure efficient and seamless transportation among member countries. Key initiatives include the Digital TIR project, which simplifies customs processes, and the establishment of a green corridor between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in 2022, with Kyrgyzstan joining later. Türkiye and Uzbekistan have emerged as leaders in implementing the e-İzin project, which reduces administrative costs and enhances border crossings through the digitalization of road transport processes.
"Efforts are also underway to introduce the e-CMR system for digital consignment notes, streamlining transportation across the region. These projects aim to modernize the transport sector and facilitate smoother trade between participating countries," the article states.
Economic Cooperation: The Path to Shared Prosperity
The Secretary General of the OTS emphasized that economic cooperation remains central to the organization’s agenda.
"In this context, the establishment of the Turkic Investment Fund in 2023 represents a significant milestone, providing a collaborative platform for financing projects that promote domestic trade and investment in the region.
Additionally, ongoing negotiations for the Free Trade Agreement in Services and Investments, along with the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement, aim to eliminate barriers, open new avenues for business, and foster growth and innovation throughout the region. We are also making steady progress toward establishing the Council of Central (National) Banks of OTS member states.
Through these strategic initiatives, we aspire to position the Turkic world as a vital link in global trade routes, creating a more connected and competitive region," Omuraliev said.
Turkic Week in Geneva: The Intersection of Culture and Diplomacy
The successful hosting of Turkic Week at the UN Headquarters in Geneva in April 2024 marked a significant milestone for the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and was the first event of its kind. This high-profile occasion showcased the rich cultural heritage of our member states while enhancing our diplomatic presence on the international stage. Featuring a variety of exhibitions, musical performances, and roundtable discussions, the event highlighted the contributions of the Turkic world to global culture and diplomacy. It also served as a vital platform for dialogue, strengthening the OTS's ties with international partners and increasing its visibility, noted the Secretary-General.
Tourism Development in the Turkic World
Omuraliev noted that tourism is a key element of cooperation among Turkic states.
"In this context, the OTS recognizes the region's rich cultural and historical heritage and has initiated several projects aimed at promoting the Turkic world as a leading tourism destination. Initiatives such as the Joint Tour along the New Silk Road and the Visit to Holy Places emphasize the deep connections between our member states, fostering both tourism and cultural exchange. The 'Tourism Capital of the Turkic World' initiative not only enhances cultural exchange but also drives economic growth by spotlighting important tourism hubs," the article states.
Climate Movement
The Secretary-General also addressed the OTS's commitment to sustainable development in response to the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
"These efforts are embodied in the Turkic Green Vision, which will be adopted by our leaders at the Bishkek Summit in November 2024. This vision reflects our collective commitment to sustainable development and climate action within the Turkic world.
A key initiative in this context is the development of climate-resilient smart cities and villages. These projects aim to integrate clean energy solutions and sustainable infrastructure, enhancing quality of life and preparing communities to meet climate challenges while supporting economic growth.
Additionally, the OTS is considering the establishment of a Climate and Green Digital Platform to foster cooperation on environmental sustainability and digital innovation. Within the framework of the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will take place in Baku in November, we plan to implement a Mountain and Climate Dialogue to support sustainable development in vulnerable mountainous regions," the article notes.
Cooperation in Education and Language
Omuraliev highlighted that, alongside economic and environmental initiatives, the OTS prioritizes education and academic collaboration as essential drivers of future development and integration.
"The establishment of the Union of Turkic Universities is a significant step forward, promoting academic cooperation and joint research projects among member countries. This initiative facilitates the exchange of students and faculty while fostering common educational standards and partnerships.
Furthermore, the OTS has established a Common Alphabet Commission to enhance communication and preserve the linguistic and cultural heritage of the Turkic peoples, laying the groundwork for a standardized common alphabet.
Recently, in Baku, the commission—operating under the auspices of the Turkic Academy—finalized and adopted a proposed common Turkic alphabet consisting of 34 letters. This initiative aims to preserve our rich linguistic heritage and promote mutual understanding and cooperation among Turkic peoples," the article said.
International Interaction and Diplomacy
Omuraliev highlighted that, in alignment with the United Territory Strategy for 2022-2026, partnerships with international organizations have been significantly expanded to address shared challenges and promote sustainable development within the Turkic world. He emphasized that the United Territory holds a crucial position in international diplomacy, actively participating in global forums and initiatives, and serving as a vital component in fostering peace, stability, and cooperation across Eurasia and beyond.
Cooperation in the Turkic World
"To further enhance collaboration among the Turkic peoples, we are developing the functions of the Coordination Committee, which encompasses the Turkic Academy, the Turkic Cultural Organization (TURKSOY), the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, and the Assembly of Parliaments of the Turkic States (TURKPA). The adoption of an action plan featuring 36 key initiatives represents significant progress in our efforts to strengthen cooperation and deepen regional ties," the article notes.
Looking to the Future
"As we celebrate 15 years of achievements within the OTS, we look to the future with great enthusiasm. I want to reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of brotherhood, shared values, and mutual respect that unite us. The Turkic world stands at a pivotal moment, with the foundations laid by our ancestors serving as a springboard for deeper cooperation.
We will continue to strengthen our unity and strive for a brighter, more sustainable future for all our member and observer states. With unity comes strength; together, we are walking a path filled with promise and hope for the Turkic world.
We are stronger together!" Omuraliev concluded.