BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 6. As the 11th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States kicks off in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan finds itself at the heart of a transformative movement aimed at uniting Turkic nations. The summit, themed "Strengthening the Turkic World: Economic Integration, Sustainable Development, Digital Future, and Security for All," signals a significant moment for member countries to chart a collective path forward amid global uncertainties.
With tensions rising worldwide and economies grappling with challenges, the importance of strengthening connections among Turkic states has never been clearer. Azerbaijan, a founding member of the OTS, has been a driving force behind this initiative, recognizing that unity is essential for progress in a fast-changing world.
Historically viewed as a cultural forum, the OTS is evolving into a powerful platform for political and economic cooperation. This shift reflects a growing understanding among member states that their shared heritage can translate into tangible benefits in the realms of trade, security, and infrastructure. President Ilham Aliyev has emphasized that the 21st century must be a century of progress of the Turkic world. "The Organization of Turkic States should become one of the prominent international forces," he stated during a recent summit in the city of Shusha.
The focus of the Bishkek summit will be on critical issues like economic integration and creating a common market for Turkic nations, setting the stage for a robust dialogue on shared challenges and opportunities.
Azerbaijan’s strategic position makes it a linchpin for economic development across the region. The country serves as a vital transit hub for Central Asian nations looking to access European markets. With routes like the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route - often referred to as the Middle Corridor - Azerbaijan is unlocking global trade opportunities that can benefit all OTS member states.
As President Ilham Aliyev noted, "Our abundant natural resources and modern infrastructure for their delivery, transport corridors connecting Central Asia and the Caucasus with Mediterranean and Black Sea ports, our rich and ancient history and culture are our great assets," and it’s clear that Azerbaijan’s geographical advantages are increasingly important. Accessing markets in Europe is essential for Central Asian countries, and Azerbaijan stands ready to facilitate this process, reinforcing its role as a regional leader.
The European Union is also keenly interested in strengthening ties with the OTS, recognizing that cooperation with these Turkic states could be a game changer. The Turkic nations are rich in natural resources, and their commitment to working together presents an opportunity for the EU to address pressing energy needs while enhancing its standing in the region.
The OTS is home to several key oil and gas exporters, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Türkiye, making it an attractive partner for Europe as it seeks to diversify its energy sources. Hungary, which has already initiated gas cooperation with Azerbaijan, is another player in this evolving partnership, adding to the dynamic landscape of energy cooperation within the OTS.
The Bishkek summit is more than just a meeting of heads of state; it’s a critical opportunity for member countries to solidify their cooperation and tackle the challenges facing the Turkic world. With a focus on education, digital transformation, and sustainable development, the OTS is positioning itself as a significant player on the global stage.
Azerbaijan’s leadership in the OTS reflects its broader aspirations to serve as a bridge between East and West. As President Ilham Aliyev stated, "The current policy makes it clear to everyone. This is the main international organization for us, because it is our family. We have no other family. Our family is the Turkic world". With this sentiment resonating throughout the summit, the future looks promising for Azerbaijan and its Turkic partners as they work together to build a more prosperous and interconnected region.
In a time of uncertainty, the Turkic states are charting a course for unity and progress, with Azerbaijan at the helm, ready to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.