BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 6. Cooperation among the member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has reached a new level, showcasing its resilience and long-term potential, said Yerik Batyrkhanov, a Kazakh political scientist, in an interview with Trend.
In recent years, OTS member states have gone well beyond mere political and cultural statements. They are actively developing specific mechanisms and institutions for economic and security integration. Batyrkhanov highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural ties and launching joint projects, including the creation of the Turkic Investment Fund to support infrastructure and energy initiatives.
Kazakhstan's presidency in 2023, under the slogan "Turkic Era" (TURKTIME), has played a significant role in defining priorities such as traditions, reforms, investments, and energy, thus enhancing both cultural and economic integration among OTS countries.
According to Batyrkhanov, areas like economic integration, transportation and infrastructure, sustainable development, and digital transformation hold the greatest potential for deepening collaboration. The Middle Corridor project, which connects Asia and Europe, is strategically important for strengthening logistics links, while initiatives in green technology and renewable energy reflect the OTS countries' commitment to ecological safety and sustainable development.
"Digital integration is receiving significant attention. The digital economic partnership agreement, set to be discussed at the upcoming summit, will create conditions for the free movement of goods and services, and provide opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses," he noted.
Batyrkhanov believes that the upcoming summit in Bishkek will be crucial for deepening political and economic interactions among OTS member states. He pointed out that OTS summits serve as important platforms for addressing common issues, developing strategies, and strengthening partnerships.
"This summit will mark an important step in enhancing political stability, especially considering the current geopolitical climate. Kazakhstan has proposed a mediation concept that aims to facilitate peaceful conflict resolution and strengthen diplomatic efforts," Batyrkhanov stressed.
One of the major challenges facing OTS countries is the need to bolster economic security and energy resilience amid global instability. "The Middle Corridor project could address infrastructure integration and logistical challenges, thereby enhancing the economic security of the region. Signing the Roadmap for Transport Connectivity at the Bishkek summit will be a significant step in this direction," he added.
Kazakhstan plays a pivotal role in the OTS, and its participation in the Bishkek summit is strategically important, according to the analyst. In 2023, the country demonstrated its commitment to integration and coordination of actions within the Turkic world, advancing key initiatives in energy, ecology, and digital technologies.
Batyrkhanov also highlighted Kazakhstan's active support for sustainable development projects, including the establishment of the Council of Turkic Green Finance and the promotion of renewable energy sources. Additionally, digital integration remains a top priority, and Kazakhstan is working to enhance its technological infrastructure through initiatives like the Astana Hub technopark.