The informal summit of heads of state of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in the ancient city of Turkistan, considered the spiritual capital of the Turkic world, demonstrated that integration has entered a new phase.
The strategic initiatives voiced during the summit showed the organization's potential to become a major geopolitical entity with growing influence in international politics and economics.
These remarks were made by Milli Majlis deputy Nigar Mammadova in an interview with Oxu.Az.
She stated that the heads of state adopted a more concrete and pragmatic stance on common interests.
"Special attention was paid to cooperation in transport and logistics, digital technology, energy, and artificial intelligence. This stems from the need to strengthen ties among Turkic states amid current global changes.
The issues raised by President Ilham Aliyev at the summit determined the future direction of the organization. In particular, the significance of the Middle Corridor is especially important in the current geopolitical situation. The reshaping of trade routes between Europe and Asia offers a strategic advantage to Turkic states. In this regard, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are becoming major transit hubs."
"One of the main priorities of the summit was digital integration. Turkic states prioritize technological independence and digital security. Common digital platforms will further strengthen economic integration in the future.
As Mr. President stated, 'The world is entering a new stage of development thanks to opportunities created by digital development and artificial intelligence. Turkic states must be at the forefront of this process.' The Trans-Caspian fiber-optic cable project between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan is a clear example of this," the deputy emphasized.
Our interviewee noted that cultural and humanitarian cooperation issues were also not overlooked during the meeting.
"Initiatives aimed at preserving the common historical heritage of Turkic peoples, developing ties in science and education, and expanding cooperation among youth will strengthen the ideological and moral foundations of the organization. The fact that the summit was held in Turkistan has symbolic meaning. It indicates the fusion of the historical roots of Turkic civilization with modern integration processes."
"Another important aspect of the informal summit is the increased level of political trust within the organization. This also strengthens the organization's prestige in the international arena.
As seen from the meeting in Turkistan, Turkic states are currently striving not only for historical and cultural closeness but also to create a common geopolitical and economic space. Azerbaijan, as one of the initiators of this process, is making significant contributions to the institutional and strategic development of the organization," the parliamentarian concluded.
