OTS summit key highlights: Strengthening security cooperation, boosting economic ties and unity among Turkic nations

The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) convened its latest summit in Bishkek, gathering leaders from five member states along with Hungary, which holds observer status. The discussions centered on common themes such as security, economic cooperation, and regional unity, according to Kyrgyz political analyst Aslan Mamat, who emphasized that the event’s main achievement is fostering a sense of unity among Turkic nations.

The President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed pressing global issues, including the humanitarian crises in Gaza and Lebanon. He condemned the targeting of civilians and criticized Israel’s restrictions on UNRWA’s operations, reinforcing Uzbekistan’s stance on supporting humanitarian efforts. This marked a continuation of Uzbekistan’s active role since joining the OTS in 2019, following a period during which it opted not to join.

Meanwhile, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev joined the summit after a state visit to France. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev pledged an additional $2 million to the OTS’s budget, with $100,000 specifically allocated to support the Elders’ Council.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed a strong collective rejection of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, underscoring the organization’s commitment to regional stability and security.

The summit handed the chairmanship to Kyrgyzstan, which prioritized economic cooperation, a theme reinforced by OTS Secretary-General Kubanychbek Omuraliyev’s announcement of an Investment Fund, now capitalized at $500 million. Security was also a primary agenda item, with member states seeking closer cooperation to address mutual threats.

Political analyst Fazliddin Madiev noted the necessity of developing military cooperation within the OTS, considering the significant defense capabilities of Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan. He argued that joint efforts in defense and security would better equip member states to address external pressures.

Aslan Mamat reflected on the OTS’s progress over the last 15 years, highlighting that its primary success has been uniting the Turkic world. However, he noted that deeper integration measures, such as a common alphabet or shared currency, remain in the early discussion stages.

Eight agreements were signed at the summit’s conclusion, and Bishkek was granted the title of "Digital Capital" of the OTS. Additionally, Hungary’s Prime Minister received the highest honor of the Turkic World, recognizing Hungary’s supportive role as an observer state.

As the OTS continues to define its role on the global stage, its leaders are focused on fostering economic resilience and security among Turkic-speaking nations, though further integration may be a longer-term aspiration.