BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 17. The objectives
facing the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) are no longer
limited solely to preserving cultural and humanitarian ties. The
organization is evolving into a vital platform where political,
economic, energy, transport, and security interests across a vast
geography are harmonized; Azerbaijan’s role in this process is
clearly evident in the approaches outlined by President Ilham
Aliyev in his recent address. Baku’s simultaneous hosting of
religious leaders and heads of security agencies from OTS countries
demonstrates Azerbaijan’s standing within the organization as a
reliable platform, an initiator, and an active partner.
Baku becomes key venue for dialogue within
OTS
Recent events in Baku are of particular significance in
assessing Azerbaijan’s role within the OTS. Just days ago,
religious leaders representing the organization's member states
were received by President Ilham Aliyev, followed by a gathering in
Baku of the heads of security councils from OTS member states for
the council's fifth meeting. The fact that these events took place
in the same location within a short timeframe should be viewed not
merely as a coincidence of the diplomatic calendar, but as an
indication of the systematic and multifaceted relationship
established between Azerbaijan and the OTS. It's not merely a
matter of hosting events here. The agenda of discussions within the
framework of the OTS covers a broad spectrum, ranging from
international relations and security to multiculturalism, trade,
transport, and humanitarian cooperation. In this regard, Baku’s
emergence as a reliable venue for discussing diverse issues
highlights the multifaceted nature of Azerbaijan’s position within
the organization.
The current stature of the OTS is the logical outcome of its
development history. The organization was founded at the historic
Summit held in Nakhchivan in 2009. At that summit, Azerbaijan,
Türkiye, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan signed the Nakhchivan Agreement
on the Establishment of the Cooperation Council of Turkic-Speaking
States. The agreement entered into force in November 2010, and the
organization's institutional framework was subsequently expanded.
According to the OTS itself, the informal Summit held in Shusha in
2024 also marked a significant milestone in the organization's
development.
Today, the primary strategic goal is to transform the OTS into a
leading international organization. To achieve this, alongside the
political will of the member states, there exists significant
potential in terms of their economic, geographic, energy,
transport, and human resources. President Ilham Aliyev’s address
highlighted the strategic aim of more effectively harnessing this
potential and consolidating it into a unified force.
New format originating in Shusha: annual meeting not
enough
One of Azerbaijan’s initiatives for the development of the OTS
is the holding of informal summits for heads of state. Although
traditional summits are held regularly, the organization determined
that, given the rapidly changing international landscape, a single
annual gathering of heads of state was insufficient. Consequently,
a proposal was made to establish an additional informal meeting
format—an initiative that was realized with the support of partner
nations. The inaugural meeting of this kind took place in Shusha,
and the format has since continued in other countries.
The choice of Shusha holds particular political and symbolic
significance. The 2024 Shusha Summit served as a platform for
discussions on the OTS agenda regarding transport, connectivity,
and climate action, resulting in the adoption of key documents,
including the Karabakh Declaration. An official statement from the
OTS describes the meeting held in Shusha as a significant milestone
in strengthening the organization's cooperation and the unity of
the Turkic world.
Thus, Azerbaijan's initiative goes beyond merely establishing a
new meeting format. The primary objective is to foster a political
dialogue within the OTS that is more dynamic, responsive, and
sustained.
Energy and transport security enhance the
geopolitical weight of the OTS
The vast geographical expanse spanned by the OTS member states
grants the organization a significant advantage. Energy and
transport routes of vital importance—not only to the member states
but also to the broader region—traverse this territory.
Consequently, assessing the role of the OTS solely within the
context of political and humanitarian cooperation fails to fully
reflect the organization's true potential.
President Ilham Aliyev’s approach presents energy security and
transport connectivity as integral components of overall security
because long-term regional stability and economic development are
difficult to achieve without the reliable supply of energy
resources and the connectivity required for the secure
transportation of goods. This is also linked to the growing
interest—in both the western and eastern parts of the OTS space—in
the organization's role regarding connectivity, transport, energy
security, and general security.
Natural resources are also a significant factor in this context.
OTS countries possess vast natural resources, and these resources
play a role in ensuring the economic resilience of states, the
well-being of peoples, and, in a broader sense, the stability of
the global economy. The importance of energy security is further
heightened, particularly at a time when complex geopolitical
situations exist along state borders.
Azerbaijan holds a special place in this system due to its
geographical location. On one hand, the country acts as a supplier
of energy resources to global markets; on the other, it utilizes
its transit capabilities to transport energy resources originating
from Central Asian countries—via the Caspian Sea—to international
markets. Its location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia,
combined with close ties to Türkiye and the Central Asian member
states of the OTS, further enhances the role Azerbaijan plays in
energy and transport security projects.
In this context, transport and energy projects are not merely
economic endeavors for Azerbaijan; they also serve as instruments
for strengthening strategic connectivity across the OTS region.
Bilateral relations form the backbone of
multilateral cooperation within the OTS
Another crucial aspect of strengthening the OTS is the deepening
of bilateral relations among member states. Azerbaijan pursues an
active policy in this area as well. The numerous visits by
President Ilham Aliyev to OTS countries, as well as visits by the
leaders of those states to Azerbaijan, demonstrate the intensity of
the mutual political dialogue.
Azerbaijan has signed treaties and declarations on alliance with
Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. These documents
reflect the high political level of bilateral relations and lay the
groundwork for developing cooperation in specific areas.
Parallel processes are also underway in the economic sphere.
Azerbaijan has established joint investment funds with Kazakhstan,
Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, and work continues on attracting and
mobilizing mutual investments. These mechanisms enable political
relations to be complemented by economic substance.
This approach is underpinned by one of Azerbaijan's foreign
policy priorities. As President Ilham Aliyev has stated, the Turkic
world represents a family space for Azerbaijan, and developing
relations with this region is a key direction of its foreign
policy. Consequently, cooperation with the OTS is not an isolated
or sporadic element of Azerbaijan's foreign policy, but rather an
integral part of a broader strategic course.
Shared ethnic roots complement political and
economic cooperation
One of the features distinguishing the OTS from other
international organizations is the existence of shared ethnic,
historical, cultural, and linguistic ties among its members. Given
that such organizations are not widespread in the international
system, the spiritual foundation possessed by the OTS represents a
significant advantage.
While political and economic interests may form the basis of
interstate relations, the historical and cultural affinity existing
between peoples renders these relations more enduring. Shared
linguistic elements, cultural similarities, common ethnic roots,
and spiritual closeness create additional opportunities for
strengthening solidarity within the OTS. These factors enable the
organization to evolve not merely into a mechanism for
intergovernmental cooperation, but also into a platform for
fostering connections between peoples.
This unity can also serve as one of the ideological pillars for
the future development of the OTS. However, the key lies in
approaching the preservation of national identity and spiritual
values not as a means of confrontation with other nations, but as
a way to reinforce the member states' commitment to their own
historical and cultural heritage.
Stability ranks among the economic advantages of OTS
space
In today's international system, stability and security are not
merely political issues; they are also fundamental prerequisites
for economic development. It is difficult to attract a steady flow
of investment, technology, and innovation to a country lacking
political and economic stability. In this regard, maintaining
stability within the OTS region is a key factor that enhances the
organization's development potential.
As noted in President Ilham Aliyev's address, the growth of
industrial production, positive economic indicators, and the
stability of financial systems within the OTS region stand out
against a global backdrop of economic stagnation, decline, and
various socio-economic challenges. This dynamic is significant for
strengthening the economic capabilities of the member states.
At the meeting held in Baku, OTS Secretary General Kubanychbek
Omuraliev also presented data regarding the economic potential of
the organization's region. According to him, the aggregate GDP of
the OTS region stands at $2.4 trillion, a figure that places it
roughly 12th globally. Meanwhile, the organization's trade turnover
amounts to $1.7 trillion. These figures demonstrate that the OTS is
not merely a political and cultural union, but also a region with
immense economic potential.
The combination of economic opportunities with political
stability, energy resources, and transport connections creates
additional grounds for enhancing the role of the OTS in the
international system.
Youth issues represent a long-term dimension of
security
One of the key factors shaping the future of the OTS is the set
of values that mold the younger generation. The relatively young
populations of the member states and the observed demographic
growth constitute a significant advantage for the organization. At
a time when concerns regarding rapid population decline are
mounting in a number of countries, the opposite trend observed
within the OTS region fosters significant human capital for the
future.
However, a demographic advantage does not automatically
translate into an economic one. Population growth must be
accompanied by active economic policies, the expansion of social
infrastructure, and the creation of new jobs. Otherwise, rapid
growth could lead to certain economic and social challenges.
President Ilham Aliyev’s speech highlighted the positive dynamics
observed in addressing issues related to economic growth and social
welfare across OTS countries.
Another aspect of the youth issue concerns national
self-awareness and moral values. A shared characteristic of OTS
countries is their commitment to their national and moral
principles. In this regard, raising the younger generation in a
spirit of patriotism and commitment to national principles and
moral values is not merely a matter of upbringing; it is a
strategic priority linked to the long-term stability of states.
The foundation of Azerbaijan's youth policy was established
within the framework of the state policy initiated by the National
Leader Heydar Aliyev. Key aspects of this policy include paying
attention to and caring for young people, creating conditions for
their development, strengthening their role and standing in
society, and fostering a spirit of patriotism.
This approach can also be advanced at the level of the OTS. It
is essential to involve young people in processes not merely as
subjects of decisions made about them, but as active participants
whose views and positions are heard. Gathering their input,
bringing together youth from various countries, and expanding their
mutual interactions can strengthen the organization's future social
foundation.
Concept of security no longer limited to military
threats alone
The expansion of the OTS security agenda holds a special place
in Azerbaijan's own agenda. The continuation of wars in surrounding
regions, the expansion of their geographical scope, and the
increasingly overt nature of the conflicts bring the issue of
regional security to the forefront. This reality is of particular
significance for Azerbaijan; the presence of states engaged in
warfare to both the country's north and south heightens the
sensitivity of the security environment.
In such a situation, the need to strengthen coordination among
the security structures of the OTS countries becomes apparent.
Information exchange, particularly the sharing of operational
intelligence, joint action, coordination against existing threats,
and the proactive identification and prevention of potential risks
must become core elements of the security system.
In this context, the agenda of the fifth meeting of Security
Councils held in Baku is no coincidence, either. The gathering of
security agencies facilitates not only the discussion of current
challenges but also the comparison of experiences across different
nations, the identification of vulnerabilities, and the refinement
of mechanisms to prevent threats. According to information released
by the Secretary General of the OTS, the recent holding of several
high-level meetings across the organization's region—covering
security and other areas—demonstrates the expansion of this agenda.
Meetings of interior ministers in Astana (Kazakhstan) and
prosecutors general in Turkistan have taken place; religious
leaders were received by President Ilham Aliyev two days prior to
the meeting in Baku; and a meeting of defense industry chiefs is
scheduled for October 1. It was also noted that 63 mechanisms and
platforms, ranging from foreign policy to culture, operate within
the framework of the OTS.
These figures and events indicate that OTS cooperation is no
longer limited to meetings between heads of state; rather,
multi-level mechanisms for interaction among various government
agencies have been established.
Ideological threats create new security
agenda
In the modern era, threats to state security are not limited to
border violations or physical attacks. Ideological influences
exerted through the information space, media, social platforms, and
various communication channels can also impact the internal
stability of states.
President Ilham Aliyev’s speech emphasizes the importance of a
joint struggle against these threats. The focus here is on
preventing ideological provocations that run counter to the
interests of countries and peoples. Particular attention is drawn
to influence exerted through media outlets reportedly funded by
centers located far beyond national borders. According to the
approach presented by President Ilham Aliyev, such financing could
serve the aims of undermining the state structure, disrupting
social solidarity, and instilling narratives and values alien to
society.
According to Azerbaijan’s position, efforts to counter such
risks must be undertaken to safeguard national interests and the
constitutional order. President Ilham Aliyev has stated that active
measures are being taken in this regard in Azerbaijan and that
significant results have been achieved.
It was also noted that "anti-national" networks operating within
Azerbaijan—allegedly directed and funded from abroad—are rejected
by the vast majority of society. A key point here is that adherence
to national values, traditions, and ways of life stands as the
prevailing trend in Azerbaijani society.
However, the fact that these threats are being countered does
not mean they have been completely eliminated. On the contrary,
given the potential for continued attempts to destabilize the
situation, preventive mechanisms must be constantly
strengthened.
Primary objective: to protect youth from
informational and ideological threats
Youth is regarded as a particularly vulnerable group regarding
the issue of ideological security. As noted in President Ilham
Aliyev's speech, the younger generation—which is still in its
formative stage and more susceptible to manipulation—is a primary
target of external activities aimed at undermining state interests.
Therefore, youth policy within the framework of the OTS
(Organization of Turkic States) can be approached not merely as a
matter of social and cultural cooperation, but as an issue of
long-term security.
In this regard, it’s proposed to expand interaction among the
youth organizations of OTS member states and to hold regular
forums, conferences, and other events. The aim is to facilitate
direct communication among young people from different countries,
enhance their knowledge of shared history and culture, and ensure
that the bonds between kindred nations are preserved within the new
generation.
Such an approach serves as more than just a means to counter
ideological influences; it is also a long-term mechanism for
shaping the human capital that will underpin the OTS's future
political, economic, and social ties. Fostering closer mutual
understanding among young people can create a social foundation for
future cooperation in business, science, education, technology,
culture, and other fields.
New phase for OTS: transforming existing potential
into tangible strength
The task facing the OTS countries is not merely to enumerate
existing opportunities, but to translate them into concrete results
through coordinated policy. Factors such as energy resources,
transport corridors, a favorable geographic location, economic
potential, a young population, a shared historical-cultural
heritage, and political will can be viewed not as isolated
advantages, but as elements of a unified strategic system.
Azerbaijan’s position in this process is particularly
noteworthy. The country acts as both an energy producer and a
transit state; it is situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia;
it actively cooperates with Central Asian nations and Türkiye; and
it spearheads various political and institutional initiatives
within the OTS.
The emphasis placed by the Kazakh side—during the meeting in
Baku—on the development of Trans-Caspian infrastructure and the
significance of the Middle Corridor underscores the practical
importance of this direction. Aida Balayeva, Deputy Chair of the
Security Council of Kazakhstan, highlighted the importance of
economic cooperation with Azerbaijan, Trans-Caspian infrastructure,
and the project to establish a fiber-optic communication link
across the bed of the Caspian Sea. President Ilham Aliyev noted
that the fiber-optic cable project is nearing completion and holds
significant importance for Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan relations as well
as for the broader region, including the OTS space.
These facts demonstrate that cooperation within the OTS is not
limited to political declarations but is also reinforced by
tangible infrastructure projects.
Experience of independence shapes shared political
memory
For a significant number of OTS countries, the restoration of
independence represents a relatively recent stage in their modern
statehood history. As President Ilham Aliyev pointed out, setting
aside their ancient statehood legacies, the modern statehood of
most member countries spans approximately 35 years. Azerbaijan
restored its state independence in 1991; Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan,
and Uzbekistan also regained their independence during the same
period.
Each of these countries faced unique challenges on its
post-independence path of development. Azerbaijan, too, has
navigated complex trials. However, as emphasized in the President's
speech, this phase has been both challenging and honorable; having
emerged from the most complex trials, the countries now find
themselves in a position where they have left behind a significant
portion of the global problems they once faced.
This experience forms another foundation for political
solidarity within the OTS. The importance of the history of
statehood, independence, and the preservation of national
sovereignty constitutes a crucial element of the shared political
memory for the organization's member states.
Azerbaijan’s approach: security and development
inseparable
The overarching logic of President Ilham Aliyev’s address
regarding the OTS highlights two complementary directions: security
and development. Without security, it is impossible to create a
sustainable environment for economic development, investment,
technology, and innovation. At the same time, the expansion of
economic opportunities and the strengthening of transport and
energy connections are factors that reinforce the stability of
states and societies.
For this reason, the approach Azerbaijan advocates within the
framework of the OTS is based not only on a political and security
agenda but also on economic and humanitarian components. Enhancing
the organization’s international standing, strengthening energy and
transport corridors, deepening bilateral relations, increasing
mutual investments, expanding ties among youth, and strengthening
coordination against ideological threats are all facets of the same
strategic picture.
Baku’s recent hosting of religious leaders and high-ranking
security officials from the OTS serves as a practical manifestation
of this approach. The organization’s agenda is steadily expanding,
with mechanisms across various fields complementing one another. As
noted by the Secretary General of the OTS, there are currently 63
mechanisms and platforms—ranging from foreign policy to
culture—where not only are meetings held, but concrete decisions
are adopted and tasks set by the leaders are implemented.
Primary task ahead: transforming potential into a
leading international force
The OTS now faces a more complex stage of development. The
organization’s potential—encompassing political, economic,
geographic, energy, transport, and human capital assets—creates a
solid foundation for it to play a greater role in the international
system. However, transforming this potential into tangible power
requires coordination, mutual trust, and sustained cooperation on
concrete projects among member states.
In this process, Azerbaijan positions itself not merely as one
of the member states, but as a country that advances initiatives,
organizes dialogue across various formats, and serves as a key link
connecting the OTS region through its energy and transport
capabilities.
In this regard, Azerbaijan’s stance is clear: developing ties
with the Turkic world is a top foreign policy priority, and the OTS
serves as the multilateral institutional platform for this policy.
Strengthening the organization is viewed as a course of action that
aligns not only with Azerbaijan’s national interests but also with
the shared interests of all member states. Ultimately, the future
of the OTS will depend not only on the shared history and cultural
affinity of its members but also on the extent to which this
affinity translates into modern statehood, economic cooperation,
energy security, transport connectivity, and collective security
mechanisms. The approach put forward by Azerbaijan is aimed
precisely at facilitating this transition.
The central theme of President Ilham Aliyev’s address is that
the OTS countries possess shared interests across a vast geography,
significant economic and energy potential, vital transport
capabilities, a young population, historical-cultural ties, and the
political will to cooperate. Coordinating these resources could
further strengthen the organization's international standing.
The objective ahead is clearly defined: to transform the
Organization of Turkic States into a leading international
institution through joint efforts. Azerbaijan’s role in this
process is grounded in taking the initiative, acting as a reliable
partner, and providing a platform for regional and international
cooperation. The successive meetings in Baku, the informal summit
format launched in Shusha, energy and transport projects, bilateral
alliance relations, investment funds, and growing coordination in
the security sphere demonstrate that a broad institutional and
practical foundation for this objective has already been
established.
