General
From regional unity to global influence: Turkic nations set bold vision in Azerbaijan
Leaders of the Turkic states meet in Gabala, Azerbaijan, affirming their growing global influence and commit to stronger economic, cultural, and defence cooperation.
Amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and rising economic potential, the Turkic states are gaining new weight on the global stage.
This growing influence framed the 12th Presidential Summit of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS), held in Azerbaijan’s historic city of Gabala.
Leaders from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and observer states Turkmenistan and Hungary, met to deepen cooperation across more than 40 sectors, from trade and transport to water management and space technology.
Key announcements included the proposed “OTS PLUS” format to broaden partnerships beyond member states, Uzbekistan’s call for stronger defence cooperation and a permanent Secretariat for Economic Cooperation, and Kazakhstan’s invitation to collaborate on artificial intelligence initiatives.
However, the summit rejected Turkey’s renewed attempt to turn the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognised only by Ankara, into a full-fledged member.