Turkic states launch joint platform to exchange experience in electoral affairs PHOTO

A document establishing the Consultative Platform of central electoral bodies of the member states of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) has been signed in Turkistan, Kazakhstan.

The platform was created under the framework of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS). Azerbaijan was represented at the event by a delegation headed by the Chairman of the Central Election Commission, Mazahir Panahov, Caliber.Az reports, citing the press service of Kazakhstan’s Central Election Commission.

The ceremony was attended by the heads of the central electoral bodies of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, and Hungary.

The report notes that the initiative to establish this consultative platform was proposed by the President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, during the 10th anniversary summit of the OTS on November 3, 2023, in Astana. The decision was unanimously supported by the leaders of all Turkic states and was reflected in the Bishkek Declaration adopted at the 11th OTS summit on November 6, 2023.

The signed Statute on the establishment of the Consultative Platform envisions systematic cooperation between the central electoral authorities of the OTS countries, aimed at strengthening mutual understanding and enhancing the effectiveness of electoral processes. It also encourages Turkic states to develop multilateral cooperation and coordination through the organisation of international election and referendum observation missions.

The platform is also intended to facilitate the exchange of information, experiences, and best practices in the field of electoral procedures, the implementation of innovative approaches and technologies in electoral processes, and more.

By Khagan Isayev