Turkic unity: Together we stand strong! Kinship and cooperation for a better future

"We will take our own steps regarding international organizations. First of all, we will continue our efforts within the framework of the Organization of Turkic States. This is a priority for us," Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said at the inauguration ceremony on 14 February. Emphasising that the policy pursued by Azerbaijan clearly demonstrates this, the head of state said: "This is the main international organization for us, because it is our family. We have no other family. Our family is the Turkic world."

What is OTS's relevance now and, more important, in future? What does the future of the OTS look like today? Foreign experts were invited to answer these questions for Caliber.Az.

Zhapar Usenov, a Kyrgyz analyst and international lawyer, believes that the establishment and functioning of the Organization of Turkic States can be seen as an expression of our countries' desire to strengthen interstate dialogue and cooperation in various fields, including the economy, politics, culture, education and security.

"The organisation provides a unique platform for discussing regional problems, strengthening economic ties and promoting common interests in the international arena. The prospects of the OTS depend largely on the ability of its members to coordinate their efforts and develop common strategies in key areas of cooperation. The organisation has the potential to become a major player on the global stage, contributing to the stability and development of the region. At the same time, it should be noted that the OTS continues to evolve, taking into account modern international challenges and opportunities. The motivation to strengthen cooperation among Turkic peoples is expressed in a variety of initiatives aimed at deepening economic, cultural and educational cooperation. Importantly, the success of the OTS in the future will depend on the flexibility, adaptability and ability of its members to work towards common goals," he said.

According to him, special attention should be paid to the cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan.

"Both countries are now actively seeking ways to deepen bilateral relations in a wide range of areas. Transport and infrastructure are particularly likely to strengthen trade and business links.

Based on mutual respect, cooperation, history and common interests of the Turkic peoples, the Organisation of Turkic States has great potential to develop and further strengthen its role as an important power centre in the global arena," Usenov believes.

Kazakh political analyst Aidar Amrebayev began by congratulating the brotherly Azerbaijan people on the successful presidential vote.

"The people of Azerbaijan have rightly supported the candidacy of the unconditional leader Ilham Heydar oglu Aliyev for the post of president of the country. This is a deserved victory! This is the joy of all peoples of the united Turkic root, the pledge of our common further prosperity and well-being," Amrebayev said.

Commenting on the issues raised, he noted that in his inaugural speech, the Azerbaijani leader once again reaffirmed his commitment to the idea of Turkic unity.

"We, all fraternal Turkic peoples, are inspired by this idea, which is promising in all respects, to strengthen on the basis of the Organisation of Turkic States as an important actor and centre of power in the global arena. This is a natural goal of all our common aspirations, a historical dream of our glorious ancestors who proved the legitimacy of this idea in different historical periods. It is symbolic that today Azerbaijan, under the leadership of its national leader, has once again proved its historical right to the integrity of its territory and the unity of its people, and has the unconditional support of the brotherly Turkic peoples," Amrebayev said.

He believes that in an internationally turbulent and conflict-prone world, the OTS is a strong foundation for our prosperity, a guarantor of security and the coming revival of the former power of the peoples of the united Turkic root.

"This organisation has a bright future because it is based on the common destiny of our peoples, unity of values and development goals. When we are united, we are unbeatable! Therefore, we must consistently, resolutely, step by step, pursue the path of broadening and deepening our kinship and cooperation in various spheres of society. This is my deep conviction," the Kazakh political scientist stressed.