The OTS Continues Accelerated Transformation

The 11th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) took place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on November 6, 2024, amid heightened focus on regional security and cooperation. As Turkic countries, which gained independence 30 years ago, face pressure from larger powers and navigate complex geopolitical challenges, the summit underscored both the ambitions and strategic maneuvers of its member states to strengthen unity and economic resilience in an increasingly multipolar world.

The summit occurred during a period of global tension, with Russia's influence in Central Asia waning due to the protracted conflict in Ukraine, while Western nations grew increasingly wary of China’s expanding influence in Eurasia. For member states such as Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, this geopolitical shift has spurred a sense of urgency to reinforce regional alliances, a trend that has become especially evident in recent years. With the U.S. and EU seeking greater engagement in Central Asia to balance both Russia and China, the OTS countries find themselves positioned as potential intermediaries linking East and West—a role summit participants appeared eager to embrace.

Established in 2009 with the signing of the Nakhchivan Agreement, the Organization of Turkic States (formerly the Turkic Council) initially aimed to bolster solidarity among Turkic-speaking countries, focusing primarily on cultural and linguistic cooperation. However, over the years, the OTS has evolved into a more multifaceted organization dealing with economic integration, security cooperation, and energy connectivity. With each subsequent summit, the OTS has increasingly oriented its goals toward becoming a cohesive political and economic bloc, particularly in response to regional instability and emerging economic challenges.

The Bishkek Summit was defined by the overarching theme "Strengthening the Turkic World: Economic Integration, Sustainable Development, Digital Future, and Security for All," as member states sought to deepen economic cooperation, strengthen infrastructure networks, and coordinate security policies. OTS leaders outlined goals to expand intraregional trade, reduce dependency on external powers, and promote cultural exchanges to solidify their collective identity. With energy prices fluctuating and supply chains remaining unpredictable, OTS members also highlighted the importance of energy diversification and logistical efficiency, positioning their bloc as a stable transit corridor between Asia and Europe.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor—the trans-Caspian route connecting Europe and Asia via Turkic states. Erdogan stressed the need for accelerated infrastructure projects and deeper economic ties to make the Middle Corridor a viable alternative to traditional routes through Russia and China. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev echoed Erdogan's view, reiterating Azerbaijan’s commitment to regional connectivity projects, while Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev spoke on Central Asia’s role as a vital link in global trade, underscoring the need for stability and cooperation in an era of shifting alliances.

The summit saw the emergence of several new initiatives and proposals, reflecting the bloc’s ambitions to play a more prominent role on the world stage. Three key areas stood out: a unified customs policy, a cultural exchange program, and the implementation of joint energy and infrastructure projects.

Leaders agreed to streamline customs mechanisms to facilitate trade across OTS borders, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Turkey and Uzbekistan jointly proposed a series of cultural exchange initiatives aimed at fostering a shared Turkic identity and promoting language and educational exchanges among member states. A unified Turkic alphabet of 34 letters based on the Latin script has already been agreed upon, with the project potentially set to start in the upcoming 12th OTS Summit in Baku. The adoption of the OTS flag with an eight-pointed star was not merely symbolic but a political decision.

Azerbaijan proposed expanding cooperation in the energy sector, particularly in natural gas and renewable energy, to diversify member states’ energy sources and reduce reliance on external markets. Further development of regional logistics projects was also agreed upon.

Several concrete decisions and agreements were made at the summit. Notable documents included the “Strategic Partnership Mechanism,” which outlined plans to enhance security coordination and economic integration among OTS members. Additionally, the “Bishkek Declaration” affirmed each country’s commitment to strengthening regional ties, promoting sustainable development, and fostering peace and stability within the Turkic world. Another significant agreement was the establishment of a central financial institution under the OTS, tasked with supporting member states during times of economic instability and promoting joint development projects. In this context, the creation of the Turkic Investment Fund marked a significant milestone. This first joint financial institution for economic integration in the Turkic world has been allocated a charter capital of $1 billion, with funding for major joint projects expected to begin in January 2025. Discussions are also underway regarding the creation of a Council of Central Banks, a free trade area for services and investments, and a partnership in the digital economy.

This year’s summit placed an unprecedented focus on security. Unlike previous summits that emphasized cultural and economic goals, the 2024 meeting recognized the need for collective defense mechanisms in the face of rising geopolitical uncertainty. Member states discussed the formation of a joint OTS security task force to address threats such as terrorism, border control issues, and cyber threats—an ambitious step signaling the bloc’s intent to assert greater control over its security landscape.

The Bishkek Summit marked a critical moment for the OTS, showcasing its transformation from a cultural coalition into an emerging political and economic force with aspirations for regional influence. Moving forward, the OTS faces the challenge of harmonizing the diverse priorities of its member states and balancing independence with strategic alliances with larger powers.

The bloc’s transformation into a more unified alliance hinges on its ability to achieve its ambitious goals and withstand external pressures. If successful, as many now anticipate, the OTS could become a stabilizing regional power, offering a cooperative model that fosters resilience, economic prosperity, and mutual security among Turkic nations.