At the 11th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), held in Bishkek under the theme “Strengthening the Turkic World: Economic Integration, Sustainable Development, Digital Future, and Security for All,” Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev addressed the gathering with a call for unity, resilience, and mutual support amid today’s global challenges.

Hosted by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, the summit brought together heads of state and government from member and observer nations, underscoring commitments to regional economic integration, security cooperation, and digital progress. President Aliyev expressed gratitude to President Japarov and Kyrgyzstan for their warm hospitality and praised Kyrgyzstan’s ongoing progress.

15 Years of Growing Cooperation and Unity
Marking the 15th anniversary of the Nakhchivan Agreement—a foundational document establishing the OTS in 2009—Aliyev highlighted significant achievements, especially the Garabagh Declaration signed in Shusha in July. “Our organization has followed a successful path of development during this period,” he noted, reaffirming Azerbaijan’s commitment to the OTS.

He also congratulated Kazakhstan on its recent chairmanship, acknowledging its role in advancing OTS initiatives and goals.

Financial Support for a Stronger OTS
Aliyev addressed the financial challenges faced by the OTS, proposing a stronger budget to achieve its goals. Announcing Azerbaijan’s contribution of $2 million to the OTS Secretariat and an additional $100,000 for the Council of Elders, he emphasized the importance of robust resources for shared ambitions.

Enhancing Security and Defense Cooperation
Amid rising global security threats, Aliyev advocated for deeper defense and security collaboration among OTS states. He highlighted joint military exercises and training programs for cadets from OTS countries in Azerbaijani institutions as key symbols of mutual trust and friendship, saying, “Given the growing global threats, our cooperation in defense, security, and the defense industry is of tremendous importance.”

Boosting Regional Trade Through the East-West Transport Corridor
Aliyev pointed to the East-West transport corridor, which runs through Azerbaijan, as a vital project for regional trade. He noted a 15% rise in transit shipments among OTS states in 2024, attributing this to substantial investment in corridor infrastructure. Azerbaijan is actively digitalizing the “Middle Corridor” to streamline trade and reduce costs, positioning the OTS as a key player in global trade.

Rehabilitation Efforts in Azerbaijan’s Liberated Territories
Reflecting on Azerbaijan’s restoration of sovereignty over territories formerly occupied by Armenia, Aliyev detailed extensive reconstruction efforts and thanked Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Hungary for their contributions, including the construction of schools and cultural centers. Through the “Great Return Program,” he noted, internally displaced persons (IDPs) are returning to these areas, highlighting the collective support of Turkic states.

Hosting COP29: A Commitment to Global Climate Action
As Azerbaijan prepares to host the COP29 climate conference, Aliyev emphasized the significance of international support for Azerbaijan’s climate leadership. He expressed confidence that OTS member countries would actively participate, making COP29 a platform to showcase the Turkic world’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection.

Looking Forward: A Vision of a United and Resilient Turkic World
Aliyev concluded with a vision for a united, resilient, and prosperous Turkic world, grounded in shared cultural and historical ties. He pledged Azerbaijan’s ongoing support for the OTS’s mission, emphasizing collaboration across economic, digital, and security sectors.

The OTS Summit concluded with leaders expressing a shared commitment to strengthening regional security, economic resilience, and sustainable development, setting a path for deeper integration.