AKIPRESS.COM - Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev outlined the outcomes of 2024, marked by the 15th anniversary of the Organization of Turkic States.

"One of the defining moments of the year was the Informal Summit in Shusha, held in the liberated lands of Azerbaijan. Shusha, a city of profound cultural and historical significance, became a powerful symbol of resilience and renewal for the Turkic World. This summit reinforced shared determination of Turkic countries to advance cooperation and further strengthen the bonds that unite Turkic states.

Additionally, during the 11th Summit in Bishkek, the Heads of State adopted the new flag of the OTS, a symbol of unity and a beacon of collective aspirations. This flag embodies the spirit of cooperation and progress that guides OTS toward a more prosperous future.

Under the Chairmanship of Kazakhstan, with the guiding motto of “TURKTIME” 2024 marked a transformative year for the OTS. "I am proud to share that substantial progress has been made on the Action Plans set during the Summits held in Astana and Shusha, with continued efforts on the remaining objectives in close partnership with our Member States," Ambassador Omuraliev said.

This year alone, the OTS organized more than 180 events covering over 35 areas. Additionally, more than 7 new platforms were introduced this year. Particularly, inaugural ministerial meetings of the Internal Affairs, Justice, Social Policy, Industry, Science, Technology, Innovation and Mapping were held. These meeting yielded practical outcomes and established work plans that will further strengthen our cooperation. Key highlights of the year includes following:

• Economic Integration: Trade among OTS member states surged to $38.3 billion, reflecting a 24% increase. The establishment of the Council of Central (National) Banks, progress on the Free Trade Agreement on Services and Investment, and the continued development of the TURAN Special Economic Zone signify a robust framework for collaboration.

• Digital Transformation: The signing of the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA), the successful Turkic States Artificial Intelligence Forum, and initiatives like the Turkic Large Language Model and in Space-Related Activities, underscore our commitment to technological advancement. Bishkek’s designation as the Digital Capital of the Turkic World for 2025 highlights our strides in digital innovation.

• Sustainability and Green Initiatives: The adoption of the Turkic Green Vision and activities successfully held within the framework of the COP29 in Azerbaijan marked significant progress in addressing climate change. Projects such as the Drought Prevention Institute’s field missions and the establishment of the Regional Center for Technology and Green Initiatives are paving the way for our common sustainable future.

• Enhanced Connectivity: The implementation of logistics initiatives, such as the E-Permit, E-CMR, and Digital TIR projects, has significantly increased freight transportation efficiency along the Middle Corridor.

• Strengthened Security: The signing of the Agreement on the Establishment of the Civil Protection Mechanism represents a significant step in enhancing institutional capacity and ensuring coordinated responses to emergencies across the Turkic World.

2024 also marked the adoption of foundational documents, including the Charter of the Turkic World and the Regulation of Permanent Representatives, further enhancing our institutional framework.

2024 was rich in cultural and people-focused initiatives, including the 5th World Nomad Games in Astana and the Turkic Agro Business Forum. The Tabarruk Ziyarat Project and the establishment of the Union of Turkic Ski Resorts further emphasized the importance of tourism and cultural exchange. Conferences celebrating the 950th Anniversary of Diwan Lughat al-Turk and the legacy of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi highlighted shared heritage of Turkic states.

Productive collaborations were fostered through key agreements with WHO, UN-Habitat, ICESCO UNIDO, laying the foundation for impactful initiatives, while exploring new collaborations with FAO and UNECE. The Organization also prioritized engagement with the UN, EU, OIC, ASEAN and others international organizations focusing on sustainable development, transport, and energy initiatives.

A key highlights was the Turkic Week in Geneva, the OTS’s 15th-anniversary events in Ankara, and meetings in Washington and New York, which showcased the growing diplomatic influence and cultural richness of the Turkic World on the international stage, underscoring the OTS’s commitment to global cooperation and shared progress.

At the 11th Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan assumed the Chairmanship of the OTS under the theme "Empowering the Turkic World: Economic Integration, Sustainable Development, Digital Future, and Security for All." This transition signals a new chapter for the organization as it looks ahead to 2025 with key priorities in focus.

Under Kyrgyzstan’s leadership, the OTS will prioritize economic cooperation, digital transformation, and sustainability, while addressing regional security challenges. The goal is to strengthen trade, innovation, and green technologies, as well as enhancing regional stability and combating shared threats. With these efforts, the OTS aims to build a more integrated, prosperous, and resilient future for its Member States.

"Taking this opportunity, I would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to our Heads of State, the Ministries of our Member States, public institutions, private sector, and non-governmental organizations for their unwavering support and invaluable contributions to the Organization of Turkic States. As we welcome 2025, I wish for health, peace, unity, and solidarity to prevail across the entire Turkic World. May the New Year bring peace, prosperity, and success to all our Member States and Observers," Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev concluded.