Gabala: Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on Tuesday voiced support for expanding practical cooperation within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), highlighting plans for deeper economic integration and stronger transport links across the Turkic world.

According to Anadolu Agency, Mirziyoyev addressed the 12th Summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States in Gabala, Azerbaijan. He emphasized that the recently signed peace declaration between Azerbaijan and Armenia 'opens up broad opportunities for cooperation' in trade, transport, and humanitarian affairs.

Mirziyoyev remarked that the Organization of Turkic States has rapidly developed into an authoritative international organization, enhancing political dialogue and mutual trust among its member nations. He proposed drafting a 'strategy for the development of the Turkic States through 2030' and a roadmap for its implementation, aiming to create a 'space of new economic opportunities.'

The Uzbek president also called for the establishment of a Permanent Council of Turkic States for Economic Partnership. This council, which would be chaired by deputy prime ministers and based in Tashkent, is intended to bolster economic collaboration.

On the subject of connectivity, Mirziyoyev stressed the importance of strengthening the Middle Corridor that connects Central Asia to Europe. He advocated for its integration with the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway and the Trans-Afghan Corridor, along with the harmonization of customs and tariff policies to facilitate trade.

To further discuss these projects, Mirziyoyev announced that an International Forum on Multimodal Transport will take place in Tashkent on Nov. 12.