Ankara:Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan highlighted the critical importance of unity among Turkic states, describing it as a "strategic necessity" amid global political shifts. Erdogan's remarks were featured in an article published across member and observer countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in anticipation of its 13th summit.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Erdogan articulated that the ongoing transformation in world politics, coupled with the challenges faced by the international system in establishing justice and trust, makes solidarity among Turkic states crucial. He underscored that this unity reflects a deep-rooted legacy and a collective determination to shape a shared future.
Erdogan expressed that the Ankara summit, themed "The Turkic Century Unity in Language, Thought and Deed," is pivotal for enhancing this shared determination. Turkey's upcoming chairmanship of the OTS, transitioning from Azerbaijan, is seen by Erdogan as a historic responsibility in achieving mutual objectives and enhancing the organization's institutional capacity.
The Turkish president also addressed economic integration, emphasizing the significance of the Trans-Caspian East-West Middle Corridor. He noted that the corridor presents a historic opportunity for economic collaboration, aiming to position the Turkic geography as a central hub in global transportation and logistics.
Furthermore, Erdogan highlighted the importance of security cooperation among member states, emphasizing the need to collectively tackle terrorism, cross-border crime, and cyber threats. He also discussed advancing cooperation in technology, education, and cultural initiatives, including the establishment of a common Turkic alphabet as a step toward greater cultural rapprochement.
Erdogan reiterated Turkey's commitment to supporting the Turkish Cypriot people and strengthening their ties with the OTS. He advocated for the recognition of Turkish Cypriots' sovereign equality and their integration within the Turkic world.
Concluding his article, Erdogan expressed optimism that the 21st century would be marked as the "Century of the Turkic World," with the Ankara Summit serving as a catalyst for furthering the organization's international influence and bolstering regional solidarity.