ADDS FURTHER STATEMENTS BY KAZAKH PRESIDENT; REVISES HEADLINE, SPOT & LEDE; EDITS THROUGHOUT
By Burc Eruygur
ISTANBUL (AA) - Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Friday highlighted the growth of Türkiye’s socio-economic potential under the leadership of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Addressing the 13th summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in the Turkish capital Ankara, Tokayev said Türkiye, in the span of over 100 years, has become “one of most important countries in the world – a nation that commands immense international prestige."
"Thanks to the robust policies of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the socio-economic potential of our fraternal Türkiye has grown substantially. It now holds a formidable position on the global stage, serving as both a regional and global power," Tokayev said.
In this context, Tokayev expressed Kazakhstan’s pride in the achievements of the Turkish people and highlighted the shared historical ties and common roots that bind the two countries.
Regarding the OTS, Tokayev defined the organization as a "unique institution" and that they are actively working to foster greater solidarity.
The president stated that, in the context of various challenges currently unfolding across the globe, the situation in the Middle East, particularly developments in the Strait of Hormuz, has negatively impacted transportation and logistics.
Tokayev said that Kazakhstan places great importance on economic integration within the OTS framework, adding that the trade volume between his country and other OTS member states has reached $10 billion this year.
He noted the need to implement the Turkic World Vision 2040 document and adopt the OTS Strategy for 2027-2031, highlighted the importance of establishing the necessary conditions to maximize the Turkic Investment Fund's potential, and expressed the need to support the work of the OTS' Council of Elders.
Tokayev further stated the need for steps to enhance the organization's prestige and described the consideration of Russia's participation in the OTS as a "fair approach."
"There are many people whose history is rooted in this country. We also know that many Russian words are derived from Turkic languages. Conversely, various Russian terms have likewise entered our own languages. Therefore, should Russia become a part of this organization, our organization would stand to benefit," he added.
He went on to say that deepening cooperation in the fields of transport and logistics is a "high priority," emphasizing the importance of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route for enhancing connectivity within the Turkic world.
In conclusion, he thanked Azerbaijan for its contributions to the OTS during its chairmanship and expressed his confidence that Türkiye will continue to successfully advance the organization’s work.
Burç Eruygur