“OTS should not turn into a military alliance“: Tokayev outlined Kazakhstan's position

Tengrinews.kz — At the 13th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined Kazakhstan's vision for the future of the association. According to him, the OTS should not transform into a military alliance; instead, member states should focus on strengthening cooperation and the organization's institutional framework, citing Akorda.

"In recent years, the scope of the OTS has expanded significantly, now covering 60 different areas. At the same time, it is clear that some functions overlap. Based on this, we must define the main directions of our joint work. Overall, it is necessary to structure our tasks and priorities. Furthermore, I would like to stress that violations of treaty provisions signed at the highest level within our organization are unacceptable. I also believe it is important to reiterate the need to establish a Council of Permanent Representatives to the OTS. In May this year, at a high-level meeting in Turkistan, I stated that the Organization of Turkic States is not, and should not become, a military alliance in the future. This is Kazakhstan's position," Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stated.

Concluding his speech, the Head of State recalled the Kazakh proverb "Bereke – birlikte, yrys – yntymakta" ("Prosperity lies in unity, abundance in harmony") and emphasized the importance of consolidating efforts to achieve common goals.

"I am confident that today's meeting will provide fresh impetus to the OTS and contribute to the further strengthening of our cooperation. In this regard, I would like to specifically note that Azerbaijan, which has chaired the organization since last year, has made an invaluable contribution to raising its prestige. I express my gratitude to the Azerbaijani side. Now, the chairmanship passes to Türkiye. I am certain that new initiatives will be implemented within the organization in the coming period. I express my thanks to Mr. Kubanychbek Omuraliev for his work and wish success to the new Secretary General, Mirvokhid Azimov. Once again, I express my gratitude to the President of the Republic of Türkiye for hosting the summit at a high level. May the unity of the Turkic peoples grow stronger!" the President of Kazakhstan concluded.

Earlier, Tokayev also recalled an event that united Turkic peoples 100 years ago, and commented on Russia's participation in the OTS+ format. Furthermore, the President condemned the Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia.