The conference of think tanks of the member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), hosted by the Center of the Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), was held on September 29, 2025. 
The conference, titled “The Organization of Turkic States as a Regional Actor during Global Uncertainty,” brought together representatives of the participating countries to discuss the role of the OTS in the contemporary international system, the strategic challenges it faces, and the emerging opportunities for enhanced cooperation among member states.
In his opening remarks, Chairman of the Board of the Center of Analysis of International Relations (AIR Center), Farid Shafiyev, stated that since entering an institutionalization phase in 2009, the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has evolved into an increasingly influential regional actor and a robust platform for cooperation.
Farid Shafiyev emphasized that the Organization of Turkic States distinguishes itself from other regional organizations through a cooperation model based on the principle of equality among its member states.He further noted that, amid the prevailing global uncertainty, the Organization is increasingly positioning itself as a viable and effective alternative.
He noted that the growing risks and threats in the current international environment are compelling states to pursue closer cooperation. In this context, he emphasized that strengthening solidarity among Turkic states would facilitate the development of a united and resilient stance in response to common challenges.
The expanding cooperation among Turkic states is shifting the geopolitical and geoeconomic balance of power in the region in favor of the member and observer states. External powers with interests in the region are now compelled to engage not with individual countries, but with a unified bloc of states. Despite certain differences, it is evident that solidarity and joint action among the Turkic states are steadily strengthening. This development has caused concern among some external actors. In an attempt to sow discord and undermine unity among the Turkic states, these actors are introducing various enticing proposals. Rooted in an imperial legacy, such circles continue to pursue a “divide et impera” strategy toward the independent states of the region. In response, we must further strengthen our cooperation and solidarity within the framework of the Organization of Turkic States and prevent external forces from achieving their objectives.
Deputy Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States, Ömer Kocaman, stated that the conference would provide an opportunity to reflect on the Organization’s role both within the region and beyond its borders. According to him, the rapid changes taking place globally, as well as significant developments and challenges observed at both the global and regional levels, make cooperation and integration within the Turkic world increasingly essential.
“At the same time, I emphasize that the Agreement on the Establishment of the Organization of Turkic States was signed in Nakhchivan, the historical city of Azerbaijan, on 3 October 2009.

Let me refer to the remarks made by the President of Azerbaijan, H.E. Ilham Aliyev, during his inauguration ceremony on February 14, 2024. In his address, he emphasized that the Organization of Turkic States is a priority and the main international organization for Azerbaijan because it is a family. As the President mentioned, the Turkic World possesses a vast geography, an extensive territory, a large military prowess, a substantial economy, natural resources, transportation routes, a young and growing population, and peoples from the same roots,” Ömer Kocaman added.
Within the framework of the conference, panel sessions were held on the following topics:

• Contributions of the OTS to World Peace and Stability amid political-security uncertainty

• OTS Efforts in Economy, Trade, and Transportation during global economic instability

• Policies on Culture, Science, and Parliamentarism in times of global uncertainty

The first panel offered in-depth perspectives on the evolving geopolitical landscape and the constructive role of the Organization of Turkic States in promoting peace, fostering regional cooperation, and enhancing political-security resilience among member states and beyond.
The discussions in the second panel explored the OTS’s role in enhancing economic integration, expanding logistical networks, and strengthening trade and connectivity amid global economic uncertainty. Key topics included the potential of the Middle Corridor, opportunities in interregional commerce, and the strategic contributions of the TRNC within the OTS framework.
This session underscored the significance of scientific cooperation, the preservation of cultural identity, and the promotion of inter-parliamentary dialogue as pillars of unity and resilience among Turkic states. Speakers emphasized how shared cultural and intellectual values can serve as strategic tools for deeper regional integration and sustainable development.
At the conclusion of the conference, AIR Center Chairman Farid Shafiyev stated that the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has now become a fully-fledged international organization and expressed confidence in its successful future despite existing challenges.