Turkish VP hails Turkic bloc’s strategic role amid global turmoil

Türkiye’s Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz underscored the rising strategic importance of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) on Thursday, describing recent progress within the bloc as “highly valuable” against a backdrop of shifting regional dynamics and global instability. Speaking to reporters in Azerbaijan’s capital Baku following a meeting of OTS prime ministers and vice presidents, Yilmaz noted that the organization is gaining momentum precisely as geopolitical tensions escalate and international institutions show signs of weakening. He added that a strengthening environment of peace in the South Caucasus is expected to improve connectivity between Türkiye and other Turkic states.

Strong economic performance

Yilmaz highlighted the bloc’s robust economic growth, stating that OTS member countries are expanding at nearly double the global average. “While global growth stood at around 3% last year, OTS member countries saw growth of approximately 6%,” he said. “They are advancing at nearly double the global rate, with rising national incomes.” However, he noted that intra-regional trade currently accounts for just over 6% of total exports among member states, calling for simplified customs procedures, new trade agreements, and improved transportation links to raise that figure significantly.

Stability and future vision

“At a time when both the world and the region are growing increasingly unstable, the OTS continues to grow and develop in stability,” Yilmaz said, adding that member countries are determined to take necessary initiatives in line with evolving global conditions. Energy, logistics, and the green and digital transformation were also key topics during the meeting. Yilmaz expressed confidence that stronger economic ties and collaboration within the OTS would benefit all member states and reinforce long-term regional stability. He reiterated that Türkiye aims to maintain its own stability without being drawn into regional turmoil, particularly as the US-Israeli war on Iran continues to shake the Middle East.