Turkic states to hold AI and economic summit in Kazakhstan

Turkic nations are set to explore new pathways for deepening economic integration through artificial intelligence during a leaders’ summit this week in southern Kazakhstan. The informal meeting of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Council of Heads will take place Friday in the historic city of Turkistan under the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development.” The summit aims to harness new technologies for sustainable economic growth while improving public services and regional connectivity.

Rising trade volume

Türkiye has maintained a net export position with OTS member states in recent years. Turkish exports to Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan climbed from 6.2 billion in 2021 to 9.6 billion in 2025, while imports reached 7.3 billion—bringing the total annual trade volume to 17 billion. In the first quarter of this year alone, exports to OTS members reached 2.1 billion, with Kazakhstan accounting for the largest share at approximately 700 million.

Bilateral meetings and business forum

Alongside the OTS summit, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will co-chair a High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting with his Kazakh counterpart Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana on Thursday. A Türkiye–Kazakhstan Business Forum will also be held, with Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat attending alongside business leaders from both countries. The meetings underscore Ankara’s commitment to strengthening ties with fellow Turkic republics amid shifting global trade dynamics. Turkish officials have emphasised that deeper cooperation in AI and digital infrastructure will be key to boosting regional competitiveness.