On October 30, 2026, Turkey hosted the 13th Summit of the Turkic States Council, marking a pivotal moment in regional cooperation. This event brought together leaders from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and other Turkic nations to discuss key issues and set the agenda for the coming years. The summit, which took place in Ankara, was a testament to Turkey's growing influence in the region and its commitment to fostering unity among Turkic states.
At the summit, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Turkey delivered a speech that highlighted the importance of unity and the Ankara Declaration, a document that emphasizes cooperation in various domains. "Rabb'im Tırk Devletleri olarak dayanımamızı daim eylesin, zirvemizin ve aldımız kararların Tırk dınyası işit hayğarırlarını diliyorum," Erdoğan stated, emphasizing the enduring nature of the Turkic community and the importance of their decisions being heard.
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan met with President Tufan Erhürman of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus on the sidelines of the 13th Summit of the Organisation of Turkic States at the Presidential Complex. The meeting addressed bilateral relations between Türkiye and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), as well as regional issues. During the meeting, President Erdoğan expressed Türkiye's satisfaction with the TRNC's representation in the Organisation of Turkic States. President Erdoğan stated that no process that fails to safeguard the rights and interests of the Turkish Cypriots could be the key to a lasting resolution in Cyprus, adding that Türkiye would always stand by the TRNC. President Erdoğan was accompanied at the meeting by AK Party Deputy Chairman Kürşad Zorlu, Head of Communications Burhanettin Duran, Presidential Chief of Staff Hasan Doğan, Chief Advisor to the President on Foreign Policy and Security Akif Çağatay Kılıç, and Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Security and Foreign Policies Council Çağrı Erhan.
Turkey's plans for the chairmanship are ambitious and multifaceted. President Erdoğan outlined a strategy that includes advancing artificial intelligence and digital development, finalizing the eternal friendship agreement, and hosting the COP31 Leaders Summit in Antalya. "Donem başkanlığımızda yapay zekâ ve dijital kalkınma eylem planını sonuç odaklı ve mürekkeriblikten uzak bir anlayışla ilerleteceğiz. 2027-2031 stratejisiyle stratejik ortaklık, ebedî dostluk anlaşmasının nihayetlendirilmesini çok önemli buluyorum," Erdoğan added, expressing his vision for a more connected and digitally advanced Turkic world.
Mirvahid Azimov, the new general secretary of the Turkic States Council, was appointed to lead the organization during Turkey's chairmanship.
Kazakhstan's President Kasymzhomart Tokayev also addressed the summit, emphasizing the need for Russia's participation in the Turkic states' initiatives. "RUSYA'NIN DA BU TEŞKİLETA GÖZLEMCİ OLARAK KATILMASINI SAĞLAMAK GEREKLİ ADIMLARI ATMAMIZ GEREK," he said, urging Russia to take steps to support the Turkic states' unity efforts. This statement reflects the ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the region, where Russia's involvement is crucial for the success of Turkic cooperation.
The Ankara Declaration, which was signed during the summit, is a cornerstone of Turkey's vision for the term. It emphasizes cooperation in various domains, including the promotion of a common language, cultural activities, and easier travel between countries. "Kardeşlik bağlarımızı pekiştirecek şekilde ortak dilin yaygınlaştırılması, spor başta olmak üzere kültürel etkinliklerin desteklenmesi, ülkelerimiz arasında seyahatlerin kolaylaştırılması gibi alanlarda ilerleme kaydedelim," President Erdoğan said, highlighting the importance of these initiatives in strengthening the bonds between Turkic nations.
Mirvahid Azimov, the new general secretary of the Turkic States Council, was appointed to lead the organization during Turkey's chairmanship. Azimov, who previously served as the general secretary of the Council, brings a wealth of experience to the role. During his tenure, he will work closely with President Erdoğan and other leaders to implement the council's strategic objectives and ensure the success of the coming years.
Turkey's focus on digital development is a key aspect of its chairmanship. The country has set ambitious goals for the next five years, including the development of a comprehensive strategy for artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. "2027-2031 stratejisiyle stratejik ortaklık, ebedî dostluk anlaşmasının nihayetlendirilmesini çok önemli buluyorum," President Erdoğan said, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives in fostering long-term cooperation among Turkic states.
Turkey's assumption of the chairmanship of the Turkic States Council marks a new era of cooperation and unity among Turkic nations. With a focus on digital development and the promotion of a common language and culture, Turkey aims to strengthen the bonds between Turkic states and ensure a prosperous future for the region. As the council moves forward, the coming years will be crucial in determining the success of these initiatives and the lasting impact they will have on the Turkic world.