Rizzat Tasym: Azerbaijan plays key role in OTS cooperation

Azerbaijan plays an important role in advancing economic cooperation among the members of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), particularly in the implementation of the Middle Corridor and green energy projects, said Rizzat Tasym, political scientist and Director of the Center for Institutional Analysis and Reforms at Kazakhstan's Institute of Public Development, told journalists in Turkistan, Report's correspondent informs.

He noted that recent geopolitical developments have highlighted the strategic importance of transport and logistics routes: "When turbulence occurs, all countries feel the costs. Now both Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan deeply understand the strategic importance of developing and strengthening routes."

Tasym emphasized the significance of the Middle Corridor's development and joint infrastructure projects: "For example, linking transport routes to the Middle Corridor, as well as laying an internet cable under the Caspian Sea between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, are mechanisms that help strengthen the region."

The director added that the creation of the OTS Investment Fund, with a capital of about $600 million, provides an additional boost to cooperation. Decisions on which joint projects to finance are now on the agenda, with digitalization likely to be one of the priority areas.

The political scientist stressed Azerbaijan's role as a bridge between East and West: "Azerbaijan is truly a key player, serving as a bridge between East and West. Türkiye and Kazakhstan also fulfill this function."

According to him, OTS countries are currently in the stage of forming a long‑term cooperation model: "Member states already know what and how to build. Moreover, President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly stated that the Turkic vector is of great importance for Azerbaijan."

Tasym expressed confidence that the political will of participating countries will further strengthen economic ties within the OTS framework.