18/05/2026
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18/05/2026
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Following the summit, the heads of state of the OTS member countries signed the Turkistan Declaration. Photo credit: Akorda.
TURKESTAN, May 18: President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Monday called for stronger unity among Turkic states and deeper cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital transformation, trade, and cultural development, while addressing the informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in Turkestan.
Welcoming leaders to what he described as the “spiritual capital of the Turkic world,” Tokayev said Turkestan has historically served as a cultural and spiritual bridge connecting Turkic peoples and remains a symbol of shared heritage.
He highlighted the legacy of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, describing his philosophical and spiritual contributions as central to Turkic identity and humanistic values. Tokayev said Kazakhstan continues to draw inspiration from this legacy in its national programmes, including initiatives focused on responsible citizenship, national development and environmental sustainability.
The president noted that the economic potential of the Turkestan region is growing rapidly, citing a 9.3% increase in 2025 and investments exceeding $3.5 billion. He also thanked Uzbekistan and President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for supporting the construction of a new mosque in the city, suggesting it be named “Miromon Ata” as a symbol of Kazakh-Uzbek friendship.
AI and digital transformation at the core of the summit
Tokayev said the summit’s focus on artificial intelligence and digital development reflects the urgent need for Turkic states to adapt to global technological competition.
He stressed that digital transformation has become a key factor in national security and economic stability, warning that countries that fail to adopt emerging technologies risk being left behind.
Outlining Kazakhstan’s digital strategy, he said the country has launched the Alem.ai international AI center in Astana, introduced supercomputing infrastructure, and is working toward a “Data Center Valley” to attract global tech investment.
He also announced the adoption of key legislation on artificial intelligence and digital governance, as well as the rollout of AI integration in education and migration reforms, including a “Golden Visa” programme for foreign investors and specialists.
Regional cooperation proposals
Tokayev proposed several new initiatives for OTS member states, including:
- Mutual recognition of digital documents and electronic signatures
- Creation of a joint AI network and “Turkic AI” innovation hub
- Establishment of a Cybersecurity Council and digital monitoring centres
- Expansion of cooperation in satellite and space technologies
- A scientific “CubeSat-12U” satellite project
- A network of AI education centres and an annual tech olympiad for youth
He also announced plans for a new University of Artificial Intelligence in Kazakhstan, offering grants to students from Turkic states.
Cultural and institutional initiatives
Beyond technology, Tokayev emphasized the importance of preserving Turkic cultural and historical heritage.
He proposed drafting a convention on the protection of Turkic civilization heritage and creating a multilingual digital platform for Turkic history and culture.
He also announced the establishment of a Center of Turkic Civilization in Turkestan, alongside a proposed “Steppe Civilization” centre in Astana.
Tokayev further called for the creation of an Interstate Terminology Commission to harmonize scientific and technical language across Turkic languages.
Economic integration and transport
The president said Turkic integration remains a key driver of economic growth, noting that intra-OTS trade reached $12.9 billion in 2025, while combined GDP exceeds $2.4 trillion.
He reiterated support for the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), describing it as a strategic trade link between Asia and Europe.
Tokayev also urged strengthening the Turkic Investment Fund, with a capital base of $600 million, to support infrastructure and startup development across member states.
Closing remarks
Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s commitment to strengthening the Organization of Turkic States, rejecting claims that it is a military alliance and stressing its role as a platform for economic, cultural and technological cooperation.
“The Turkic world must remain united and move forward together,” he said, declaring the informal summit closed.