Turkish VP urges Turkic unity in regional turmoil
2026-03-10 - 19:32
Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz convened with Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary-General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), at the presidential complex in Ankara on Tuesday to discuss enhanced cooperation among Turkic nations facing regional and global challenges. The meeting underscored Ankara's commitment to fostering closer ties within the Turkic world as geopolitical tensions mount across the Middle East and beyond. "Acting together and strengthening inter-state coordination have gained vital importance in the face of regional and global developments confronting the Turkic world," Yilmaz stated on social media following the discussion. His remarks reflect Türkiye's strategic vision of positioning the OTS as a significant platform for collective action, particularly as conflicts in neighboring regions threaten to destabilize the broader area. The vice president emphasized that unity among Turkic states is not merely a diplomatic preference but an increasingly essential requirement for ensuring security and prosperity. TRNC invitation welcomed Yilmaz expressed particular satisfaction regarding the invitation extended to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Prime Minister Unal Ustel to attend the upcoming second meeting of OTS heads of government and vice presidents scheduled for next month in Baku, Azerbaijan. "We see the invitation of TRNC Prime Minister Unal Ustel to this meeting as a natural manifestation of solidarity and brotherhood within the Turkic world," he said. The inclusion of TRNC leadership in OTS gatherings represents significant diplomatic recognition for the Turkish Cypriot community and aligns with Ankara's longstanding policy of advocating for the TRNC's international engagement. Commitment to common goals Looking ahead, Yilmaz confirmed his participation in the Baku meeting, where Turkic states will coordinate policies and strategies aimed at strengthening regional cooperation. He reaffirmed that Türkiye will continue working toward shared objectives designed to enhance unity, solidarity and economic prosperity across the Turkic world. "Türkiye will continue to work with determination in line with common goals for the unity, solidarity and prosperity of the Turkic world," he added. The meeting comes at a critical juncture as Turkic states navigate complex regional dynamics, including conflicts involving Iran, Israel and various actors that directly impact the security calculations of OTS member nations.