Baku: The opening of Trkiye-Azerbaijan borders with Armenia is poised to become a significant outcome of the ongoing regional peace process, as noted by Cevdet Yilmaz. This development is part of broader discussions aimed at fostering stability and cooperation among Turkic states.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the upcoming meeting of prime ministers and vice presidents of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member states in Baku, hosted by Azerbaijan's Prime Minister Ali Asadov, will address the strengthening of multilateral cooperation in response to regional and global challenges. The agenda includes enhancing economic and trade relations, improving transport infrastructure, and advancing digital integration within the Trans-Caspian Middle Corridor. The meeting will also consider proposals for energy security, green energy cooperation, and effective implementation of OTS summit decisions.
The OTS has been intensifying its consultation and coordination mechanisms to bolster its capacity to address multifaceted risks. Recent ministerial-level meetings have underscored the organization's collective will for action, promoting stability in an environment where regional institutions are weakening. The OTS aims to strengthen its position as a reliable cooperation model.
Trkiye's involvement in resolving regional conflicts, including the US-Israel-Iran confrontation, remains a priority. The situation poses risks to the Turkic world, affecting energy security and trade routes. Trkiye is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to achieve ceasefires and restore stability, emphasizing the importance of preventing escalation and ensuring a return to diplomacy.
Trkiye's counterterrorism strategy continues to focus on achieving a 'terror-free Trkiye.' Regional instability, especially in Iran, could present opportunities for terrorist organizations, posing border security risks. Trkiye remains committed to its long-term counterterrorism strategy and strengthening national unity.
The relationship between Trkiye and Azerbaijan is characterized by mutual trust and a shared vision, reinforced by the Shusha Declaration. Cooperation spans political, economic, military, cultural, energy, transport, and defense sectors. The strategic partnership between the two nations serves as a model for regional stability and cooperation.
The 110-point Action Plan signed during a recent Trkiye-Azerbaijan Joint Economic Commission meeting outlines a roadmap for future trade and economic relations. It includes initiatives to support Nakhchivan's development, coordinate investment and trade in services, and establish joint industrial training centers. The plan aims to achieve a $15 billion trade turnover target, positioning both countries as regional production centers.
Efforts to facilitate trade between Trkiye and Azerbaijan include discussions on customs processes, logistics, and the Simplified Customs Line. Increasing the capacity of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and diversifying trade sectors are also planned.
The Zangezur Corridor is set to enhance trade and logistics between Trkiye, Azerbaijan, and Central Asia. It will enable direct land connections, accelerating regional trade and investment flows. The corridor is expected to contribute to the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, deepening regional economic cooperation.
Joint projects in renewable energy between Trkiye and Azerbaijan focus on interconnectivity, green energy corridors, and infrastructure development. These initiatives support energy transition goals and establish regional energy security.
Trkiye and Azerbaijan's 'One nation, two states' vision may evolve into a 'common economic model,' integrating production standards, customs processes, and strategic investments. This model aims to create a resilient economic power center and serve as a regional example.
The Trkiye-Armenia normalization process is progressing, with steps such as railway initiatives and increased flights. Concrete outcomes, like the opening of land borders, are anticipated as part of the peace process. Technical preparations are underway, with progress in Azerbaijan-Armenia relations positively impacting normalization efforts.