Central Asia Monitoring Desk Islamabad
President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, H.E Kassym-Jomart Tokayev outlined his vision to strengthening the cooperation between the Turkic states and shared the journey of his country toward New Kazakhstan for development, prosperity, economic stability, human rights, youth and women empowerment and the reforms in the constitution to make it people friendly in his speech at the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States held in Turkistan, the spiritual capital of the Turkic world.
Hosted by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held on 15 May 2026 in Turkistan, the spiritual capital of the Turkic World, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development”.
The Summit gathered the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Ilham Aliyev; the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, H.E. Sadyr Zhaparov; the President of the Republic of Türkiye, H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan; the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, H.E. Shavkat Mirziyoyev; the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, H.E. Tufan Erhürman; and the Secretary General of the OTS, H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev.
The Chairman and Members of the Council of Elders of the OTS, as well as the Heads of the Turkic Cooperation Organizations, were also in attendance.
Kazakhstan’s successfull implemention of important initiatives as “Adal Azamat” (“Responsible Citizen”), “Just Kazakhstan,” “Taza Kazakhstan” (“Clean Kazakhstan”), and many others was the starting point of the President. He said, “Our key objective is to improve the well-being of our people and strengthen our statehood. Ultimately, the conceptual foundations of this comprehensive work are rooted in Yasawi’s philosophical heritage.”
He recalled that this year, during the Nauryz celebrations on the sacred land of Turkestan, he proposed the establishment of the Order of Qoja Ahmet Yasaui. In this regard, the relevant law was adopted, and he signed a special decree. Undoubtedly, this high award holds special significance for the entire Turkic world. He presented this highest distinction for the first time to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
He thanked the Uzbek side for its support in opening a new and unique mosque in Turkestan.
I express special gratitude to the President of Uzbekistan, the highly respected Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and to the entire Uzbek people for this sincere gesture. This facility, which embodies the unbreakable historical bonds of friendship between the Kazakh and Uzbek peoples, will hold a special place in the spiritual life of our countries. I believe it would be appropriate to name the mosque “Miromon Ata.” There is no doubt that the peoples of both countries will support this decision, as this sacred site will serve as a symbol of our enduring friendship.
President said, We live in an era marked by a complex and unstable geopolitical situation. In this period of turbulence, the unity of Turkic states is of particular importance, as we are bound together by centuries of shared history.Turkic states need to intensify economic and investment cooperation and consolidate their efforts for the sake of common progress. It is therefore highly significant that today’s summit is dedicated to the theme of “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development.”
Turkic States to Strengthen Cooperation on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development
Technological progress has become a factor of stability and security for countries around the world. This means that states that implement digital technologies in a timely manner will not be left behind in the march of progress.We need to consolidate the efforts in order not to fall behind in the process of technological modernization.Digital transformation and the introduction of artificial intelligence are intended to ensure the common progress of the Turkic world.
The transition to a digital state is a strategic priority for Kazakhstan.This year has been declared the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in our country.
The International Artificial Intelligence Center Alem.ai has been opened in Astana, and two supercomputers have been launched. The next objective is the creation of a “Data Center Valley.” This project will open broad opportunities for countries in the region to attract the world’s largest technology companies and international digital capital.
In order to transform Kazakhstan into a leading regional hub, work has begun to optimize migration procedures.
We have also introduced a “Golden Visa” for foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and highly qualified specialists. Individuals granted such a visa will enjoy equal access to public and financial services alongside citizens of Kazakhstan.
The Digital Code has been adopted, and the Law on Artificial Intelligence has entered into force. Particular attention is being paid to introducing digital infrastructure in the education sector, training teachers proficient in advanced technologies, adapting the education system to the abilities of each student, and protecting their personal data.
To implement these objectives, President signed a Decree on the introduction of artificial intelligence into the secondary education system.In the near future, the Digital Qazaqstan Strategy will be approved, defining the direction of the country’s digital development.
Recently, the Center for Digital Solutions for Sustainable Development was opened in Almaty. The project is being implemented with the support of the United Nations Regional Economic and Social Commission. In addition, in March, the international conference “Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development” was held in Shymkent with the participation of experts from the Organization of Turkic States.
At last year’s summit in Gabala, President Tokayev announced a number of initiatives related to digital development and cybersecurity. He proposed the establishment of Digital Monitoring and Digital Innovation Centers within the Organization of Turkic States, which would create new growth opportunities for OTS member states in the digital sphere.
President in his speech also emphasized the need to establish a Cybersecurity Council that would help identify vulnerabilities in the digital space of our countries and prevent threats to infrastructure. Kazakhstan has prepared a package of documents on these initiatives and submitted it for consideration to the member states of the Organization. Implementation of these measures corresponds to the mutual interests of our countries and will undoubtedly ensure greater efficiency and dynamic development in future cooperation.
H.E Tokayev presented a number of proposals.
First, in the trade and economic sphere, it is necessary to undertake joint efforts toward the mutual recognition of electronic documents and digital signatures among the member states of the Organization.
Second, the space sector is one of the key factors contributing to enhancing the competitiveness of Turkic states. Our countries possess the necessary scientific, technological, and financial potential for the systematic development of this area.
In particular, it is necessary to expand our cooperation through the implementation of joint projects in satellite communications, navigation, and monitoring. This will create opportunities to strengthen our technological independence and enhance our innovation potential. For example, we can highlight the significance of launching the “CubeSat-12U” scientific satellite.
Third, educational centers and scientific institutions are needed to train specialists in the fields of education and science. The exchange of experience, joint personnel training, and the introduction of advanced technologies are extremely important.
He propose the creation of a Network of Artificial Intelligence Centers of the Turkic countries.
Kazakhstan plans to open a new-format technological educational institution – the University of Artificial Intelligence.We are ready to allocate special grants for citizens of Turkic states to study at this higher education institution.We consider it advisable to organize an annual scientific and technological olympiad for young people from Turkic countries in the fields of programming, artificial intelligence, and advanced digital technologies.Financial support for the implementation of these initiatives could be provided by the Turkic Investment Fund.
This year, the Fund transitioned to a model focused on concrete projects.Its authorized capital has reached 600 million dollars. It can be increased.This is a strategic resource of special importance.
Fourth, at present, every country has technoparks for IT projects.President Tokayev propose establishing a joint center of IT hubs for the member states of the Turkic Council. The center could be named Turkic AI.A joint hub, which could be located at the Alem.ai center, will undoubtedly contribute to advancing our common interests.
Fifth, spiritual and cultural values must not be neglected. President called for support for the proposal to develop a draft Convention on the Preservation of the Heritage of Turkic Civilization.This document will serve as a legal foundation for the protection and promotion of the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkic peoples and will also contribute to expanding UNESCO’s activities in this field.
Sixth, it is necessary to intensify efforts to create a special Digital Platform, based on artificial intelligence, that will bring together materials related to the history and culture of the Turkic peoples. This project must be implemented in a multilingual format. This will allow anyone to explore and study the rich heritage of Turkic civilization online. Kazakhstan is ready to offer comprehensive digital solutions for these initiatives.
Seventh, taking into account the role of Turkestan in our spiritual heritage, I have decided to establish a Center of Turkic Civilization in this city. This center will provide opportunities for brotherly countries to conduct joint scientific research and implement cultural projects and educational programs. It will also contribute to strengthening our humanitarian cooperation. In order to organize the Center’s activities effectively, the scientific and academic potential of the Khoja Akhmed Yasawi International Kazakh-Turkish University should be utilized. This university will receive the necessary financial and other support.
The foundation-laying ceremony of the Center of Turkic Civilization was witnessed by all heads of members states at the sidelines of the summit.
In addition, we plan to establish a special center in Astana dedicated to promoting Steppe Civilization, where the history and culture of the steppe peoples will be widely promoted.
Another important issue: in the era of technological progress and humanitarian integration, it is necessary to develop a common terminological base for the Turkic languages. Recently, the Turkic Academy published an eight-volume terminological dictionary in English, Russian, and Turkic languages. This work will contribute to the unification of terminology and the strengthening of our common scientific space.
In this regard, I propose establishing an Interstate Terminology Commission, which would include representatives of relevant institutions and scientific experts from the member states of the Council.
Kazakhstan has expressed its support for the Russian project “Altai – the cradle of Turkic civilization.” In addition, we have put forward a proposal to establish the “Altai Dialogue Platform.”
Our country has also supported Türkiye’s initiative to establish the “Organization of Turkic States+” format, aimed at broadening the scope of cooperation. I believe there should be clear criteria for states and organizations that have expressed a desire to join this format.
Organization not a military alliance
It is clear that those who put forward such speculations have ulterior motives and seek to sow discord. Kazakhstan considers it necessary to reject such claims. For us, strengthening the unity of the Turkic world is an extremely important and urgent priority. The Organization is neither a geopolitical project nor a military organization.
It is a unique platform designed to strengthen trade and economic, high-tech, digital, and cultural and humanitarian cooperation among brotherly nations. This approach is a key priority for our country, as it is clearly effective from the perspective of our national interests.
We all understand the wisdom of this saying: “Altau ala bolsa, auyzdagy ketedi, torteu tügel bolsa, töbedegi keledi” (“If six are divided, they will lose what they already have; if four stand united, they will gain what seems beyond reach.”).
The Turkic world must always remain united, stay true to its goals, and move forward together.
Turkistan ! Spiritual Center of Turkic World
Since time immemorial, Turkestan has served as a guiding star for our ancestors.
This city, with its ancient history, is known as the gateway between two worlds and the cradle of the Turkic peoples.For centuries, sacred Turkestan has been a spiritual center uniting the entire Turkic world. The Mausoleum of Hazret Sultan, located here, is regarded as a symbol of spiritual unity and historical continuity. Khoja Ahmed Yasawi made an invaluable contribution to enriching the worldview of brotherly peoples. He promoted universal human values, inspiring people to noble deeds, productive work, and adherence to moral principles. This outstanding thinker was able to integrate Islam into the spiritual fabric of Turkic culture. He left behind priceless works and a rich intellectual legacy.
His reflections and hikmets (words of wisdom) represent a unique spiritual treasure of the Turkic peoples. The values upheld by our great ancestors remain as relevant today as ever. That is why we attach particular importance to studying and promoting the humanistic ideas of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi.
Today’s Turkestan
Turkistan is a remarkable city that combines the spirit of antiquity with modern innovation.The economic potential of the region is growing year by year. In 2025, the region’s economy grew by 9.3%, while its total output exceeded 10 billion US dollars. Investments worth 3.5 billion US dollars were attracted.
