GABALA / ISTANBUL

Kyrgyzstan handed over the chairmanship of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) to Azerbaijan on Tuesday during the 12th OTS Summit, which was held in Gabala with the theme "Regional Peace and Security."

In his address, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov highlighted that during its one-year chairmanship, Kyrgyzstan organized more than 124 high-level events aimed at strengthening unity within the organization, enhancing cooperation, and advancing shared goals.

He noted that Bishkek had prepared a “roadmap for cooperation” in the fields of economy, trade, investment, and finance within the framework of economic integration among member states.

Japarov extended gratitude to all OTS member countries for their support and trust during Kyrgyzstan's chairmanship and expressed confidence that Azerbaijan will continue to contribute to the organization's progress.

“I am convinced that under Azerbaijan’s chairmanship, the organization will continue its progressive development, strengthen its authority on the international stage, and implement new and significant initiatives for the benefit of all Turkic peoples,” he said.

He also emphasized that the summit’s theme, “Regional Peace and Security,” reflected one of the most pressing issues of today.

Referring to the situation in Gaza as a “political and humanitarian tragedy,” Japarov said the Kyrgyz people share the suffering of those affected and stressed the need for a peaceful and just resolution in accordance with international norms and principles.

Japarov concluded his address by inviting OTS leaders to participate as international observers in Kyrgyzstan’s upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for Nov. 30.