Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev addressed the informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in Turkistan on May 15, firmly rejecting claims that the grouping is a geopolitical project or military alliance.

"Recently, there have been voices describing our union as a military alliance. It is obvious that those spreading such fabrications have ulterior motives and seek to sow discord," Tokayev said.

He emphasized that the OTS is "a unique platform aimed at strengthening trade, economic, high-tech, digital, and cultural-humanitarian cooperation among fraternal states."

Tokayev added that this position is an "important priority" for Kazakhstan and is "undoubtedly effective from the standpoint of national interests."

The Organization of Turkic States (formerly the Turkic Council) includes Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan. Hungary, Turkmenistan, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus hold observer status. Its stated goals include enhancing mutual trust, political solidarity, economic and technical cooperation, and preserving the historical and cultural heritage of the Turkic world.

Source: www.gazeta.uz