Turkic states pursue linguistic and travel integration

Member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) are exploring deeper integration through linguistic and administrative measures. Discussions regarding a common Turkic communication language have resurfaced, following instances where officials from Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan were able to understand one another using their native tongues.

Linguist Ekber Qoshali suggests that a common language should not be an artificially created tool from an institute, but rather a natural evolution arising from increased contact between diplomats, scholars, and media. He emphasizes that existing national languages are distinct branches of a shared cultural tree rather than something to be replaced by a single artificial entity.

Simultaneously, efforts are underway to expand travel ease between member states. Hikmet Babaoğlu, a member of the Turkic Parliamentary Assembly, noted that allowing citizens to travel between OTS member states using only identity cards—similar to the current arrangement between Azerbaijan and Turkey—is a priority being discussed within the organization. While geopolitical and geoeconomic factors like the Trans-Caspian route are accelerating integration, Babaoğlu noted that legal and technical frameworks must first be resolved to implement such travel systems.