Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Informal Summit (Budapest, 2025)

The Turkic States Organization (TDT) Informal Summit is a diplomatic summit held on 21 May 2025 in Budapest, the capital of Hungary. This summit marks the first time in TDT history that it has been hosted by a member state with observer status, Hungary.

Turkic States Organization (TDT) Informal Summit, 21 May 2025 (Anadolu Ajansı)

Overview and Participants of the Summit

The 2025 informal summit of the Turkic States Organization took place on 21 May 2025 in Budapest, Hungary. Hungary, which holds observer status within the TDT, hosted the summit. This event is the first in the organization’s history to be hosted by an observer country.

Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orbán served as host of the summit. Attendees included President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of the Republic of Kazakhstan, President Sadyr Japarov of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of the Republic of Türkiye, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and TDT Secretary General Kubanychbek Omuraliev.

The summit was organized under the theme “Meeting Point of East and West,” highlighting the geographical position of the host country and Hungary’s role as a bridge between Europe and the Turkic world. Prior to the summit, leaders attended an official welcoming ceremony held at Varkert Bazar. President Erdoğan was received by Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán. Within the framework of bilateral meetings during the summit, President Erdoğan also held talks with President Aliyev of Azerbaijan and President Tokayev of Kazakhstan.

President Erdoğan arrived in Budapest on 21 May 2025 aboard the special aircraft “TUR.” He was greeted in Budapest by Hungarian Minister of Construction and Transport János Lázár, Director General of Protocol Anett Varga, Hungarian Ambassador to Ankara Viktor Matis, Turkish Ambassador to Budapest Gülşen Karanis Ekşioğlu, and embassy staff. Accompanying President Erdoğan were his wife Emine Erdoğan, Head of the Presidency of Communications Fahrettin Altun, and Chief Advisor on Foreign Policy and Security Akif Çağatay Kılıç.

Leaders attending the Turkic States Organization (TDT) Informal Summit, 21 May 2025 (Anadolu Ajansı)

In addition to the Council of Heads of State meeting, the TDT’s informal summit in Budapest included a meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM). The CFM meeting, held on 21 May 2025, was hosted by Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó. Foreign ministers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye, and Uzbekistan, along with TDT Secretary General Omuraliev, participated in the meeting.

Alongside the leaders’ speeches during the summit sessions, an award ceremony was held. Professor Dr. Aziz Sancar, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, was awarded the “International Ali Şir Nevai Award” by the Turkic States Organization for his contributions to the unity of the Turkic world. The award was presented by Kyrgyz President Japarov, with President Erdoğan and Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán in attendance.

As part of the summit program, a cultural event was held at the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest in honor of the heads of state and government. At the conclusion of the summit, Prime Minister Orbán and TDT Secretary General Omuraliev held a joint press conference.

Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting

As part of the Turkic States Organization’s informal summit in Budapest, the Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting took place on 21 May 2025. The meeting was chaired by Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó. Attendees included Foreign Minister Ceyhun Bayramov of Azerbaijan, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu of Kazakhstan, Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev of Kyrgyzstan, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan of Türkiye, Foreign Minister Bahtiyor Saidov of Uzbekistan, and TDT Secretary General Kubanychbek Omuraliev.

Turkic States Organization (TDT) Informal Meeting of Foreign Ministers in Budapest, 21 May 2025 – Anadolu Ajansı

During the meeting, consultations were held on agenda items to be discussed at the Council of Heads of State, under the theme “Meeting Point of East and West.” Secretary General Omuraliev provided an overview of the organization’s activities since the Bishkek Summit and presented the documents and proposals prepared for discussion at the Budapest summit.

Ministers of Foreign Affairs assessed existing and planned multilateral cooperation in the fields of transportation, energy, digitalization, trade, education, and cultural heritage. Within this framework, the activities of the TDT Representative Office in Budapest were also discussed. Opinions were expressed regarding the enhancement of its functionality, with reference to its mandate and regional communication capacity.

During the meeting, two documents were approved. The first is titled “Decision on the Appointment of the Executive Director of the Organization of Turkic States Representative Office in Hungary.” The second document concerns the decision to grant observer status to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) before the Turkish Academy.

The meeting also served as a platform for sharing updates on ongoing joint projects under the TDT framework, presenting proposals for enhancing the organization’s financial and administrative capacity, and conducting a preliminary assessment of the future activity calendar. In this context, the proposed documents and agenda items were forwarded to the Council of Heads of State.

Opening Address by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán

The opening of the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States was delivered by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. In his speech, he referred to the origin of the name Budapest, noting that “Buda” was the name of a brother of a great Turkic ruler, and stated that this etymology signifies the historical, cultural, and spiritual ties between Hungary and the Turkic states.

Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (TDT), 21 May 2025 (Anadolu Agency)

Orbán recalled Hungary’s status as an observer member of the TDT since 2018 and noted the development of relations between Hungary and the organization over the years. He referred to the Istanbul peace negotiations held under Turkey’s auspices and thanked President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for his direct contributions to facilitating the Russia-Ukraine talks.

Prime Minister Orbán highlighted that trade volume between Hungary and TDT member states had increased from 30 billion to 45 billion dollars, emphasizing the strategic importance of this cooperation for Hungary. He pointed to the economic stagnation and energy crisis within the European Union, stating that relations developed with the Turkic world have gained particular significance in this context.

Orbán also underscored Hungary’s support for the TurkStream Natural Gas Pipeline project and drew attention to its role in meeting Hungary’s energy needs. He thanked President Erdoğan for his support of the project and noted that gas shipments from Azerbaijan have created a new energy source for Hungary.

Summit Agenda and Strategic Themes

The main theme of the summit was set as “The Meeting Point of East and West.” Within this framework, discussions were held to deepen cooperation among member states in various fields, enhance institutional capacity, and update a common political vision.

Main agenda items addressed at the summit included transportation infrastructure, energy cooperation, digital integration, cultural diplomacy, secretariat budget, and institutional representation structures. Additional topics discussed included support for regional peace initiatives, the creation of shared symbols around the Turkish language and culture, increasing economic investments, and strengthening institutional coordination within the organization.

Preparations were underway for the Budapest Declaration, which is expected to be issued at the conclusion of the summit. The declaration is planned to serve as a framework document reflecting the long-term vision of the TDT and clarifying common positions within the organization to the public.

During the summit, proposals were raised to schedule joint projects, digitize transportation corridors, strengthen institutional representation, and expand mechanisms for cultural cooperation. In this context, efforts to integrate transportation infrastructure projects with logistics centers, diversify energy transmission lines, and establish digital platforms were evaluated.

Statements by Heads of State

Address by President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in his opening speech at the summit, thanked Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for hosting the event and extended best wishes to Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, who is serving as the current chair of the organization.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (TDT) held in Budapest, Hungary, on 21 May 2025 (Anadolu Agency)

He noted that this was the first time the summit was hosted by an observer country, underscoring that this reflects the high importance accorded to Hungary. In his address, he stated that the Turkic states are bearers of a deep-rooted heritage that unites the wisdom of the East with the dynamism of the West.

Erdoğan stated that one of the most severe disasters of modern times is unfolding in Gaza, where the civilian population is enduring a hellish reality. Referring to examples such as Cyprus, Karabakh, Bosnia, and Gaza, he emphasized the necessity of sensitivity and solidarity toward tragedies occurring beyond national borders.

Regarding proposals to institutionalize common cultural symbols, he announced that they would welcome the declaration of March 21 as the Organization of Turkic States’ Nowruz Commemoration and Celebration Day. He also noted their support for the efforts to designate December 15 as World Turkic Language Day at UNESCO’s 43rd General Conference and expressed their hope that these efforts would be finalized before the conference date.

He addressed the strengthening of institutional structures, stressing the need to equip the secretariat with additional capacities in administration, personnel, and budget. He stated that doubling the organization’s budget in the first phase would be beneficial.

Regarding the TDT Representative Office in Hungary, he highlighted its important role in strengthening relations with European institutions and expressed the view that the appointment of Balázs Hendrich, former Hungarian consul general in Istanbul, as its head would enhance its effectiveness. He also reported that they encouraged Hungary’s participation as an observer member in TÜRKSOY.

Erdoğan expressed satisfaction at Uzbekistan’s acceptance as a member of the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation. Emphasizing the strategic importance of the Central Corridor as a transport route, he stated that its success requires cooperation within the organization and support from member states. At the end of his speech, he noted that the organization had overcome many obstacles and prejudices in the past but that considerable distances still remained to be covered, and that this process must advance within the framework of brotherhood law.

Speech by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev expressed satisfaction with the development of bilateral relations with Hungary and announced that Azerbaijan has invested over $20 billion in Turkic States member countries. He outlined major projects in transportation infrastructure, including roads, railways, ports, shipyards, and air transport. He reported that transit shipments from Turkey and Central Asian countries through Azerbaijan reached 11 million tons as of 2024.

Azerbaijani President Aliyev at the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States, May 21, 2025 (Anadolu Agency)

Aliyev also stated that efforts are underway to establish a single digital platform to facilitate transport and trade in the Caspian Sea and announced that the capacity of the Alat International Commercial Sea Port will be increased from 15 million tons to 25 million tons. In addition to the eight international airports currently operational, he noted that a ninth airport will open soon and that three of these airports are located in territories liberated from occupation.

Speech by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov highlighted Hungary’s honorable and active observer status within the Organization of Turkic States and stated that the summit held in Budapest carries both historical and symbolic significance. He outlined major events planned during Kyrgyzstan’s chairmanship and expressed the expectation of active participation from member states. In this context, he announced the organization of the First Summit of Heads of Government and Deputy Heads of Government of the Organization of Turkic States in the autumn of the year and extended invitations to participants.

Japarov also noted that Kyrgyzstan’s trade volume with Turkic States countries had doubled over the past four years and expressed support for Uzbekistan’s membership in the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation. He stated that Hungary plays the role of a bridge between the European Union and the Turkic world, and that this role is reflected in institutional representation.

Speech by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed uncertainties and threats in the international system, noting that geopolitical and geo-economic tensions, regional conflicts, and the growing impacts of climate change constitute common threats. He therefore emphasized the need for Turkic states to develop joint positions and solutions to address current crises.

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States, May 21, 2025 (Anadolu Agency)

Mirziyoyev stated that the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law must serve as the basis for resolving international issues and drew attention to the importance of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s efforts to achieve a diplomatic resolution to the crisis in Ukraine. Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, he asserted that lasting peace is impossible unless a two-state solution is realized. He expressed serious concern over the violation of the ceasefire in Gaza.

Mirziyoyev emphasized the need to address the situation in Afghanistan and assessed the adoption of a joint statement on Afghanistan at this summit as evidence of the Organization of Turkic States’ attention to the issue. He also announced that he had proposed the signing of a draft “Eternal Friendship and Brotherhood Agreement” at the Baku Summit to deepen legally based strategic cooperation among Turkic peoples.

Mirziyoyev stated that the activities of the Turkish Investment Fund would contribute to increasing mutual investments among member countries, and proposed the establishment of a joint venture company and the creation of an investment portal. Reiterating Uzbekistan’s membership in the Turkish Culture and Heritage Foundation, he again offered to host its next meeting.

Delivery of the Ali Şir Nevai Award and Joint Cultural Initiatives

As part of the summit, cultural and symbolic events were also held in Budapest. In this context, Nobel Prize in Chemistry laureate Professor Dr. Aziz Sancar was awarded the “Ali Şir Nevai International Award.” The ceremony took place on 21 May 2025 at the Varkert Bazar in Budapest.

Ali Şir Nevai International Award presented to Professor Dr. Aziz Sancar by the Organization of Turkic States, 21 May 2025 (Anadolu Agency)

The award was presented to Professor Dr. Aziz Sancar by Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán also participated on the platform during the ceremony. The leaders honored Professor Dr. Sancar for his scientific contributions to the Turkic world. Following the presentation, Aziz Sancar delivered a brief thank-you speech.

Among the cultural proposals raised during the summit was the declaration of 21 March as the Organization of Turkic States’ Nowruz Commemoration and Celebration Day. President Erdoğan proposed this initiative during the meeting. It was also noted that efforts are ongoing to designate 15 December as World Turkic Language Day, following its proclamation at the 43rd UNESCO General Conference.

The summit agenda also addressed Hungary’s institutional participation in cultural cooperation. President Erdoğan highlighted that Hungary’s observer membership in TÜRKSOY was encouraged. Furthermore, Uzbekistan’s admission as a full member of the Turkish Culture and Heritage Foundation was welcomed with satisfaction.

The summit emphasized the Organization of Turkic States’ commitment to undertaking joint initiatives for the preservation and promotion of its cultural heritage. Preparations are continuing to institutionalize projects and commemorative days aimed at making visible the shared identity in the fields of culture, language and history.

Budapest Declaration and Key Decisions

On 21 May 2025, during the informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States held in Budapest, the Heads of State Council adopted the Budapest Declaration. The declaration consists of 71 articles reflecting the organization’s common vision and containing concrete decisions across numerous areas.

The declaration reaffirmed commitment to the Nakhchivan Agreement and underscored the need to strengthen intra-organization solidarity, political unity, economic integration and cultural cooperation within the framework of the Turkic World Vision 2040. The “Turkic World Charter” was recognized as a framework document supporting the shared Turkic identity.

The heads of state affirmed the necessity of enhancing regional integration in areas such as transportation, energy, trade, digitalization and agriculture. They reached agreement on promoting technical mechanisms including the e-Permit system, the Simplified Customs Corridor, information exchange protocols and transit transport procedures. It was also announced that the Turkish Investment Fund would formally commence operations.

An action plan aimed at strengthening the administrative and budgetary structure of the Secretariat was also approved. Member states were instructed to take into account project priorities submitted by them in order to increase the Secretariat’s budget and expand its personnel capacity.

Within the inclusive regional agenda, climate action initiatives such as COP29 and the Green Energy Corridors project were reflected in the document, with support expressed for Azerbaijan’s climate diplomacy efforts. Kazakhstan’s initiative to host the Regional Climate Summit in 2026 and its proposal for an international dialogue on the theme “Mountains and Climate” were endorsed.

In the cultural domain, decisions were taken to declare Aktau as the Turkic World Capital of Culture, to hold the Turkic Ski Centers Union Summit in Azerbaijan, to develop joint initiatives within UNESCO projects, and to conduct meetings of UNESCO National Commissions within the framework of the Turkic World Capital of Culture. The celebration of Nowruz as a common commemorative day within the organization will be implemented through events coordinated by the Secretariat.

In the Budapest Declaration, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), along with Hungary and Turkmenistan, is recognized as an inseparable part of the Turkish world. In this context, the TRNC’s contributions as an observer to the activities of the Organization of Turkic States have been welcomed. A statement has been added to the Declaration regarding the Cyprus issue: “There is a need to reach a negotiated, mutually acceptable, and implementable solution based on the existing realities on the island.” Furthermore, solidarity has been expressed in support of the Turkish Cypriot people’s aspiration to secure their inherent equal rights.

Cultural Event Held at the Hungarian State Opera

As part of the 2025 Budapest Informal Summit of the Organization of Turkic States, a non-official cultural event was organized under Hungary’s hosting. This program, held at the Hungarian State Opera, was arranged in honor of the heads of state and government attending the summit.

Hungarian State Opera, 21 May 2025 – (Anadolu Agency)