(MENAFN) Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Monday emphasized that self-development is essential for the progress and stability of Turkic nations.

In remarks to Azerbaijani media in Gabala, where the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Council of Foreign Ministers convened, Fidan said the world is undergoing major transformations that are reshaping global power dynamics — changes that also affect the Turkic region.

“But the institutionalization of the Organization of Turkic States and its increasingly coordinated actions make us more resilient to crises. This is the institutional stance we jointly present,” he stated.

Fidan noted that enhancing the economic, infrastructural, technological, and defense capacities of each member state strengthens the collective power of the Turkic world.

“When each strong state comes together, a stronger structure emerges. Therefore, as long as we continue on our current path, God willing, we will face a Turkic world more resilient to global crises,” he said, adding that the topic would be a key issue during the leaders’ meeting in Gabala on Tuesday.

Expressing appreciation for Azerbaijan’s hospitality, Fidan said: “We would like to extend our respects to (Azerbaijani) President Ilham Aliyev. We have been to (the capital) Baku many times, and all meetings have been held there, but introducing and hosting the leaders of the Turkic world in such a beautiful city is truly remarkable.”

He went on to explain that Türkiye’s foreign policy is grounded in maintaining regional stability, which, he said, requires a threefold approach: reducing conflicts, fostering fair economic cooperation, and building durable institutional ties.

“First, to calm or end wars and conflicts as much as possible. Second, to develop economic cooperation fairly so that everyone benefits. Third, to institutionalize relations and regional structures to make them more sustainable," he said.

"You can see this perspective reflected in our work in the region and in our relations and regional initiatives with the Turkic world," he added.

Fidan reiterated that Türkiye’s regional efforts aim to use its influence to promote peace and stability.

“We use Türkiye’s regional power, prestige and leadership to bring stability to the region.

"Unfortunately, in previous periods, the dominant perception in global relations was either competition, dominance or submission. Now we have moved beyond that, adopting a foreign policy based on cooperation and stability that is more humane, moral and beneficial for all. This is the path we continue to follow,” he added.

MENAFN07102025000045017640ID1110161594