On October 7 of this year, the 12th Summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) was held in Gabala.
One of the most noteworthy points at the event was President Ilham Aliyev's proposal to hold joint military exercises in Azerbaijan in 2026, considering the military, defense, and security cooperation among OTS member states.
Military expert Ədalət Verdiyev told Modern.az that the holding of the upcoming joint military exercises of the Organization of Turkic States in Azerbaijan is a topical issue.
The military expert emphasized that, regardless of what anyone says or wants, the Organization of Turkic States is transforming into a new global power center:
“One of the most important elements for the formation of such a power center is the holding of various events, including military exercises, with the participation of the organization's members. Naturally, the holding of these events will create certain resonances in the international arena. Real steps are already being taken to demonstrate the unity and equality of such a power center and its common security concept. The Organization of Turkic States is not directed against any third country. The doors of this organization are also open to other countries. Third countries can also become observers or full members of this organization”.
Ə.Verdiyev said the following about the objectives of the military exercises:
“The military exercises of the Organization of Turkic States will focus on regional security, joint fight against terrorism, military coordination among states, and enhancing the joint operational capabilities of these countries' armed forces. The joint exercises of the Organization of Turkic States will elevate mutual relations among the military structures of the member brotherly, friendly, and allied countries to a higher level”.
