Turkic States Urge Inclusive Afghan Government, Enhanced Counterterrorism Coordination

Leaders of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) have called for the establishment of an inclusive government in Afghanistan, highlighting the country’s ethnic diversity and the significant presence of Turkic peoples as a “unique bridge” to the Turkic world.

In a joint statement released on 21 May, the OTS emphasised the necessity of stronger coordination to combat terrorism within Afghanistan. The organisation, founded in 2009 to foster cooperation among Turkic-speaking nations, comprises Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Türkiye and Uzbekistan.

Describing Afghanistan as a “neighbour and brother” to the Turkic world, the leaders underscored the nation’s deep religious, cultural and historical ties with member states. They also urged Kabul to control the cultivation, production and trafficking of narcotics and voiced concern over ongoing human rights challenges.

The statement further called for sustained international humanitarian assistance “in a coherent, coordinated and structured manner,” aiming to achieve “an Afghanistan at peace with its people, its neighbours, its region and beyond, as a full-fledged member of the international community.”

Acknowledging the plight of refugees, the OTS leaders advocated for the voluntary return of Afghan migrants in the region. They concluded by urging the Taliban authorities to pursue sustainable peace, national reconciliation, stability and development in Afghanistan.