Despite the growth in the combined economic potential of the member states and observers of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), trade and economic relations within the organization still lag significantly behind actual potential.
According to a Report correspondent in Azerbaijan's Shusha, deputy secretary general of the OTS, Merey Mukazhan, made the remark at the 3rd Meeting of the Heads of OTS Competition Authorities and the Competition Forum.
He noted that further deepening economic cooperation is necessary to strengthen the Turkic states' position in the global economic system.
"Antimonopoly authorities play a crucial role in this process. Effective competition policy helps stimulate innovation, increase productivity, strengthen investment flows, and protect consumer rights," Mukazhan stated.
He emphasized that economic modernization, strengthening digital connectivity, and supporting innovation within the OTS remain key priorities.
"Economic modernization and digital connectivity must be at the center of the regional agenda. Economic cooperation will be one of the key topics of the 13th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States, which will be held this year in Türkiye. The organization continues to consistently take steps to create a more integrated and future-oriented financial ecosystem. The support and expertise of competition authorities are particularly important in this process. The development of regional competition policies can contribute to the harmonization of member states' approaches and the elimination of cross-border problems," noted the deputy secretary general of the OTS.