Strengthening Cooperation with Turkic States Is Key During EU Presidency

Minister of Foreign Affairs Péter Szijjártó expressed a strong commitment to enhancing cooperation with the Organization of Turkic States (OAS) during Hungary’s upcoming EU Presidency, which starts in July, recognizing mutual benefits.

The Minister highlighted the significance of Hungary’s observer status in the OAS, emphasizing the growing importance of Central Asia and the Turkish world amid geopolitical shifts and challenges.

In a meeting with Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary-General of the OAS, Péter Szijjártó underscored the need for intensified collaboration between the EU and the Turkic states, especially in light of new trade routes emerging due to the war in Ukraine and ensuing sanctions.

He emphasized the potential for these partnerships to enhance both the EU’s competitiveness and the economic development of the Turkic states.

Mr. Szijjártó noted Hungary’s early recognition of the strategic importance of Central Asia and the Turkic world, evident in the significant increase in trade since 2010. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of people-to-people contacts, exemplified by the popularity of scholarship programs for students from member states of the OAS.

The launch of the Turkic Investment Fund, to which Hungary will contribute USD 100M, was welcomed by the Minister as an opportunity for Hungary to participate in the region’s rapid economic growth and bolster its own economy. He emphasized the potential for Hungarian water and agricultural technologies to address challenges faced by Central Asian countries, with the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences playing a pivotal role.

Expressing gratitude for Mr. Omuraliev’s visit, Szijjártó reiterated Hungary’s commitment to strengthening cooperation between the EU and the OAS  during its EU Presidency.

Via MTI; Featured Image: MTI / Soós Lajos