Organization of Turkic States and Hungary in New Emerging World Order

In an increasingly multipolar and fragmented world, the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) is emerging as a key regional bloc with growing geopolitical importance. Strategically positioned between global actors such as Russia, China, and the European Union, the OTS plays a vital role in enhancing regional stability, promoting economic cooperation, and amplifying the voice of Turkic nations on the global stage.

Originally founded as a cultural platform, the OTS has evolved into a dynamic platform for intergovernmental coordination. It facilitates regular engagement at presidential and ministerial levels, encouraging deeper cooperation in trade, energy, infrastructure, education, and diplomacy. As the world enters a new era of great power competition and shifting alliances, the OTS serves as a centre of gravity in Eurasia, fostering resilience and regional unity.

Among its most strategically significant members are Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, and Hungary as an observer – all considered keystone states due to their pivotal geographic and economic roles. Alongside Türkiye, a recognised middle power, and Kyrgyzstan, which is important for complete connectivity, these countries anchor the OTS and drive its collective agenda. Their strategic decisions are central to the stability and prosperity of the wider Silk Road region.

Hungary, an observer state since 2018, plays a unique and increasingly influential role within the OTS. As a gateway between the West and the East, Hungary has embraced a pragmatic foreign policy known as the “Eastern Opening,” launched by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in 2010. This approach has led to the formation of strategic partnerships with all five OTS member states, underpinned by political dialogue, trade agreements, and cultural exchange. Hungary’s participation symbolises the growing appeal of the OTS beyond its traditional core. It serves as a bridge between the EU, the US, and the dynamic economies of Inner Eurasia, whose increasing strategic geopolitical role, young populations and emerging consumer markets are attracting Western interest.

This event will explore the evolving role of the OTS and highlight Hungary’s potential as a strategic connector. By fostering partnerships that span continents, the OTS – with Hungary’s support – is positioning itself as a cornerstone of 21st-century regional cooperation and global dialogue.

Detailed Program:

9.00-9.30 AM – Registration

9:30-10:45 – Welcome & Opening Remarks

• John O’Sullivan, President, Danube Institute
• H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary General, Organization of Turkic States (OTS)

11:00-12:30 Hungary – An Opening Gate for the US and the EU Into the Turkic World
Panel discussion

• Balázs Hendrich, Executive Director, Representation Office of the OTS in Hungary
• István Kiss, Executive Director, Danube Institute
• Dr. Vasa László, Chief Advisor, Senior Research Fellow, Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA)

Moderator: Ibrahim Mammadov, Researcher, Danube Institute

Details:

Date: April 30, 2025
Venue: Lónyay-Hatvany Villa, 1 Csónak Street, 1015 Budapest
(Entrance: Aranybástya Restaurant)
Registration: starts at 9.00 am
Language: English

Participation is free; however, due to limited seating, pre-registration is required.

We reserve the right to modify the program.