Fırat Purtaş

This study explores Türkiye’s role in fostering political, economic, and infrastructural integration among Turkic states, particularly within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and through the development of the Turan Corridor. Since the 1990s, Türkiye has strategically engaged with Central Asia and the Caucasus, emphasizing non-coercive diplomacy, cultural ties, and economic collaboration. Unlike external powers such as Russia, China, and the European Union (EU) which often pursue dominance through economic leverage or political influence Türkiye has positioned itself as a trusted partner, prioritizing regional cooperation and connectivity. The paper highlights Türkiye’s leadership in key energy and transport projects, including the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline, the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP), and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars (BTK) railway, reinforcing the Middle Corridor’s strategic importance. Additionally, the study examines the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war, which has increased EU engagement in Trans-Caspian connectivity. Through bilateral and multilateral platforms, Türkiye has facilitated deeper integration among Turkic states, advancing a vision of regional autonomy while balancing geopolitical competition between China and the West. The research argues that cultural cooperation is gradually transforming into institutionalized political integration, shaping the future of Turkic unification.