CPEC-BRI and Turkic States: Pathway to Eurasian Integration
The evolving geopolitical climate has elevated the strategic value of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), both of which offer robust platforms for regional integration and economic collaboration. These initiatives provide vital alternatives amid global instability—ranging from tensions in the Middle East to power struggles across the Asia-Pacific, Black Sea, and Arabian Sea. In this context, the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and its increasing interest in CPEC presents a timely opportunity for transformative cooperation.
Both CPEC and the OTS possess significant potential for mutual growth through financial integration, trade expansion, infrastructure development, and qualitative industrialization. Central Asian nations—including Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan—have demonstrated a keen interest in Gwadar and Karachi dry ports. Türkiye's inclusion in CPEC projects further signals the possibility of a new Eurasian route, enhancing trans-regional trade and connectivity.
CPEC primarily emphasizes infrastructure and economic cooperation between China and Pakistan, while the OTS focuses on fostering collaboration among Turkic states. Their synergy—especially in transportation, energy, food security, and maritime cooperation—could serve as a strategic counterbalance to rising global tensions. Furthermore, BRI’s China-Central Asia-West Asia Economic Corridor (CCWAEC), which stretches across 17 West Asian nations and five Central Asian countries, underscores the growing overlap and potential integration with OTS efforts.
The OTS, established in 2019, aligns with BRI's second-decade objectives. Member nations like Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Türkiye—along with observer states including Turkmenistan and Hungary—are poised to strengthen energy and transport corridors through Trans-Caspian routes and regional digitisation efforts.
Cumulatively, OTS countries contributed USD 593.8 billion in Q1 2025 to the global economy, boasting a 5.04% growth rate—twice the global average. Their combined trade turnover reached USD 369.3 billion, emphasizing rising competitiveness in key sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, energy, and agriculture. Standouts include Kyrgyzstan with 13.1% growth, Uzbekistan (6.8%), and Kazakhstan (5.6%), driven by infrastructure reforms and FDI inflows.
Türkiye’s role is especially critical. As a geographical and strategic bridge between Europe and Asia, it holds potential to catalyse broader regional realignments. Its emerging relationships with BRICS, SCO, and deepening ties with Russia and China further reinforce its significance in Eurasian geopolitics.
In conclusion, integrating the efforts of CPEC-BRI and OTS can yield far-reaching benefits. This cooperation could shield member nations from outdated geopolitical rivalries, facilitate energy and food security, and boost socio-economic progress. As global power continues to shift eastward, the combined potential of these platforms signals a powerful new era of connectivity and strategic alignment for Eurasia and beyond.