THE GREEN ROAD FOR THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE TURKIC WORLD
THE GREEN ROAD FOR THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE TURKIC WORLD
Recently, there have been numerous topics capturing the attention of those following the international arena. However, an important issue that remains in the background of this dynamic agenda is the Turkic World. The initiatives undertaken to achieve the unity of the Turkic World are known only to those who specifically follow the situation.
It is evident that a comprehensive and multidimensional strategy must be pursued to unite the Turkic World. At the same time, highlighting certain themes and accelerating the process is also crucial. This process can be supported through cultural, economic, political, and technological collaborations. Additionally, with infrastructure investments, regional cooperation and integration can be strengthened, while a system that promotes equal opportunities can be developed. Adopting such a system could lead to the construction of a cosmopolitan structure similar to that of the European Union.
Defining key policy areas and ensuring their development in a way that enhances competitiveness in today’s world is essential for establishing and strengthening the unity of the Turkic World. For this reason, a development plan that will take the lead in innovation, science, and the highly relevant issue of sustainability is necessary.
For the Turkic World to be successful and strong, a unified economic model, political system, legal framework, and social structure that plays an integrative role in the international arena are required. When considering the frameworks of innovation, science, and sustainability, the steps already taken, along with those to be taken in the future, can be assessed as follows.
To achieve cultural unity and identity building, it is important to establish a structure similar to the Erasmus programs introduced by the European Union. Naming this program "Fergani" would emphasize both science and unity. Additionally, the name Fergani is being kept alive through the space technology company founded in 2022 under the leadership of Selçuk Bayraktar. The political steps needed for cultural unity and identity building can be further developed through the recently discussed Common Language Policy. Furthermore, cooperation in education, shared historical and cultural awareness, and the inclusion of Turkic culture at all levels of education programs are essential. In this regard, lifelong learning principles can be supported through international festivals, Turkic World art fairs, as well as music and literature projects. Additionally, long-term collaboration with non-governmental organizations can be planned.
To transform into a strategic structure similar to the European Union, the use of a common currency, a common market, free trade, and investment funds, along with their alignment with specific policy frameworks, is necessary. In particular, investment in joint infrastructure projects, energy, transportation, and agriculture should be encouraged. For the realization of this strategic planning, the activation of transportation and free movement is crucial. However, in order for this to develop within a sustainability framework, the Turkic World needs a green road.
The Green Road project can be addressed under the Transportation and Logistics Infrastructure category. The main goal is to strengthen the Turkic World’s transportation network. Within the scope of the Middle Corridor Project, strengthening railway and highway networks connecting Turkic states and increasing the number of direct flights to these states will serve this purpose. However, ensuring transportation within a sustainable framework and connecting the Turkic World would require the construction of a railway extending from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus to the Khakassia Republic. The construction of this green railway, planned with a biological framework in mind and featuring green-star-certified accommodation facilities at station points, would be a major leap toward future unity. This will enable more modern and eco-friendly transportation through high-speed trains. With the integration of the Zangezur Corridor, a seamless transportation network will be established.
The construction of eco-bridges and the use of state-of-the-art trains within this green road project will result in lower carbon emissions. This green road, which will also help keep air pollution at a lower level, will occupy less space compared to highways, making land use more efficient. By minimizing the risk of harming biodiversity, it will also create a system that provides economic and social advantages through careful planning of the surrounding areas. As a more sustainable and cost-effective transportation option for rural areas, it will contribute to the existence of a unified and sustainable Turkic World.
With the hope that the Turkic World remains economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable throughout human history…
Dr. Elif HABİP