The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) held a special flag-raising ceremony on 12 March 2025 in front of the OTS Secretariat headquarters in Istanbul, marking the formal completion of the transition to its revised flag. The event was attended by Secretary General H.E. Amb. Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan H.E. Samir Sharifov, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan H.E. Alibek Bakaev, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic H.E. MederAbakirov, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Türkiye H.E. Berris Ekinci, and Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan H.E. Bobur Usmanov, as well as distinguished guests.

The decision to adopt the new flag was taken during the 11th Summit of the Council of Heads of State on 6 November 2024 in Bishkek. The updated design, reflects the centuries-old Turkic statehood, unity, and strength rooted in the shared cultural heritage of the Turkic world.

Speaking at the ceremony, OTS Secretary General H.E. Omuraliev highlighted the importance of this symbolic transition, stating:

“This flag embodies the strength of our brotherhood, the depth of our cooperation, and the bright future we are building together. It stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to enhancing institutional capacity and deepening cooperation across the Turkic world.”

Following the remarks of the Deputy Foreign Ministers of Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye, the OTS flag was formally raised by the Secretary General and the Deputy Foreign Ministers of the OTS countries. This moment reaffirmed the Organization’s commitment to fostering regional integration, economic collaboration, and cultural solidarity among its Member States and Observers.

The ceremony concluded with an official group photoin front of the newly raised flag, symbolizing the unity and shared aspirations of the OTS family.