Q. Consider the following countries
1. Armenia
2. Azerbaijan
3. Croatia
4. Romania
5. Uzbekistan
Which of the above are members of the Organization of Turkic States?
a) 1, 2 and 4
b) 1 and 3
c) 2 and 5
d) 3, 4 and 5
Correct Answer: c) 2 and 5
Question from UPSC Prelims 2022 GS Paper
Explanation :
Organization of Turkic States Membership
The Organization of Turkic States (formerly known as the Turkic Council) is an international organization comprising some of the Turkic countries. The organization aims to promote cooperation between these countries in various fields such as economy, science, education, transportation, tourism, and more.
Current Members of the Organization
As of 14 Jan 2024, the members of the Organization of Turkic States are:
- Azerbaijan
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Turkey
- Uzbekistan
Additionally, Hungary has observer status in the organization.
Clarification on Non-Member Countries
Armenia is not a member of the Organization of Turkic States. Armenia is not a Turkic country, and its relationships with some of the Turkic states, especially Azerbaijan, are strained due to historical conflicts like the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute.
Croatia is not a Turkic country, and it is not a member of the Organization of Turkic States. Croatia is a Slavic country located in Southeast Europe and is a member of the European Union.
Romania is not a Turkic country, and it is not a member of the Organization of Turkic States. Romania is a Romance-speaking country located in Southeast Europe.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is “2 and 5,” which means Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are the countries among the list that are members of the Organization of Turkic States.
