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Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa

e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between

Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025

411

THE ROLE OF LEADERSHIP DISCOURSES IN THE ONTOLOGICAL

CONSTRUCTION OF THE ORGANISATION OF TURKIC STATES AS A REGIONAL

POWER

KÜRŞAD GÜÇ

kursad.guc@gmail.com

Assistant Professor, Gendarmerie and Coast Guard Academy (Türkiye), Department of

International Security and Terrorism. ORCID: 0000-0003-2007-9580

Abstract

This study examines the influence of the discourses of member state leaders on the ontological

construction of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) as both a political and social entity.

While the OTS is an international organisation that prioritises cooperation among Turkic-

speaking states by emphasising political, economic, cultural, and social dimensions, it is

simultaneously in the process of constructing its own identity. Accordingly, the OTS is not

merely a political formation but also seeks to establish itself within the international system

with a distinctive identity rooted in a shared past, language, and culture, projected into the

present and the future. In this respect, the discourses of leaders are significant as they reveal

how the OTS positions itself within rapidly changing social spheres of the international system.

Therefore, this study employs discourse analysis and content analysis methods to

demonstrate how the political leaders’ statements of the OTS member states contribute to

shaping the organisation’s ontological construction.

Keywords

Organisation of Turkic States, Turkic World, International Organisation, Ontological

Construction, Discourse.

Resumo

Este estudo analisa a influência dos discursos dos líderes dos Estados-membros na construção

ontológica da Organização dos Estados Turcos (OTS) como entidade política e social. Embora

a OTS seja uma organização internacional que prioriza a cooperação entre os Estados de

língua turca, enfatizando as dimensões política, económica, cultural e social, ela está

simultaneamente em processo de construção da sua própria identidade. Assim, a OTS não é

apenas uma formação política, mas também procura estabelecer-se no sistema internacional

com uma identidade distinta, enraizada num passado, língua e cultura comuns, projetados no

presente e no futuro. Nesse sentido, os discursos dos líderes são significativos, pois revelam

como a OTS se posiciona dentro das esferas sociais em rápida mudança do sistema

internacional. Portanto, este estudo emprega métodos de análise de discurso e análise de

conteúdo para demonstrar como as declarações dos líderes políticos dos Estados-membros

da OTS contribuem para moldar a construção ontológica da organização.

JANUS.NET, e-journal of International Relations

e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

412

Palavras-chave

Organização dos Estados Turcos, Mundo Turco, Organização Internacional, Construção

Ontológica, Discurso.

How to cite this article

Güç, Kürşad (2025). The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the

Organisation of Turkic States as a Regional Power. Janus.net, e-journal of international relations.

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations, VOL. 16, Nº.

2, TD1, December 2025, pp. 411-433. https://doi.org/10.26619/1647-7251.DT0525.22

Article submitted on 29th May 2025 and accepted for publication on 02nd September

2025.

JANUS.NET, e-journal of International Relations

e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

413

THE ROLE OF LEADERSHİP DİSCOURSES İN THE ONTOLOGİCAL

CONSTRUCTİON OF THE ORGANİSATİON OF TURKİC STATES AS A

REGİONAL POWER

KÜRŞAD GÜÇ

Introduction

This study focuses on the discourses of the leaders of member states in the process of

shaping the identity of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) as an international

organisation. It examines how references to shared history, culture, language, and

identity contribute to the ontological construction of the OTS and its positioning within

the international system. In this regard, leaders’ public statements, summit declarations,

and official communiqués are analysed through the combined use of discourse analysis

and content analysis.

Discourse analysis, which rests on the claim that social reality is constructed through

language and discourse -and that behind this reality lie identity narratives highlighted by

political elites- functions as a method that makes such realities visible (Gee, 2011; Wodak

& Meyer, 2015). Content analysis, in turn, seeks to identify structures, themes, and

patterns across selected texts, including discourses (Krippendorff, 2013). Accordingly, by

applying both approaches, this study aims to reveal not only the link between identity

narratives and political elites in the construction of the OTS as a social organism, but also

the recurring themes, frameworks, and patterns embedded in these narratives.

Within the discipline of international relations, scholarship rooted in social constructivism

emphasises that social realities are not given; rather, the identities, interests, and actions

of actors are constructed through recurring practices and discourses and are continuously

reconstructed over time (Wendt, 1999; Onuf, 1989; Kratochwil, 1989). In this

framework, the concept of “ontological construction” refers particularly to the processes

through which collective identities are formed and the reasons for actors’ existence in

the world are discursively articulated. From this perspective, the OTS is not only

established as a functional platform from institutional, legal, and political standpoints,

but it is also subject to processes of “ontological construction” that seek to assign it a

meaningful rationale for existence. The statements of member state leaders -

emphasising historical continuity, shared memory, and collective values- play a critical

role in defining “who” the OTS is. In doing so, these discourses support the construction

of the organisation as a distinctive actor within the international system. Ontological

construction, therefore, allows the OTS to be understood not only as an institutional

framework but also as a site of identity formation and existential grounding.

JANUS.NET, e-journal of International Relations

e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

414

For any actor (individual, state, or organisation) to perceive itself as an entity, it must

first experience a sense of continuity within a historical space. The construction of a linear

existential trajectory between the past, present, and future is made possible through

biographical narratives. From the accumulated realities of the past, certain elements are

selectively transferred to the present and projected into the future. In this way, the actor

is portrayed - both to itself and to others - not as an arbitrary or momentary presence,

but as an entity possessing historical continuity. The biographical narrative used in

constructing such historical continuity is made manifest through the discourses of the

actor itself or the elite that constitute the actor.

The formation of collective identity through ontological construction is not exclusive to

the Organisation of Turkic States. Similar patterns have been documented in other

regional and international organisations, where identity emerges alongside functional

cooperation. The European Union, for example, has been widely explored as a case in

which a shared European identity is fostered through institutional narratives that

emphasise common history, values, and aspirations (Risse, 2010). In a similar vein,

ASEAN has cultivated an “ASEAN identity” or promoted “Asian values” through summit

declarations and diplomatic rhetoric (Acharya, 2014). Building on these examples,

international organisations with a distinct cultural and identity-based background emerge

not only as arenas of functional practice but also as platforms where existential dynamics

are ontologically constructed. In this sense, analysing the OTS within the framework of

ontological construction, particularly given its foundations in shared history and cultural

dynamics, holds significant theoretical value.

Considering the Organisation of Turkic States’ (OTS) growing influence in recent years,

the organisation has articulated a bold vision not only through its institutional

mechanisms but also in cultural terms. Therefore, identifying the direction and purposes

of the OTS’s identity construction is meaningful not only for analysing the organisation

per se, but also for understanding how it positions itself within the international system.

Although recent academic studies on the OTS have largely focused on its historical

development, institutional structure, and political, social, and economic potential,

research addressing its social construction remains scarce. Moreover, no existing study

has directly examined the discourses of leaders as part of this social construction process.

The existing literature on the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has primarily been

shaped around themes such as regional geopolitical cooperation (Gündoğdu, 2023;

Emeklier, Taş & Yılmaz, 2022), political and economic potential (Aydilek, 2022; Çınar &

Uzun, 2022; Korkmaz & Soğukoğlu Korkmaz, 2024), historical development and

integration processes (Akçapa, 2023; Tekir, 2023; Uzunağaç, 2025; Altymyshova &

Omurova, 2025), and legal-institutional frameworks within the broader context of

international organisations (Erkiner & Eray, 2022; Jane, 2025). However, the constitutive

role of leadership discourses in the collective identity construction of the OTS has not

been sufficiently explored. Although a few discourse-oriented studies exist, most

research tends to assess the OTS through its functional dimensions (see Özsoy, 2023).

This article seeks to address this gap by treating discourse not as a supplementary

element, but as a central mechanism in the construction of institutional identity. In doing

so, it offers an original perspective that positions discourse analysis at the core of

JANUS.NET, e-journal of International Relations

e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

415

understanding the ontological formation of the OTS through the lens of leadership

rhetoric.

At this point, the official statements issued by the organisation as an institution, along

with the discourses produced by the leaders of its member states, have played a

significant role in the ontological emergence of the OTS. As reflected in the leaders’

discourses, the OTS is not a coincidental mechanism designed merely to address

immediate practical needs in interstate relations. Rather, it aspires to be a meaningful

socio-political entity rooted in historical continuity. In this sense, the OTS seeks not only

to resolve political and economic issues and foster cooperation in these domains, but also

to generate a shared sense of belonging around a specific historical identity. In this

context, the leaders of the member states frequently emphasise common ties of history,

culture, language, and faith, expressing that the organisation is not merely a coalition of

interests but also a “civilisational family.” These discourses contribute to the ontological

(existential) construction of the organisation while simultaneously reinforcing its political

legitimacy.

The dataset for this study is composed of speeches, official statements, and summit

communiqués delivered by the heads of state from the member countries of the

Organisation of Turkic States (OTS) between 2019 and 2024. This timeframe was chosen

deliberately to focus on the post-rebranding phase of the organisation -from the Turkic

Council to the OTS-and to examine how this institutional shift was reflected discursively.

A purposive sampling method was employed, prioritising speeches that clearly reference

notions of shared history, cultural ties, linguistic unity, identity, and forward-looking

visions. Each speech or relevant textual segment containing expressions of collective

identity was treated as a unit of analysis. The coding process followed an inductive logic:

initial open coding helped identify recurring themes and symbolic patterns, which were

then organised through axial coding into four central categories - historical continuity,

spatial belonging, cultural and linguistic commonality, and future vision. Grounded in the

principles of critical discourse analysis, this coding approach enabled the study to explore

the ways in which language contributes to the formation and projection of institutional

identity.

Accordingly, the first part of the study presents the theoretical framework regarding how

collective identity is constructed through discourse. Within this framework, the study

elaborates on key concepts such as historical narratives, collective memory, and political

myths, based on the understanding that identity construction is not fixed but

continuously reproduced through discursive practices. The second part focuses on the

discourses of leaders in the context of the OTS, categorising them under four main

themes: historical continuity, spatial belonging, cultural unity, and future vision. It then

evaluates the contribution of these discourses to the construction of the organisation’s

institutional identity. In the conclusion, the study discusses how these discourses shape

the ontological existence of the organisation in light of the findings and offers a general

assessment.

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e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

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December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

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The Ontological Construction of Collective Identity and Discourse

Collective identities are not fixed or natural entities; rather, they are constructs that are

formed through discourse within social processes (Hülsse, 2006: 396; Slocum-Bradley,

2010: 51). This approach asserts that identity is essentially a socially constructed

practice, continuously reproduced through language, metaphors, narratives, and

historical memory. According to Hülsse (2006: 397), metaphors do not merely reflect

existing realities but also create new social realities. Slocum-Bradley (2010: 55-57)

emphasises that identities are dynamically positioned through narrative structures and

discursive acts. While narratives assign specific roles to individuals and groups, discursive

acts enable these roles to gain visibility within social reality. Therefore, the process of

identity construction is not static but is constantly reshaped through discursive

interventions.

Historical narratives play a central role in the construction of collective identity. According

to Schmidtke (2023: 3), community identities are formed through collective memory by

generating a shared perception of the past and a belief in the continuity of this

sharedness into the future. This understanding allows individuals to perceive themselves

as part of a broader political and cultural community, thereby reinforcing elements of

collective identity such as solidarity and loyalty.

This shared world of meaning fosters a sense of “we” within the community, enabling

individuals to feel a sense of belonging to a collective identity. Common narratives

provide guidance about who individuals are, where they come from, and what values

they embody. These narratives generate emotional bonds and a shared cultural memory

within the community. In this way, identity emerges not merely as the sum of individual

experiences but as a social construct shaped around meaningful stories and shared

values. Historical narratives not only serve to remember the past but also reinterpret it,

imbuing it with new meanings that serve today’s identity constructions (Bilgin, 2013:

26).

As Christoffer Kølvraa (2015: 62-63) argues, identity is not shaped by the linear

transmission of historical events, but rather through the selection and interpretation of

events within the framework of narratives. Unlike the discipline of history, collective

memory does not claim objectivity; instead, it is organised through mythical structures

that serve the present needs of the community. Similarly, Olick and Robbins (1998)

assert that collective memory is not merely about remembering the past but is closely

related to the structures of meaning that shape community identity.

In this context, Paul Ricoeur’s (1984: 64-71) theory of narrative time argues that the

narratives of elites bring the past together in a coherent and meaningful way. These

narratives go beyond providing a chronological account of past events; they construct a

historical consciousness that unites individuals or actors around a shared past, values,

and goals, thereby fostering a collective will. Through such narratives, societies achieve

social cohesion by reinforcing belief in the historical continuity of their social structures.

In this way, the past not only shapes the present and the future but also lends legitimacy

to these processes.

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e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

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Collective memory, in this sense, is not simply a collection of personal recollections. It is

a socially constructed phenomenon. As Misztal (2003) argues, memory serves not only

as a record of collective experiences but also as a framework of meaning that sustains

group identity and cohesion. Through shared symbols, emotions, and references to the

past, collective memory shapes what a community values, what it chooses to remember,

and how it defines itself across generations.

Importantly, past events are not remembered neutrally - they are reinterpreted in ways

that align with the community’s current moral and existential concerns. This dynamic

process of reconfiguration demonstrates that memory is not fixed; rather, it evolves in

response to cultural and political needs. From a Kierkegaardian perspective (1985: 12-

14), memory acts as “recollection,” not in the sense of passive recall, but as a deeply

emotional and moral re-engagement with the past that generates new meaning (Kølvraa,

2015: 69-71).

Ines Gabel (2013: 250-251) also underscores that collective memory is inherently

ideological. The process of remembering - which events are highlighted, how they are

interpreted, and why they are passed on - reflects the power structures, value systems,

and identity needs of the present moment. In this context, collective memory functions

as a tool that serves the interests of specific actors and reproduces group identity.

Memory thus becomes not merely a reflection of the past, but an ideological space that

shapes the social imagination of both the present and the future. To build a meaningful

future, the past is internalised by being reinterpreted through the lens of a hoped-for

future - a process that Giddens (2014: 104) describes as the re-evaluation of the past in

light of the future. The transmission of the past becomes the foundation for the future,

resulting in what Giddens (2014: 117) refers to as the “colonisation of the future.”

Similarly, Motzafi-Haller (1994: 417-418) underscores the foundational role of historical

narratives in identity construction. These narratives not only convey the past but also

play a key role in clarifying group belonging and differentiation. According to Motzafi-

Haller, historical narratives also determine how a community spatially situates itself; in

other words, identity construction is not solely a temporal but also a spatial process. In

this framework, historical narratives draw social boundaries by linking group identity to

spatial references, defining the inside and the outside, and thus shaping the community’s

perception of “us” and “the other” (Motzafi-Haller, 1994: 420–423).

Bikmen (2015: 310–312), who investigates the impact of historical narratives on group

performance, draws particular attention to the positive influence of themes such as

collective victory and resistance on individual motivation. Such narratives enable

individuals to perceive their roles and positions within the group as more meaningful and

valuable. Themes that resonate within collective memory - such as resistance,

victimhood, or heroism - strengthen solidarity and the sense of belonging among group

members.

The impact of these narratives is not limited to individual motivation; they also enhance

the group’s capacity for collective action and internal cohesion. Symbolic events from a

shared past become foundational justifications for the group’s present political and

cultural stance. In this context, historical narratives create a framework for future unity

by recalling how past hardships were overcome and how the group maintained its

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e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

418

cohesion. These narratives reinforce the belief that the group is capable of collective

action not only in the past but also in the future, thereby sustaining the continuity of

collective identity.

As Olivier Schmitt (2018: 488-489) points out, strategic narratives are only effective if

they resonate with existing political myths. The myths produced by political elites are

narratives that bring communities together and ensure the continuity of these shared

identities, rendering past experiences meaningful for the present (Schmitt, 2018: 490-

491). These narratives, which selectively shape communities’ perceptions of the past and

construct a shared historical consciousness, are, according to Bell (2003), influential both

in the formation and legitimation of collective identities. Thus, political and social myths

do not merely facilitate the remembrance of the past but also transmit the system of

values derived from historical experiences into the present. Moreover, myths that

highlight what has occurred in the past also indicate the cultural and political foundations

upon which the present and future can be constructed (Schmitt, 2018: 491-492).

Building on Bell and Schmitt, discourses that foreground political and historical myths

become effective mechanisms in the construction of collective identity.

The role of elites -particularly political elites- is crucial in the selective transmission of

historical narratives and myths from the social memory of communities into the present.

The remembrance of the past is not a passive or spontaneous process. On the contrary,

these myths are actively promoted by political elites as tools for addressing current

societal challenges and constructing a meaningful future. In this sense, political myths

possess a constitutive and ideological dimension. As such, this process not only enables

communities to establish a link with their past but also unites them around shared values

and goals, fostering the creation of a collective sense of “We.”

The meanings attributed to past experiences strengthen collective belonging and provide

a foundation for projecting this identity into the future. From this perspective, identity

construction is not limited to recalling the past; it is also a forward-looking strategic

practice. It determines how political communities imagine their future, define their aims,

and construct a shared vision. Identity, therefore, emerges not simply as a narrative of

the past but as a performative discourse that directs the future.

Ontological Construction through Discourse in the Organisation of Turkic

States

The disintegration of the Soviet Union paved the way for the Turkic states to come

together under Türkiye’s leadership, leading to the establishment of the Summit of Heads

of State of Turkic-Speaking Countries in 1992. This summit laid the institutional

foundations of what would later become the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS). Initially

designed to foster friendship and cooperation among Turkic-speaking countries, the

summit gradually expanded its scope to include economic and cultural collaboration. With

the signing of the Nakhchivan Agreement in 2009, the platform acquired the structure of

an international organisation under the name “Turkic Council,” and in 2021, it was

renamed as the Organisation of Turkic States.

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e-ISSN: 1647-7251

VOL. 16, Nº. 2, TD1

Thematic Dossier - Emerging Powers In-between Global and Regional Organizations

December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

Kürşad Güç

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The transformation of the OTS from a leaders’ summit into an international organisation

reflects not merely institutional evolution, but also the effort to consolidate and

institutionalise a collective identity rooted in a shared civilisational legacy. Member state

leaders have frequently described this unity as a family bond grounded in common

ancestry and a strong cultural heritage. This perspective positions the organisation not

simply as a technical intergovernmental mechanism but as a custodian of collective

memory and identity. In other words, this approach aligns with Anderson’s (1991)

conceptualisation of “imagined communities,” whereby geographically distant groups of

people are brought together through shared narratives and identities.

From this perspective, the OTS not only seeks to recall a common past and unite

communities across different geographies but also aspires to build a shared future

through a strategic vision. Expressions frequently appearing in institutional documents

and leaders’ discourses, such as “shared history,” “walking together into the future,” and

“civilisational roots,” demonstrate the organisation’s promotion of an inclusive Turkic

identity that transcends the national identities of its member states.

In the sections that follow, the construction of the institutional and collective identity of

the OTS through leadership discourse will be examined under four main themes. First,

the identity formation grounded in historical continuity and common origins will be

discussed. Second, the narratives of spatial belonging articulated through specific cities

and regions will be analysed. Third, the construction of collective identity and future

projection along the axis of shared language and cultural unity will be presented. Finally,

the role of future-oriented visions and the OTS’s search for international influence, as

expressed in leadership discourse, will be evaluated in terms of their contribution to

identity production.

Historical Continuity and Common Origins

In the ontological construction of the OTS, one of the central themes emphasised in the

discourses of member state leaders is the notion of shared historical origins among the

states and communities that constitute the Turkic World. The idea that the OTS is not a

conventionally formed organisation designed to meet specific political, social, economic,

environmental, or military needs, but rather a natural - even inevitable - entity emerging

through the pendulum of history is evident in their frequent references to a common

past. In this context, the statements of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan hold a significant

place in shaping the identity of the OTS within a shared historical consciousness of the

Turkic World. Erdoğan has described the Turkic World as “brothers nourished by the same

spiritual heritage, sharing a common past, culture, and ancestors,” and declared, “We

will exert all our efforts to make the coming period the Century of the Turkic World”

(Anadolu Agency, November 7, 2024), demonstrating a strong will to carry this historical

continuity into the future. President Erdoğan’s statement constructs not only a narrative

of historical and cultural unity but also actively produces a sense of collective “we”

identity. His emphasis on “the same spiritual heritage,” “common past,” and

“brotherhood” implies the continuation of a long-standing unity into the present. By

invoking collective memory, the discourse creates an emotional connection and serves

to legitimise the ontological continuity of the Organisation of Turkic States. Such

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December 2025, pp. 411-433

The Role of Leadership Discourses in The Ontological Construction of the Organisation of

Turkic States as a Regional Power

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statements evolve into political myths in the sense described by Bell (2003), contributing

to the reconstruction of Turkic identity on the basis of historical continuity. They also

serve to update collective memory, turning the past into a resource for today’s identity

and tomorrow’s vision.

Another notable statement by Erdoğan further illustrates this narrative: “God willing, the

time is near when the sun will once again rise from the East. The Turkestan region, which

for thousands of years has been the cradle of civilisation, will once again become a centre

of attraction and enlightenment for all humanity” (Milliyet, November 13, 2021). This

metaphorical expression, invoking the image of the sun rising again from the East,

implies a return to historical roots and suggests that this return will bring about a

universal awakening. Such discourse aligns with Ricoeur’s (1984: 64-71) theory of

narrative time, reconstructing past events in a way that grants meaning to contemporary

political identity. At the same time, it constructs a mythical narrative that positions

Turkestan not merely as a geographical location but as a foundational space of

civilisation.

This historical vision is also reflected in the recent summit declarations of the OTS, which

emphasise “civilisation-based cooperation.” The strategic language of institutional

documents advancing in harmony with leadership discourse indicates that discourse

directly contributes to the organisation’s institutional identity formation process.

In this context, the remarks of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev during the 2022

Summit of the Organisation of Turkic States held in Samarkand are particularly

noteworthy: “The Turkic world has an awe-inspiring great history, great ancestors, and

a unique richness. And I believe that the Turkic world has a great future. We will build

this future together with our hardworking, generous, and noble people”

(uzbekistan.org.ua, November 11, 2022). This statement reflects Mirziyoyev’s respect

for the past of the Turkic world and his aspiration to construct a common vision for the

future. This also highlights that the Organisation of Turkic States is not solely rooted in

historical connections, but is equally shaped by common aspirations and values. In his

statements, President Mirziyoyev underscores the importance of building a shared

identity and collective future for the Turkic world, reflecting how this vision is actively

supported at the highest political level. Such leadership narratives do more than express

goodwill - they play a vital role in reinforcing the OTS’s institutional identity and in

fostering a deeper, more cohesive collaboration among its member nations. It is evident

that such narratives play a crucial role in reinforcing the historical legitimacy of the

organisation.

A similar approach is articulated by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, who has

emphasised that the OTS represents not only a political union but also one of identity.

While underlining the priority of the organisation in the international arena, Aliyev

described the Turkic world as a large family to which its members belong (Aliyev,

February 14, 2024). His emphasis on “family” highlights the unity of ancestry, culture,

and history among the Turkic states. According to Aliyev: “This unity is natural; it is

rooted in common origins. Therefore, this unity is stronger than all others. Our unity is

based on ethnic and cultural roots” (Anadolu Agency, June 6, 2024). In this discourse,

identity is presented - through what Slocum-Bradley (2010) refers to as a discursive act

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- as a natural, immutable, and historically given reality, thereby legitimising political unity

within a historical and cultural framework. Aliyev’s discourse provides an answer to the

question “Who are we?” in both historical and contemporary terms, thus reinforcing the

institutional identity of the organisation.

Kazakhstan’s founding leader and the intellectual architect of the OTS, Nursultan

Nazarbayev, particularly emphasised the shared historical identity of Turkic peoples

during the period when he proposed the establishment of the Turkic Council (now the

OTS). In his essay “The Seven Facets of the Great Steppe,” Nazarbayev underscored the

common origins and cultural heritage of the Turkic peoples (Kozyrev, 2019). According

to Nazarbayev, the OTS is “not a new bloc” but rather a sign that “Turkic civilisation is

beginning to revive” (TRT Avaz, November 12, 2021). Through this discourse,

Nazarbayev conveyed that the OTS should not merely function as a platform for

cooperation but should also emerge as a cultural revival movement grounded in historical

roots.

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also explicitly expressed themes of identity and

belonging within the Turkic world following Uzbekistan’s accession to the OTS. In his

speech at the Samarkand Summit, he stated: “Our Turkic world has an enviable great

history, great ancestors, and a unique richness, and I believe that a magnificent future

awaits the Turkic world. This summit in the ancient city of Samarkand will mark a new

stage of growth in the history of the Turkic world” (Arıdemir, 2022: 131). Mirziyoyev’s

statements illustrate how the historical past of the Turkic peoples contributes to

contemporary unity and reinforces the role of the OTS in this process. His characterisation

of the organisation as a new phase in Turkic history reveals a framework that emphasises

historical continuity within the biographical narrative of the OTS.

Hungarian President Viktor Orbán, whose country holds observer status in the OTS, has

also made favourable remarks regarding the identity and cultural roots of the Turkic

world. He declared: “The Hungarian people are connected to the Turkic peoples by a

historical and cultural heritage that stretches back centuries. In Europe, we were scorned

as the barbaric Huns and the people of Attila. Yet, our people take pride in this historical

legacy” (BBC News Turkish, November 14, 2021). According to Orbán, the unity of the

Turkic states is the result of historical continuity. Similarly, the President of the Turkish

Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ersin Tatar - another observer member -

emphasised that “the unity of brotherly countries that share the same language, religion,

culture, ancestry, and roots gives strength to the Turkic World,” thus highlighting the

OTS as a continuation of deep historical roots (TRNC Presidency, November 6, 2024).

Such leadership discourses do not merely construct a historical narrative; they also lay

the ideological groundwork for that narrative. As Schmitt (2018) points out, strategic

narratives become effective only when they resonate with existing political myths. In this

context, the discourses of OTS leaders reinforce both internal solidarity and external

legitimacy by keeping shared historical references alive. These discourses enhance the

functionality of collective identity in terms of both emotional belonging and institutional

orientation.

Thus, leadership discourses not only reinforce the power of historical narratives in

constructing collective identity, but also imagine the Turkic World not merely as a legacy

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of the past, but as a collective subject of the future. In this framework, history becomes

not merely a story of the past, but a constitutive element in envisioning a shared future.

This approach regards historical continuity not only as a mode of remembrance but as a

strategic narrative architecture that ensures institutional continuity.

Spatial Emphasis and Shared Places

In the production of collective identity within the OTS, spatial representations function

as powerful instruments of construction - no less significant than historical continuity.

Certain cities and geographical regions are not merely geopolitical entities; they also

serve as symbolic carriers of historical narrative. Place names become “sites of memory”

laden with associations, thereby rendering the perception of common origin tangible for

the community (Assmann, 2011). The emphasis on place in the discourse of OTS leaders

reflects not only spatial belonging but also the attribution of historical meaning. In this

regard, space is not merely a physical territory, but a symbolic dimension that represents

collective memory and identity.

During the opening ceremony of the Informal Summit of OTS Leaders held in Shusha in

2024, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev stated: “Today we are in Shusha, the Cultural

Capital of the Turkic World. This is an event of great historical and spiritual significance.

This decision demonstrates our unity” (President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, June 15,

2024). In the same speech, Aliyev highlighted the emotional significance of Shusha for

the Turkic world, declaring: “This unique city evokes a deep sense of respect and pride

not only in the hearts of the Azerbaijani people but in those of all Turkic peoples”

(President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, March 15, 2024). These statements demonstrate

that Shusha is encoded as a cultural and historical centre not only for Azerbaijan but for

the broader Turkic World. Aliyev’s emphasis on “unity” generates a sense of identity and

cultural solidarity through a spatial reference.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan similarly highlighted the cultural and symbolic

significance of Shusha during his visit on June 15, 2021, stating: “I believe the messages

we convey from Shusha, Azerbaijan’s cultural capital that has produced many artists

throughout history, will be highly significant for our region and the world” (Anadolu

Agency, June 15, 2021). Erdoğan’s discourse illustrates how space is transformed from

a site of historical memory into a strategic focal point for contemporary shared identity

and future vision. In line with Pierre Nora’s (1989) concept of lieux de mémoire - sites of

memory - cities like Shusha function as material anchors of collective identity. Such

spaces not only preserve the memories of the past but also become sites where those

memories are emotionally and symbolically reproduced. Places associated with war,

resistance, or reconquest, in particular, serve as symbols through which communities

reinforce their identities and regenerate their shared values and sense of belonging. As

in the case of Shusha, the act of reclaiming or reasserting control over a space symbolises

not only a victory but also enables the community to embody its cultural and historical

continuity through spatial terms.

Similarly, the geographical and cultural elements articulated by Nursultan Nazarbayev in

his essay “The Seven Facets of the Great Steppe” express the idea of spatial continuity

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encompassing not only Kazakhstan but the entire Turkic World (Kozyrev, 2019). This

discourse positions the geography inhabited by Turkic peoples as the cradle of civilisation

and construct’s identity unity through a shared spatial heritage. Nazarbayev’s approach

defines geography not merely by physical borders, but through historical, cultural, and

mythological layers of meaning. His narrative, which unifies the roots of Turkic peoples

along a historical trajectory stretching from the Altai Mountains to Anatolia, aims at

constructing a common consciousness of space.

This spatial consciousness continues to be reinforced through contemporary political

visions. In his 2024 statement during Kazakhstan’s term presidency of the OTS, President

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, under the slogan “TURKIC ERA!”, emphasised that the

preservation of the common Turkic heritage and cultural geography is among the

organisation’s top priorities (OTS, February 15, 2024). Tokayev’s discourse signals a

strategic orientation not only toward preserving cultural heritage but also toward

sustaining a shared spatial identity at the institutional level. In this context, space is

understood not only as a medium of remembrance but also as a foundation for

reproduction, ownership, and the construction of a future vision.

A similar emphasis is found in the speech delivered by OTS Secretary General

Kubanychbek Omuraliev during the 9th Great Hun-Turkic Kurultai in Hungary. Omuraliev

stated that the event not only commemorates the common Turkic-Hungarian roots and

cultural heritage but also strengthens the spatial projection of the Turkic World within

Europe (OTS, August 19, 2023). Such institutional representations function - much like

Michel Foucault’s (1986) concept of heterotopia - as spaces that simultaneously reference

the past while representing alternative identity imaginaries. As in the case of Hungary,

even spaces that lie geographically outside the centre are integrated into the

organisation’s narrative at a symbolic level as performative stages of identity.

The discourse of spatial continuity also allows for the reinterpretation of cultural

geography within a political framework. Thus, historical spaces transform into symbols

that carry not only the memories of the past but also today’s political objectives and

future strategic visions. Such discourses position space as the carrier of cultural memory,

drawing the boundaries of collective identity while simultaneously constructing a shared

vision of fate for the Turkic World. This clearly demonstrates that space is not merely

geographical, but a tool for forging deep historical and emotional connections.

Symbolic narratives about space are frequently and prominently featured in the

documents of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS). In this way, selected places have

come to acquire a constitutive role in the ideological and ontological construction of the

organisation. The Final Declaration of the 2021 Istanbul Summit, which included

proposals such as organising a “Silk Road Rally from the Danube to the Orkhon Valley”

and completing the “Sacred Sites of the Turkic World” project, clearly demonstrates the

importance attributed to the symbolic value of space (OTS, 2021). Similarly, the 2022

Samarkand Summit Declaration designated Samarkand as the “Cultural Capital of the

Turkic World,” aiming to reinforce the narrative of a shared civilisational identity through

spatial references (OTS, 2022).

Thus, specific places are intended to function not merely as geographical entities but as

instruments in the construction of collective identity. Certain locations, beyond their

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cultural or historical significance, are imbued with symbolic meanings that reflect the

ideals and aspirations of the Turkic world. Drawing on Foucault’s (1986) concept of

heterotopia, such spaces serve both as sites of historical memory and as imagined arenas

for collective purpose. In this regard, places like Shusha carry multilayered meanings:

they simultaneously render cultural belonging visible and project the vision of regional

integration that the OTS seeks to promote. Consequently, spaces are transformed into

strategic sites where identity is materialised, collective memory is transmitted to the

present, and the spatial dimension of future expectations is articulated.

Thus, spatial references in institutional documents reinforce the historical continuity,

cultural proximity, and shared civilisation narratives of the OTS. Through these spaces,

which materialise the narratives, collective identity gains authenticity, emotional

connection, and a visual-ideological foundation. The discursive framework constructed

through common cities, sacred regions, or historical geographies redefines the borders

of the Turkic World not only in a physical sense but also in a symbolic realm. In this way,

spatial references evolve into strategic tools that enhance the OTS identity’s capacity for

emotional connection and strengthen the sense of belonging.

Common Language and Cultural Unity

Another fundamental theme that reinforces the identity of the OTS is the emphasis on

shared language and cultural commonality. In the discourse of leaders, these themes are

positioned as strategic tools for the formation of a collective consciousness and its

transmission to future generations. As Anderson (1991) points out, language lies at the

core of meaning-making in the construction of “imagined communities.” A common

language is not merely a means of communication, but also a vehicle for shared belonging

and cultural cohesion.

In his speech at the 2022 Samarkand Summit, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s

general emphasis on the common history and future of the Turkic world highlighted the

pivotal role of linguistic unity and cultural integration in ensuring the sustainability of

unity within the OTS. This aspect does not emerge merely as a result of a motivation for

symbolic solidarity. Generations of different countries are intended to be raised with a

shared consciousness and identity. Therefore, efforts such as creating a common

alphabet, increasing interaction among national education systems, and harmonising

curricula represent not only a practical and technical endeavour but also aim to foster

convergence among Turkic communities belonging to different states and to build a

collective identity. The inclusion of common myths and narratives into national curricula

lays the groundwork for the formation of collective identities that go beyond individual

state borders and are hoped to be carried into the future.

The harmonisation of national education around selected common narratives contributes

not only to intellectual alignment but also adds emotional layers to the collective identity.

The existence of new generations raised around shared values facilitates the transfer of

the OTS into the future in ontological terms and constitutes an important part of the

organisation’s vision for the future. This point is clearly evident in the speech of President

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the 11th OTS Summit, where he emphasised the necessity of

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linguistic and cultural unity for the effective and influential existence of the Turkic world.

Erdoğan stated, “We are working meticulously on the common Turkic alphabet. If we can

adopt a unified alphabet, we will surpass a historic threshold and achieve a great

embrace,” thereby underscoring that alphabet unification signifies not merely a technical

reform but a transformation of identity (QHA, November 8, 2024). His statement reveals

that the common alphabet initiative represents a symbolic milestone in the construction

of a shared identity, rather than simply a linguistic adjustment.

In this context, Erdoğan’s discourse is not just a declaration of political intent but also an

example of a strategic narrative that reveals the emotional and cultural dimensions of

linguistic integration. Alphabet unity, consistent with Halbwachs’s theory of collective

memory (as cited in Kølvraa, 2015: 67), functions as a carrier of shared history and

cultural memory. Moreover, as Schmitt (2018) argues, strategic discourses gain efficacy

when they resonate with existing political myths. Erdoğan’s metaphor of a “great

embrace” transforms the notion of alphabet reform into a powerful mythological narrative

that fosters a sense of cultural unity.

The impact of such discourse extends beyond institutional documents; it also serves as

an ideological foundation that contributes to the construction of collective identity in the

public sphere. Therefore, Erdoğan’s statement demonstrates that the common alphabet

holds a foundational function not only on a political and cultural level but also

symbolically, positioning it as a core instrument in the formation of a common Turkic

identity. The discourse surrounding the common alphabet reflects a strategic attempt to

transmit a shared identity to future generations. Concepts such as a “common alphabet”

and joint “education initiatives” are not merely technical tools; they function as

ideological instruments for the reproduction of collective identity. This narrative

constructs a future-oriented vision in which identity is continuously rearticulated through

discourse.

At the informal summit held in Shusha in 2024, the President of the Turkish Republic of

Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and OTS observer member Ersin Tatar, Uzbek President Shavkat

Mirziyoyev, Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, and the host, Azerbaijani President

Ilham Aliyev, all emphasised the cultural significance of Shusha as an important symbol

for the unity of the Turkic World (President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, March 15,

2024). These statements by leaders highlight the role of cultural symbols in the

construction of a shared identity and demonstrate the unifying impact of cultural spaces

through collective memory.

Another important example of cultural unity reflected in discourse within the OTS is the

celebration of Nowruz. At the 2024 Nowruz celebrations held in Ankara under the

auspices of the OTS Secretariat, Turkish President Erdoğan described this holiday as a

“symbol of ancient values, peace, and brotherhood” and proposed that Nowruz be

celebrated as a “common day of commemoration and festivity for the Turkic World” (BBC

News Turkish, March 12, 2025). Similarly, OTS Secretary General Baghdad Amreyev

described Nowruz as “one of the most distinguished shared cultural values of the Turkic

World” and emphasised its deep historical roots as well as its role in strengthening unity

and solidarity (OTS, March 20, 2022).

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These approaches to Nowruz show that this holiday is not seen as an ordinary traditional

celebration but, rather, is coded as a cultural symbol of strategic importance for the

entire Turkic World. The emphasis on a holiday celebrated annually across the Turkic

World at the discursive level is the result of an effort to strengthen common belonging

and to make emotional unity visible. In this context, shared cultural rituals are

highlighted as performative functions for collective identities. It contributes both to the

internal legitimation of historical and cultural narratives strengthened through leadership

discourse and to the external projection of a message of shared belonging.

In his message on the occasion of Kyrgyzstan’s Manas Epic Day, then Secretary General

of the Turkic Council, Baghdad Amreyev, described the Manas Epic not only as the cultural

property of the Kyrgyz people but as “a shared spiritual and cultural heritage of the entire

Turkic World” (OTS, December 4, 2020). Amreyev’s statement is a discursive example

of the collective identity the OTS seeks to construct through shared cultural elements.

Presenting the Manas Epic not solely as part of Kyrgyz identity but as a symbol of

collective memory shared across the Turkic World demonstrates how national narratives

are reframed for the purpose of regional identity construction. Within the OTS’s emphasis

on common language and culture, this approach illustrates how symbolic narratives that

reinforce historical ties among members are instrumentalised for collective identity

production. Baghdad Amreyev’s statement exemplifies how individual national traditions

are being recontextualised within a shared Turkic civilisational framework. Rather than

presenting cultural values as isolated elements of national heritage, such discourse

reframes them as part of a common symbolic reservoir that binds OTS member states

together.

These expressions demonstrate that collective identity is sustained not only through

remembering the past but also through projecting cultural continuity into the future. By

prioritising shared initiatives in language, alphabet, education, and cultural policy, the

leaders of the OTS articulate a vision of the organisation that transcends conventional

political cooperation. In doing so, the OTS is positioned as a civilisational Project -one

that aspires to shape future generations through a unified cultural legacy. This

perspective reveals that cultural transmission functions not only as a pedagogical tool

but also as an ideological and identity-forming mechanism. Joint initiatives in education,

alphabet reform, and culture serve as tools that enable member actors to envision a

shared history and future.

At this point, it becomes clear that discourses in the context of identity construction do

not remain at a merely symbolic level; rather, through discursive acts, they produce

institutional realities. When considered alongside Benedict Anderson’s theory of imagined

communities, shared cultural projects and alphabet policies emerge as concrete practices

that facilitate the construction of a supra-identity within multinational frameworks. Thus,

discourses do not merely generate emotional belonging - they also give rise to

institutionalised practices that reinforce that belonging. Accordingly, the discourses of

OTS leaders should be interpreted not only as a reflection of the past but also as a

performance of identity that engages with the present and projects into the future.

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Future Imagination and Shared Vision

In the institutional identity construction of the OTS, the future-oriented discourses of its

leaders constitute not only declarations of current political objectives but also

foundational elements of a collective imagination. As Schmitt (2018) emphasises,

strategic narratives do not merely serve to legitimise the present—they also offer

communities a sense of common direction for the future. The effectiveness of this

orientation depends on the narrative’s resonance with collective memory and existing

political myths. In this context, the future-focused statements of OTS leaders indicate

that the organisation is not only anchored in the past but is also progressing toward a

shared future.

During the 2022 Samarkand Summit, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan declared: “As the

Turkic World, thank God, we are stronger today than we were yesterday. Our family

council, built on a foundation of spiritual unity, has transformed into an international

organisation that stands firmly on its feet and moves forward confidently toward the

future” (Takvim, November 11, 2022). This discourse is not merely an evaluation of the

present but also a declaration of confidence and strategic orientation regarding the

future. Erdoğan positions the OTS as an entity that carries the legacy of the past into the

future, showing that the will to shape the future has become an institutionalised

narrative.

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in the same summit, stated: “As the countries

of the OTS, we must contribute to the resolution of regional and global issues and become

a significant force. To overcome threats, we must unite our strength” (Haber7, November

11, 2022). This statement underscores the potential of the OTS to be not only a cultural

union but also a political and strategic actor. It demonstrates that the identity

construction of the OTS is framed not solely in symbolic terms but also in functional terms

within the realm of international relations.

Emphases on the organisation’s potential to emerge as a strong actor that bridges the

past and influences the future are clearly reflected in the discourses of its leaders. The

future-oriented statements of the leaders concerning the OTS reflect not only their belief

in its institutional continuity but also the formation of a shared strategic vision.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev emphasised that, given the OTS’s geopolitical position

and its natural and human resources, it could become a global centre of power. He

expressed his confidence with the assertion: “The day will come when all the world’s

problems will be resolved through consultation with the Organisation of Turkic States”

(Anadolu Agency, June 6, 2024). Aliyev’s discourse indicates that the Organisation of

Turkic States seeks to be regarded in the future not only as stronger and more effective,

but also as a more influential actor. The expressions used in Aliyev’s speech, such as “all

the world’s problems” and “consultation,” show that at a time when the global system is

experiencing various ruptures, the OTS is positioned not merely as an alliance concerned

with the issues of its own members, but as an actor with a high capacity for international

influence. The expectation attributed to the OTS in this regard both strengthens the

common sense of belonging among member states and societies, and at the same time

brings the organisation to the fore as an actor with significant potential for influence in

the eyes of others (the international community). Similarly, Kazakh President Kassym-

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Jomart Tokayev pointed to a comparable vision by highlighting that the OTS has quickly

become a “respected organisation” whose visibility and influence in the international

system are increasing (TRT Avaz, November 6, 2024).

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s statement, “We will work with all our strength

to make the upcoming era the Century of the Turkic World” (Anadolu Agency, November

7, 2024), stands out as the strongest expression of an effort to position the OTS as a

long-term regional power hub. These discourses contribute not only to the organisation’s

current political agenda but also to its ontological construction; they directly address the

questions of what the OTS is and what it aspires to become, defining its institutional

identity within the framework of a future-oriented vision. The global vision articulated

most clearly by Aliyev and Erdoğan illustrates the OTS’s pursuit of becoming not just a

platform for cooperation but a political and cultural subject in the international system.

Moreover, these discourses, by emphasising the organisation’s continuity across past,

present, and future, reveal an effort to construct a secure ontological subjectivity for the

OTS.

Such discourses also find resonance in the “Turkic World Vision 2040” document adopted

at the 2021 Istanbul Summit. The document sets forth the objective of transforming the

Turkic World into a more active actor in international relations, a culturally integrated

entity, and one that is adaptable to technological developments (OTS, 2021). This

document is not merely a technical strategic text; it also provides an ideological

framework concerning the raison d’être of the OTS. In alignment with Anderson’s (1991)

concept of “imagined communities,” this framework illustrates how a shared vision of the

future reinforces communal belonging.

In this context, the future-oriented emphases in the leaders’ discourse demonstrate that

the continuity of the OTS’s identity is ensured not only through remembrance of the past

but also through the construction of a shared vision. This vision strengthens the sense of

belonging within member communities while simultaneously repositioning the OTS as

both a regional and global actor.

Conclusion and Evaluation

Discourse is not merely a reflective but also a constitutive and transformative element in

identity construction. In post-structuralist international relations literature, identities are

not fixed, natural, or predetermined structures; rather, they are continuously reproduced

through social practices and discourse. According to this approach, the question of “who”

an actor is is determined not by what it does, but by how it defines itself and how it is

positioned by others. Discourse constructs identity through historical narratives,

collective memory, symbols, and visions of the future. In this regard, actors respond to

the questions “who are we?” and “who are we not?” through discursive frameworks.

For international organisations, this process is even more pronounced. Given their multi-

actor composition, identity construction must be carried out through discourse. Within

this framework, institutional documents, summit declarations, and leaders’ speeches do

not merely convey information - they shape the existence, meaning system, and

collective belonging of the organisation.

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This study highlights the significance of the discourses of member states and

organisational leaders in the ontological construction of the Organisation of Turkic States

(OTS) as a social and political entity. The political narratives emphasised in leaders’

discourses not only point to an effort to legitimise interstate cooperation, but also aim to

bring together the societies of member states around a shared past, common values and

symbols, cultural affinities, and a vision for the future. Within these discourses, four main

themes come to the fore: historical continuity, spatial belonging, cultural-linguistic unity,

and future-oriented vision.

By invoking a shared past, leaders seek to present the existence of the OTS as a natural

outcome of historical continuity. In doing so, the OTS is positioned ontologically not as a

contingent or merely technical organisation, but as an entity with an organic foundation.

Persistent references to certain selected places, and the symbolic emphasis attached to

them, also serve to materialise historical continuity in spatial terms. Discourses on

common language, alphabet, culture, and education represent an effort to ensure the

continuity of cultural unity transmitted from the past through new generations. In this

way, it is intended that new generations who embrace a collective identity around shared

cultural dynamics will guarantee both the institutional and ontological continuity of the

Turkic World. Finally, the assertive references made by leaders regarding the future of

both the OTS and the Turkic World aim to demonstrate the organisation’s place within

the international system, which shows strong signs of transformation in the 21st century.

In this context, the Turkic World, as articulated by OTS leaders, aspires to emerge as an

influential and powerful actor in shaping the future global order.

This study also contributes to the broader literature on the construction of identities

within international organisations. In this respect, the attainment of an ontological

existence by international organisations, alongside their institutional construction,

involves a threefold process. First, leaders perceive the existence of such organisations

not as coincidental but as a natural outcome of historical continuity. In line with this

perspective, facts, events, and symbols from the past are selectively transformed into

various narratives through discourse. Subsequently, these narratives are transferred into

summit declarations or official documents, thereby acquiring an institutional dimension.

Thirdly, these elements are systematically repeated and revised in accordance with

emerging needs throughout the process.

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