Türkiye Eyes BRICS with an Ear on the EU
In recent years, Türkiye has been increasingly active on the global stage, diversifying its international partnerships and exploring new economic alliances. One of the most notable developments is Türkiye’s growing interest in the BRICS group—a coalition of major emerging economies comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. As Türkiye contemplates deeper engagement with BRICS, it simultaneously keeps a wary eye on its longstanding but often tumultuous relationship with the European Union (EU).
The BRICS Opportunity
BRICS, established in 2009, represents some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, collectively accounting for a significant share of global GDP. The group’s appeal lies in its potential to create a multipolar economic world order, reducing dependency on Western-dominated financial institutions. For Türkiye, aligning with BRICS could unlock new trade opportunities, attract investment, and offer leverage in international negotiations.
Türkiye’s interest in BRICS isn’t solely economic. The geopolitical shift represented by BRICS provides a platform to assert a more independent foreign policy, balancing its relations with Western powers and presenting itself as a key player in a multipolar world.
Strains with the EU
Türkiye’s relationship with the EU has been fraught with challenges. While Türkiye has been a candidate for EU membership since 1999, accession talks have stalled due to concerns over human rights, rule of law, and freedom of the press in Türkiye. The 2016 failed coup in Türkiye and the subsequent government crackdown further strained relations. As a result, some believe Türkiye’s ambitions for full EU membership are now unrealistic.
Despite these challenges, the EU remains Türkiye’s largest trading partner, accounting for 41% of Türkiye’s exports in 2021. The Customs Union established in 1995 has facilitated trade, but modernizing this agreement has encountered hurdles, reflecting broader EU-Türkiye tensions.
A Balancing Act
In the context of these dynamics, Türkiye’s potential pivot towards BRICS could be seen as a strategic move to diversify its economic partnerships and reduce dependency on the EU. By engaging with BRICS, Türkiye could gain access to alternative markets and investment sources. Moreover, this alliance might offer Türkiye a cushion against economic sanctions or diplomatic pressures from the West.
However, Türkiye’s balancing act hasn’t gone unnoticed in the corridors of Brussels. EU officials are wary of Türkiye’s closer ties with BRICS members like Russia and China, countries often at odds with EU principles and policies. This cautious stance is reflected in the sophisticated diplomatic dialogue that Türkiye maintains with both the EU and BRICS nations, aiming to maximize its benefits while avoiding overt confrontations.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Türkiye’s foreign policy will likely continue to oscillate between East and West. Its geographical location, straddling Europe and Asia, uniquely positions Türkiye to act as a bridge between different geopolitical spheres. Yet, this same position also demands a delicate balancing act, managing relationships with diverse and sometimes conflicting global powers.
In pursuing closer ties with BRICS, Türkiye must tread carefully to ensure it does not alienate its European partners. The challenge lies in leveraging the economic and geopolitical benefits of BRICS cooperation while maintaining productive relations with the EU.
Türkiye’s multifaceted strategy in global diplomacy highlights the complexities of contemporary international relations. It remains essential for Ankara to navigate these waters with strategic foresight, balancing its aspirations for greater autonomy on the world stage with the benefits of its traditional alliances.
For more insights, visit Modern Diplomacy or the official EU Commission website.
