Understanding the Complexities of India-Turkey Relations and the Potential for a Reset
Expert Explains: What plagues India-Turkey relations, and why a reset may be of common interest
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
India and Turkey recently resumed foreign office consultations after a four-year hiatus, highlighting ongoing tensions primarily due to Turkey's support for Pakistan regarding Kashmir. Despite historical challenges, there is potential for a reset in relations, particularly in light of shared interests in trade and regional stability.
- 01India and Turkey resumed foreign office consultations after a four-year pause, indicating a willingness to address past tensions.
- 02Turkey's support for Pakistan on the Kashmir issue has significantly strained bilateral relations.
- 03Bilateral trade between India and Turkey has grown from $700 million in 2002 to $13.82 billion in 2022.
- 04The recent India-EU Free Trade Agreement poses challenges for Turkey, as it may limit Turkish exports to India.
- 05Both nations have converging interests in the Gulf, Central Asia, and Africa, suggesting a potential for deeper collaboration.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
India and Turkey held their 12th round of foreign office consultations earlier this month, the first since 2019, amid ongoing tensions largely stemming from Turkey's support for Pakistan regarding the Kashmir issue. This relationship has been complicated by Turkey's defense ties with Pakistan and India's support for Cyprus, which reflects a broader geopolitical landscape in South Asia. Despite these challenges, bilateral trade has significantly increased, rising from $700 million in 2002 to $13.82 billion in 2022. The recent India-EU Free Trade Agreement, effective in 2026, poses a challenge for Turkey, as it allows Indian exports to Turkey to enter with zero or lower tariffs, while Turkish exports to India will not benefit similarly. However, both countries have mutual interests in the Gulf and Central Asia, which could provide a basis for a reset in relations. The current geopolitical climate, particularly with Turkey's evolving role in the Middle East, offers a small window of opportunity for India and Turkey to enhance their cooperation. Yet, any sustainable reset will require addressing historical grievances and fostering a more inclusive bilateral policy.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
A reset in India-Turkey relations could enhance trade opportunities and regional stability, benefiting businesses and communities in both countries.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you believe India and Turkey can successfully reset their relations?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.


