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Expert Explains: The Pakistan-Turkey nexus and where India stands

2 min read

India's Response to Pakistani Drone Attack

India successfully repelled a significant drone attack by Pakistan on its western border. Over 300 drones, suspected to be Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models, targeted military and civilian sites. This highlights Turkey's military support to Pakistan amid their strategic partnership.

Turkey-Pakistan Relations

Historical and Ideological Ties

  • Turkey and Pakistan share a strong Islamic identity that underpins their partnership.
  • During the Cold War, they were allied through organizations like CENTO and RCD.
  • Pakistan has consistently supported Turkey in its conflicts, such as against Greece in Cyprus.
  • Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s political Islamism has further strengthened the bond since 2003.

Geopolitical Dynamics

  • Turkey is competing with Gulf rivals Saudi Arabia and the UAE, seeking alliances with non-Gulf Muslim states like Pakistan and Malaysia.
  • Ankara aims to counter Saudi-Emirati influence by promoting cooperation with these nations.

Military and Defence Cooperation

  • Turkey is a major arms supplier to Pakistan, second only to China.
  • Recent military purchases by Pakistan include Bayraktar drones and Kemankes cruise missiles.
  • Ankara assists in Pakistan's naval modernisation, notably through a $1 billion deal for four corvettes.
  • Turkey provides upgrades to Pakistan's Agosta 90B submarines.

Implications for India

Geopolitical Counterbalances

  • India has aligned with Greece-backed Republic of Cyprus against Turkish interests.
  • India supports Armenia militarily in its conflict with Turkey-backed Azerbaijan.
  • India's strategic shift with the US focuses on Indo-Pacific partnerships, sidelining Pakistan.

Turkey’s Global Positioning

  • Turkey's aspirations to be a bridge between Asia and Europe are challenged by projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
  • Erdogan criticizes IMEC, favoring Turkey's route initiatives like the "Iraq Development Road."
  • Turkey remains a significant ally of Pakistan, often acting contrary to Indian interests.

Despite India's humanitarian gestures, such as aid after Turkey’s 2023 earthquake, the Turkey-Pakistan axis remains strong, impacting India's international relations.

  • Tags :
  • Pakistan Turkey
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