Turkey has formally applied to join the BRICS group of emerging-market nations, signaling its intent to expand its global influence beyond traditional Western alliances. The move reflects President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s strategy to position Turkey as a key player in a multipolar world, while still maintaining its obligations as a NATO member.
Turkey’s Strategic Shift: A New Global Approach
Turkey’s application to join BRICS, submitted several months ago, comes after years of frustration over its stalled bid to join the European Union. The application is partly driven by recent tensions with fellow NATO members, stemming from Turkey’s continued relations with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. This diplomatic shift suggests that Turkey is exploring new avenues to bolster its economic and political standing.
The BRICS group, which originally included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded in 2024 to include Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Egypt. Saudi Arabia has also been invited to join but has yet to do so.
Turkey’s Motivation for Joining BRICS
Erdogan’s administration views the BRICS as a valuable alternative to Western-dominated institutions like the World Bank and IMF. By joining BRICS, Turkey could gain access to financing through the group’s development bank and broaden its political and trade relationships, particularly with major emerging economies like Russia and China.
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Turkey’s interest in diversifying its global alliances, describing BRICS as an organization that adds to the variety of approaches in the global economic system. Turkey also aims to leverage its strategic position as a potential hub for gas exports from Russia and Central Asia, enhancing its role as a trade conduit between the EU and Asia.
Balancing East and West: Erdogan’s Vision
Despite this shift towards the East, Turkey is not abandoning its Western ties. Erdogan has reiterated his commitment to rejuvenating Turkey’s EU membership talks, which remain a “strategic target.” This dual approach highlights Erdogan’s vision of a Turkey that can successfully navigate and benefit from relationships with both Eastern and Western powers.
Erdogan’s administration has also been courting investment from Chinese electric car manufacturers, which could use Turkey’s customs union with the EU to expand their market access. This move could further solidify Turkey’s role as a bridge between Europe and Asia.
Future of BRICS and Global Influence
The potential expansion of BRICS, including Turkey’s membership, is likely to be discussed during the upcoming summit in Kazan, Russia. As China drives the group’s enlargement to increase its global influence, Turkey’s inclusion would further enhance the diversity and geopolitical weight of BRICS.
Turkey’s bid to join BRICS reflects a broader global realignment, where nations are increasingly seeking to diversify their alliances and reduce dependence on traditional Western institutions. As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, Turkey’s actions underscore its ambitions to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global governance.
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