Turkey has been gradually shifting its foreign policy away from the West in recent years. However, signs indicate that this trend may be reversing. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent moves have pleased the United States and upset Russia. This turnaround is seen as an effort to reverse Turkey’s economic downturn and attract foreign investment.
Some notable examples of Turkey’s new Western tilt include:
- Turkey’s approval of Sweden and Finland’s NATO accession after the two countries agreed to extradite certain Turkish nationals wanted by Ankara.
- Turkey’s decision to purchase F-16 fighter jets from the United States, which had been on hold due to Turkey’s purchase of Russian S-400 missile systems.
- Turkey’s mediation efforts in the war in Ukraine, facilitating a deal for safe grain export from Ukraine’s Black Sea ports.
It is too early to determine if this shift in Turkey’s foreign policy is permanent. Nevertheless, Erdogan aims to improve relations with the West to enhance Turkey’s economy and safeguard its strategic interests.
Erdogan’s motivation for seeking better relations with the West stems from several reasons. First, Turkey’s economy is currently in a deep recession, necessitating measures to stimulate growth. Second, the country faces various security challenges, such as the war in Syria and the threat of terrorism. Third, Turkey seeks a more active role in the Middle East, requiring Western support.
It is important to acknowledge that Turkey’s foreign policy remains complex and multifaceted. The country maintains strong ties with both the West and Russia, and it is likely to continue balancing these relationships. However, Erdogan’s recent actions suggest an increasing reliance on the West for support.
Only time will reveal if Turkey’s new Western tilt represents a lasting shift in its foreign policy. Nevertheless, Erdogan’s focus on improving relations with the West is evident as he aims to boost Turkey’s economy and secure its strategic interests.
