Foreign Policy's Analysis: Erdoğan's Foreign Policy Stands on Strategic Independence, Power, and Prosperity

A recent in-depth analysis by Foreign Policy has drawn attention to Türkiye's significant and calculated role in the global political landscape. The report delves into President Erdoğan's foreign policy approach, which has been consistently characterized by three pivotal principles: strategic independence, power, and prosperity. The aftermath of the 2023 NATO summit has amplified Turkey's diplomatic initiatives and their potential implications.

Under the title "What Does Turkey Actually Want?," the American publication astutely points out the nuanced nature of President Erdoğan's actions during the NATO summit. While seemingly surprising to casual observers, a meticulous analysis unravels Türkiye's resolute commitment to its core foreign policy principles.

A notable exemplification of Türkiye's pursuit of strategic independence and regional influence is evident in its deft handling of relations with Russia amid the Ukraine crisis. Demonstrating a balanced approach, Türkiye maintained diplomatic ties with both Russia and Ukraine, even mediating in the negotiations for the Black Sea Grain Agreement.

Significantly, Türkiye displayed cautious pragmatism by navigating Western sanctions against Russia. Instead, it strategically facilitated opportunities for Turkish businesses to enter the Russian market, supplanting departed Western companies, and encouraged Russian investments in Türkiye.

Foreign Policy emphasizes that the NATO summit provided President Erdoğan with a substantial opportunity to advance Türkiye's long-term objectives of consolidating its independence and enhancing its geopolitical standing. The summit's outcomes may encompass commitments for new F-16s from the United States, NATO membership expansion, and the reinvigoration of cooperation between Türkiye and the European Union, possibly paving the way for an advanced customs union agreement.

The article concludes that President Erdoğan's vision for Türkiye extends beyond a mere security presence in Southeast Europe. Instead, he seeks to secure Türkiye's strategic independence and strengthen its global power and economic standing. The NATO summit provides a crucial platform for Erdoğan to continue pursuing this vision, potentially bringing significant benefits to Türkiye's geopolitical aspirations.