Türkiye’s recent expression of interest in joining the BRICS bloc signifies a major shift in its geopolitical strategy. If indeed a genuine expression, this move highlights Ankara’s reassessment of its reliance on Western alliances, including NATO, in light of evolving global dynamics and increasing criticism from Western allies.
The NATO member has faced significant criticism over its ties with Russia, with some arguing that Ankara’s “axis” is shifting away from the Western military alliance. This sentiment has grown as Türkiye’s diplomatic and economic engagements with Russia have intensified, despite their conflicting positions in several regional conflicts.
The possibility of a NATO member joining BRICS carries substantial geopolitical implications. It underscores the waning influence of traditional Western alliances and the growing appeal of emerging economic blocs. Ankara’s top diplomat, Hakan Fidan, has suggested that BRICS could offer Türkiye a “good alternative” to the European Union for boosting its economic prospects. He has also pointed out that “identity politics” within the EU have hindered Türkiye’s long-standing bid for membership, despite its persistent efforts
Global Dynamics
Türkiye’s relationship with many countries, including Russia, is multifaceted and complex. Despite backing different warring groups in Libya, Syria, and Azerbaijan’s Nagorno-Karabakh region, and Türkiye’s opposition to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the two countries have significant bilateral strategic energy investments. These include the Blue Stream trans-Black Sea gas pipeline and the Akkuyu nuclear power plant in Türkiye’s
Türkiye’s engagement with BRICS is also influenced by its diverging interests with Western allies in Syria. The US and major European countries, including France, England, and Germany, support groups like the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), led by the People’s Protection Units (YPG). However, Türkiye views the YPG as a Syrian offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), an armed group fighting against Türkiye since 1984. This divergence has strained Türkiye’s relations with its NATO allies and has pushed Ankara to seek alternative partnerships
Joining BRICS could provide Türkiye with significant economic benefits, including access to new markets and investments. The bloc’s collective push to reduce dependency on the US dollar aligns with Türkiye’s economic interests amid currency fluctuations and financial challenges. Additionally, participation in BRICS’ New Development Bank could offer Türkiye alternative funding sources for infrastructure and development projects.
On the security front, while NATO remains Türkiye’s primary defense alliance, engagement with BRICS could offer additional layers of security cooperation, particularly in counter-terrorism and cyber security. This diversification aligns with Türkiye’s broader strategy of enhancing its strategic resilience through multifaceted partnerships.
A Critical Eye
Türkiye’s strategy often involves playing multiple sides to maximize its benefits and leverage in international relations. This approach is evident in its complex relationship with both Russia and Western allies, where it navigates conflicting interests to maintain strategic autonomy. While Türkiye’s expression of interest in BRICS may be genuine, it is also plausible that this move is intended to put pressure on Western allies, particularly in response to recent criticisms, to gain more favorable terms within existing alliances. This multifaceted strategy allows Türkiye to keep its options open and maximize its geopolitical and economic advantages
If sincere, Türkiye’s overture to join BRICS marks a significant step in its strategic realignment towards the East. Whether this is a genuine bid or a tactical maneuver to strengthen its bargaining position with Western allies, the implications for global geopolitics will be profound, potentially further redefining alliances and power dynamics in the 21st century.
