In a constantly changing geopolitical context, Turkey is currently at the center of renewed interest from the BRICS group. Comprised of emerging countries such as Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, recently joined by Ethiopia, Iran, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, the bloc recently offered Turkey partner status. The proposal is part of Turkey’s desire to maintain a balance between its relations with Western and Eastern powers.
Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat announced the offer to become a BRICS partner, stressing that it is a transitional phase within the bloc’s organizational structure. The move comes after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan attended a BRICS summit in Kazan hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting Ankara’s aspirations to deepen its ties with the group.
It is important to note that Turkey sees BRICS as an opportunity to strengthen economic cooperation with member countries, without calling into question its commitment to NATO. Indeed, Turkish officials have asserted that BRICS membership would complement, not replace, its Western alliances.
The recent creation of a “partner country” category within BRICS, introduced in a statement on October 23, marks a turning point in the structure of the organization. However, it remains to be seen whether Turkey will accept this status. An official from Turkey’s ruling party indicated that while the proposal was discussed at the summit, it may not fully meet Turkey’s ambitions for full membership.
This development reflects Ankara’s broader strategy of engaging with both Western and Eastern partners in order to strengthen its geopolitical and economic position. Indeed, Turkey seeks to play a leading role in the concert of nations, taking advantage of its strategic position between the East and the West to diversify its alliances and expand its trade.
In conclusion, the BRICS partnership offer to Turkey represents an important step in the country’s international relations, confirming its desire to strengthen its ties with major players on the world stage. It remains to be seen how Turkey will take advantage of this opportunity and how this new dynamic will influence its relations with its traditional allies.