Allies in Arms and Diplomacy: The Rise of the Turkey-Pakistan Axis and What it Means for India
Turkey-Pakistan Axis: Strategic Alliance and Its Implications for India
Turkey-Pakistan Axis: Strategic Alliance and Its Implications for India
The evolving Turkey-Pakistan alliance has emerged as a significant geopolitical development, especially in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and India’s Operation Sindoor. Turkey’s vocal support for Pakistan, including military and diplomatic backing, signals a deepening strategic partnership that poses new challenges for India’s national security and regional diplomacy.
Key Dimensions of the Turkey-Pakistan Axis
1. Historical and Cultural Roots
The alliance is rooted in religious solidarity dating back to the Khilafat Movement, with formal diplomatic ties established post-1947. Leaders like Jinnah and Ataturk laid the foundation for a relationship that has evolved into a robust strategic partnership.
2. Defense and Intelligence Cooperation
- Turkey has supplied drones, corvettes, and helicopters to Pakistan.
- Joint military exercises like “Ataturk” drills enhance interoperability.
- Intelligence collaboration between MIT and ISI has intensified, including operations targeting fugitives and shared surveillance.
3. Trade and Economic Ties
- Bilateral trade reached \$1.4 billion in 2024, with a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) aiming for \$5 billion.
- Pakistan exports goods like leather, rice, and sports equipment, while Turkey exports industrial components and processed foods.
4. Diplomatic Support on Global Platforms
- Turkey consistently backs Pakistan on the Kashmir issue, opposing India at forums like the OIC and FATF.
- President Erdogan has called for international mediation on Kashmir, challenging India’s bilateral stance.
5. Cultural and Humanitarian Bonds
- Turkish TV shows like Diriliş: Ertuğrul enjoy massive popularity in Pakistan.
- Humanitarian aid flows both ways, strengthening public goodwill.
Implications for India
India views this alliance with caution due to:
- Turkey’s anti-India rhetoric on Kashmir.
- Alleged use of Turkish media to promote pro-Pakistan narratives.
- Diverging regional alignments—India’s ties with Armenia, Greece, and Israel contrast with Turkey’s support for Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
Strategic Outlook for India
India must adopt a dual-track approach:
- Assertive diplomacy to safeguard core interests, especially on Kashmir and terrorism.
- Constructive engagement in areas like trade, tourism, and multilateral cooperation to reduce friction.
The Turkey-Pakistan axis is a complex, multi-dimensional partnership that challenges India’s strategic calculus. While tensions are evident, India can still pursue a balanced foreign policy—assertive where necessary, but open to engagement where possible.