India-Turkey Relations: History, Political, Cultural Relation - UPSC Notes

India Turkey Relations, or Indo-Turkic relations, represents the bilateral ties between prominent countries. There are chronological relations between India and Türkiye. Tactful connections were displayed, and ambassadors were swapped in 1948. High-level bilateral relations contain the President of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, visiting India to attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi from 9-10 September 2023. These associations were founded in 1948 and have primarily been amicable. Yet, as of 2020, they have become weakened due to Turkey's perspective with Pakistan on the controversial Kashmir issue.

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History of India-Turkey Relations

The bilateral relations between India and Turkey are also known as Indo-Turkish relations. This bilateral relationship between the Republic of India and the Republic of Turkey has existed since the diplomatic relations between India and Turkey were established in 1948. Political and bilateral ties are usually marked by warmth and friendliness. Yet, some erratic uncertainties remain due to Turkey's support for Pakistan and India's continued support for Greece, Armenia and Cyprus against Turkey. India has a consulate–general in Istanbul and an embassy in Ankara. Turkey has consulate-generals in Kolkata, Mumbai and Hyderabad and an embassy in New Delhi. As of 2019, the bilateral commerce between India and Turkey stood at US$7.8 billion.

• The historical ties between India and Turkey date back to medieval times, with regular interactions between the two regions. The Ottoman Empire had sent expeditions to allied kingdoms in India to assist them in their battles against Portuguese colonization.
• The siege of Diu in 1538 marked the end of direct Ottoman presence in the Indian subcontinent after the Portuguese defeated a combined fleet of the Ottoman Empire and the Gujarat Sultanate.
• After the empire's defeat in World War I, the Khalifat movement aimed to preserve Turkey's sovereignty and gained support from Mahatma Gandhi, who opposed the harsh peace terms imposed on the newly formed Turkish republic.
• Full diplomatic relations between India and Turkey were established in 1947. However, the relations were lukewarm due to Turkey's alliance with NATO, while India was part of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
• The relations between the two nations developed at a significant pace only after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War.
• Turkey had been a vocal advocate of Pakistan's position on the Kashmir dispute. However, following the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, Turkey criticized India's action, siding with Pakistan. This has led to strained relations between India and Turkey, but as per foreign relations experts, it has not completely soured as of 2021.

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India and Turkey share a lengthy history of economic and cultural connections embedded in historical civilizational ties and trade. Both countries established legal diplomatic connections in 1948. Over the years, collaboration has developed in education, trade, culture and tourism. India exports steel, machinery, and chemicals to Turkey. Turkey also sends marble, fertilizers, and textiles to India. However, there have been tactful contrasts, particularly concerning provincial matters. Despite regional issues, actions continue to maintain relations through discussion and collaboration. Joint business forums, High-level visits, and cultural interactions continue to improve the bilateral agreement. Both countries desire peaceful development and a more robust economic partnership.

Political relations

• The diplomatic associations were set up in 1960 during a visit by the first Prime Minister of India, JL Neheru.
• Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi and Turkish President Recep Erdogan attended the SCO Summit on the Samarkand (Uzbekistan) sidelines in September 2022.

Economic & Commercial Relations

• A bilateral commerce deal was signed in 1973; the Joint Committee on Economic and Technical Cooperation (JCETC) was founded in 1983.
• India-Turkey Joint Business Council was created in 1996.
• Miscellaneous deals and partnerships between Indian and Turkish businesses. This includes cooperation agreements, MOUs, and joint ventures.
• Noteworthy investments and alliances in pharmaceuticals, oil, steel, aviation sectors, and healthcare.
• Business data indicates a significant boost in bilateral trade over the years.

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Cultural Relations

• Historical and cultural ties between India and Turkey.
• Interaction of cultural actions, including musical performances, theatre, film celebrations, and photo exhibitions.
• Participation in global conferences, seminars, and dialogues.
• Celebrations of Indian cultural occasions like Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and ITEC Day.
• Association in film production and participation in global events like the International Day of Yoga.
• Involvement of the Indian society in cultural relations and events.

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Indian Community in Turkey

• A diminutive Indian community explicitly established in Ankara and Istanbul, operating in different sectors, including firm, academia, and infrastructure undertakings.
• Some Indian experts and employees are interested in projects like Star Refinery in Izmir and TANAP.
• The State Bank of India representative office is in Istanbul.
• Connectivity is enabled by Turkish Airlines, which provides daily flights between Indian cities and Istanbul.

• Turkey functions as a bridge between Asia and Europe. This makes business, connectivity, and geopolitical concerns strategically crucial for India.
• Turkey is one of India's major trading allies in the Middle East region. Boosting business relations can help both countries' economies.
• India and Turkey share historical and cultural ties dating back centuries. This produces a sense of closeness and mutual familiarity.
• Turkey is a famous tourist destination for Indians. Its affluent history, diverse geographies, and cultural roots attract travellers.
• India and Turkey teams are on diverse international platforms to manage everyday challenges and elevate shared interests. This includes the G20 and the United Nations.

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Way Forward

• Both countries can explore new avenues for trade, expand bilateral investment, and enhance business collaborations. This can be in textiles, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and information technology sectors.
• Strengthening strategic and defence cooperation can contribute to regional stability. It can help address common security concerns.
• Encouraging tourism promotion, cultural festivals, and exchanges can foster people-to-people connections and deepen cultural understanding.
• Exploring partnerships in the energy sector, including renewable energy. This can contribute to India's energy security and Turkey's economic growth.
• Promoting student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and academic collaborations can enhance knowledge-sharing and innovation.

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