Historical Ties
The intricate tapestry of India-Turkey relations can be traced back to ancient times, particularly during the Vedic age before 1500 BCE, hinting at a deep-rooted connection that has evolved significantly over centuries. The first documented interaction occurred in 1212 when the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum received a colony in Koothanallur from the Chola Emperor of Tamilakam. This early instance of diplomatic and cultural exchange laid the groundwork for a complex relationship that would continue to develop. Notably, in 1481-82, both the Ottoman Sultans and the prominent Muslim rulers of the Indian subcontinent engaged in diplomatic missions, marking the beginning of formal diplomatic relations.
The maritime expeditions of the Ottoman Empire during the 16th century, aimed at bolstering their territorial ambitions, reflected a strategic partnership fueled by a mutual anti-Portuguese sentiment. This collaboration proved impactful, particularly with the contribution of Ottoman artillery in the fall of the pro-Portuguese Vijayanagara Empire. However, these relations soured as the Mughal Empire rose to power, becoming a potential rival for the Ottomans in their claim to the caliphate. Despite attempts to form alliances against common enemies, such as Iran, the Otomans found themselves in a weakened position by the time Indian rulers like Tipu Sultan sought their assistance against British colonial powers.
Cultural Interactions
Cultural exchanges flourished from the 15th to the 19th centuries through the journeys of Indian Dervishes to the Ottoman Empire, who established Tekkes known as Hintli Tekkeler. These historical figures and their descendants, termed "Hindis," notably contributed to the cultural landscape of Istanbul, leaving a lasting imprint on the cultural fabric of the city. Additionally, the interactions between India and Turkey took a significant turn during the early 20th century. During the First Balkan War, Indian Muslims, led by notable figures such as Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari and Abdur Rahman Peshawari, provided medical assistance to wounded Ottoman soldiers, showcasing solidarity during a time of crisis.
This spirit of collaboration carried on into World War I when the British Raj's military efforts significantly influenced the Allies' engagement against the Ottoman Empire. The post-war landscape saw India extend support to Turkey's War of Independence, reflecting a burgeoning solidarity between the two nations. Mahatma Gandhi’s vocal criticism of the injustices faced by Turkey post-World War I further emphasized India’s commitment to supporting Turkey during its formative years as a republic. Turkey officially recognized India following the Indian Independence Act of 1947, establishing diplomatic relations that would transcend the Cold War ideological divide.
Contemporary Challenges
Despite these historical ties, contemporary relations between India and Turkey have faced notable challenges, particularly due to Turkey’s close relationship with Pakistan. Turkey has actively supported Pakistan's stance on the Kashmir dispute, which has caused friction with India. Moreover, Turkey's vocal opposition to India's inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group demonstrates the geopolitical complexities that both nations navigate. On the Afghan front, Turkey's initiative in 2011 to spearhead the Istanbul Process aimed at developing sustainable solutions to the challenges in Afghanistan has required nuanced dialogue, especially in light of the impending withdrawal of NATO and US troops in 2014.
Tensions resurfaced in September 2019 when Turkey criticized India's revocation of Article 370 and its repercussions on Jammu and Kashmir, an action met with India's condemnation of Turkey’s military operations in northeastern Syria. India urged Turkey to respect the sovereignty of its neighbors, highlighting the fragile balance of power in the region. Additionally, Turkey's actions against a website allegedly operated by India and its condemnation of Naxalite attacks on Indian forces illustrate the complex interplay of diplomacy and regional security issues. Despite these tensions, both nations continue to acknowledge the importance of dialogue in fostering better relations while managing their respective alliances and regional interests.
Turkey and India have been working towards strengthening their trade relations over the years, with significant steps taken to enhance connectivity and commerce. On March 18, 2012, Burak Akçapar, the Turkish Ambassador to India, highlighted Turkey's ambition to double the number of flights operating between the two countries and to introduce four additional connecting destinations. These proposed cities include major urban centers such as Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru, reflecting Turkey's strategy to tap into the growing demand for air travel and facilitate greater economic interaction.
Currently, Turkish Airlines facilitates daily flights from Mumbai and New Delhi to Istanbul, significantly enhancing accessibility for travelers and business operators between India and Turkey. The presence of a robust air travel network is crucial for deepening business ties and promoting tourism, which benefits both nations economically. The Turkish government has recognized the potential of Indian markets and is focused on establishing a more extensive presence by improving transportation links.
In addition to the aviation sector, there was a joint study conducted on the establishment of a free trade area between India and Turkey. While the details of this agreement are still under negotiation, it signifies the mutual interest in expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation. Such a trade agreement could potentially lead to increased investments, trade volume, and a more favorable environment for businesses in both countries.
Further enhancing diplomatic relations, plans have been announced to open consulates in Chennai and Hyderabad. The Indian government's permission for these diplomatic outposts is a positive sign of cooperation and indicates a desire to foster closer ties in various sectors. The establishment of these consulates will not only serve the interests of Turkish nationals residing or traveling in South India but also facilitate consular services and promote economic partnerships. As both countries continue to explore avenues for collaboration, there remains a strong foundation for growing their bilateral trade and investment landscape.
Investments in Turkey
India-Turkey economic relations have seen significant growth, particularly in the realm of investments. Over 150 Indian companies have established a presence in Turkey, engaging in various formats such as joint ventures, trade partnerships, and representative offices. Prominent Indian firms involved in this domain include the likes of Polyplex, GMR Infrastructure, TATA Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Reliance, Ispat, Aditya Birla Group, Tractors and Farm Equipment Ltd, Jain Irrigation, Wipro, Sequent Scientific, and Dabur. This diverse representation showcases the strong interest of Indian businesses in tapping into the Turkish market, which is known for its strategic location bridging Europe and Asia.
In terms of foreign direct investment (FDI), Turkey holds an important position in India's investment landscape, ranking 41st overall. From April 2000 to April 2014, cumulative Turkish direct investments in India reached approximately US$87.18 million. These investments not only highlight the growing economic interdependence between the two nations but also reflect Turkey's potential as an emerging market for Indian enterprises looking for new growth avenues. The GMR Group's participation in the Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, one of Istanbul's major airports, further underscores India's stakes in Turkey's infrastructure development.
On a broader scale, both nations are members of the G20, which plays a crucial role in shaping global economic policies. In this forum, India and Turkey have closely collaborated on various initiatives aimed at stabilizing and managing the world economy. The bilateral trade relationship has seen promising figures, with trade estimated at US$7.5 billion in July 2012. Looking ahead, this figure was projected to double to US$15 billion by 2015, indicative of the optimistic outlook shared by both nations regarding their economic partnership. Continued efforts in trade facilitation and investment in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure are likely to enhance economic cooperation, paving the way for stronger bilateral relations in the years to come.
Cooperation in space technology between India and Turkey has made significant strides over the years, symbolizing a promising partnership in the domain of aerospace research and development. A notable milestone was achieved on 23 September 2009, when the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched Turkey's first nanosatellite, ITUpSAT1, aboard a PSLV C-14 rocket. This event marked not only Turkey's entry into satellite technology but also reinforced India's reputation as a reliable partner in space endeavors.
The launch of ITUpSAT1 is reflective of the growing interest both countries have in leveraging space technology for various applications, including telecommunications, earth observation, and scientific research. ITUpSAT1 itself is designed for remote sensing and aims to gather data for environmental monitoring and disaster management, areas where both nations recognize the significance of satellite capabilities. The collaborative effort underscores India's advanced satellite launch capabilities and Turkey’s eagerness to advance its technological infrastructure.
Beyond the launch, India and Turkey have continued to explore opportunities for further collaboration in space technology. Joint projects have emerged, focusing on satellite development, space exploration, and even educational exchanges in aerospace engineering. These initiatives not only strengthen bilateral ties but also contribute to enhanced science and technology education in both nations, nurturing a new generation of scientists and engineers equipped with the skills necessary to push the boundaries of space exploration.
In addition to technological advancements, this cooperation also has geopolitical implications. By aligning their space programs, both India and Turkey position themselves as emerging leaders in the global space arena, advocating for peace and progress through scientific collaboration. As both nations continue to expand their capabilities, their partnership in space technology will likely evolve, opening doors for new initiatives and contributing to broader international cooperation in the scientific community.
Defence Cooperation
India and Turkey have a budding relationship rooted in defence cooperation that has evolved over the years through high-level visits and bilateral agreements. The first significant stride in this direction occurred during Prime Minister Turgut Ozal's visit to India in 1986. This visit led to the establishment of Defence Attaché offices within both embassies, signifying a commitment to deepen military ties and strategic understanding. These offices serve as critical platforms for communication and collaboration, allowing for a more coordinated approach towards mutual defence interests.
Further cementing these ties, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's visit in September 2003 resulted in an agreement for both countries' Defence Ministers to maintain closer correspondence. This agreement aimed at fostering direct dialogue and accelerating military cooperation through enhanced military-to-military contacts. India expressed a willingness to engage in more substantial exchanges, including delegations to training facilities, thereby laying the groundwork for expanding defence collaboration beyond mere diplomatic engagements.
The relationship was further bolstered during Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's visit to India in November 2008. During this visit, both leaders recognized the importance of enhancing cooperation between their respective defence forces, indicating a mutual interest in strengthening the operational capabilities of their militaries. This included exploring avenues for joint training exercises, co-production of defence equipment, and sharing of technology, which reflects a growing trust and understanding in defence matters between the two nations.
Despite this promising trajectory, military exercises involving the two nations have largely remained low-profile. Notably, they have conducted regular Passage Exercises (PASSEX) between their naval forces. These exercises, while not highly publicized, are essential for building interoperability and enhancing tactical coordination at sea. Such initiatives mark the beginning of a broader scope for military engagement, paving the way for more comprehensive joint exercises and collaborative defence operations in the future. The continued interactions signal both countries' commitment to ensuring maritime security and addressing common threats in a turbulent regional geopolitical landscape.