Turkey's Brics offer reflects desire to pave the way between East and West

In a major diplomatic maneuver that could have far-reaching consequences for the system of international alliances, Türkiye made a formal request to join bricksThe group of emerging market economies is signaling its intention to diversify its partnerships beyond the West.

Brics group named after Brazil, Russia, India, Chinese And South AfricaIt includes some of the world’s largest economies. Earlier this year it added four new members: Iranian, United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia And Sweetcorn. Despite Saudi Arabia invited to participate, the formal process has not yet taken place. It is often seen as an alternative to Western-led organizations. EU, G7 And NATOBrics marks a significant shift in global power dynamics.

Ankara’s decision may be a strategy to strengthen relations with non-Western powers as the center of the global economy continues to shift away from the West, but it is also about pursuing more trade with Brics members.

Turkey’s application, announced ahead of the Brics summit that started on Tuesday, raised broader questions about its role in NATO. If accepted, Türkiye will become Brics’ first NATO member. However, this does not mean that Turkey has completely moved away from the West. Turkey’s institutional ties with the Western world are deep. At most, this move signals Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s intention to increase the government’s flexibility in its foreign relations.

Erdoğan said on September 1 that the move demonstrates Ankara’s aim to develop simultaneous ties with all parties in order to “become a strong, prosperous, prestigious and influential country if it improves its relations with the East and the West simultaneously.”

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan meets with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis (left) on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington in July. Photo: Greek Prime Minister's Office/statement via Reuters — Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan meets with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis (left) on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington in July. Photo: Greek Prime Minister’s Office/statement via Reuters

Turkey’s admission to the group will likely be discussed at the 16th Brics summit to be held in Kazan, Russia. Malaysia, Thailand And Azerbaijan It is among other countries waiting to join.

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