Turkey has officially submitted an application to join the BRICS group of emerging economies, as confirmed by Ömer Çelik, spokesperson for President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). The BRICS group currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and is seen as a potential counterweight to the Western-led global order.Çelik stated, ‘Our President has emphasized several times that we want to become a member of the BRICS. The process is underway,’ but added that there are no concrete developments yet. This move comes as part of Turkey’s efforts to diversify its international relationships and potentially shift away from its traditional Western allies.Turkey’s interest in joining BRICS has raised concerns among its NATO allies and the European Union about Ankara’s geopolitical orientation. The Turkish government cites the declining power of the US as a reason for this strategic move. However, Turkish officials have made mixed statements on the issue, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressing interest in joining BRICS, while Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek and the Defence Minister emphasized Turkey’s commitment to its Western partners.President Erdoğan has stated that Turkey wants to develop relations with both the East and West, saying ‘Turkey can become a strong country, prosperous and respected if it simultaneously develops relations with the East and West.’ He also emphasized that BRICS membership is not an alternative to membership in other groups, such as the European Union, and Turkey remains a candidate to join the EU.If admitted, Turkey would be the first NATO member in the BRICS group. The process of Turkey’s potential entry into BRICS is ongoing, and the government has promised to share any significant developments with the public.
Key points
- Turkey has officially applied to join the BRICS group of emerging economies.
- The move is part of Turkey’s strategy to diversify its international relationships.
- Turkish officials have made mixed statements about the country’s commitment to Western allies.
- President Erdoğan emphasizes developing relations with both East and West.
Contradictions👾While some sources report Turkey has officially applied to join BRICS, others suggest the process is ongoing but there are no concrete developments yet.
