India's Response to Pakistani Drone Attack
India successfully repelled a significant drone attack by Pakistan on its western border. Over 300 drones, suspected to be Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models, targeted military and civilian sites. This highlights Turkey's military support to Pakistan amid their strategic partnership.
Turkey-Pakistan Relations
Historical and Ideological Ties
- Turkey and Pakistan share a strong Islamic identity that underpins their partnership.
- During the Cold War, they were allied through organizations like CENTO and RCD.
- Pakistan has consistently supported Turkey in its conflicts, such as against Greece in Cyprus.
- Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s political Islamism has further strengthened the bond since 2003.
Geopolitical Dynamics
- Turkey is competing with Gulf rivals Saudi Arabia and the UAE, seeking alliances with non-Gulf Muslim states like Pakistan and Malaysia.
- Ankara aims to counter Saudi-Emirati influence by promoting cooperation with these nations.
Military and Defence Cooperation
- Turkey is a major arms supplier to Pakistan, second only to China.
- Recent military purchases by Pakistan include Bayraktar drones and Kemankes cruise missiles.
- Ankara assists in Pakistan's naval modernisation, notably through a $1 billion deal for four corvettes.
- Turkey provides upgrades to Pakistan's Agosta 90B submarines.
Implications for India
Geopolitical Counterbalances
- India has aligned with Greece-backed Republic of Cyprus against Turkish interests.
- India supports Armenia militarily in its conflict with Turkey-backed Azerbaijan.
- India's strategic shift with the US focuses on Indo-Pacific partnerships, sidelining Pakistan.
Turkey’s Global Positioning
- Turkey's aspirations to be a bridge between Asia and Europe are challenged by projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
- Erdogan criticizes IMEC, favoring Turkey's route initiatives like the "Iraq Development Road."
- Turkey remains a significant ally of Pakistan, often acting contrary to Indian interests.
Despite India's humanitarian gestures, such as aid after Turkey’s 2023 earthquake, the Turkey-Pakistan axis remains strong, impacting India's international relations.
