Turkey's application to join BRICS may encourage other Middle Eastern countries to follow suit, according to Han Jianwei, an expert from the Center for Middle East Studies at Shanghai Foreign Studies University.
Speaking to TASS, Han noted that Turkey's bid comes after countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iran have become BRICS members. He believes this move could stimulate regional economic cooperation and integration within the Middle East.
Han highlighted that Turkey's decision is influenced by its desire to elevate its standing in the evolving geopolitical landscape and the irreversible trend towards global multipolarity. Joining BRICS, he said, would benefit Turkey by strengthening its ties with China and Russia, as well as other developing nations. Additionally, Turkey's accession could enhance its role as a key hub for trade, energy, and logistics between the East and West. The move also serves as an alternative after Turkey's repeated attempts to join the European Union were met with rejection.
Despite Turkey's growing involvement with BRICS, Han does not foresee a negative impact on its relations with Western nations. He emphasized that Turkey should pursue a diversified and balanced foreign policy, seeking greater strategic autonomy in East-West relations. Han stressed that Turkey's ties with the West would remain unaffected by its participation in BRICS.
Reports from Bloomberg on September 2 revealed that Turkey had submitted its application to join BRICS several months ago. The issue of BRICS expansion is expected to be discussed at the upcoming summit in Kazan, scheduled for October 22-24, where Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been invited. While Erdogan has previously expressed his desire for Turkey to join BRICS, Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party has clarified that no concrete decisions on membership have yet been made. Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov confirmed on September 4 that BRICS would consider Turkey's application for full membership.
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Based on materials from TASS