Latest News from Turkey
Turkey Reaffirms BRICS Ambitions Amid NATO Ties and Transatlantic Rifts
New Turkish ambassador Selcuk Unal emphasized deeper ties with China, including security and counterterrorism dialogue, amid Turkey's NATO role and BRICS interests. Priorities include high-level visits, visa facilitation, and expanded trade for the 55th anniversary of relations.
Turkey leverages its geography for regional balance, exploring pacts like with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Finance Minister Highlights Türkiye's Economic Resilience Amid Global Uncertainty
Minister Mehmet Simsek noted 2025 tourism record of 64 million visitors and $65.2 billion revenue despite instability. Türkiye benefits from EU Customs Union, free trade with 27 countries, and strong services like tourism and construction.
Strategic focus on AI, energy including nuclear plants, and Middle Corridor trade routes.
Turkish FM Fidan: Airstrikes Won't Collapse Iran's Government
Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated airstrikes against Iran would not topple its regime, calling it a 'pipedream.' He urged avoiding war, noting ongoing US-Iran talks in Oman and Turkey's diplomatic efforts.
Fidan highlighted regional sensitivity and preference for negotiations over threats.
Turkey Risks Middle-Income Trap Without Industrial Upgrade, Business Leader Warns
MÜSİAD President Burhan Özdemir warned of deindustrialization with manufacturing at 55-60% capacity utilization. Despite 2024 GDP growth to $1.32 trillion and high-income status, shift to tech-driven production needed.
Policies should reduce borrowing, support jobs, and expand incentives.
Greek Defence Minister Likely to Skip High-Level Talks in Turkey
Nikos Dendias may skip Ankara meeting citing EU summit, amid Aegean tensions including Turkey's indefinite NavTex. Dendias called Turkey Greece's 'greatest threat' and plans island militarization.
Decision reflects Greek domestic pressures post-Turkish airspace objections.
Turkey's Central Bank to Revise Up Inflation Forecasts, Risk Slowing Rate Cuts
Central bank expected to raise 2026 inflation forecast to 23% after January's 5% surge, possibly halting easing. Annual inflation at 30% threatens single-digit goals amid past policy issues.
Officials stress tight monetary policy plus supply-side measures.
Turkey Expands Security Partnerships Across Africa
Turkey forges ties with African nations for weapons sales and military training from coast to coast. This builds on Ankara's growing role as a security partner in the continent.
Efforts align with broader diplomatic outreach.
Turkey, Egypt Sign $350M Defense Pact for Arms and Joint Production
Turkey and Egypt agreed on a $350 million deal to boost military supplies and establish joint defense manufacturing. The pact expands bilateral ties in defense sector.
It marks deepening cooperation between the two nations.
Turkish Research Team Arrives in Antarctica for 10th Mission
Scientists reached Horseshoe Island's Turkish Scientific Research Camp, marking the 10th National Antarctic mission. The team advances Turkey's polar research efforts.
This continues Ankara's scientific presence in the region.
Iranian FM Araghchi Holds Talks with Turkish Counterpart
Iran's Abbas Araghchi discussed regional issues with Turkish, Saudi, and Egyptian foreign ministers. Conversations follow US-Iran negotiations and Turkey's diplomatic push.
Focus on preventing escalation in the Middle East.
Turkey Sliding into Industrial Decline, Engineers Warn
Manufacturing's GDP share fell to 19.55% in 2023 from 22.11% in 2022, per World Bank and US data. Engineers highlight risks of premature deindustrialization.
Calls for policies to sustain industrial base.
US LNG Exports Surge as Turkey Signs Major Import Deal
Turkey's BOTAŞ inked deal for 4 billion cubic meters of US LNG annually from 2026 with Mercuria. This boosts US exports record and Turkey's energy security.
Deal underscores growing trade ties.