Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Ph D Student, Political Science, Shiraz University. Shiraz, Iran.
2 Associate Professor of International Relations, Department of Law and Political Sciences, Shiraz University. Shiraz, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction
The rise of the Justice and Development Party (AKP) marked a turning point in the contemporary history of Turkey, redefining the country’s foreign policy. Bolstered by the self-confidence derived from Turkey’s economic growth, the AKP viewed its presence in various regions—particularly in areas once within the Ottoman Empire’s sphere of influence—not only as possible, but as necessary. Achieving balance in foreign policy across different regions is necessary both for security considerations and for the protection of economic interests. In this respect, the present study sought to answer whether the adoption of Asianization in Turkey’s foreign policy under Erdoğan was driven primarily by security balance or by the requirements of economic diplomacy. The study is based on the hypothesis that Turkish leaders’ perception of a transitioning international order—characterized by the plurality of power centers and the diversity of influential actors—has led them to regard Asianization as a strategic orientation that not only serves the objectives of economic diplomacy, but also addresses the long-term requirements of security balancing.
Literature Review
There are several works dealing with Turkey’s Asian-centered approach in foreign policy. For example, the edited volume titled Turkey’s Asia Relations (Anas, 2022) explores various dimensions of the topic, arguing that the rise of Asia may lead to greater cooperation between Turkey and the West, as their shared focus on Asia creates opportunities for both political and economic collaboration. In Development and Foreign Policy in Turkey: Rethinking Interdependence in a Multipolar World, Kutlay and Karaoğuz (2023) discuss how the erosion of the liberal order has contributed to the reproduction of protectionism, consequently increasing the importance of the state’s role in the development process. According to them, the AKP’s inability to integrate Turkey’s economy into global supply chains has caused the country’s foreign policy to lag behind its economic development. Moreover, the book titled Turkey’s Foreign Policy Narratives: Implications of Global Power Shifts (Alaranta, 2022) examines the various foreign policy discourses through which Kemalists and Islamists interpret the global order and Turkey’s position within it. Alaranta argues that, during this period of international transition, competing narratives in Turkish foreign policy have given rise to multiple visions of the path to development in both domestic and foreign policy.
The novelty of the present study lies in its recognition of the rise of Asia as an order-making pole and the emphasis on Asia’s capacity to create alternatives within the international order. Unlike the previous studies, this article not only explores the economic interactions between Turkey and Asia, but also analyzes their security dimensions. Examining Turkey’s relations with the principal poles of power in Asia, it assesses the significance and effectiveness of these relations in the broader context of Asia’s resurgence.
Materials and Methods
Using a descriptive–explanatory approach, the present study adopted the theoretical framework of neoclassical realism to identify the state’s behavioral patterns in response to major systemic transformations. The analysis also focused on the dynamics of the ongoing transition from an Atlantic-centered order to the one centered on Asia-Pacific. It thus provided a comprehensive understanding of the motivations underlying Turkey’s turn toward Asia by integrating systemic factors with domestic mediating elements.
Results and Discussion
The analysis of Turkey’s Asianization policy under Erdoğan suggests that the country is pursuing changes that extend beyond purely economic and security imperatives. By recognizing new realities in the international order and shifting power dynamics in Asia, Turkey has sought to strategically redefine its position on the global stage. Asia’s emergence as a major center of power in the contemporary world has encouraged Turkey to deepen its engagement with the region across multiple domains, including economic, security, and diplomatic cooperation. This policy therefore reflects not only the requirements of economic diplomacy and security balancing, but also Turkey’s aspiration to play a more active and independent role in the evolving global order.
One distinctive aspect of Turkey’s Asianization is its multifaceted approach. By acknowledging shifts in the international system, Turkey has sought to leverage the vast economic opportunities in Asia to advance its development. At the same time, security challenges and disputes with organizations like NATO and the European Union have driven Turkey to reduce its reliance on the West and deepen strategic partnerships with Asian powers such as China, Japan, and India. These relationships not only enable Turkey to engage in major initiatives like the Silk Road and investments in technology and defense but also serve to enhance the country’s strategic independence.
Conclusion
Asianization in Turkish foreign policy under Erdoğan reflects profound shifts in the international order and the country’s efforts to adapt accordingly. By leveraging Asia’s economic and security strengths and prioritizing strategic independence, Turkey aims to secure a stable and influential position as both a regional and global power. This approach offers a potential new model for interaction and cooperation between the East and the West, benefiting not only national interests but also the broader international community.
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