Turkey’s slow progress toward European Union membership has caused for growing interest in BRICS and ASEAN, where Turkey sees potential for economic and political alliances similar to the EU.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan discussed this during a roundtable organized by Anadolu news agency, Ukrinform reports.
Fidan noted that if Turkey’s integration with the EU had advanced beyond the Customs Union to full membership, the country might not be seeking alternatives.
However, Turkey is now exploring partnerships with BRICS, which aims to develop institutions like those in the EU, including a common currency, infrastructure, and financial systems.
Fidan emphasized that in today’s world, no country can handle crises alone without forming economic, security, and political alliances.
Turkey, he said, has a strong tradition of participating in and leading such alliances.
"Geostrategic anxiety"
He also highlighted how recent global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East, have caused the EU to experience geostrategic anxiety.
BRICS, though not as institutionalized as the EU, offers similar opportunities for cooperation in areas like investment and development.
Fidan added that Turkey is also closely watching ASEAN, as it seeks to expand its international alliances.
He predicted that the ongoing "cold war" between the West, Russia, and their respective alliances would continue to evolve.
Turkey has shown interest in joining BRICS, although it has not yet officially applied for membership.
