Turkey is actively seeking to join BRICS nations as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its economy and global alliances, following decades of unsuccessful attempts to gain membership in the European Union (EU). Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed this during an interview, highlighting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's commitment to expanding Turkey’s economic options.

According to Fidan, joining the EU was always Turkey’s first choice, but due to prolonged delays and political barriers, the country is now exploring alternative economic alliances, including BRICS. He clarified that while Turkey has not entirely abandoned its hope of EU accession, it must remain open to new opportunities to enhance its position in the global economy.

Turkey’s Challenges with the EU

Despite its long-standing aspiration to join the European Union, Turkey’s accession has faced multiple roadblocks. The EU has consistently cited concerns over human rights, democratic standards, and political stability as reasons for Turkey’s stalled membership. Additionally, Fidan pointed out that cultural differences have played a significant role in preventing progress.

For years, Turkey has complied with EU membership prerequisites, yet the process has remained stagnant, fueling the country’s frustration and prompting its leadership to consider alternative economic and diplomatic partnerships.

Turkey’s BRICS Aspirations

Turkey officially submitted a formal bid to join BRICS, citing potential benefits such as easier access to emerging markets and stronger financial cooperation. However, as of November 2024, Turkey has only been granted partner-country status, which falls short of full membership.

Speaking at the G-20 summit of foreign ministers in Johannesburg, South Africa, Fidan reiterated that Turkey is interested in BRICS membership but has yet to receive an official invitation.

“In the modern world, no one country can alone overcome economic and political issues,” Fidan stated. “Institutionalizing multilateralism is essential to addressing geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and global conflicts.”

The BRICS group, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has expanded in recent years, adding Iran, Indonesia, and other nations. The bloc has positioned itself as an alternative to Western-dominated financial institutions, with a focus on economic cooperation and reducing dependency on the US dollar.

What BRICS Membership Could Mean for Turkey

By joining BRICS, Turkey could gain access to:

• Expanded trade opportunities with emerging economies.
• Stronger financial backing through the BRICS-led multilateral lender.
• A geopolitical counterbalance to its reliance on Western markets.

However, challenges remain. Unlike the EU, BRICS is not a fully integrated economic or political bloc. Member nations often have diverging economic policies and political interests, which could limit Turkey’s ability to maximize the benefits of membership.

Turkey’s Multilateral Strategy

Turkey’s interest in BRICS aligns with its broader strategy of diversifying global partnerships. In recent years, Turkey has strengthened its diplomatic and economic relations with various nations, particularly in Africa, where it has established counterterrorism collaborations with Somalia and other regional players.

Fidan emphasized that self-reliance and economic expansion remain at the core of Turkey’s international agenda. “Self-help is on the menu for every nation-state. So it encourages very fierce competition,” he stated, highlighting the need for a balanced and pragmatic foreign policy approach.

The Road Ahead for Turkey

Turkey’s diplomatic moves indicate a shift towards a multipolar global strategy, seeking stronger ties beyond Europe. While the country remains engaged with the EU, it is clear that alternative economic partnerships are now a critical part of its long-term vision.

As Turkey continues negotiations with BRICS and monitors the bloc’s expansion, it remains to be seen whether full membership will be granted in the near future. For now, Turkey’s status as a partner country marks the beginning of a new chapter in its geopolitical and economic journey.

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