Turkey and Kyrgyzstan Forge Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov signed 19 agreements to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership, enhancing defense ties as part of Turkey’s strategy to compete for influence in Central Asia against Russia and China. The partnership also addresses cooperation in energy and counter-terrorism.

On Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officiated a visit to Kyrgyzstan, where Turkey and Kyrgyzstan established a “comprehensive strategic partnership,” emphasizing enhanced defense collaboration. This initiative is part of Turkey’s broader strategy to fortify its influence in Central Asia, facing off against the growing presence of Russia and China. Following discussions, the two nations signed 19 bilateral agreements spanning various sectors, including energy, defense, and counter-terrorism efforts, as stated by President Sadyr Japarov, who underscored the critical nature of the defense cooperation. Amid global tensions such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there is a marked increase in Turkey’s military engagements with Central Asian nations, further challenging Moscow’s traditional dominance in the region.

In recent years, Turkey has sought to broaden its geopolitical influence in Central Asia, a region historically dominated by Russia. This strategic pivot has been catalyzed by various global developments, including conflicts and the regional interests of other powers such as China. The updated partnership between Turkey and Kyrgyzstan aligns with a growing trend of Central Asian nations forging closer ties with Ankara as they navigate a complex geopolitical landscape characterized by the need for diversifying alliances and enhancing national security.

The agreement reached between Turkey and Kyrgyzstan to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership underscores the evolving relationships in Central Asia amid shifting global dynamics. With a focus on defense and energy cooperation, both nations appear poised to enhance their collaboration, contributing to Turkey’s aim of ascending its status within the region, while also signaling a new era in regional partnerships that could reshape the influence of traditional powers like Russia.

Original Source: tribune.com.pk