Erdogan Stands Out at the BRICS Summit: Balancing NATO and Russia

This week, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made headlines at the BRICS summit, hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kazan. The event aimed to challenge U.S. dominance in global affairs, but Erdogan’s presence stood out as he was the only leader from a NATO country.

A Warm Welcome from Putin

President Putin welcomed leaders from different nations, focusing on building alliances with countries like China and Iran. Erdogan, whom he called his “dear friend,” showed how Turkey is trying to play a key role between rival powers.

Erdogan’s Role at the BRICS Summit

Turkey’s involvement in the BRICS summit, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, highlighted Erdogan’s strategy to increase Turkey’s global influence. Even though Turkey is a NATO member, Erdogan’s attendance showed his desire to work with non-Western powers in today’s shifting global scene.

A Win for Putin

For Putin, Erdogan’s presence was a big win. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Western countries have tried to isolate Russia. But by hosting the BRICS summit and having Erdogan attend, Putin showed that Russia still has international support. It also showed that Putin is building broader alliances, even with countries tied to NATO.

The Importance of Appearances

Even though the BRICS summit didn’t lead to major agreements, it was important for Putin to show that Russia isn’t alone. The meeting between leaders like China’s Xi Jinping and India’s Narendra Modi, held in Russia, helped boost the image of the BRICS bloc. Erdogan’s attendance further highlighted the group’s growing influence.

Turkey’s Delicate Balance in Diplomacy

Erdogan’s visit also showcased Turkey’s balancing act in foreign policy. Despite being a key NATO ally and selling weapons to Ukraine, Turkey hasn’t imposed sanctions on Russia. Instead, it has increased trade with Moscow. By attending the summit, Erdogan showed that Turkey is trying to maintain good relations with both Western and Eastern powers.

Keeping Both Sides Close

Turkey’s strategy is to maintain ties with both NATO and BRICS members. Asli Aydintasbas, a fellow at the Brookings Institution, says that Turkey believes the U.S.-led global order is weakening. To adapt, Erdogan wants to maintain connections with both sides.

Erdogan’s Economic Goals with BRICS

Erdogan’s interest in BRICS isn’t just political—it’s also economic. Turkey’s economy has faced struggles in recent years, and Erdogan is looking for investment from countries like China and India. Building stronger relationships with BRICS members could help improve Turkey’s economy and trade connections.

A Complex Relationship with Putin

Erdogan’s personal relationship with Putin plays a big role in their countries’ cooperation. While they may be rivals in some areas, they also share common goals, especially when it comes to opposing Western power. Their complex friendship allows them to work together while keeping their differences in check.

Key Role in Diplomacy

Erdogan has been a key figure in talks between Russia and Ukraine. In 2022, he helped broker a deal allowing Ukraine to export grain from its Black Sea ports. He has also helped with prisoner exchanges, showing that Turkey can maintain good relations with both sides.

Turkey’s Future with BRICS

Looking ahead, Erdogan seems eager to deepen Turkey’s involvement with BRICS. Though the group recently expanded to include countries like Egypt and Iran, Turkey’s full membership is still uncertain. However, Erdogan’s presence at the summit shows that he sees BRICS as an important part of the future global order.

Can Turkey Join BRICS?

Turkey has expressed interest in joining BRICS, but it’s not a sure thing yet. Some BRICS members, like Russia and China, support expanding the group, but others, like Brazil, want clear rules for new members. Even if Turkey doesn’t become a full member, Erdogan could still use his connections with BRICS to improve Turkey’s standing with Western allies.

Erdogan’s Diplomatic Strategy

Erdogan’s participation in the BRICS summit shows how Turkey is trying to navigate a changing global landscape. By keeping ties with both NATO and BRICS, Erdogan is positioning Turkey as a key player in a world increasingly divided between competing powers. As the global order shifts, Erdogan’s strategy of balancing East and West will likely shape Turkey’s future role in world politics.