India and Turkiye Join Forces to Reimagine Bilateral Relations

Experts from Indian and Turkish think tanks will engage in a collaborative conference in Ankara to enhance mutual understanding. The event, organized by the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research and the International Dialogue and Diplomacy Foundation, aims to redefine bilateral ties and global cooperation amidst evolving geopolitical landscapes.

In a significant move to strengthen diplomatic ties, experts from top think tanks of India and Turkiye are set to converge at a two-day conference in Ankara, kicking off on February 26. The event, a collaboration between Ankara's Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA) and New Delhi's International Dialogue and Diplomacy Foundation (IDDF), promises a robust exchange of ideas.

This gathering marks a historic dialogue, convened by the IDDF, where influential Indian and Turkish scholars, diplomats, and strategic affairs experts will explore the complex layers of India-Turkiye relations amidst the evolving global and regional order. It's the first in years where such prolific intellectual exchange aims to reshape the bilateral narrative.

Prominent Indian scholars such as Prof Aftab Kamal Pasha and C Raja Mohan, among others, will share the stage with Turkish luminaries. Keynote addresses will be delivered by Turkish Deputy Foreign Minister Ambassador Berris Ekinci, alongside Indian Ambassador Muktesh K Pardeshi. The conference stands as a testament to the two nations' commitment beyond geopolitical constraints, having seen their trade mushroom from USD 6 billion in 2014 to USD 14 billion in 2023.

The event, officially partnered with the Indian Embassy in Ankara, opens a pathway for sustained dialogue among experts and stakeholders from diverse sectors. As both nations evolve from Cold War shadows under leaderships of President Erdogan and Prime Minister Modi, they seek fresh consultation platforms for collaborative exploration of global issues, including security, technology, and climate change.

(With inputs from agencies.)