Turkey playing the Muslim card for economic progress globally
Introduction
Turkey has strategically leveraged its Muslim identity to advance its economic interests and global influence in recent years. This approach, often referred to as “neo-Ottomanism,” has been a key component of Turkey’s foreign policy under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his Justice and Development Party (AKP).
Economic Diplomacy and Islamic Finance
Turkey has made significant strides in promoting Islamic finance as a means of economic growth and global influence:
The Turkish government aims to increase the share of Islamic banking (known as participation banking) from 7.2% in 2020 to 15% by 2025.
Turkey has become a hub for Islamic financial products, including sukuk (Islamic bonds) and Sharia-compliant investment funds.
The country has positioned itself as a bridge between Eastern and Western financial markets, leveraging its unique geographical location.
Trade and Economic Partnerships
Turkey has actively sought to strengthen economic ties with Muslim-majority nations:
Trade with Muslim-majority countries increased from $8.4 billion in 2002 to $69 billion in 2018.
The government has signed free trade agreements and introduced visa-free travel with several Middle Eastern countries.
Turkey has worked to revitalize the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and hosted international conferences attended by religious figures and intellectuals from the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy
Turkey has employed various soft power strategies to enhance its appeal in the Muslim world:
The country has undertaken numerous renovation projects of Ottoman heritage sites.
Turkey has increased its humanitarian aid efforts, primarily targeting Muslim populations in need.
The government has promoted Turkey as a successful example of blending liberalism, secularism, and economic development while preserving Islamic cultural values.
Challenges and Criticisms
While Turkey’s strategy has yielded some economic benefits, it has also faced challenges:
The country’s authoritarian drift under Erdoğan’s rule has strained relationships with Western allies.
Turkey’s ambitions for an independent foreign policy are constrained by financial dependencies and economic realities.
Critics argue that the emphasis on Islamic identity in foreign policy is partly aimed at mobilizing domestic support and legitimizing the government’s actions.
Conclusion
Turkey has indeed been “playing the Muslim card” to advance its economic interests globally. This strategy has led to increased trade with Muslim-majority countries, growth in Islamic finance, and enhanced soft power. However, the long-term success of this approach remains to be seen, as it must be balanced with Turkey’s existing economic ties to the West and the challenges posed by its domestic political situation.
