Historical aspect of Turkey’s multi-vector regional policy (Central Asia)

Abstract

Turkey is seeking to enhance its influence within the Turkic world, which Russia views as a zone of its interests and China is rapidly entering it. This move by Turkey gives rise to concerns on the part of Russia and China. However, contradictory interests and geopolitical developments in the region render Turkey more prominent on the global stage. In particular, the geopolitical struggle for spheres of influence between the United States, Russia and China has created
opportunities for Turkey, which enhances its stature on the international stage. As a full member of the Organization of Turkic States, along with neighboring countries such as Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, and with Turkmenistan and Hungary as observers, Turkey’s importance within the
organization is further reinforced, particularly in Central Asia. In this context, this article focuses on the position of Turkey, which is rapidly integrating in the Turkic world, enabling it to confront the interests of Russia and China. Based on specific analyses and agreements reached within the Organization of Turkic States, as well as the results of integration processes, the article attempts to
explore the role of the ‘Central Corridor’ as an alternative to the transcontinental trade route.