Turkey aims to exploit opportunities in Africa from France’s military withdrawal, enhancing its diplomatic presence while navigating risks of overstretch and competition with other global powers. President Erdogan’s investments and favorable arms exports position Turkey as a growing influence in the region.
Turkey is poised to leverage opportunities in Africa due to France’s military withdrawal from the region. Experts indicate that France’s reduction in troop presence in the Sahel and West Africa creates a vacuum that Turkey is eager to fill. As a NATO member and experienced arms exporter, Turkey must navigate its resource allocation carefully as it engages with these new markets.
France’s recent military handover in Côte d’Ivoire and exit from Chad signifies a broader withdrawal. Federico Donelli, an international relations expert, notes that traditional powers like France are reducing their engagement because local states prefer their exit rather than due to political or economic constraints. This shift opens doors for new players, particularly Turkey.
President Erdogan has significantly invested in Africa, increasing Turkey’s embassy presence fourfold over the last twenty years. His strategy includes capitalizing on anti-colonial sentiments against France to strengthen Turkey’s appeal to African nations. Experts believe this approach positions Turkey favorably as sentiments against France deepen amidst regional security challenges.
Elem Tepecikoglu highlights that Turkey’s rise in Africa was catalyzed by perceptions of France’s inability to handle insurgent threats. He emphasizes that Turkey’s defense agreements with Sahelian countries are vital to its increasing role. Reportedly, Turkey has also deployed military advisers and drones to Chad, further solidifying its presence in the region.
Notably, an October Istanbul meeting focused on enhancing Senegalese and Turkish military cooperation, coinciding with calls from Senegal for the removal of French forces. The affordability and proven reliability of Turkish arms, coupled with minimal restrictions on use, enhance Turkey’s influence in African defense markets.
While Turkey’s influence is growing, it contends with larger powers like Russia, China, and the United States. Turkey’s status as a NATO member offers African states a less politically costly option for security agreements than aligning with Russia, according to Donelli. This dynamic could bolster Turkey’s position in the region.
However, experts warn of the risks associated with Turkey’s swift expansion into Africa, noting potential overstretch of its diplomatic and military resources. Huseyin Bagci cautions that the sustainability of Turkey’s strategic initiatives is questionable as tensions with its economy continue. Given these challenges, Turkey may increasingly seek cooperative relationships rather than competing aggressively in Africa, especially as it looks to mend ties with Europe.
Turkey is strategically positioning itself in Africa following France’s military withdrawal, diversifying its diplomatic and military engagement. While this presents opportunities for growth through arms exports and security partnerships, experts caution that Turkey must manage its resources meticulously to avoid overstretching. The evolving geopolitical landscape offers a chance for collaboration, particularly as Turkey aims to enhance its international standing amidst economic challenges.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
