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In May 2025, following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, India launched Operation Sindoor as a decisive military response. Turkey’s overt support to Pakistan—including alleged arms transfers and diplomatic backing—has intensified India’s regional security concerns and public backlash.

Impacts of the Turkey–Pakistan Strategic Partnership on India’s Regional Security

• Military Collaboration: Turkey’s provision of drones and naval support to Pakistan enhances Islamabad’s military capabilities.
  Example: Turkish drones were reportedly used by Pakistan during the conflict, intensifying anti-Turkish sentiment.
• Diplomatic Challenges: Turkey’s consistent support for Pakistan on international platforms undermines India’s diplomatic efforts.
  Example: Turkish President Erdogan has repeatedly raised the Kashmir issue at international forums, including the UN General Assembly.
• Economic Repercussions: India’s public and private sectors have initiated boycotts against Turkish products, affecting bilateral trade.
  Example: The All India Consumer Products Distributors Federation announced a total boycott of Turkish goods, impacting products worth an estimated $315 million.
• Strategic Realignments: India is strengthening ties with Turkey’s regional adversaries to counterbalance Ankara’s support for Pakistan.
  Example: India has deepened defense and strategic ties with Greece, including joint air force exercises in the Mediterranean.
• Security Concerns: Turkey’s alleged support for Pakistan raises alarms about the proliferation of advanced military technology in the region.
  Example: Reports suggest Turkey supplied weapons and military equipment to Pakistan, including drones used in attacks on Indian locations.
• Public Sentiment: Turkey’s stance has led to widespread public outrage and calls for economic and cultural boycotts.
• Legal and Commercial Disputes: Turkey’s support for Pakistan has led to legal challenges and commercial tensions with Indian authorities.
  Example: Turkish ground handling company Çelebi is challenges the Indian government over the abrupt revocation of its security clearance.

Strategic Measures India Can Adopt to Maintain Regional Balance

• Strengthen Regional Alliances: Deepen strategic partnerships with countries opposing Turkey’s regional policies.
  Example: India’s enhanced defense cooperation with Greece serves as a counterbalance to Turkey’s regional influence.
• Economic Diversification: Reduce dependence on Turkish imports by sourcing alternatives and promoting domestic industries.
  Example: Traders in Prayagraj have stopped accepting apple consignments from Turkey, shifting demand to domestic and other international sources.
• Diplomatic Engagement: Engage with non-aligned Muslim-majority countries to counteract Turkey’s narrative.
  Example: India’s outreach to nations like the UAE and Saudi Arabia helps in building a balanced diplomatic front.
• Information Warfare: Enhance strategic communication to counter misinformation and propaganda.
  Example: India can leverage its media and diplomatic channels to present its stance on Kashmir and counter Turkey’s narratives.
• Legal Safeguards: Implement policies to scrutinize and regulate foreign investments from countries supporting adversaries.
• Military Modernization: Accelerate indigenous defense projects to reduce reliance on foreign technology.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate citizens about the implications of supporting products from adversarial nations.
  Example: The Confederation of All India Traders extended the boycott to all trades, including Turkish marble, chocolate, and jewellery.

The evolving Turkey–Pakistan strategic partnership poses multifaceted challenges to India’s regional security. By adopting a combination of diplomatic, economic, and strategic measures, India can effectively counterbalance this alliance and safeguard its national interests.

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