Ankara to Africa: Turkey's outreach since 2005

Abstract

As a rapidly growing emerging economy, Turkey has been expanding its foreign policy horizons to the countries of the Middle East, but also to Latin America, Asia and specifically to Africa. Using its historic links and Muslim heritage, as well as its dynamic private sector and non-governmental organisations, Turkey has since 2005 been working to strengthen its ties with the countries of sub-Saharan Africa. The success of this outreach to Africa can be measured in increasing trade and investment, transport links especially in air services, African support for Turkey's bid for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council, the number of African embassies being established in Ankara and new Turkish embassies in African capitals, and the new seriousness with which African leaders view Turkey. Turkey is competing with traditional and emerging actors for a role in Africa. In the process it is worrying some of Africa's traditional partners. But Africa can benefit from what Turkey can bring to the relationship while posing no geopolitical threat to the continent.