Why Is Turkey Helping Pakistan? Experts Break Down the Strategic Alliance
In recent years, the strategic relationship between Turkey and Pakistan has deepened, drawing considerable attention from international observers. Though often framed in the context of historical brotherhood, this partnership is rooted in far more complex political, military, and ideological dimensions. From defense collaboration to shared global stances, Turkey’s consistent support for Pakistan, especially against the backdrop of regional tensions and global polarization, reflects a calculated geopolitical strategy. Experts weigh in on the key drivers shaping this alliance and its broader implications.
Historical and Cultural Brotherhood
The foundation of Turkey-Pakistan relations can be traced back to the early 20th century. During the Khilafat Movement in British India, Muslims—including those in present-day Pakistan—demonstrated strong support for the Ottoman Empire. This solidarity laid the groundwork for a unique camaraderie between the two nations.
Since Pakistan’s independence in 1947, Turkey has been among the first countries to establish diplomatic ties. The shared Islamic heritage and cultural parallels have fostered mutual respect and goodwill. This bond has extended to consistent support on international forums, such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where both countries often back each other’s positions.
Strategic Military Cooperation and Defense Ties
One of the most prominent aspects of the Turkey-Pakistan alliance is their growing military cooperation. Turkey has emerged as Pakistan’s second-largest arms supplier, delivering sophisticated military hardware such as drones, warships, and advanced weapon systems.
Turkish defense companies have been instrumental in bolstering Pakistan’s capabilities. For instance, Turkey’s Asisguard Songar drones have reportedly been employed by Pakistan along sensitive border areas, particularly the Line of Control. These collaborations highlight a strategic convergence focused on military modernization and tactical readiness.
Turkey has also helped upgrade Pakistan’s navy and has partnered on joint defense production initiatives. Turkish naval vessels like the MILGEM-class corvettes are now part of Pakistan’s naval arsenal. These moves are viewed by experts as steps toward creating a regional counterbalance, particularly as India rapidly enhances its defense posture.
Shared Geopolitical Stances: Kashmir and Beyond
Geopolitical alignment is a major pillar of this bilateral relationship. Turkey has repeatedly voiced support for Pakistan’s position on the Kashmir conflict. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has made controversial remarks in global forums like the UN General Assembly, criticizing India’s actions in Jammu and Kashmir and calling for international mediation.
Such open support has drawn strong reactions from India but has simultaneously reinforced Turkey’s role as an ally to Pakistan. Beyond Kashmir, both nations align on broader issues such as advocating for the rights of Muslims globally, combating Islamophobia, and challenging Western dominance in shaping narratives about the Muslim world.
This ideological alignment has made Turkey a valuable diplomatic partner for Pakistan, especially as Islamabad seeks allies beyond traditional players like China and the Gulf states.
Economic and Infrastructure Collaboration
While military and ideological ties often dominate headlines, the economic component of the Turkey-Pakistan alliance is rapidly evolving. The two countries have signed over two dozen bilateral agreements in recent years, covering sectors such as trade, energy, infrastructure development, and technology.
Initiatives to increase bilateral trade, which currently remains below potential, have gained traction through high-level visits and business forums. Turkey has shown interest in investing in Pakistan’s Special Economic Zones (SEZs) under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), aiming to capitalize on its strategic location and manufacturing base.
Both governments have also explored collaboration in the fields of tourism, education, and transportation. The revival of direct flights and educational exchange programs underscore the multifaceted nature of their economic engagement.
Erdoğan’s Vision and the Ottoman Legacy
Experts point to Turkish President Erdoğan’s neo-Ottoman vision as a crucial factor behind his active foreign policy in South Asia and the Muslim world. Seeking to revive Turkey’s influence beyond its immediate borders, Erdoğan has positioned himself as a leader of the Muslim Ummah, a community of believers that transcends national boundaries.
Aligning with Pakistan—a populous Muslim-majority country with nuclear weapons and significant influence in the Islamic world—serves this strategic vision. For Turkey, partnering with Pakistan is not just about bilateral gains but also about reshaping global power structures to reflect Muslim agency and leadership.
This ideological aspiration has driven Ankara to take assertive stances that often place it at odds with Western allies, particularly on issues like Kashmir, Palestine, and military interventions.
Implications for India and the Region
India views the Turkey-Pakistan alliance with growing concern. The strengthening of defense ties and Turkey’s vocal criticism of India’s domestic policies, especially in Kashmir, have led to diplomatic friction. New Delhi has responded by downgrading military cooperation and diversifying its diplomatic engagements to isolate Ankara.
For Pakistan, however, Turkey serves as a valuable counterweight in its regional balancing act. In addition to support from China and the Gulf, Ankara’s backing on critical global platforms adds a layer of legitimacy and diplomatic muscle that Islamabad has leveraged effectively.
The Turkey-Pakistan axis is also indicative of a shifting global order where traditional alliances are giving way to new power blocs defined by religion, ideology, and strategic needs.
Turkey’s support for Pakistan is far from a one-dimensional display of Islamic solidarity. It is a calculated alliance rooted in history, strategy, and a shared vision for regional and global influence. From drone sales to diplomatic backing, the Turkey-Pakistan relationship has evolved into a robust partnership that transcends symbolic gestures.
As both nations continue to challenge the status quo on multiple fronts, their cooperation is poised to deepen, potentially reshaping alliances and rivalries in South Asia and beyond. Whether viewed as an emerging power bloc or a tactical alignment, the Turkey-Pakistan partnership is one to watch closely in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
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