Central Asia as Turkey’s region of influence

Abstract

The article examines the influence of Turkey in Central Asia, its strategic and ideological foundations, main sectoral directions of relations with the region, dynamics of development of bilateral and regional relations, and mechanisms of institutional implementation. The activities of organizations and forums that contribute to relations with Central Asia, which are united and institutionally formed, are envisaged within the framework of the Cooperation Council of Turkic-speaking states. Trade, infrastructure, energy and communications have become areas that have deepened Turkey's economic ties with the Central Asian region with an aim of increasing integration and diversification of Turkish business interests. In addition, Turkey's actions on destabilizing factors such as extremist movements, drug and arms trafficking, and terrorist activities in the Central Asian republics were discussed. One of the factors shaping Turkey's influence is its policy in the military sphere, including the analysis of its work on providing military assistance to the countries of the region to strengthen defense and security. The foreign policy concept of Turkey in Central Asian region is also considered through the lens of different organizations such as The International Organization of Turkic Culture (TÜRKSOY) and others.