India was outraged by Turkey’s outspoken support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. The real motivations are much more strategic, even though many saw it as just another instance of Islamic solidarity. Ankara is establishing itself as a long-term participant in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), not merely supporting a religious ally.
Turkey’s Bigger Ambition: Maritime Power in IOR
Turkey is not just reviving Ottoman nostalgia. Under President Erdoğan’s leadership, the country is pursuing a maritime expansion strategy that goes far beyond religious alliances.
“Turkey wants a permanent footprint in the Indian Ocean, and it’s using strategic diplomacy to get there.”
— N. Sathiya Moorthy, Geopolitical Analyst
Turkey understands the importance of the IOR as a trade corridor and geopolitical flashpoint. With no direct access to the ocean, Ankara is building its presence via diplomatic influence and strategic partnerships.
The IOR Power Play: Who Controls What?
Here’s a quick snapshot of how global powers are asserting their presence in the Indian Ocean:
| Country | Permanent Bases | Leased Ports | Diplomatic Ties in IOR |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Diego Garcia | None | Maldives, Seychelles |
| China | None | Gwadar, Hambantota | Pakistan, Sri Lanka |
| France | Réunion Island | None | Mauritius |
| Turkey | None | None | Pakistan, Maldives, Somalia |
“Everyone wants a piece of the Indian Ocean. It’s the 21st-century chessboard.”
— Indian Naval Think Tank, 2024
Turkey’s Maldives Gambit
Turkey’s growing footprint in the Maldives is no coincidence. President Mohamed Muizzu has long had close ties with Turkey. His first official visit was to Ankara, a symbolic move that set the tone for the growing relationship.
Recent Turkish gestures to the Maldives:
- Donated 3 surveillance drones
- Gifted a missile-capable warship
- Promised a one-year food security package
- Proposed military training collaborations
These moves are calculated to reduce Malé’s dependence on India — a strategic shift with long-term implications.
Why India Can’t Ignore Turkey
While many in India reduce Turkey’s actions to Islamic alignment, experts warn that such a view is dangerously simplistic.
“Viewing Turkey solely through a religious lens is a strategic mistake. It’s a rising regional power with global ambitions.”
— N. Sathiya Moorthy
Turkey’s recent assertiveness is shaped by its dual identity — a Muslim-majority NATO member with strong nationalist undercurrents. President Erdoğan’s “Vision 2023” and the 2053 Ottoman Centenary Plan both highlight Ankara’s push for a global role.
From CENTO to Türkiye: Historical Patterns Repeat
Back during the Cold War, Turkey and Pakistan were partners in the U.S.-backed CENTO alliance. Today, that bond is being revived with modern tools — drones, diplomacy, and economic carrots.
India, which chose not to join CENTO and led the Non-Aligned Movement instead, now finds itself re-engaging with these old dynamics in a new maritime theatre.
Strategic Quotes That Sum It Up
Here are some insights from experts and analysts:
“Turkey is playing the long game — ports, partnerships, and influence.”
— Middle East Monitor, 2024
“What China did with Hambantota, Turkey is trying to do with Maldives — but more quietly.”
— Indian Strategic Forum
“The Indian Ocean is no longer India’s backyard alone.”
— Rear Admiral (retd.) S. Rathore, Indian Navy
India’s Calculated Response
Rather than react emotionally to public campaigns like “Boycott Maldives”, India is treading carefully. It has restored diplomatic warmth with Malé and may host President Muizzu in New Delhi later this year.
At the same time, India is quietly reinforcing its influence in Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and Seychelles — sending a signal to powers like China and Turkey that the IOR is still India’s strategic zone of interest.
Final Thoughts: A New Ocean Cold War?
The Indian Ocean is no longer just about trade routes — it’s about power. The U.S. is entrenched. China is investing. France is holding its turf. And now, Turkey is entering the game.
India must prepare for a future where the maritime competition includes new, ambitious players. The right response won’t just be military — it will require diplomacy, development aid, intelligence, and strategic communications.
Read More: If This Missile Launches, Pakistan Could Become America’s New Enemy
Watch India Pakistan Breaking News on The Ink Post. Get Latest Updates, Latest News on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Explainers.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn and Twitter to Stay updated!
