After months of diplomatic strain linked to Pakistan and the Kashmir issue, India and Turkey are reportedly taking cautious steps toward rebuilding ties.
Both countries have resumed high-level talks, signaling a possible reset in relations that had sharply worsened following Ankara’s public support for Pakistan during last year’s India-Pakistan tensions. Reports indicate that India and Turkey recently held the 12th round of Foreign Office Consultations after a long gap, reflecting an effort to restart diplomatic engagement.
What Caused the Rift?
Relations between New Delhi and Ankara became tense after Turkey openly backed Pakistan during the regional crisis and repeatedly raised the Kashmir issue on international platforms.
This triggered strong reactions in India, including tourism boycotts, criticism of Turkish businesses, and diplomatic pushback. Reports noted a visible decline in Indian tourist arrivals to Turkey, while trade sentiment also weakened during the period.
India also publicly reminded Turkey that bilateral relations are built on “mutual sensitivities,” especially regarding issues linked to cross-border terrorism and Pakistan.
Why Both Sides Want a Reset
Despite the tensions, both countries have strong economic and strategic reasons to keep communication open.
Changing regional trade routes and uncertainty surrounding the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) are pushing both Ankara and New Delhi to reassess long-term cooperation. Analysts suggest that diplomacy is now being viewed as more practical than prolonged confrontation.
Trade, connectivity, and regional influence remain important for both sides, making a complete diplomatic freeze difficult to sustain.
Dialogue Over Division
Officials from both countries now appear to be signaling that dialogue is better than deepening misunderstandings.
While differences over Pakistan and Kashmir are unlikely to disappear overnight, reopening diplomatic channels shows a more pragmatic approach from both governments.
This cautious reset may not immediately restore full trust, but it does suggest that strategic interests are beginning to outweigh political friction.
For now, both India and Turkey seem to be choosing conversation over confrontation.
