Economist Podcasts Going old Turkey: a regional power spreads
Aug 4, 2020
Nicholas Pelham, The Economist's Middle East correspondent, discusses Turkey's resurgence as a regional power following the Arab Spring, detailing its military interventions and historical ambitions. Kenley Salmon, Africa correspondent, provides a critical analysis of Tanzania's newly awarded middle-income status, questioning the validity of its economic data amid persistent poverty. The conversation also touches on the controversy surrounding the Cocoa Mat Hotel in Athens, where modern design clashes with historical preservation, sparking local outrage.
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Turkey's Foreign Policy Shift
- Turkey's foreign policy has shifted from cooperation to expansionism.
- It's increasing its influence through military interventions and diplomatic pressure.
Turkish Intervention in Libya
- Turkey actively supports Libya's government in the civil war, and its defense minister inspected troops there.
- An opposition warlord threatened Turkish forces, causing tensions.
Turkey's Role in Syria
- Turkey's involvement in Syria increased since the Arab Spring, initially backing Islamist movements.
- It aims to protect its border, manage refugees, and address Kurdish power.