Economist Podcasts

West-siding story? Turkey’s tactical shift

Aug 14, 2023
Piotr Zalewski, The Economist's Turkey correspondent, and Ed Carr, the magazine's deputy editor, dive deep into Turkey's changing global alliances. They discuss President Erdogan's balancing act between the West and Russia, stimulating skepticism about his newfound diplomacy. The conversation also touches on the global survey revealing stagnation in the spread of liberal values. Additionally, there's a fascinating tangent about the discovery of Perisutus colossus, the largest known animal to ever roam the Earth—marveling at the wonders of prehistoric life.
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INSIGHT

Turkey's Tactical Shift

  • Turkey's President Erdogan appears to be shifting away from Russia and towards Western allies.
  • This follows accusations against the US and a strong relationship with Russia.
INSIGHT

Erdogan's Western Overtures

  • Erdogan's recent overtures to the West include supporting Sweden's NATO accession and courting Western investors.
  • He has also appealed to the EU to resume accession talks and taken steps to improve Turkey's economy.
INSIGHT

Motivations Behind the Shift

  • Erdogan's shift is likely driven by economic necessity rather than a genuine change of heart.
  • Western diplomats are skeptical of true rapprochement given Erdogan's domestic policies.
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