Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts in Africa and the Middle East have significantly enhanced its global diplomatic standing, placing it third globally in diplomatic power, just behind China and the US, according to the 2024 Global Diplomacy Index by the Lowy Institute of Australia.
This rise is attributed to Türkiye’s expansion of diplomatic networks in a more multipolar world, showcasing its status as a rising middle power.
With 252 diplomatic missions worldwide, Türkiye has expanded its network rapidly, adding 24 posts since 2017 and 11 since the previous edition of the Index in 2021. Many of Türkiye’s new posts have been in the Middle East and Africa, reflecting a strategic diplomatic push in regions of interest to Ankara.
China-Turkey Relations (Credits: CGTN)
Despite this expansion, Türkiye’s diplomatic network remains highly Eurocentric, with 40% of its total overseas posts located in Europe, largely due to the significant ethnic Turkish diaspora in the Eurozone.
However, Türkiye has launched the Asia Anew Initiative to strengthen its bilateral and multilateral relations across Asia. The importance of face-to-face diplomacy and physical presence is emphasized in the report, highlighting the continued investment by governments in maintaining on-the-ground diplomatic missions despite the ease of online connectivity.
The report also notes the impact of great power rivalry, with the US and China dominating the rankings, as well as the effects of geopolitical events such as Russia’s war in Ukraine, which led to the closure of 14 Russian posts abroad due to deteriorating ties or diplomatic expulsions.
Overall, Türkiye’s rise in diplomatic power underscores its increasing influence and engagement on the global stage, particularly in regions critical to its strategic interests.
