The Quest for Balance: Historical Background of Türkiye-Africa Relations

The potential and problems in Africa have attracted the attention of several actors, including Türkiye, to the continent. This article aims to contribute to the debates surrounding this interest by analyzing common characteristics of Africa-oriented policies. In particular, this analysis focuses on the key parameters that shaped Türkiye’s initiatives through a historical perspective. We argue that the Turkish policy toward Africa revolves around several concepts. Our analysis of Türkiye’s Africa policy decision-making is structured around several guiding principles: a bipartisan approach, maintaining an autonomous policy, a rational and pragmatic approach, as well as mutual affirmation. To examine policy priorities across different periods, primary sources such as parliamentary minutes, election programs, and diplomats’ memoirs were analyzed, alongside periodicals from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The consistent principles of Türkiye’s Africa policy include bipartisan support across governments, autonomous decision-making, and a rational, pragmatic focus on economic diplomacy. Mutual recognition and respect for African sovereignty have also been essential, resulting in a positive reception and growing partnerships with African nations.