Limited Strategic Cooperation between Romania and Türkiye in the Black Sea Region: Historical Ties and Diverging Interests

This study explores the limited strategic cooperation between Romania and Türkiye, despite their historical ties, geographic proximity, and shared regional interests in the Black Sea area. Although both countries have maintained diplomatic relations since the 19th century and share NATO membership, their strategic alignment remains fragile. Through a qualitative document analysis of academic, diplomatic, and policy sources in Romanian, Turkish, and English, the paper identifies key factors that hinder deeper cooperation. These include unresolved historical grievances, divergent geopolitical orientations, competition for regional influence, and economic disparities. Romania prioritizes Euro-Atlantic integration and supports greater NATO and EU involvement in the Black Sea, while Türkiye increasingly promotes regional autonomy and maintains strategic ambiguity, including cooperative ties with Russia. The study concludes that although bilateral relations remain generally positive, the lack of cohesive strategic vision and contrasting foreign policy priorities have limited the development of a true partnership. Overcoming these challenges would require mutual concessions, trust-building, and stronger political will from both sides.