In a world that is fraught with political, economic, and social turmoil, the friendship between India and Turkey is a shining beacon of hope and positivity. Despite their geographical distance, these two countries have always had a deep cultural and historical connection, which has only grown stronger with time.
The Historical Connection between India and Turkey
India and Turkey have a shared history that dates back to ancient times. The Mauryan Empire, which existed in India from 322 BC to 185 BC, had diplomatic relations with the Seleucid Empire in Turkey. The two empires engaged in trade and cultural exchange, which helped to create a deep sense of mutual respect and admiration.
In the medieval period, Turkish sultanates, such as the Ghaznavid and Mughal Empires, ruled over large parts of India. These sultanates brought with them a rich cultural heritage, including the Persian language, which has had a profound impact on Indian literature and art.
In modern times, India and Turkey have been united in their struggle against colonialism and imperialism. Both countries played an active role in the Non-Aligned Movement during the Cold War, which aimed to create a third way for countries that did not want to align themselves with either the US or the Soviet Union.
The Cultural Exchange between India and Turkey
One of the defining features of the friendship between India and Turkey is the rich cultural exchange that has taken place between these two countries. Indian music and dance have always had a strong following in Turkey, and many Turkish artists have been inspired by Indian classical music and dance forms.
Similarly, Indian cuisine has become increasingly popular in Turkey, with many Turkish restaurants serving dishes such as biryani, tandoori chicken, and naan bread. Turkish cuisine, on the other hand, has become popular in India, with dishes such as kebabs and baklava finding a large following among Indian foodies.
The Economic Partnership between India and Turkey
India and Turkey have also been steadily increasing their economic ties, with bilateral trade reaching $8.6 billion in 2019. Both countries have a strong focus on manufacturing and exports, and there is great potential for collaboration in these areas.
Turkey is particularly interested in tapping into India’s burgeoning e-commerce market, which is projected to reach $200 billion by 2026. India, on the other hand, is interested in Turkish expertise in areas such as construction and infrastructure development.
