Diplomatic Drama Unfolds as Ankara Softens Stand, But New Delhi Remains Firm
New Delhi: In a rare diplomatic turn, Turkey has reportedly extended an informal apology to India for its long-standing support to Pakistan, particularly on the Kashmir issue. But far from mending fences, India has rejected any possibility of normalising ties for now, calling Ankara’s gestures “too little, too late.”
What Triggered the Apology?
According to diplomatic sources, Turkish officials, behind closed doors, conveyed “regret” over past statements and actions that openly sided with Pakistan—especially at international forums like the UN and OIC. Turkey, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, has often raised Kashmir in global settings, echoing Pakistan’s narrative, much to India’s frustration.
But with geopolitical equations shifting—and Turkey eyeing improved trade and strategic ties with India—Ankara seems to be rethinking its stance.
India’s Cold Shoulder
Despite the apparent softening from Turkey, India isn’t rushing to roll out the red carpet. A senior Indian official responded bluntly:
“You cannot repeatedly question our sovereignty and then expect things to go back to normal with a few words of regret.”
India has maintained that support for terrorism, direct or indirect, is a red line—and that any nation aligning with Pakistan on such issues cannot expect normal diplomatic ties.
Kashmir: The Core of the Rift
The crux of the India-Turkey friction lies in Kashmir. Turkey has, in the past, not only spoken against India’s moves in Jammu & Kashmir but also openly endorsed Pakistan’s position, even after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
This open meddling in India’s internal affairs has left a deep scar in bilateral relations, which New Delhi is not willing to forget easily.
Turkey’s Changing Tone – Too Late?
Analysts believe Turkey’s recent outreach is driven by economics, not emotions. With India emerging as a global economic force and Turkey battling inflation and diplomatic isolation in parts of the world, Ankara may now see value in reconciliation.
However, India seems cautious, if not outright dismissive.
No Reset Yet
Despite Turkey’s attempts to recalibrate its relationship, India has made it clear that normalisation of ties is off the table unless there’s a “clear and consistent shift” in Turkey’s policy, especially on Pakistan and terrorism-related narratives.
The Bottom Line
Turkey may have blinked first, but India isn’t budging. The road to mending ties between the two nations looks long and complicated—and for now, the message from New Delhi is crystal clear: apologies aren’t enough.
