Trump’s re-election could bring new opportunities for Turkey-US relations, with potential gains in trade, defense, energy cooperation, and diplomatic ties through Trump’s pragmatic and business-focused approach.
Donald Trump’s re-election could positively impact Turkey-US relations by emphasizing economic growth, defense cooperation, and regional stability. With Trump’s focus on economic interests, there may be substantial trade and investment opportunities that align with both countries’ goals. His flexibility in Middle East policy, coupled with a personal, leader-centered diplomatic style, could enable Turkey to pursue strategic objectives, especially in areas like Syria and energy security in the Eastern Mediterranean. Overall, Trump’s pragmatic approach could allow Turkey to strengthen its regional influence and enhance cooperation with the US on key fronts.
If Donald Trump is re-elected as US president, several positive factors may emerge in Turkey-US relations. His administration’s pragmatic approach to foreign policy and focus on personal diplomacy could strengthen strategic cooperation between the two countries. As a former businessman, Trump’s emphasis on economic interests and commercial partnerships could also foster stronger economic ties between Turkey and the US. Here are some of the potential benefits that Trump’s re-election might bring to Turkey-US relations.
Economic Cooperation: Expanding Trade Volume
Trump’s economic focus could pave the way for positive Turkish-US trade relations. During the trade tensions with China, the Trump administration sought to position certain countries as alternative supply chain partners, and Turkey’s strategic location and production capacity could make it a valuable economic ally for the US. Trump has previously encouraged both nations to reach a trade target of $100 billion, and increasing Turkey’s exports to the US, along with American investments in Turkey, could help meet this goal. Such economic expansion would support Turkey’s industrial and technological growth, while also providing the US with a stable and reliable partner.
Defense Cooperation: Strengthening Shared Security Interests in NATO
As a key NATO member, Turkey plays a critical role in ensuring security and stability in the Middle East and Mediterranean. The Trump administration’s emphasis on NATO and recognition of Turkey’s importance to the alliance could further enhance defense cooperation between the two countries. Turkey’s military bases and strategic location could support US regional security goals, while Turkey’s increased defense spending and commitment to NATO could solidify joint defense efforts. Trump’s support for counter-terrorism, a shared priority, could also allow Turkey to make more decisive moves toward regional stability.
Syria and Middle East Policy: Flexibility and Shared Interests
Trump’s flexible approach to Syria and broader Middle East policy could align with Turkey’s strategic goals. Unlike the Obama administration, Trump opted to withdraw US troops from Syria, focusing instead on cooperation with allied nations. This approach offers Turkey more room to pursue its security goals in Syria and enhance its border security. By working with the Trump administration, Turkey can better address threats in northern Syria, while Trump’s reliance on local alliances could increase Turkey’s regional influence and reinforce shared goals.
Personal Diplomacy: The Erdoğan-Trump Relationship
Trump’s diplomacy style emphasizes direct communication between leaders, which has characterized his relationship with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The two leaders have relied on open communication to address complex issues through diplomacy. For instance, Trump’s flexible stance on sensitive issues like the S-400 and F-35 programs reflects this leader-focused approach. With Trump in office, direct dialogue between Erdoğan and Trump could facilitate quicker resolution of bilateral issues, keeping a strong communication channel open for coordinated foreign policy actions.
Energy Cooperation: Eastern Mediterranean and Alternative Resources
The Trump administration’s interest in energy resources could be advantageous for Turkey. Turkey is a critical player in energy security and exploration in the Eastern Mediterranean, and US support could be a valuable asset in its pursuit of regional energy projects. Trump’s focus on energy might also encourage US energy companies to invest in Turkey, presenting an opportunity to bolster Turkey’s energy security and economic development. This collaboration would contribute to Turkey’s energy independence while aligning with US interests in the region.
Conclusion
Trump’s re-election could signal a period of mutual interests in Turkey-US relations. From economic and defense cooperation to direct diplomacy and energy security, Trump’s pragmatic foreign policy could offer Turkey flexibility and create a framework for constructive and mutually beneficial relations. This alignment has the potential to foster growth, address security concerns, and enhance Turkey’s regional influence under Trump’s administration, opening a new era of strategic partnership for both nations.
