"The Global Ambitions of Turkey and China: Navigating the World Stage"
Hatched by Ben H.
Jul 30, 2023
3 min read
2 views
Copy Link
"The Global Ambitions of Turkey and China: Navigating the World Stage"
Introduction:
In recent times, two nations have been making significant strides towards establishing their presence on the world stage - Turkey and China. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, after securing a victory in the elections, is now directing his efforts towards solidifying Turkey's position as a global power. Meanwhile, China has emerged as a dominant force in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, particularly in the production of batteries. This article delves into the aspirations of both countries and explores the challenges and opportunities they face.
Turkey's Quest for Global Influence:
With the conquest of Istanbul being commemorated, President Erdogan emphasized the importance of this historical event as a turning point in Turkey's trajectory. He envisions Turkey as the rightful successor of its ancestors, positioning the nation as a prominent figure on the world stage. Erdogan aims to leverage Turkey's strategic location, cultural heritage, and economic potential to assert its influence in global affairs. By doing so, he seeks to shape Turkey's identity as a key player in regional and international politics.
China's Dominance in Electric Vehicle Industry:
In a different arena, China has emerged as a dominant force in the global EV industry. Chinese firms have perfected a process that allows them to utilize Indonesia's ore for manufacturing EV batteries. This has given China a significant advantage in the production of electric cars, as it now controls the world's largest nickel source. Moreover, China's decision to impose export restrictions on gallium and germanium, which are crucial elements in semiconductors, highlights the risks associated with relying on China for essential inputs.
Connecting the Dots:
Although seemingly unrelated, the quests of Turkey and China for global influence share commonalities. Both nations recognize the significance of strategic resources and industries in achieving their goals. President Erdogan aims to leverage Turkey's geographical location as a crossroads between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, while China has capitalized on its access to Indonesia's nickel reserves. In their respective pursuits, both countries understand the importance of controlling critical inputs to ensure their competitive advantage.
Unique Insights:
Turkey's historical legacy provides it with a unique advantage in its pursuit of global influence. The conquest of Istanbul, a significant event in Turkish history, serves as a rallying point for Erdogan's vision. By weaving this historical narrative into Turkey's contemporary ambitions, Erdogan strengthens the country's sense of identity and purpose. Similarly, China's mastery of the EV industry not only solidifies its economic power but also positions the nation as a leader in the global fight against climate change.
Actionable Advice:
- 1. Diversify Resource Dependencies: To mitigate the risks associated with relying on a single country for critical inputs, nations should prioritize diversifying their resource dependencies. This can be achieved through strategic partnerships, exploring alternative sources, and investing in domestic production capabilities.
- 2. Strengthen Regional Cooperation: Both Turkey and China have recognized the importance of regional cooperation in their pursuit of global influence. Building strong alliances with neighboring countries can enhance their collective bargaining power and foster regional stability, ultimately bolstering their positions on the world stage.
- 3. Focus on Sustainable Development: As China leads the electric vehicle revolution, it sets an example for other nations. By prioritizing sustainable development and investing in renewable energy, countries can not only reduce their environmental impact but also enhance their global standing as champions of green technologies.
Conclusion:
Turkey and China have embarked on ambitious journeys towards establishing their presence on the world stage. As President Erdogan focuses on Turkey's historical legacy and strategic location, China dominates the EV industry and controls essential resources. By diversifying resource dependencies, strengthening regional cooperation, and prioritizing sustainable development, these nations can navigate the complexities of the global arena and achieve their aspirations. As they continue on their paths, the world watches with anticipation to see how these rising powers will shape the future.
Resource:
Copy Link