Is the Dream of Greater Turkey Really Realizing as Turkey Navigates Geopolitical Alliances?
The concept of a 'Greater Turkey' is often discussed in geopolitical discussions, linking Turkey's expanding influence in the region with a broader dream of territorial expansion and political hegemony. However, this narrative is more complex and open to interpretation. While some argue that Turkey's growing presence in Azerbaijan and its teaching lessons to Armenia and Russia signify a move towards a Greater Turkey, Turkish officials and scholars emphasize that such ambitions are not a political reality.
Nationalistic Aspirations Across the Globe
It's important to note that grandiose nationalistic aspirations are not unique to Turkey. Many nations, including Armenia, claim broader territorial ambitions. For example, Armenia has sought a Greater Armenia that would encompass parts of Turkey, Azerbaijan, Iran, and even bits of Georgia and Iraq. Similarly, the Kurds clamor for a Greater Kurdistan, and both Greece and Turkey have had designs on the entirety of Cyprus despite historical claims to Phoenician lands.
The nature of these nationalist claims is driven by historical grievances and the desire for territorial recompense. Despite these ambitions, the actual realization of such dreams often relies on geopolitical realities and international law, rather than historical rhetoric.
Turkey's Realpolitik and Political Unions
Turkey’s current relations with Azerbaijan are rooted in shared cultural, historical, and economic ties, not necessarily an ambition for territorial expansion. The strong alliance between Turkey and Azerbaijan has been brewing for years. The friendship between the two nations dates back to the early days of the republic, and mutual economic and trade interests have only strengthened this bond. However, Turkey does not have military bases in Azerbaijan, despite claims to the contrary. Such claims are often made for political reasons, with the aim of gaining support or influencing public opinion.
Similarly, attempts to 'teach Russia a lesson' are frequently overstated. Historical examples from Napoleon and Hitler demonstrate that military actions aimed at dominating regional powers often result in significant diplomatic and military repercussions. Instead of territorial expansion, Turkey’s strategy appears to be focused on maintaining good diplomatic relations and economic cooperation with its neighbors.
Neo-Ottomanism vs. Republican Ideology
The idea of a Greater Turkey is also often linked to neo-Ottomanism, a term used to describe a political ideology that seeks to revive historical Ottoman influence in the region. However, Turkish politicians often emphasize the importance of Atatürk's republican ideology, which reignited a sense of Turkish national identity but also stressed anti-imperialist principles. As Atatürk stated: “Ottomanism died at the gates of Vienna. Turanianism was lost on the steppes of Asia. The only future for the Turks is Republicanism.”
This republican ideology is deeply ingrained in Turkish political culture and has significant influence. While nationalistic, it is also strongly anti-imperialist, which stands in direct opposition to the concepts of territorial expansion and hegemonic power. In recent years, publicly promoting aggressive territorial ambitions would be seen as going against the core principles of Republicanism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the idea of a Greater Turkey is more a political myth perpetuated by certain narratives and less a realistic ambition of the Turkish state. Turkey's growing influence in Azerbaijan and its interactions with Armenia and Russia are predominantly driven by mutual economic and strategic interests, not territorial expansion. The republican ideology of Atatürk continues to shape Turkish policy and is a strong deterrent against any attempts to re-establish a neo-imperialist order. While nationalistic sentiments are prevalent, they are tempered by a commitment to republican principles and a desire for stability and good neighborly relations in the region.