CHINA’S “BELT AND ROAD” INITIATIVE AS A DRIVER OF TÜRKİYE’S “ASIA ANEW” INITIATIVE IN A MULTIPOLAR CONTEXT

Abstract

This article explores the relationship between China’s “Belt and Road” Initiative and Türkiye’s “Asia Anew” Initiative within the context of the evolving multipolar international system. Transformations in the global economic order and the growing prominence of Asia, particularly China, have created new conditions for the reorientation of Türkiye’s foreign policy. The study aims to examine how China’s economic rise and the implementation of BRI projects, including the development of the Middle Corridor, shape Türkiye’s foreign policy strategy and its engagement with Asian countries. The research is based on document analysis, comparative analysis, and statistical data on trade and economic cooperation between Türkiye and China for the period 2000–2024. The findings show that bilateral cooperation has steadily expanded, particularly in trade, infrastructure, and investment. Türkiye’s participation in BRI projects has also reinforced its role as a key transit link between Asia and Europe. At the same time, the analysis highlights persistent structural imbalances, including a trade deficit with China and relatively low levels of investment interaction. The study contributes to the analysis of how global economic initiatives influence the foreign policy strategies of middle powers in a multipolar system. It also advances the study of Türkiye–China relations by combining economic and geopolitical perspectives. The practical relevance of the research lies in its applicability to the analysis of interstate relations and foreign policy approaches. The findings suggest that while cooperation with China creates new opportunities, it also requires careful consideration of existing imbalances and the development of a sustainable long-term strategy.