In the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reiterated his unwavering support for Pakistan, referring to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as his “precious brother.” This affirmation comes despite a growing ‘Boycott Turkey’ movement in India, sparked by Turkey’s perceived alignment with Pakistan during recent conflicts.

The ‘Boycott Turkey’ trend gained momentum following Turkey’s vocal support for Pakistan during India’s Operation Sindoor, a military initiative targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Indian citizens expressed their dissent through social media campaigns and economic actions, including the suspension of marble imports from Turkey by Udaipur’s marble industry, which accounts for a significant portion of India’s marble imports . Additionally, Indian travel companies reported a sharp decline in bookings to Turkey and Azerbaijan, with cancellations surging by up to 250%.

Despite these developments, President Erdogan remains steadfast in his support for Pakistan. In a recent statement, he emphasized the enduring ‘brotherly’ relationship between Turkey and Pakistan, highlighting their shared history and mutual cooperation. Prime Minister Sharif reciprocated the sentiment, expressing gratitude for Turkey’s solidarity and reaffirming the strength of their bilateral ties .

The Turkish-Pakistani alliance extends beyond diplomatic rhetoric, encompassing significant military and economic collaborations. Turkey has emerged as a key defense partner for Pakistan, supplying military equipment and engaging in joint ventures to enhance Pakistan’s defense capabilities . Economically, both nations have pledged to achieve a bilateral trade target of $5 billion, signing multiple agreements to bolster cooperation across various sectors.

India’s response to Turkey’s stance includes calls for a broader boycott, affecting tourism and the entertainment industry. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has urged the Indian film industry to cease filming in Turkey, citing diplomatic concerns . Prominent industrialists like Harsh Goenka have also advocated for avoiding travel to Turkey and Azerbaijan, highlighting the significant economic contributions Indian tourists make to these countries.

While the ‘Boycott Turkey’ movement reflects India’s disapproval of Turkey’s support for Pakistan, President Erdogan’s unwavering stance underscores the complexities of international alliances and the challenges in balancing diplomatic relations amid regional conflicts.