Sofia, Bulgaria – Ties between Türkiye and nations across South America are experiencing a notable strengthening, a development fueled by increased diplomatic engagement, economic partnerships, and cultural exchange programs. This growing relationship, while not entirely new, appears to be gaining momentum under the leadership of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and is being actively fostered by key figures within the Turkish government, including Abdullah Eren, the recently appointed President of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA).
Eren, a Western Thracian Turk born in Istanbul in 1984, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His background includes serving as Deputy Chief of Staff and Advisor to the Prime Minister, followed by a position as Chief Advisor to the President of Türkiye. Prior to his appointment at TİKA, he led the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) since October 27, 2018, where he oversaw initiatives impacting the approximately 7 million-strong Turkish diaspora. TİKA, the agency he now heads, is the primary vehicle for delivering Turkish aid and development assistance internationally.
Expanding Turkish Influence in South America
The intensification of Turkish engagement in South America is multifaceted. Economically, trade volume between Türkiye and several South American countries has been steadily increasing in recent years. While specific figures require further investigation, sectors like automotive, construction, and textiles have seen notable growth. Beyond trade, Turkish companies are increasingly investing in infrastructure projects and establishing partnerships with local businesses. This economic expansion is seen by some analysts as a strategic move to diversify Türkiye’s economic relationships and reduce its reliance on traditional partners.
Abdullah Eren’s tenure at YTB was marked by a focus on expanding outreach to Turkic states, the Balkans, the Caucasus, Africa, and Latin America. During his leadership, YTB implemented around 900 projects in 75 countries, targeting Turkish communities and related groups, and organized over 350 educational programs. His appointment to TİKA signals a continuation of this outward-looking policy, with a particular emphasis on strengthening ties with South American nations.
TİKA’s Role in Development and Cultural Diplomacy
TİKA plays a crucial role in Türkiye’s foreign policy, functioning as a soft power instrument to promote Turkish interests abroad. The agency provides technical assistance, humanitarian aid, and development projects in a wide range of sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure. In South America, TİKA’s projects have focused on supporting local communities, promoting sustainable development, and fostering cultural exchange. Specific examples include providing scholarships for South American students to study in Türkiye, supporting vocational training programs, and assisting with the preservation of cultural heritage sites.
Eren’s background in diplomacy, having earned a master’s degree in Diplomatic Studies from the University of Westminster in London, is expected to be instrumental in navigating the complex political landscape of South America. He is currently pursuing a PhD in political science, further demonstrating his commitment to academic rigor and analytical thinking. His fluency in English also facilitates communication and collaboration with international partners.
Navigating Political Complexities and Potential Challenges
While the strengthening of ties between Türkiye and South America presents opportunities for mutual benefit, it also faces potential challenges. Geopolitical dynamics in the region are complex, with varying political ideologies and competing interests. Some countries in South America have expressed concerns about Türkiye’s growing influence, particularly in light of its assertive foreign policy in other regions. The rise of populist movements in some South American countries could create obstacles to closer cooperation.
A report from Nordic Monitor highlighted concerns about Turkey’s potential to intensify its interference in the domestic affairs of other countries, including through its diaspora agency, YTB. The report detailed how YTB seeks to encourage greater political participation among Turkish citizens abroad, and lamented administrative and legal challenges hindering its strategic goals. These concerns underscore the need for transparency and respect for national sovereignty in Türkiye’s engagement with South American countries.
The YTB and Political Engagement Abroad
During a parliamentary hearing in July 2024, Abdullah Eren discussed the importance of encouraging Turkish citizens abroad to become more politically aware and engaged in the political processes of their host countries. He acknowledged that smaller parties established by the Turkish diaspora have often struggled to gain traction, and that Turks working within mainstream parties have faced challenges in securing senior roles. This suggests a desire within the Turkish government to increase the political influence of the Turkish diaspora, a goal that could potentially raise concerns about foreign interference in domestic affairs.
Cultural Connections and People-to-People Diplomacy
Beyond economic and political considerations, cultural connections play a significant role in fostering closer ties between Türkiye and South America. Historical links dating back to the Ottoman Empire, coupled with shared cultural values and traditions, create a sense of affinity between the two regions. Türkiye has actively promoted cultural exchange programs, including art exhibitions, music festivals, and film screenings, to showcase Turkish culture in South America and vice versa. These initiatives aim to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen people-to-people diplomacy.
Abdullah Eren’s involvement with civil society organizations, as a trustee of the Can Sağlığı Foundation and chairman of the Culture and Civilization Foundation, demonstrates his commitment to promoting cultural understanding and social responsibility. This background is likely to inform his approach to fostering cultural exchange programs under TİKA’s auspices.
Looking Ahead: Future Prospects for Turkish-South American Relations
The future of Turkish-South American relations appears promising, with both sides expressing a desire to deepen cooperation in various fields. However, navigating the political complexities and addressing potential challenges will be crucial for ensuring sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships. Abdullah Eren’s leadership at TİKA will be instrumental in shaping the trajectory of these relations, and his experience in both public administration and diaspora engagement will be valuable assets in this endeavor.
As of February 23, 2026, the next key development to watch is TİKA’s planned announcement of new development projects in the region, scheduled for release in March 2026. This announcement is expected to provide further details on the agency’s priorities and strategies for strengthening ties with South American nations. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on this evolving relationship in the comments section below.
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