Turkey and Azerbaijan's true colors were revealed following India's b response to the Pulwama attack, as they openly supported Pakistan. The drones used in the attack on India included weapons manufactured in Turkey.
India Pakistan Conflict: Following the Pulwama terrorist attack, India launched a major military operation against Pakistan. Operation 'Sindur' resulted in the destruction of terrorist bases in Pakistan and PoK. During this entire sequence of events, Turkey and Azerbaijan openly supported Pakistan, revealing their true allegiances to the world.
Pakistan Attacked India Using Turkish Drones
Pakistan was enraged by India's retaliatory action. Subsequently, it attempted to attack India using drones and missiles. Investigations revealed that many of the drones launched by Pakistan were manufactured in Turkey ("Made in Turkey"). India's defense systems successfully intercepted these drones, and the debris provided concrete evidence.
Growing Opposition in India Against Turkey and Azerbaijan
Turkey and Azerbaijan's support for Pakistan has sparked public anger in India. Calls for a boycott of both countries are gaining momentum on social media. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey also wrote on social media urging Indians to stop visiting Turkey and Azerbaijan. The message that "a friend of the enemy is an enemy" is resonating deeply with the public.
Impact on India-Turkey and India-Azerbaijan Trade?
An Indian boycott of these two countries would not significantly impact India economically, as trade with both nations is limited.
- In 2023-24, India exported $6.65 billion worth of goods to Turkey, which decreased to $5.2 billion in 2024-25. This constitutes only 1.5% of India's total exports.
- India's exports to Azerbaijan amounted to a mere $86 million, representing only 0.02% of the total.
- India's imports from Turkey are also only 0.5%, while imports from Azerbaijan are negligible.
Products Traded Between India and these Countries
India imports mineral oil, marble, steel, chemicals, apples, and gold from Turkey, while exporting auto parts, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and petroleum products to Turkey.
India's primary trade with Azerbaijan centers around crude oil, tobacco, tea, grains, and leather products.
Impact on Tourism and Indian Citizens
- Turkey and Azerbaijan have been popular destinations for Indian tourists.
- Approximately 300,000 Indian tourists visited Turkey in 2023.
- Over 200,000 Indian tourists visited Azerbaijan.
- Around 3,000 Indian citizens reside in Turkey, while over 1,500 live in Azerbaijan.
Public anger against these two countries is now evident, with people canceling their trips. Opposition to these countries is steadily increasing on social media.
