Turkish Foreign Policy Toward Latin America and the Caribbean: From Outreach to Institutionalization (1998–2017).

Abstract

This study examines the trajectory of Turkish relations with the Latin America and Caribbean region, tracing their development from historical roots to the active "Outreach" strategy of the last two decades. It aims to analyze the shift in Turkish foreign policy from a state of stagnation and geographical distance toward a strategic partnership, highlighting the "1998 Action Plan" as a cornerstone in institutionalizing these ties. The study emphasizes the pivotal role of high-level presidential visits and explores Turkey’s soft power tools, such as the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and Turkish Airlines, alongside its growing involvement in regional Latin American organizations. Ultimately, the study concludes that Turkey has successfully transformed the region into a vital arena within its vision of a multi-dimensional foreign policy.