Türkiye’s regional dynamics create both opportunities and risks: WSJ Columnist
WSJ columnist Walter Russell Mead. (Photo courtesy to New America)
At the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Florida University Strategy Professor and Wall Street Journal (WSJ) columnist Walter Russell Mead observed a significant shift in focus among global leaders.
Speaking to CNBC-e, Mead remarked on the reduced attention to social issues such as climate change.
“Davos has moved a bit to the right,” Mead noted, referencing the current priorities of the gathering.
Mead also pointed out the anticipation surrounding former U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming video address at the forum.
“Trump has overshadowed this summit. Everyone is eagerly awaiting what he will say tomorrow. When it comes to Trump, you can always expect a surprise, but predicting what it might be is impossible. He may want to announce ending the war, but persuading Russia and Ukraine under the same terms seems extremely challenging.”
Türkiye’s position amid weakened neighbors
Mead highlighted Türkiye’s evolving role in a region where many neighboring countries have weakened, noting both opportunities and risks.
“Türkiye is in a very interesting position right now. All the countries surrounding it have become weaker. For instance, Iran has had a terrible year. Russia is deeply entrenched in the war in Ukraine. The European Union is struggling to respond effectively to today’s challenges,” Mead said.
He emphasized that this creates significant opportunities for Türkiye, though it also brings potential dangers, particularly in regions like Syria. “Both risks and opportunities can be observed in the case of Syria,” he added.
Türkiye sending ‘interesting signals’
Discussing emerging markets, Mead commented on Türkiye’s recent developments. “Emerging markets differ depending on the region. India and Türkiye have started sending some interesting signals. Brazil, on the other hand, seems to be facing more difficulties,” he observed.
Mead concluded by emphasizing the complex landscape for Türkiye, balancing between leveraging regional instability and navigating its inherent challenges.
