Erdogan’s Re-election and Turkey-Gulf Relations: Implications

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has welcomed the re-election of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey’s recent run-off election, with officials expressing their desire to strengthen ties between Ankara and the bloc’s six members. Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was the first foreign head of state to congratulate Erdogan, and other Gulf leaders quickly followed suit. Erdogan is expected to visit the Gulf soon, reflecting the importance of GCC members to Turkey’s foreign policy agenda. The GCC states can expect business as usual in their dealings with Ankara until 2028. Turkey’s strong alliance with Qatar will likely continue to deepen, while Erdogan also looks to expand relations with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Turkish companies can play an important role in helping GCC states transition away from their dependency on hydrocarbons.