Global Scans · Turkey · Weekly Summary

WHAT'S NEXT?: Uncertainties over Turkey's eventual political position abound. With EU decisions in doubt, recent crackdown on opposition parties causing concerns, and being embroiled in complex Middle East politics and fighting terrorism on its borders and internally, which way will she swing?

• [New] In 2025, at least six Chinese car manufacturers have explored opportunities to establish operations in Turkey. Caliber.az
• [New] Turkey's defence industry is gaining strategic importance for Europe amid rising security threats from Russia. DW.COM
• [New] More recently, Turkey sees an opportunity in the Middle Corridor, a transport route connecting Turkey to China through the Caucasus, the Caspian Sea, and Central Asia. Belfer Center
• [New] Turkey's position in the United States-China technology competition will largely depend on whether it deepens its technology-related cooperation with European states. Belfer Center
• [New] Acquisition of S-400 Defence System: Despite strong objections and sanctions from NATO allies, Turkey's acquisition of the S-400 air defence system from Russia can be seen as a direct manifestation of the Red Book, which likely defines Western allies as threats and Russia as a partner. KFuture.Media
• [New] The profound changes in threat perception in the Red Book are directly connected to the emergence of major shifts in Turkey's foreign policy direction. KFuture.Media
• [New] Presenting non-traditional security threats such as cyberwarfare and climate change is a notable innovation in Turkish strategic thinking. KFuture.Media
• [New] As long as the European Union continues to link its relations with Turkey to the Cyprus issue, it cannot reasonably be expected to pursue a fair, balanced, and impartial approach toward the Turkish Cypriot side. Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus - Ministry of Forei
• [New] Chinese brands could account for up to 6% of European production by 2028 or about 860,000 vehicles, including BYD plants in Hungary, Turkey, and maybe Spain too. Forbes
• [New] Turkey has been confirmed as the host of COP 31 (2026 UN Climate Change Conference) after a diplomatic compromise with Australia reached during discussions at COP 30 in Brazil. Guidely
• [New] Turkey is set to host COP 31 climate summit in 2026 under a compromise with Australia, following a prolonged contest over hosting rights from bids submitted in 2022. Adda247
• [New] Turkey's Central Bank is expected to signal a continuation of its tight monetary policy in its upcoming inflation report. Yeni Safak
• [New] Turkish and Israeli competition could play out in dangerous ways inside Syria. Brookings
• [New] With the completion of 22 dams and seven reservoirs scheduled for 2025, Turkey's total water storage capacity is anticipated to increase slightly to 183,739 cubic hectometers. Daily Sabah
• [New] Supply chains are becoming more agile and diversified, with brands moving production to Vietnam, Bangladesh, Mexico, and Turkey to mitigate risks and respond faster to changing trends. Made-in-China.com
• [New] 5.91 billion earmarked for initiatives such as the creation of a Space Weather Application Center and continued progress toward Turkey's first Moon mission, led by TUBITAK UZAY, set for 2027. Middle East Space Monitor by AzurX
• [New] Producers fear tougher EU rules on ecommerce parcels could curb Turkey's online exports. AGBI
• [New] For more than a decade, voices inside and outside Turkey have warned of an escalating crackdown on civil society. Maecenata Stiftung

Last updated: 08 December 2025