Do Trade and Terror Go Together? Love for Pakistan?

It is evident from recent developments that the Indian government and armed forces responded swiftly and decisively to the terror attack. Their firm military and diplomatic actions sent a clear message against terrorism.It is of utmost importance to note that there was a silent yet very powerful participant in this terrorist act, Turkey. Turk may mean ‘strong, strength, ripe’, but in this instance, it backstabbed India.India has always stood for peace, diplomacy, and humanitarian values. This was clearly demonstrated when India responded swiftly with Operation Dost when the massive 7.8-magnitude earthquake struck Turkey and Syria on February 6, 2023, causing widespread devastation. The estimated damage in Turkey alone was US$148.8 billion, nearly 9% of the country’s GDP, and over 53,500 lives were lost.India had sent NDRF rescue teams and essential relief material. By February 9, six IAF C-17 aircraft had already delivered aid, and a seventh flight had reached Adana Airport on 12 February with medical equipment, rescue supplies, and disaster relief. In total, India had extended humanitarian aid worth ₹7 crore—a gesture of solidarity in the time of need.Despite India’s goodwill, Turkey’s recent actions raise serious concerns. Turkey supplied over 350 Bayraktar TB2 and YIHA drones, and deployed military operatives to support Pakistan in its conflict with India last month. This involvement included operational coordination and drone warfare tactics, marking an unmistakable act of betrayal.Such support does not stem from historical ties between Turkey and Pakistan. Rather, it reflects a narrow ideological alignment.In light of this, it is time to rethink our engagement—especially economic—with nations whose actions are misaligned with India’s security interests. Turkey benefits significantly from Indian consumers and trade:● Indian tourists contribute over ₹4,400 crore annually to Turkey’s economy.● India imports over ₹34,870 crore (USD 4.2 billion) worth of goods from Turkey, including mineral fuels, machinery, iron and steel, precious stones, and more.● Godiva, a luxury chocolate brand now owned by Turkish company Yıldız Holding, is a popular premium import in India. Alternatives from Indian artisanal chocolatiers like Soklet, Paul and Mike, or Amul’s single-origin range, as well as international brands like Lindt and Ghirardelli, can easily replace it.● Beko, a Turkish appliance brand, operates in India through a joint venture with Voltas (Tata group). Indian consumers can consider well-established alternatives like Godrej, IFB, Whirlpool, or Bosch, which offer similar or better quality with deeper roots in India.● Turkey supplies around 70% of India's imported marble—nearly 14 to 18 lakh tonnes annually, worth ₹2,500 to ₹3,000 crore. These can be effectively replaced by Indian options like Makrana Marble (Rajasthan), Ambaji White (Gujarat), or international options like Greek Thassos Marble.India is not dependent on Turkey. For mineral fuels, oils, steel, and diamonds, Russia remains a reliable partner. For nuclear reactors and advanced machinery, Japan and Germany are long-standing allies. The strategic trade foundation is already strong—Turkey was never central to it.At the civilian level, we must act with intention. Avoid travel to Turkey and instead explore alternatives like Greece, Israel, or Bali - destinations rich in culture, beauty, and affordability. Choose airlines like Air India, Lufthansa, or Singapore Airlines over Turkish Airlines. Opt for Himachali or Kashmiri apples or New Zealand’s Gala apples instead of Turkish imports.National security isn’t the sole responsibility of the government and armed forces—it is a collective responsibility. As citizens, our economic choices are powerful tools. Every rupee we spend is a vote for or against the values we stand for.Let us stop funding nations that undermine our sovereignty. Let us redirect our economic strength towards allies, homegrown industries, and ethical trade partners. It’s time to choose not just what we buy, but who we support.

Do Trade and Terror Go Together? Love for Pakistan?

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