Influence of Turkey on Central Asian States: A Closer Look

The dissolution of the Soviet Union brought significant changes to the geopolitical landscape of Central Asia, and among the new players to emerge was Turkey. As an expert in SEO, I will delve into how Turkey has exerted a profound influence over the Central Asian states, specifically focusing on the regions of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and beyond.

Education and Cultural Impact

One of the most transformative influences of Turkey on Central Asia has been in the realm of education and culture. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Turkey was one of the first nations to establish bilateral agreements with countries in the region, aimed at fostering political, economic, and social cooperation. These agreements have had a lasting impact, particularly in the area of education.

University Scholarships: Students from Central Asia, including those from Turkmenistan, have benefited from scholarships for university studies in Turkey. A notable example is the TCS (Turk Cumhuriyetleri ve Topluluklari Sinavi) or Exam for Turkish States and Communities, which has enabled thousands of young people to pursue higher education in Turkey. Private Schools: A significant number of private schools and education centers in Central Asia, many founded by Turkish organizations, have emerged. These institutions have become highly regarded and have helped nurture a new generation of leaders and professionals who are well-versed in both Central Asian and Turkish cultures. Adaptation of Lifestyle: Many young Central Asian individuals who studied in Turkey have returned home and adapted the Turkish way of living. This includes not only educational and professional practices but also lifestyle choices such as cuisine, language, and entertainment.

Economic Cooperation

The economic influence of Turkey on Central Asia has been profound, particularly in the areas of business and construction.

Entrepreneurship: After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Turkish entrepreneurs established numerous businesses in Central Asian countries. Their business models have been widely adopted by local entrepreneurs, and many local people discovered Turkey through shuttle trade, driving the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Construction Industry: Turkish construction methods and techniques have been heavily adopted in Central Asian countries, significantly impacting local industries. Turkish companies have made substantial profits from these projects, and their local sub-contractors have become major players in the economy.

Cultural Exchange and Television

The cultural and television landscape in Central Asia has also been significantly influenced by Turkey. Turkish television plays a crucial role in this cultural exchange.

Turkish TV Channel TRT Avaz: TRT Avaz, a cultural program channel associated with Turkish state broadcaster TRT, broadcasts content focusing on Central Asia. The channel includes programs about music, traditional Central Asian arts, and cultural events. It also broadcasts news in Kazakh and Uzbek for Central Asian expatriates living in Turkey. Drama and Soap Operas: Turkish soap operas and other entertainment programs have become very popular in the region, with topics frequently revolving around love, relationships, and everyday life in Turkey. Even among older generations, discussions about Turkish television dramas are common.

Academic Institutions

Several Turkish schools and universities have been established in Central Asia, further cementing the cultural and educational ties between the two regions.

Independent Turkish Schools: In Kazakhstan, for instance, there are independent Turkish schools that serve as centers for education and cultural exchange. However, many of these schools are associated with networks that, while well-intentioned, may not always meet the highest standards. Suleyman Demirel University: Established in 1996 and named after the former president of Turkey, Suleyman Demirel, the university in Kazakhstan is notable for its strong ties to Turkish higher education. Its curriculum and faculty members often come from Turkey, and it plays a significant role in educational exchanges between the two regions.

The Role of the Turkish Government and Cultural Enthusiasts

The Turkish government's interest in Central Asia remains relatively low, with most engagement coming from individuals and organizations rather than the state. However, this has not hindered the cultural and economic ties between the two regions.

Music and Cultural Enthusiasts: There is a strong presence of musicians and cultural enthusiasts in Turkey who are passionate about Central Asian culture, particularly Tengrism and Altai mountains. These individuals and groups promote understanding and positive relations between the two regions. Shamans and Religious Practices: Several shamans in Turkey who practice Tengrism, such as Cenk Sertdemir, have contributed to preserving and promoting this ancient belief system. Their work has helped bridge spiritual and cultural gaps between Central Asia and Turkey.

In conclusion, the influence of Turkey on Central Asia is multifaceted and deeply rooted in educational, cultural, and economic cooperation. Despite the low interest from the Turkish government, the impact of Turkish initiatives, institutions, and individuals continues to shape the region in significant ways.