Concerns Over Turkish-Made Drones
Himachal Pradesh Congress leader Kuldeep Singh Rathore has called for a boycott of Turkey. This comes after Pakistan used Turkish-made drones in a recent conflict. Rathore, spokesperson for the Himachal Pradesh All India Congress Committee, has urged the Indian government to stop imports from Turkey and discourage tourism to the country.
India’s Support During Turkey’s Earthquake
Rathore acknowledged India’s aid during Turkey’s 2023 earthquake through Operation Dost. India provided National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and modified Kisan drones to deliver medicine and food to those affected. Despite this, Rathore expressed disappointment over Turkey’s role in supplying drones used against India.
Call to Ban Turkish Imports and Tourism
Rathore emphasized that Turkey’s actions were harmful to bilateral relations. He suggested that India should ban imports of Turkish products like Apple goods and urged people to avoid visiting Turkey as tourists.
Support from Trade Associations
Other figures, such as Harish Chauhan, president of the Fruit, Vegetable, and Flower Growers Association, have supported Rathore’s call. Chauhan pointed out that Turkey backs Pakistan against India. He further urged the Indian government to halt trade with Turkey, especially concerning apples, which are a major import from the country.
Impact on Trade Relations
A complete boycott could disrupt trade relations between the two countries. Turkey is a significant supplier of apples to India, and halting trade could hurt both economies. Despite potential economic consequences, many believe these measures are necessary given the geopolitical tensions.
Conclusion
As India-Pakistan tensions rise, economic retaliation against Turkey is becoming a hot topic. The potential boycott of Turkish goods and tourism could alter India-Turkey relations and further complicate the current geopolitical situation.
