TURKISH-AFRICAN RELATIONS: AN INSTITUTIONAL APPROACH OF TURKISH FOREIGN POLICY TOWARDS AFRICA

The paper examines the distinctive role played by Turkish formal and informal or structured and semi-structured institutions in the formulation and implementation of foreign policy in Africa in the past 16 years. It answers two main questions, how has Turkey been establishing itself as a legitimate actor in Africa? What reasons provide the guidelines for Turkish-African Relations?  An institutionalist theoretical approach was employed as a framework for analysis.   The outcome of analysis reveals the extent to which issues of classical diplomacy and international politics is no longer the sole prerogative of the ministry of foreign affairs and other state-run institutions. Turkey is now appreciating the changing roles and functions of non-state actors and business organizations in the conduct of foreign affairs.  Its image in the region is greatly influenced by structured and semi-structured institutions. Thus, Turkey remains committed to the support of institutional capacities in both Turkey and Africa.  

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