Science and Innovation Diplomacy: Türkiye’s Global Collaboration in Research and Technology

As a Turkish student studying abroad, I’ve always been fascinated by how countries use innovation and research not only to advance technology but also to build bridges across borders. Today, I would like to delve into how science and innovation can also be methods for diplomacy; how collaboration through research can strengthen international relations and trust. A recent example of this in action is Türkiye’s collaboration with the Research Council of Norway through TÜBİTAK, a model of constructive, forward-looking diplomacy.

This year, Türkiye launched a new collaboration model with the Research Council of Norway. This initiative allows Norwegian researchers to join Turkish-led projects and vice versa, fostering mutual learning and innovation. In this new model, researchers from each country are able to take part in projects as Principal Investigators or as project team members, even if their counterpart comes from the other country. This model allows research to be more flexible and effective, due to ease of access, and in turn strengthens bilateral research, facilitates the sharing of expertise, and advances global scientific knowledge. This collaboration illustrates how science can serve as a bridge between nations, encouraging dialogue and cooperation beyond traditional diplomacy.

Last month, Prof. Orhan Aydın, President of TÜBİTAK, attended the G20 Research and Innovation meeting in South Africa. In this meeting, Prof. Orhan, representing Türkiye, reaffirmed support for G20 initiatives such as open innovation, open science, sustainable development goals, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and water resilience. Beyond this, TÜBİTAK is also involved in broader initiatives through international programs promoting research networks (ICTürkiye2025 International Brokerage Event), technology exchange (TÜBİTAK 1509), and innovation partnerships (involvement in the RIIG G20 Summit). Through these collaborations, Türkiye utilizes science and innovation as diplomatic tools to enhance our global influence in a constructive, non-controversial way.

I find it inspiring that Türkiye leverages knowledge and collaboration as tools of influence, showing that leadership can also come from shared discovery rather than just policy or economic power. Türkiye has historically been a hub of science, research, and the sharing of knowledge, being the bridge between cultures. We have long understood and practiced this in diplomacy, believing that sharing knowledge is better and more constructive than to selfishly keep it for ourselves. We are more than aware that diplomacy through science is the foundation of soft power, leading to trust, credibility, and long-term partnerships with our collaborative partners.

Studying abroad, I’ve seen firsthand how collaboration and cultural exchange can break down barriers. Science diplomacy, in many ways, mirrors this—building trust and understanding among nations through shared goals and curiosity. This strengthens my resolve to pursue International Relations and explore it further. I am inspired by Türkiye’s innovative approach to global cooperation.

Türkiye’s engagement in international scientific collaboration demonstrates that diplomacy is not only about politics—it’s about innovation, knowledge-sharing, and building lasting global connections. Just as Türkiye has used economic, energy, and cultural diplomacy to strengthen its global role, science and innovation offer another powerful avenue for shaping constructive international relationships. I hope to continue studying and witnessing how initiatives like these shape a more cooperative and connected world. Reference: https://tubitak.gov.tr/en/announcement/new-collaboration-model-between-tubitak-and-research-council-norway-rcn