Technology Diplomacy: Türkiye’s National Technology Move as a Strategy for Global Influence”
- Melisa Faralyali
- Dec 1, 2024
- 2 min read
Who would have thought that technology would be considered a part of diplomacy one day? But well, modern times, isn’t it?
To me, technology was always about the mobiles, internet, social media, websites, etc, but never the way a nation represents itself internationally. Türkiye is now setting its foot on a global stage, and is no longer seen only as a bridge between East and West. Positioning itself as a player in the strong technological competition that is shaping international relations, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, defense innovation, and digital economies are no longer just about science and progress; rather, they are also tools of power and influence. For Türkiye, technology is becoming as important as diplomacy itself.
I was also moved by Minister of Science and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır’s reflections on the National Technology Move. His vision shows how, by lowering its dependence on others, the nation can assert its agency, become more than just a consumer of foreign technology, and influence the conditions of its international alliances, also demonstrating to the rest of the globe that Turkey can stand alone while providing solutions that others require. Further, talking about global shifts like the advancement of AI, new defense systems, Türkiye is no longer going to be on the sidelines. Instead, it is aligning domestic innovation with global currents, seeking to contribute ideas and capabilities that make it relevant far beyond its borders.
It is obvious how this will affect international relations. On the one hand, Turkey's exports of technology are helping it develop soft power. Particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and the Balkans, drones, computer systems, and renewable energy sources increase their diplomatic influence. Similarly, its emphasis on growth powered by technology is drawing in investment and making ways for new economic diplomacy, such as bilateral and international collaboration in science, education, and research.
As a student trying to make sense of it all, I didn’t expect to see technology as more than just gadgets or progress. But looking at Türkiye’s National Technology Move, I realized it’s really about identity and influence. It shows how a country that isn’t the biggest power can still shape the world by leaning on innovation. That feels encouraging, because it means impact doesn’t always come from size, but from ideas.
It also made me see science and diplomacy differently. They’re not separate worlds, but deeply connected; building bridges across politics, economies, and even cultures. For me, that’s the most important lesson: technology isn’t just about keeping up with the future, it’s a way of talking to the world. Türkiye seems to understand that, and it makes me curious to see how this vision will unfold in the years ahead.
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