SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has categorically dismissed reports suggesting a Turkish ban on military equipment exports to India. In a statement, Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal characterized the claims as “fake news,” clarifying that there is no official Turkish policy prohibiting defense exports to India.
While acknowledging that the sale of Turkish defense articles requires the approval of the Turkish military, the SSB, and the Foreign Ministry, the spokesperson emphasized that India currently has no pending requests for military equipment from Turkey. The decision to abstain from seeking Turkish military hardware is attributed to Turkey’s consistent support for Pakistan on issues such as Kashmir, as well as its supply of weapons to the neighboring country.
The clarification comes in response to statements made by ?eker, the deputy chairman of the Presidency of the Defense Industry (SSB), during a parliamentary committee meeting on July 10, 2024. ?eker’s remarks had sparked speculation about a potential Turkish arms embargo on India.
India’s stance on the matter underscores its strategic priorities and concerns over Turkey’s alignment with Pakistan on regional issues.