Türkiye’s Asia strategy Building Asian community through ICAPP

The International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) convened this year in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, under the theme “A Quest for Peace and Reconciliation.” This biennial event brought together prominent politicians, media representatives, and other stakeholders from across the globe.

The assembly that gathered from November 21 to 24 with Azerbaijan's participation, highlighted the growing conflicts worldwide and the urgent need for political parties to collaborate in fostering and maintaining peace. The Turkish Daily Sabah publication provided a deeper understanding of the conference's goals, which received delegates from Asia, as well as Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

Since its establishment in the Philippines in 2000, ICAPP has served as a platform for dialogue and cooperation among political parties, encompassing ruling, opposition, and independent parties. Its secretariat is based in Seoul, South Korea.

The conference holds strategic importance for Ankara as part of its efforts to diversify foreign policy. Türkiye, who has been represented at the conference by Foreign Affairs Chair Zafer Sırakaya of the country's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), has been actively participating in various international platforms, including NATO, the U.N., BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Council. Reflecting this approach, Sırakaya stated, "AK Party views ICAPP as a vital forum dedicated to promoting peace, security, and stability across Asia, which is why we have consistently supported and participated in its initiatives."

Türkiye previously hosted ICAPP’s 11th general assembly in Istanbul in 2022, with representatives from over 70 political parties across 35 countries. Earlier, in 2016, ICAPP organized a special conference in Istanbul on “Migration and Refugees,” emphasizing shared global challenges.

At this year’s conference, Türkiye continued to spotlight key international concerns, particularly the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Sırakaya reiterated Türkiye’s priority for an immediate and permanent cease-fire, appreciating the support of Asian countries for the Palestinian people's struggle. He highlighted that 146 out of 193 U.N. member states now back Palestinian rights.

Another significant development at the 2024 ICAPP was the participation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), represented by two parliamentarians from the National Unity Party (UBP), Ahmet Savaşan and Oğuzhan Hasipoğlu. The TRNC’s involvement is a milestone, given its ongoing international isolation due to the global community's stance on the Cyprus issue. Ankara has been actively advocating for the recognition of the TRNC’s sovereignty, and its inclusion in organizations such as the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) marks progress in breaking this isolation. The two deputies commended Türkiye and Sırakaya for their efforts in securing the TRNC’s representation at ICAPP.

The 12th ICAPP general assembly served as a critical platform for global political dialogue amid heightened insecurity, conflict, and climate challenges. For Türkiye, the event aligned with its "Asia Anew" strategy, offering opportunities to broaden alliances, push for peace in Gaza, and advance the recognition of Turkish Cypriots. This multifaceted engagement underscores Türkiye’s evolving role in regional and international politics.

By Nazrin Sadigova