WASHINGTON - Facing a series of crises in its relations with the West and increasing isolation in the Middle East, Turkey is seeking ties further afield. It has extended military and political associations to Africa in a sign that Ankara is determined to expand its zone of influence. After establishing a foothold in Sudan and reinforcing his presence in the Horn of Africa, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan turned his sights on North Africa and the Sahel region when he embarked on a visit to Algeria and three West African countries on February 26. Much like China, Turkey is selling its economic ambitions as beneficial to Africa. “Turkish entrepreneurs generated 78,000 jobs in Africa and the value of projects undertaken by Turkish construction firms topped $55 billion,” Anadolu said.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 03, 2018 19:30 UTC