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India, Peru, and Turkey: A Pivotal Era in Diplomatic Relations

Gary Cox

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The period between 1939 and 1960 witnessed a transformative era in the diplomatic relations of India, Peru, and Turkey. These three nations, each with a rich cultural heritage and distinct geopolitical positioning, embarked on a journey that would shape their global standing and international collaborations.

The Pre-War Context

Prior to the outbreak of World War II, India, Peru, and Turkey maintained limited diplomatic ties. India, still under British rule, had established consular relations with Peru in 1870 and with Turkey in 1924. Peru and Turkey, both independent nations, had negligible diplomatic interactions with each other.

Inflation and Wages in Underdeveloped Countries: India, Peru, and Turkey, 1939-1960

by Samir Amin

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World War II and the Birth of the Non-Aligned Movement

The outbreak of World War II in 1939 profoundly impacted the diplomatic landscape of the three countries. India, then led by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress, adopted a policy of non-alignment, refusing to side with either the Allies or the Axis powers.

Peru, initially sympathetic to the Allies, severed diplomatic relations with Japan in 1942 after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Turkey, under President İsmet İnönü, pursued a cautious neutrality, balancing its alliances with both the Allies and Germany.

As the war progressed, India, Peru, and Turkey found common ground in their shared principles of non-alignment and anti-imperialism. In 1947, India gained independence and joined the United Nations, becoming a prominent voice for the newly independent nations of Asia and Africa.

Post-War Cooperation and the Bandung Conference

In the post-war era, India, Peru, and Turkey continued to strengthen their diplomatic ties. They actively participated in international organizations such as the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM),which was founded in 1961.

A significant milestone in their cooperation was the Bandung Conference held in Indonesia in 1955. The conference brought together twenty-nine Asian and African nations, including India, Peru, and Turkey, to discuss issues of colonialism, economic development, and world peace.

Bilateral Relations and Economic Ties

In addition to multilateral cooperation, India, Peru, and Turkey also developed bilateral relations. India established diplomatic missions in Lima and Ankara in 1956 and 1957, respectively. Peru opened its embassy in New Delhi in 1959, while Turkey established its embassy in New Delhi in 1960.

Economic ties between the three countries also flourished. India exported tea, textiles, and pharmaceuticals to Peru, while Peru exported fishmeal, copper, and silver to India. Turkey exported dried fruits, cotton, and machinery to both India and Peru.

Cultural Exchanges and People-to-People Connections

Beyond diplomacy and trade, India, Peru, and Turkey fostered cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections. Students from these countries pursued higher education in each other's universities. Cultural troupes performed in various cities, showcasing their rich artistic heritage.

One notable example of cultural exchange is the visit of Turkish poet Nazım Hikmet to India in 1951. Hikmet, who was exiled from Turkey at the time, spent several months in India and developed a close friendship with Indian poet Agyeya.

Legacy and Impact

The period between 1939 and 1960 laid the foundation for enduring diplomatic relations between India, Peru, and Turkey. Their shared principles of non-alignment, anti-imperialism, and international cooperation continue to shape their foreign policies today.

The bilateral ties established during this period have grown stronger over time. India, Peru, and Turkey are now important economic partners, with significant investments and trade flows between them.

The cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections initiated in the early days have fostered mutual understanding and appreciation among the citizens of these three nations.

The diplomatic journey of India, Peru, and Turkey from 1939 to 1960 is a testament to the transformative power of international cooperation and shared values. Through non-alignment, multilateralism, and cultural exchange, these three countries forged enduring bonds that continue to benefit their citizens and the international community.

As the world faces new challenges and opportunities, the legacy of India, Peru, and Turkey's diplomatic partnership serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue, understanding, and the pursuit of common goals.