Backlash Brewing Over Support for Pakistan During Conflict
New Delhi, May 15 — The Indian government is actively considering measures to discourage tourism, destination weddings, and film shoots in Turkiye and Azerbaijan, following their vocal support for Pakistan during the recent military operation, official sources revealed.Both Turkiye and Azerbaijan condemned India's strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir under Operation Sindoor, aligning themselves closely with Islamabad. Adding to the tension, Pakistan deployed Turkish drones extensively during the conflict.
Travel and Events Under Scanner
Indian tourists have traditionally flocked to Turkiye and Azerbaijan for scenic holidays, weddings, and cultural experiences. In 2023 alone, approximately three lakh Indians visited Turkiye, while over two lakh traveled to Azerbaijan, contributing substantially to both nations' tourism revenues.“Indians spend crores on destination weddings, especially in picturesque locations like these,” officials said, noting that discouraging such activities could impact money flow into those economies. “We will see how we can slow down the hosting of such events in countries that supported Pakistan against India.”
Film Industry Joins the Boycott Call
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have urged Indian artists and producers to boycott Turkiye as a filming location. Government sources confirmed there will be no official support for film projects shot in either Turkiye or Azerbaijan moving forward.Educational Ties Also Affected
Amid the rising diplomatic tensions, several educational institutions, including Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), have suspended collaborations with Turkish universities or are actively reviewing such ties.Trade Ties Under Watch
India's trade relations with Turkiye and Azerbaijan are also under heightened scrutiny. According to official data:- India's exports to Turkiye were valued at USD 5.2 billion during April-February FY25, down from USD 6.65 billion in FY24.
- Imports from Turkiye declined to USD 2.84 billion from USD 3.78 billion.
- Exports to Azerbaijan stood at USD 86.07 million, slightly down from USD 89.67 million.
- Though smaller in volume, Imports from Azerbaijan rose to USD 1.93 million from USD 0.74 million.
Key Export Items to Turkiye:
- Mineral fuels and oil (USD 960 million)
- Electrical machinery, auto parts, pharmaceuticals
- Plastics, cotton, man-made fibres, iron, and steel
Imports from Turkiye:
- Marble, apples (USD 10 million), gold, and vegetables
- Cement, mineral oil (USD 1.81 billion), pearls
Key Exports to Azerbaijan:
- Tobacco products (USD 28.67 million), tea, coffee, cereals
- Plastics, paper products, ceramics
Imports from Azerbaijan:
- Animal fodder, essential oils, chemicals, and leather goods
As diplomatic fallout continues, the Indian government is weighing broader policy shifts in people-to-people engagement with Turkiye and Azerbaijan.
