A diplomatic breakthrough in the complex relationship between Egypt and Türkiye is in the making as senior officials from both countries carefully push the long-delayed rapprochement process to the finish line. This policy brief analyzes the rapprochement process, explores areas of persistent conflicts and potential cooperation, and offers applicable recommendations for Turkish and Egyptian policymakers on how to create sustainable positive relations. It examines the tough questions of resolving bilateral and regional disputes and addressing sharp discrepancies in ideologies, distorted public perceptions, and contradicting regional policies. By transforming these obstacles into areas of synchronized teamwork, Egypt-Türkiye relations could be elevated to the next level of sustainable cooperation. This policy brief highlights the benefits of cooperation and proposes policy recommendations for both the official and unofficial tracks. For the official track, it suggests institutionalizing bilateral relations, exploring areas of regional cooperation, and engaging the militaries of the two countries. For the unofficial track, it delves into potential areas of economic collaboration, social and cultural activism, and effective public communication. Successful cooperation between Egypt and Türkiye would address geopolitical dilemmas and yield bilateral and regional benefits.

Published by the Middle East Institute

April 2023

April 2023

January 2023

September 2023

September 2023

November 2023