India’s trading community has taken a strong and decisive step by choosing to completely cut business ties with Turkey and Azerbaijan. This decision came during a national trade conference held in Delhi on May 16, organized by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT). Over 125 leading trade figures from across the country gathered and collectively agreed to boycott all commercial dealings with these two countries.
This move is a direct response to Turkey and Azerbaijan openly supporting Pakistan, which comes at a sensitive time when India is facing significant national security challenges. Many traders feel deeply betrayed because India had supported these nations during their difficult times in the past.
Praveen Khandelwal, CAIT’s General Secretary and a BJP Member of Parliament, criticized Turkey and Azerbaijan for their stance, pointing out that despite the goodwill and assistance they received from India, they chose to side with Pakistan—a country known internationally for supporting terrorism.
The boycott extends beyond just trade. The traders urged the Indian film industry not to shoot movies in Turkey or Azerbaijan, warning that any such films would face boycott from both traders and the public. Similarly, they opposed any promotions by Indian companies in those countries, sending a clear message: no support for nations that do not respect India.
CAIT President BC Bhartia emphasized that Turkey and Azerbaijan’s ungrateful behavior means they don’t deserve any trade or economic cooperation from India. The boycott isn’t merely symbolic; it is expected to impact imports, exports, tourism, and business travel linked to these nations.
Traders also welcomed the government’s recent decision to revoke security clearance for Celebi Ground Handling, a Turkish company operating at several major Indian airports, seeing it as a positive step toward safeguarding national interests.
To ensure the boycott’s success, CAIT announced a nationwide awareness campaign. This initiative will involve traders, consumers, and travel companies, encouraging everyone to stop buying products from Turkey and Azerbaijan and avoid traveling to these countries.
