Turkey is actively seeking to expand its influence in the Horn of Africa, with Sudan being one of the key targets of this strategic policy. Turkish-Sudanese relations have undergone significant changes in recent years. Given Sudan’s complex political situation, the country has become increasingly central to Turkey’s regional and international ambitions. Turkey’s moves in Sudan can be seen as part of broader political and economic aspirations.

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Political Dimensions of Turkey’s Involvement in Sudan

Recently, attention has turned to the relationship between the head of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Turkish government led by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This relationship has taken on complex political dimensions. It is said that Al-Burhan is attempting to reconnect with Turkey’s former leadership in an effort to restore Sudan’s political status prior to the fall of President Omar al-Bashir. Speculation suggests that Al-Burhan is working to reintegrate former regime elements into power, offering them support and facilitation in return for aligning with Turkish interests.

Through political and economic promises, Al-Burhan aims to strengthen ties with Turkey. This effort has been reflected in his visits to the country. According to sources, he has invited members of the former regime—including the Muslim Brotherhood—to return to Sudan and participate in the transitional government in exchange for Turkish political and economic backing. These promises could mark the beginning of a new era in Sudan, one in which Turkey plays a central role in reconstruction through major investments in key sectors such as infrastructure, trade, and technology.

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Turkey and Sudan: Economic and Strategic Ambitions

Turkey does not view Sudan solely as a political ally but also as an economic partner and investment hub in the Horn of Africa. It seeks to exploit Sudan’s natural resources—including oil and minerals—and to enhance its commercial footprint in the country. Given Sudan’s unstable political environment, Turkey sees economic cooperation as a mutually beneficial avenue: Sudan can benefit from Turkish investments in infrastructure, energy, and agriculture, while Turkey gains increased political and economic influence in a strategic region.

Turkey’s ambitions in Sudan can be summarized in several key areas:

• Economic Investments: Turkey aims to secure investment opportunities in oil and gas, as well as develop large infrastructure projects such as airports and ports.
• Military Presence: Ankara is working to expand its military footprint in Sudan, including the development of the Suakin naval base on the Red Sea.
• Regional Influence: Strengthening its ties with Sudan allows Turkey to boost its influence in East Africa, countering rivals like Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

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Al-Burhan’s Secret Visit to Turkey

On March 30, 2025, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan made a secret visit to Turkey, where he reunited with his family to celebrate Eid al-Fitr. This visit sparked speculation about its political objectives, especially amid rumors that Al-Burhan is seeking to reorganize Sudan’s political landscape with Turkish coordination. The visit may have included discussions on sensitive bilateral issues, including how to implement Al-Burhan’s pledges to members of the former regime, particularly the Muslim Brotherhood, and the nature of Turkey’s support in this regard.

Al-Burhan is also expected to attend an economic conference scheduled in Antalya on April 15, 2025—an event that represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen economic ties between Sudan and Turkey. The timing suggests Al-Burhan is aiming for tangible outcomes aligned with his political and economic goals for Sudan.

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Turkey views Sudan as a crucial platform for advancing its strategic interests in the region, both politically and economically. Ankara understands that Sudan’s stability, along with Al-Burhan’s cooperation with former political forces, could significantly enhance its regional influence. In turn, Al-Burhan seeks to leverage Turkish support to reshape Sudan’s political landscape, potentially reinstating former regime elements. These developments may pave the way for deeper cooperation between the two nations—but could also spark domestic controversy in Sudan amid ongoing political divisions.

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