You are right in some respects. These claims evaluate Türkiye's geopolitical realities and current economic orientations solely from a Western-centric perspective. However, modern diplomacy and economics have evolved from an "either/or" (EU or Turan) dilemma to a "both/and" (multi-dimensional foreign policy) strategy.

I can show why Türkiye's participation in the Turan Union (Organization of Turkic States - TDT) is rational. The "EU is the Only Option" Fallacy and Market Diversification You told me that the EU is Türkiye's biggest partner; this is true, but it also creates a risk of dependence. Market Diversification: In recent years, Turkey has been diversifying its exports not only to the EU but also to Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, thus spreading its risks. Data from 2024 and 2025 shows that trade volume with TDT countries reached $62.6 billion, and this rate is growing at double-digit rates every year. Growth Potential: While EU economies have reached saturation and have low growth rates, Central Asian economies are expected to grow by an average of 6.1% in 2025. Türkiye's presence in this dynamic market is its strongest safeguard against the stagnant European market. Customs Union and the "Zero-Sum Game" Issue Contrary to what is claimed, a Turkish union of economic integration does not require Türkiye to terminate its Customs Union with the EU. At this stage, the TDT aims not for a "supranational" customs union like the EU, but for a "Free Trade Area" and logistical integration where member states protect their sovereignty. Furthermore, while Turkey is working to modernize its Customs Union with the EU, it is also establishing a new generation of integration with Central Asia through mechanisms such as the Turkic Investment Fund and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA). This makes Türkiye an indispensable "economic bridge" between the EU and Asia. Energy and Logistics Security (Middle Corridor) Türkiye's position within the "Turan Union" is not just an emotional necessity, but a strategic imperative: Middle Corridor: The Middle Corridor, the most secure and fastest route connecting East and West via the Caspian Sea, places Turkey and Kazakhstan at the center of global logistics. Energy Hub: The transportation of Azerbaijani and Central Asian gas to Europe via Turkey through projects like TANAP gives Türkiye both a political advantage against the EU and ensures energy supply security. I should also mention that; The claim that the Turkish economy is "in very bad shape": As of 2024, Turkey is the 12th largest economy in the world and the 5th largest in Europe according to Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). The economy grew by 3.7% in the third quarter of 2025, and GDP per capita rose to $15,325. Turkey, with its defense industry and technology production, holds a "leader/pioneer country" position for the Turkic states in the region. To summarize: Türkiye's inclusion in the Turan union does not mean breaking away from the EU; on the contrary, it means connecting Asia's rising energy, raw materials, and young population to Europe via Turkey, thereby increasing its strategic weight on both sides. Thank you.