The Turkish leader is trying to find a balance between East and West, as experts say about Erdogan’s policies.

There was a case when the leader of NATO attended an event organized by the bloc in which Russia plays an important role. Turkey's move has caused controversy among its NATO allies.

The meeting in Kazan, organized by Russian President Putin, was intended to demonstrate that Russia is not isolated on the world stage, despite sanctions and political tension over the war in Ukraine. Erdogan has expressed his desire to maintain a strategic partnership with Russia, referring to Putin as a “dear friend.”

Erdogan's participation in the BRICS summit has a practical purpose – to gain investment support from countries like China and India to strengthen Turkey's economy. The meeting between Putin and Erdogan took place against the backdrop of reports that North Korea is sending troops to Russia to take part in the fighting in Ukraine, showing that Moscow is seeking support from partners to counteract isolation.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Turkey's participation in the BRICS summit does not violate its obligations to NATO.