New Delhi, 15 May (H.S.): Jamia Millia Islamia has suspended its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with any Turkish-affiliated institutions, effective immediately, due to national security concerns. The decision, announced on X, states that all partnerships are on hold until further notice, reinforcing the university’s commitment to national interests.

This follows Jawaharlal Nehru University’s (JNU) similar suspension of its MoU with Inonu University, also citing national security issues. Initially established on February 3 for three years, the collaboration aimed to enhance cross-cultural research and student exchanges but has now been halted. Additionally, Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) has ceased its MoU with the Yunus Emre Institute, Turkey.

The suspensions arise amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, with India’s trade relations with Turkey likely strained due to Ankara’s support for Islamabad and its criticism of India’s recent military actions in Pakistan. The situation has prompted calls within India for boycotting Turkish goods and tourism. Investigations into drone debris linked to Turkish models are ongoing.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar