Joining a growing chorus of Indian private companies and institutions distancing themselves from Türkiye over its perceived support for Pakistan, the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee has announced the cancellation of a research collaboration with Inonu University, a Turkish institution.
Earlier this week, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) confirmed that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) involving Inonu University had been “suspended until further notice,” citing “national security considerations.”
“IIT Roorkee remains committed to aligning its international engagements with the national interest,” the university said in a statement issued on Friday.
The now-cancelled MoU had outlined a framework for potential academic and research collaborations, including student and faculty exchanges. “IIT Roorkee remains committed to aligning its international engagements with the national interest. The Institute continues to actively pursue collaborations with global partners that are in harmony with its academic objectives and the broader vision of strengthening India’s research and innovation ecosystem,” the statement noted.
Inonu University, located in Malatya, Türkiye, had entered into the academic partnership with JNU as part of broader efforts to foster cross-cultural research and student collaboration.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, Adani Airport announced the termination of its ground handling concession agreement with Turkish aviation firm Celebi at Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports. The move followed the revocation of Celebi’s security clearance by India’s aviation regulator.
Tour operators have also reported a significant uptick in holiday cancellations to Türkiye and Azerbaijan. Travel platform MakeMyTrip noted a 250% spike in cancellations to both destinations, while EaseMyTrip reported a 22% rise in cancellations for Türkiye and a 30% increase for Azerbaijan.
(With inputs from PTI)
Published – May 16, 2025 04:32 pm IST
