Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has revealed that it would immediately suspend its academic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Inonu University in Turkey in view of national security considerations. The step follows increased sensitivity to international academic exchanges in view of changing geopolitics.

The MoU, set on February 3, 2022, aimed to develop faculty and student exchange programs between the two universities. JNU officials, however, have announced that the agreement is suspended indefinitely over national security issues. No specific details about the kind of concerns related to national security have been revealed.

This follows a strained relationship in diplomatic ties between Turkey and India, especially after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan openly supported Pakistan during recent regional tensions. Turkey's public support of Pakistan, particularly during India's Operation Sindoor, has been condemned by the majority of Indians. Accordingly, calls to boycott Turkish goods and to cancel travel reservations to Turkey by Indian businessmen and associations have been raised.

The choice of JNU is an indication of the dedication to ensuring that academic collaborations are consonant with national security interests and national security. Institutions now consider international collaborations based on national security factors as geopolitics change.