Beijing’s sudden decision to temporarily close its consulate in Izmir is widely seen as a warning to Turkey to back off its criticism of China’s treatment of its Muslim minority.
Why it matters: Izmir is poised to be the last port on China’s One Belt, One Road initiative, serving as a bridge between Asia and Europe. The consulate’s closure, announced by the Chinese Embassy in Turkey late Thursday, immediately drew strong reaction from the Aegean province’s business circles.
