Turkey’s Foreign Policy

* Re “Turkey’s Ambitions Raise Stakes for Russians in Chechnya,” Opinion, Aug. 18:

The article’s reference to Turkish relations with newly independent Central Asian republics includes misleading portrayals. Turkey shares close cultural, linguistic, historic and religious ties with these Turkic states. What it wants is stronger relations with them in a mutually beneficial way. Turkey will maintain and enhance its contributions to the economic structuring process of these republics and their integration into the world economy. Since they have been facing challenges of economic modernization and political stability after their independence, Turkey understands the importance of integrating these countries into the community of nations as rapidly as possible.

Turkey also wants good relations with Russia and to further develop the extensive economic cooperation potential between the two countries. In the last few years, Turkey and Russia have been successful in expanding their trade and economic cooperation.

The article misleads readers by stating that Turkey is turning away from Europe. The fact is that just last year Turkey concluded a customs union agreement with the European Union. This customs union is a natural outcome of Turkey’s decades-long association with the European Union and existing agreements which foresee Turkey’s eventual full membership.

Turkey follows a multifaceted foreign policy. Turkey’s geographical situation and its historic and cultural ties with Europe and the Middle East impel it to become a bridge between the West and the East. To achieve this, Turkey will further develop its economic, commercial, social and cultural relations with the Western countries, as well as Turkic republics of Central Asia, Islamic countries and the countries of the Balkan region.

OGUZ CELIKKOL

Consul General of Turkey

Los Angeles