Confusion Between Turkey And The West
Ever since the last government held the reins of power, the country witnessed the highest European visitors’ number ever, who are praising Turkey. The last confusing event was the official visit of British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw to Ankara and his promise to take adequate measures in order to guarantee Turkey’s membership in the European Union.
Straw declared that Turkey’s membership definitely serves the EU’s interest. Straw’s talk on the Cyprus issue insinuated a possible indirect recognition of Northern Cyprus as a political geography and the lift of the embargo.
Straw added that should the Greek Cypriots vote ‘no’ in the upcoming referendum, Turkey would join the EU as a representative of the Southern part of the island only. Turkish leaders admitted this was the first time Ankara receives such a supportive message.
However, this statement cannot be applied in reality within the framework of the EU agreements; since Cyprus has always constituted Turkey’s main problem. Turks strongly believe the Turkish Cypriots would vote ‘yes’ in the referendum, which will be the key for the settlement of the Cyprus issue.
The Turkish Chief of Staff, General Hilmi Ozkok still supports the government reforms, unlike his predecessors and chose to withdraw the armed forces from Cyprus. Analysts said that this stance came as a result of his experience in NATO.
The opposition to the Cyprus issue occurred during a political seminar held in Ankara a few days ago. Sixteen high-ranking Turkish Generals, also Generals in NATO, attended the seminar. In fact, one of the Generals called for severing the relations with both Europe and the U.S. and lead the oppressed peoples. Surprisingly, his rhetoric was met with applause.
Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash received a warning from Recep Tayyip Erdogan, PM, Abdullah Gul, FM, about the necessity of settling this issue away from conflict, and that he should not drive the opposition to go out to the street. Denktash retaliated that the opposition demonstrations were caused by the EU, which considers the Cyprus issue an obstacle for Turkey.
Some prominent mediators, diplomats and politicians, carried out swift tours after they felt disappointed by the discussions in Cyprus between the Cypriot leaders. However, they received optimist messages in order to calm their fears.
Despite everything, the West is still waiting for the results of Cyprus’ referendum. No doubt that everybody, especially Turkey, understand the extent of any dispute’s repercussions on the international community and the internal political situation.
By Ayse Onal
