Strategic blunders

A new example of such a policy is the harsh statements made by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan about the European Union. Actually, our whole history is full of such confrontations, but almost exclusively, we have ended up as the losers. Such confrontations also exist in the histories of other countries, and their consequences have never been pleasant.

In other words, the world doesn’t look too kindly on such attitudes.

The most important thing for a government is trust. Turkey, in its relations with the EU, has earned this trust and made significant advances. Today, all of us know about the EU’s objectives and strategies. There is no need to repeat them. At a time like this, after all the reforms passed, the crisis over adultery was both untimely and confusing. Its consequences are clear for all to see.

It appears the prime minister is under the influence of certain groups. That’s why another strategic blunder was added to the past ones committed, like the United States-Iraq crisis.

Haven’t we given those who argue that Turkey has no place in the EU more ammunition? Another consequence was the creeping of certain doubts for those countries that supported our membership. At a time when we were overcoming all the obstacles to our membership one by one, where did this blunder come from? In short, the prime minister is being dominated by certain groups.

This blunder caused unnecessary tension on the eve of the release of the Progress report. Many will start to discuss the ways we can amend this mistake we have committed and convince others that we are better for it.

Turkish commentators may be supporting Erdogan’s outburst, but people of a country, which wants to enter the EU, needs to know what the EU stands for and should be committed to its ways.

It is obvious that Turkey is proceeding on a very hard road, but it should also be careful not to make strategic errors. Turkey is a modern European country.

Turkey needs to resolve its domestic issues in harmony and remove all the obstacles. Education and economic development top the list of things that should be concentrated on. This is the only way to ensure the country becomes stronger.

I hope, Parliament, when it reconvenes in October, rethinks its stance and takes decisions in accordance with Turkey’s interests. The support of our friends within the EU will continue. Don’t forget that the EU cannot exist without Turkey.