Turkey to air its views at G-8: Erdogan

Though not a member of the Group of Eight, the world’s leading economic powers, Erdogan has been invited to attend the summit by US President George Bush, as have other leaders of Middle Eastern countries. The meeting, to be held in the US state of Georgia, will discuss the current situation in the Middle East and American proposals for peace and development in the region.
“You have to sit at the table,” Erdogan said during a television interview. “You will be a participant as long as you sit at the table. And, then your word may be listened. We will be there to this end.”
Erdogan said that he would voice Turkey’s views on the project to be shaped up regarding the Middle East.
“I think it is wrong to remain outside these developments,” he said of the US’ controversial Greater Middle East program. “We will make our evaluations and then take necessary steps. The further you are from the table, the further your interests will be away from this table. You have to sit at the table. You will be a participant as long as you sit at the table. And, then your word may be listened to. We will be there to this end.”