Turkey-US Shared Vision and Honest Dialogue

By Zafer Urey

Turkey and US recently reaffirmed the strong bonds of alliance, solidarity and strategic partnership between the Republic of Turkey and the United States, as well as the commitment of both countries to the principles of peace, democracy, freedom, and prosperity enshrined in the (Shared Vision and Structured Dialogue ), document agreed to in July 2006.

It is critically important to stress that actions and statements expressing mutual trust, as was included in the original statement , becomes an integral part of all such dialog if the strength of the relationship is to endure and to produce lasting results for democracy, peace and prosperity. It is the opinion of this author that 'honest' dialogue is essential in establishing mutual trust relationships and in building strong bonds of friendships. Furthermore, 'trust' promotes justice and development by facilitating the spread of welfare and peace while discouraging the acts of terrorism, conflicts and wars in our increasingly interconnected and integrated world.

In a recent report "Turkey's Evolving Dynamics: Strategic Choices For U.S.-Turkey Relations" by the CSIS (Center For Strategic and International Studies) various authors offered their views on US-Turkey relations. Provided that a common world standard is applied to restrict the relationships and dealings of democratic regimes with undemocratic or aggressive regimes the following exerpt from the report can be considered as a helpful comment to set a stage for 'honest' dialogue:

"With careful management and high level attention effective policy coordination can be achieved and the alliance can be strengthened. Ankara would like fuller consultation from Washington on major U.S. policies and initiatives vis-a-vis the Middle East, Russia and the Caucasus. The worst surprise the United States could foist on Turkey would be to undertake a major move in the region without first consulting Turkey. Turkey also wants to be treated as a trusted ally even as it pursues distinct policies in advancing its interests. Washington wants Ankara to be a reliable regional and global partner in peace with its neighbours, but not overly close to undemocratic regimes, and able to exert influence with its Muslim neighbours through its leadership and example. This role is best assured if Turkey deepens its democracy and pursues reforms required for EU integration"


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