Eric Edelman, former US Ambassador to Ankara said the US is pleased with Turkey’s efforts for a diplomatic solution to the Iranian crisis.
Edelman termed Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s performance in political and economic reforms as “brilliant” and said the eforms paved the road to Turkey’s European Union (EU) membership, particularly in the first days of the government. Praising leaders such as Ataturk, Ismet Inonu and Turgut Ozal who successfully steered the country during crisis periods, Edelman said that the EU needs similar strong leadership in Turkey.
Speaking at a Washington DC conference held by The Washington Institute for Near Eastern Policy on former Turkish President Turgut Ozal, , Edelman emphasized that the Justice and Development Party (AKP) government displayed courage in the settlement of the Cyprus issue based on the Annan Plan.
I Stating that the Turkish government showed “flexibility” in the Cyprus issue over the past few months, Edelman called on the other side to make a similar effort.
When reminded of the unfavorable view of the US administration among Turkish citizens, at 12 percent according to polls,, Edelman remarked that both the Turkish and US governments should do something about their tarnished images.
Dwelling on the crisis over Iran’s nuclear program, Edelman reiterated the US determination to solve the Iranian issue through diplomatic efforts. The US official went on to say that Washington is pleased with the support Turkey is giving in the ongoing process with three EU members, and he hoped this support would continue.
As regards developments in Iraq, Edelman said “Just as the case with Turkey, we want to see a democratic, secularist government in Iraq which does not threaten its neighbors.”
Upon a question about the situation in Kerkuk (Kirkuk), he former US ambassador responded that it is the Iraqis who will decide the future of the city.
‘Ataturk’ Comment for Iraq
A comment by a conference attendee that “Iraq needs a leader like Ataturk to maintain stability in the country” reminded Edelman of remarks by Lord Kinross. Edelman said that Ataturk modernized Turkey using “anti-liberal” methods in the1920s; however, today it is not possible for the modern world to accept such archaic methods in Iraq.
“Every country should find its own way,” added Edelman.