BY YILMAZ OZTUNA
TURKIYE- The geographical limits and the meaning of the US’ Greater Middle Eastern Initiative (GME) are now nearly clear. It’s evident that it covers most Muslim countries. Maybe there’s a trick as well, that is, no firm map has been drawn in order to ensure flexibility in future operations. There will be tests and distractions through the end of this year. No matter if US President George W. Bush or his rival is elected in the next US presidential elections, Washington’s plan won’t change. The change of style wouldn’t influence the basics. The US wants to halt the spread of terrorism by bringing democracy to countries where terrorists are trained. However, terrorists and terrorist groups are also found in developed countries. What’s more, terrorism not only puts forth certain ideologies, but it’s also a job.
The US naturally wants to end terrorism. However, it’s also determined to gain control over the world’s energy reserves through the same efforts. Actually I believe this is its priority goal. There are a great many countries in the GME. Turkey isn’t included in the operation, as it has a democracy and is the only secular country with a Muslim population. In other words, the US isn’t offering to help make us democratic because it can’t do such a thing for a country which could meet the Copenhagen criteria. So what does the US want from us? It wants our support and the help of Britain, Israel and fellow NATO member countries as well in order to bring democracy to that region. Britain, Israel, NATO and Turkey have very enjoyable militaries. We’re waiting for December in terms of our relations with the EU and the November US presidential elections. I wonder if Washington will present the first democratic reform package to Iran and Syria. Libya has already signalled that it will accept it. Egypt is still mulling it over. I wonder what will happen.