BY ERDAL SAGLAM
HURRIYET- The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has entered a critical, sensitive phase in its foreign policy, one in which the government’s attitude and stance will shape Turkey’s future, especially the economy.
Turkey will have to make important choices in the near future in line with its economic interests. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s current visit must be evaluated in this context. We already know that both Iran and Russia want to open their energy markets to Europe via Turkey.
Putin’s visit is expected to focus on significant energy matters. I believe that the Blue Stream Project will be the number one issue. Moreover, there are two new pipeline projects on our agenda. Turkish firms have already found US and Russian partners to develop them. However, Ankara wants to wait for the completion of the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline project before greenlighting a new one.
Putin’s visit will likely focus on oil and natural gas projects, how much Turkey will purchase from Russia, and his country’s aspirations to open its markets to Europe via Turkey. In the energy arena, Ankara has to play the game very carefully while making sure not to damage its own sensitive strategic interests. If the AKP government manages to win the game, it will have the chance to help Turkey improve its economy and boost the nation’s welfare. However, if it fails, our jittery economy will probably suffer new crises, which would inevitably mean a considerable fall in the national welfare.
The AKP government must put aside its Islamic tendencies when shaping its foreign policy and see the whole picture from the viewpoint of the nation’s interests. Therefore, our government must cease its anti-Israeli statements and policies, which are aimed only at placating the AKP’s Islamic roots. Let’s remember that if the government loses in the international arena, then the entire nation will pay the price.