BY NURAY BASARAN
AKSAM- Turkey should closely follow and evaluate next week’s US presidential elections. In the tradition of such elections, the candidates try new arguments as election day draws near. Democrat John Kerry is talking about employment, the economy, health care and other domestic and social issues, all of which are resonating with the American people. However, Bush is focusing on national security and the war against terrorism. Although Bush says that he’s doing his best to protect the US’ borders and harbors, the evidence says otherwise. In addition, Kerry’s stance on terrorism and national security isn’t satisfying the American people. The two candidates’ views on US strategy and goals in Iraq are nearly identical. Actually the US has few options.
The other coalition forces want to leave Iraq, but the US doesn’t have this luxury. It has to finish the game which it started, and this will continue after the elections. In light of these observations, although Turkey has nothing to prefer or offer, it should take the above-mentioned issues into consideration and prepare for the US and the foreign stage in the best way possible. Whatever happens, Turkey will sharply feel the ripples from this election.