Reasons for anti-US feelings

BY SAMI KOHEN
MILLIYET- US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s weekend visit to Turkey was lacking in fresh development on issues which directly concern Turkey, like northern Iraq, Kirkuk, PKK, Iran and Cyprus. However, Rice’s statements are important in two respects namely that they come from the US secretary of state and that they amount to a guarantee. Rice also emphasized the role of public opinion in the Turkish-US ties. “Each of us [Ankara and Washington] . . . have a responsibility with our publics,” she said, “because we have democracies to speak out for how important and central this relationship is to both of us; to remind all of us and our people of the long history that we have together, of what we have achieved together, of what we have supported for one another, and of what a prosperous future we have in working on the many difficult and complicated issues ahead, as well as the bright opportunities ahead.” The reason for this statement is Turkey’s recent anti-US atmosphere, which has raised serious concerns in Washington.
The government, Foreign Ministry and General Staff believe that the recent disagreements, especially in issues directly concerning Turkey, shouldn’t harm bilateral relations. Ankara prefers to see the relations from a wider perspective in light of various common interests, and to continue its dialogue with the US. Turkish public opinion on the other hand takes a decidedly dim view of US policy and actions. More and more people see the US as an enemy rather than a friend and ally. There are various reasons for this: One is the anger towards US President George W. Bush’s policies (the Iraq’s invasion, threats on neighboring countries, etc.). Bush’s image has become a stereotype encouraging anti-Americanism. Another reason is US actions towards Turkey and how it has disappointed Ankara (its reluctance to fight the PKK and deal with Iraqi Kurds’ activities in northern Iraq). These are being seen as a sign of bad US intentions towards Turkey. Extreme rightist and leftists play an important role in spreading anti-Americanism. They see the US’ hand behind every piece of bad news.
How could this situation be changed? Firstly, the public must see how good Turkish-US relations are in our own interests, and this could be accomplished through dialogue and mutual understanding. No doubt a key reason for rising anti-US feelings is the Bush administration, and therefore Washington bears a great responsibility. Ankara should also send the right messages to the public by explaining the importance of better relations with the US. Some disagreements cannot be a reason to turn back friendship and cooperation. It is easy to spread ill will, but the right thing to do is to act rationally without being overwhelmed by them.