Close relations between the Republic of Turkey and the European Union have existed for a long time. After the Ottoman Sultanate was transformed into the modern, westward-oriented Turkish Republic under Kemal Atatürk in the 1920s, there have been frequent phases of rapprochement between the country and Western Europe. In 1963, the so-called Ankara Agreement was… Continue reading Turkey and EU
Tag: Turkey
Another Test of Endurance
At present, the eyes of the world are once again on Ukraine, on the eastern provinces and Crimea in the light of an increasingly confrontational attitude between Russia and its allies and Ukraine and the NATO countries. In addition to these central aspects, however, there is another relationship of interest in this constellation, namely that… Continue reading Another Test of Endurance
Three of a kind
The relations between Erdogan´s Turkey and Putin´s Russia are among the most interesting in current world-affairs. Either part is threatening the vital interests of the other one, in special in the Caucasus and in Syria, but, through a diplomacy of balance, they nontheless manage to both strengthen their positions in relation to third powers involved.… Continue reading Three of a kind
The Mediterranean steps on the gas
The eastern Mediterranean, the Levant, is one of the oldest cultural regions on earth. Egyptians and Phoenicians, Greeks, Byzantines, Judaism and Christianity all have their roots here. This historical significance has been somewhat lost sight of recently; in the times of the Cold War, the focus was on other areas, and only the eternal battle… Continue reading The Mediterranean steps on the gas
First Talks
Turkey has faced increasing isolation in recent years, at least in relation to its immediate neighbours and the surrounding area. The most painful alienation may have taken place in the case of Egypt. As the most populous country and historical powerhouse in the Arab world, the country is of paramount importance in the region. And… Continue reading First Talks
A historical omission?
Are the Arabs missing an opportunity they have been waiting for for centuries? A few ages have passed since the Arab caliphates were global centres of power. They were succeeded by the Ottomans, who dominated Middle Eastern politics for centuries, sometimes in competition with the Safavids. This was followed by the rule of the European… Continue reading A historical omission?
A forum of friendship
About a month ago, the so-called Philia Forum was held in Athens. Besides the host, representatives of Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt were present, and a French colleague was connected via livestream. The dominant theme was probably not the philia, the friendship, but rather the country that is now perceived… Continue reading A forum of friendship
Simon Dierich 