Turkish Press
Jan 3 2010

Davutoglu evaluates foreign policy in 2009

Published: 1/3/2010

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu presented a vision of the
Turkish diplomacy on the issues that vary from the Middle East and the
Caucasus to the Balkans, also addressing the claims of axis shifts in
Turkish foreign policy.

Noting that Turkey’s foreign policy is focused not on crises but on
visions, Davutoglu hinted at upcoming plans of the government.
Davutoglu said that he and his predecessor Ali Babacan visited 93
countries in 2009 and 47 of them were European ones. Full membership
to the 27-nation bloc European Union is among the primary strategic
goals of Turkish foreign policy, said Davutoðlu. Referring to fierce
debates on axis shifts, Davutoðlu said `We do not think they are
well-intentioned.’

Evaluating Turkey’s efforts in the Middle East, Davutoglu said that
Turkey’s aim is not to earn any prestige but to contribute to regional
peace. Davutoglu once more drew attention to the humanitarian disaster
in Gaza reiterating that tragedy in Gaza must come to an end and the
siege must be lifted.

Referring to the Armenia Drive, Davutoglu said they have moved on
positive scenarios and the process has been proceeding in accordance
with natural norms both for Turkey and Armenia. `Who could probably
guess this level just three years ago?’ said the foreign minister.

When asked about Iran’s controversial nuclear program, Davutoglu said
that Turkey does accept any peace based on terrorism equilibrium.

Touching on future prospects for Turkey, Davutoglu said `We have a
very nice picture in mind about Turkey. Now, both the government and
the Foreign Ministry endeavor to decide what tones to use in this
picture.’

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress