Relations between the Arab population of the Middle East and the people of Turkey have a long history. This geographic association has led to concepts of “brotherhood” and “friendship.” More recently, this has led to a joint interest in establishing relationships and foreign policy based on stability, security and welfare.
In this context, the diplomacy that Turkey initiated in the Arab world needs to be view in a special context.. This initiative, especially for the institutionalization of Turkish-Arab League is no doubt a great foundation. The Middle East is living one of the most critical periods in modern history, with regional problems creating chaos and the politics have become increasingly complex. Attempting to solve these problems independent of each other would be a mistake.
The first step is to take Palestine issue in the Middle East to the center of all the problems. We should not forget that the Palestinian hopelessness, anger or air of pessimism has seized the entire region; the air creates a climate of radicalism that only feeds these problems.
At this point, we need to start mobilizing the Mecca Consensus that was signed between the Palestinians in every area. The Mecca Consensus is in accordance with the letter and spirit of unity and solidarity, and as the basis for consolidation. Creating a sense relief for the Palestinian people will inevitably be seen as opportunities for the advancement of the peace process.
The Arab League should be determined through a pragmatic political program that will emphasize a dialogue with the Palestinian people and their needs. By adopting a constructive attitude in approaches to supporting Palestinian UN recognition as stressed in many international forums by Turkey.
The Israeli government has given inconsistent and oppressive policies. Adopting the perspective of peace outlined in the Arab Peace Plan is extremely important in solving the Arab-Israeli conflict.
Turkey’s recent “Arab Spring” visit to its nearest neighbors Iraq must be analyzed while taking recent events into consideration. The murder of dozens of people every day is an additional and separate dimension of sectarian conflict. Ending this chaos and corruption is obligatory to protect the territorial integrity and political unity. A divided Iraq will have repercussions for the entire region. Uniting around the idea of “Iraqi” solidarity will be the most helpful in creating a decision-making body. In addition, if the Iraqi government embraces a strong central government in this region, inner peace and stability, peace will be sine qua non.
The development of Iran’s nuclear program demands a shared principle of transparency with Iran’s neighboring countries. Finding a solution to the problem promptly and through diplomatic channels requires savvy diplomacy and experience in the region. Turkish foreign policy has continued to work to ensure political stability in Lebanon. Assistance for the reconstruction of Lebanon and the contributions to UNIFIL show Turkey will remain determined on this issue.
Throughout the Syrian crisis, Turkey’s geopolitical strategic position has been one of connecting the east and the west. The responsibility of ensuring the safety of the security of the Mediterranean Sea will be partly shouldered by Europe and the U.S., but no doubt significant responsibility will fall to Turkey.
The negative effects of polarization and dissociation have been felt everywhere. Turkey seems to want to “spread optimism” in the region through their recent work in Iraq. This movement to instill hope to the people of the region will be the biggest factor in which avoids polarization and the trend of growing instability. Turkey has adopted an approach that embraces everyone, or almost everyone, eliminating much of the ethnic and religious exclusivity that has isolated countries that could have otherwise been allies and partners.
