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Government & Politics
The Turkish Republic was established in 1923, following the demise of the
Ottoman Empire. The Empire had been in a state of decline for several
centuries. Inability to keep up with industrial and scientific developments,
social and political unrest and wars had sapped its strength. The First
World War, in which the Ottoman Empire took part on the losing side,
signaled its end. As the Empire crumbled, its Turkish nucleus rose up in a
War of Liberation against the invading powers and the Sultan’s government.
It was successful and resulted in the Lausanne Peace Treaty of 24 July 1923,
which established the international status and boundaries of the new state.
The Republic was declared on 29 October 1923. The Treaty provided the basis
for the creation of the climate of peace and stability needed by the
country. On the other hand, the success of Turkey set an example to many
nations struggling for independence in Asia and Africa. Turkey immediately
embarked on a course of modernization and reform in all walks of life.
Despite the fact that the liberation struggle had been waged against major
European powers, she proceeded to establish good relations and cooperation
with the West, and based her political and legal systems on modern, secular
models. The goal, as expressed by Mustafa Kemal Atat?rk, the leader of the
nationalist movement and first President of the Republic, was "to reach the
level of contemporary civilization". And to achieve this aim, a doctrine for
foreign relations was formulated that has held true to this day; in the
words of Atat?rk, "Peace at home, Peace in the world."
This has not been an easy task given the history and geographical location
of Turkey. She lies at a strategic "crossroads" where two continents, Europe
and Asia meet, and also where cultures and civilizations come together. This
unique position gives her European, Balkan, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern,
Caucasian and Asian identities all at the same time. It has exerted a strong
influence on her foreign policy choices and has necessitated a
multidimensional foreign policy. In this context, the primary objectives of
Turkish foreign policy are to establish and to develop friendly relations
with all countries, in particular with neighboring ones; to promote and to
take part in regional and international cooperation; to resolve disputes
through peaceful means and to contribute to regional peace, stability,
security and prosperity.
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