The President of the Republic of Turkey, Abdullah Gül on Current Regional Issues and the Way Forward

The President of the Republic of Turkey, Abdullah Gül, delivered an address on May 30 entitled A View from Turkey: Current Regional Issues and the Way Forward. He highlighted the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and compromise, and emphasized that actions in the international arena “should be guided by wisdom, empathy, prudence and foresight.”

President Gül focused much of his discussion on “what chances remain for peace, stability and sustainable development in Turkey’s neighborhood with due consideration to international norms, and rule of law based on human rights.” He pointed out that domestic conflicts have implications for global peace and security, and that “peace and security are dependent on the maintenance of domestic order in each and every nation.”

President Gül also outlined two axioms that he believes will guide the future of the international system: “First, peace and stability is the backbone of any effort to steer economic growth and development…Second, confidence and predictability is what makes any system credible and worthy.” These guidelines, in tandem with international cooperation, will lead to a more prosperous world, he said.

Turkey “understands the unique role it can play for lasting peace, and prosperity in its wider region,” he said. The “enhancement of the rule of law, human rights, and pluralism as elements of good governance both feed and draw on economic development.” Turkey is resolute to keep moving along its democratic path in order to upgrade national standards and ensure that “Turkey and her partners will win in peace, cooperation and prosperity.”