The Strategic Alliance

Restoring US-Turkish Relations to Meet 21st Century

Challenges

Paige Steffen

How can the US strengthen its alliance with

Turkey?

US-Turkey History Post WWII:

• Turkey dependant on West• Outpost of NATO & US in Middle East

1947 Truman Doctrine:• Isolate Turkey from Soviet Union communist

influence• To date, US given/lent over $26.5 billion to

Turkey Strategic Alliance Crucial link between East-West

• Democracy, economic growth, anti-terrorism

Cooperation Cooperation:

• Energy• Trade• Investment• Security• Anti-terrorism

Common goals:• Peace/stability in ME (Israel, Palestine, Iraq)• Iran without nuclear weapons

Tension Historical:

• 1975 – Congress cut economic & military spending as result of invasion of Cyprus

2003 Iraq War:• Turkey refuse to let US troops pass through• Turkey send troops into Northern Iraq

against US wishes

Tension Spring 2010:

• Turkey’s criticism of US ally – Israel, after fatal raid of Turkey aid ship

• US House Foreign Affairs Committee: pass resolution declaring deaths of Armenians

during Ottoman Empire genocide Turkey recalled ambassador in protest Annual American-Turkish Council Conference

canceled

Improvement Must strengthen alliance with Turkey

Move past current obstacles

Reevaluate US approach to neglected Turkey

Reevaluation Focus on:

• Common interests• Mutual respect• Shared goals

Alternative Soultions Publicity:

• Focus on Turkey public opinion polls• Increase Obama visitation

BUT – How? Will it work? Turkey join EU:

• Encourage Turkey to develop democratic institutions, freedoms, reforms

• Reunite with West BUT – failed attempt, long process, contingent

Solution American-Turkish Council (ATC)

• Business association dedicated to enhancing the promotion of US-Turkish commercial, defense, technology, and cultural relations.

• Encourage trade and investment • Educate public about strategic alliance• Increase appreciation of history, culture,

tradition• Facilitate dialogue between government

agencies and private sectors

American-Turkish Council Removes US paternalism/Turkish

dependence

Integrate:• Markets• Cultures • Education

Strengthen, endorse, support