U.S.-Turkey relationscurrent issues, food for thought, background informationTurkey and the United States are seen as strategic partners, whose relations are based on strong and deep-rooted ties of friendship and alliance. Recently, Turkey and the United States announced a shared vision document on a number of key international matters. According to the document, some issues of common interest on which Turkey and the United States pledge to cooperate include fighting the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and other terrorist groups; seeking a fair and lasting solution to the Cyprus problem; encouraging democracy and stability in Iraq, the Black Sea, Caucasus, Central Asia and Afghanistan; supporting international efforts aimed at resolving the Middle East conflict; boosting peace and stability through democracy in the Greater Middle East Initiative; ensuring energy security; strengthening transatlantic relations; and enhancing understanding among religions and cultures. The document also foresees a structural dialogue mechanism between officials from the two nations. For example, Turkey's foreign ministry undersecretary and one top U.S. State Department official are planning to meet once a year to discuss progress. The paper also calls for "periodic contacts" between the Turkish foreign minister and the U.S. secretary of state. However, US-Turkey relations are challanged by recent developments in Iraq. Turkish officials criticises United States' reluctance to crack down on terrorists from the separatist PKK, who enjoy a safe haven in Northern Iraq. |
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