NATO Heads of State and Government are preparing to attend historical summit in Istanbul towards the end of June. When the summit begins, NATO will have seven new members that would raise the number of allies to 26. With this greatest enlargement movement in its history, NATO will establish a continual security sphere from Baltic to the Black Sea. But, this does not constitute the only event that the summit would celebrate. The Istanbul summit would be an important breakpoint in various issues.
Afghanistan would be the top of the agenda in Istanbul. Turkey has been exposed to terrorism very much. If we want to win the war against terrorism, it is obvious that we need to be successful in the struggle in Afghanistan. Afghanistan has long been a secure shelter to terrorists. Afghanis have a chance to change that situation first time since decades, thanks to our support. NATO took initiative on this issue by moving to the command of the International Security Assistance Force ISAF located in capitol of Kabul last year.
To Get Initiative In Iraq
In the recent years NATO showed matchless success at the beginning and is continuing long-term multi-national military operations first in Balkans, then in Afghanistan. So, it should not be regarded as surprise that more and more persons are thinking the necessity that rather than have a larger role in Afghanistan; NATO should have a position in other areas such as Iraq.
Cold War Ended
The risks and threats of the 21st century necessitate the greatest possible international cooperation and NATO's partnership network that stretch from Euro-Atlantic to Mediterranean is presenting unique opportunities.
Seven Mediterranian Countries
The Istanbul summit will be a chance to enrich the continuing dialogues with the seven Mediterranean countries: Algeria, Morocco, Israel, Egypt, Mauritania, Tunisia and Jordan. We should reach also to the Mediterranean in Istanbul that has long been a bridge between Europe and Asia.
Relations with the European Union will also be an important item in our agenda in Istanbul. EU will probably take over the task of the NATO in Bosnia-Herzegovina after the term of NATO ended.
As the security role of NATO increases and as alliance shoulder greater responsibilities the influence of Turkey would increase.
