DiplomacyIR & Politics

Transition Period of the United States of America and Relations with Turkey

The usage of “countries in transition” usually stands for a country which experiences a set of structural transformations intended to develop its institutions. The term has been in circulation more than a decade; however, this time it implies USA relations with other states( such as Turkey).

With Donald J. Trump, 45th President of the USA, the states have experienced different administerial methods.However, his days are passed behind but remnant of his administration still in the limelight. President Trump’s decisions on US foreign policy and internal administerial practices have been widely discussed worldwide; however, Donal J. Trump’s days are over now. Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. sworn last week on Wednesday and become 46th President of the United States.

On Wednesday, President Biden underlined “much repair, restore, heal, build and the gain” in his speech. Moreover, he highlighted, “the unity, security, dignity, respect, honour, opportunities and yes the truth“. Beyond doubt, he meant to repair the destruction of managerial previous which the President Trump left behind; furthermore, Biden gave these messages to the US allies and the rest of the world. Upon his start in the oval office, on his very first day, Biden reversed more than eight policy decisions by Donald Trump and dedicated himself put the USA on the right track. Which is why, under Biden’s administration, the choices on Turkey carry critical importance in two ally country relations.

Nevertheless, Turkey’s decision on S400s drove a wedge between the USA. Hence, the US’s response was CAATSA sanctions on Turkey and Turkey officially kicked out of the F-35 fighter program. Moreover, Turkey’s membership of being a NATO member has been, fabulously, under question. Additively, to the contrary of President Trump, President Biden seeks to strengthen relations with the European Union and to look for the substantial corporation. Herein, Turkey’s politics on the Eastern Mediterranean, Syria and Libya become vital between Ankara and Washington.

Furthermore, under the Joe Biden leadership, the USA seeks the animation of military strength of NATO, bring together its members on common martial plans and empower the alliance’s historical bounds. In addition to that, the Biden administration might target Russia, China or Iran and use the diplomatic and economic sanctions on those countries in which Turkey has close relations in the last few years. NATO is stronger with Turkey, no need to mention Turkey’s crucial role within NATO; however, doubts about Turkey within the alliance are growing.

To sum up, other than President Trump era, Turkey and the USA relations will be significantly different regarding foreign policy and security policies as well as the principles and virtues during President Biden’s term. Biden’s behaviour on Turkey will determine the relations. Referring to his speech, constructive relations with Turkey and dialogue will be decisive.

It is a crystal fact that Turkey and the USA relations under transition. At this place, Turkey’s policy manner is more critical than Presidents Biden’s view on Turkey. Turkey should carry a more positive atmosphere of relations with the USA.  Dialogue and diplomatic contacts must continue at all levels with global players. The dialogue and diplomacy channels should be well used. The problems with the European Union should be solved through diplomacy; nevertheless, issues must resolve without compromising Turkey self-rights under international law. Democratic steps should be taken in domestic politics, the domestic law should be strengthened and Turkish industry should be empowered with economic reforms. As a result, Turkey must remind others it’s essential importance.

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Berk Can Kozan

He achieved his BA Degree from the Eastern Mediterranean University in Cyprus and obtained his MA degree from University of Pécs in Hungary. His main research fields concern on nuclear deterrence, international security and foreign policy issues, international relations’ theories, and internal/external affairs of Turkey. Currently, he is a third year PhD student at the National University of Public Service in Hungary.
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