Speech Delivered By H.E. Abdullah Gül on the Occasion of the Commencement of the 23rd Session's 5th Legislative Year of the Turkish Grand National Assembly

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

On the occasion of the commencement of the 23rd Session’s 5th Legislative Year of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, I earnestly greet You, the distinguished Members of Parliament, as the representatives of the will of our great Nation, which is the rightful owner of our sovereignty. I hope that the new legislative year will be a productive and auspicious one for our country and our Nation.

 

The commencement of this legislative year which we mark today is taking place in the middle of a time frame where two basic mechanisms of democracy are functioning. A short while ago, a referendum was held which has multi-faceted meanings in terms of our political history and general elections will be held at the end of this legislative year.

 

This process which shows the progress achieved in the direction of compliance with pluralistic democratic norms and how the basic institutions and mechanisms of our democracy have matured, reveals what a significant and meaningful period this new legislative year will be.

 

Bearing this importance in mind, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you my views and thoughts on various issues on the agenda of our country.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

Parliaments bear a constitutive value and significance in all parliamentarian democracies.  However, the Turkish Grand National Assembly is the most important example embodying this meaning and value in a most explicit and concrete way. This Parliament, which constitutes a reflection of our Nation’s political memory and aspirations regarding its future, is one of the rare examples of its kind, in terms of its experience.

 

The Republic was founded under the roof of this Parliament; the War of Independence was led from here and won. Despite all unfavorable conditions, this Parliament which led the War of Independence, became the symbol of national sovereignty and independence. The proclamation of the Republic and the subsequent reforms followed were realized by this Parliament. Since its inception our Parliament has been and continues to be the prime pillar of the goal to reach the level of contemporary civilization.  

 

This auspicious march of the Turkish Grand National Assembly has unfortunately been interrupted from time to time through interventions suspending the exercise of the will of our citizens. Our Nation, however, with all its segments and dedication to pluralism was able to overcome these hurdles. 

 

Within this context, the wisdom and foresight of our Nation has found body in the institutional identity of the Turkish Grand National Assembly. In referring to the Turkish Grand National Assembly, I do not refer to this or that Party, to this or that era. I mean each and everyone who had sat on these benches in the past; each of you sitting now; those who will sit on them in the future and the will that exceeds the sum total of them all.  I mean the very existence of the Turkish Grand National Assembly itself. I mean the embodiment of the awareness of being the nation we are. It is for this reason that we have an obligation to represent and embrace also the choices, will and perspectives for the future of those who are not present here today due to various reasons.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

This significance and value that our Parliament represents, is a serious and heavy responsibility to bear. It is everyone’s duty to live up to the task bestowed on this Parliament by history. And it is the greatest honor for those who are worthy of this mission.

 

Our august Parliament fulfils this historical responsibility through the unity of our Nation, whole and one in essence, with all of its colors and diversities.

 

Democracy, the political project of contemporary civilization, is the only method to this end. This is why, democracy has become the unchangeable and unalterable characteristic of our Republic. Because, democracy is how the will of the Nation is expressed, how it makes its existence felt and provides the opportunity for it to be represented with all its diversities. It is the responsibility of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, all institutions and the ruling and opposition political parties equally, to deepen this opportunity and to broaden democracy in a manner that would be in conformity with the values that are the hallmark of our Nation’s unity and would preserve the diversities that represent its richness.

 

The virtue of a democratic Republic is in transforming the Nation with all its colors, voices and opinions into the subject of the political authority. In its simplest form, elections are the sole method of how this process should begin and continue uninterrupted.  Therefore, laws enacted by the parliament reflect the political will of the Nation.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

Undoubtedly, modern representative democracies are based on the principle that the political party favored by the majority of the voters exercises the right to rule. In democracies, the authority to determine and implement policies belongs to the majority. However, it is also true that the right to rule by the majority is not limitless. It is due to this reason that modern democracies are in fact constitutional democracies where the power of the majority is also limited for the protection of fundamental rights and liberties, and where more importantly political authority is defined with this consciousness. Our history reminds us that those who forget this, even for a split second and acted contrary to the embodied will of the Nation, lost the trust of the Turkish Nation. What is essential is to preserve, express and represent the being and unity of the Nation with all of its hallmarks of union and diversity. Only then can the ruling political authority and opposition actually have a meaning.

 

In this context, as a citizen of one of the world’s leading countries and as President of the Republic of Turkey, it is my duty to remind certain issues and some realities that are at times overshadowed by daily politics.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

When it comes to basic issues, democracy should function together with both its representative and participatory aspects. Our Nation does its share to make sure that representation is as rich and varied as possible by sending different political views to Parliament each term. Our electoral turnout is incomparably higher than many other countries. Our Nation is diligent in expressing its will.

 

In this context, I would like to draw your attention to three important issues for the better functioning and efficiency of democracy and politics in our country.

 

The first point that I would like to emphasize is to ensure the broadening and diversification of the political representation in the Turkish Grand National Assembly. The broadening and diversification of representation will reflect the diversity within us to the political sphere. A parliament, where all of the leading political tendencies are not represented, will be an incomplete one.

 

As such, political stability and pluralist representation do not and should not exclude each other. When we look at the recent political history of Turkey, it is a fact that progress and development were achieved during periods when political stability was ensured. While carrying out pluralist representation, ensuring political stability is an important responsibility for all politicians.

 

The second important point I would like to emphasize for a mature democracy is the need to encourage and enhance participation. Participation of society as a whole in the political processes, not only through the political parties, but the civil society, will facilitate the solution of Turkey’s fundamental problems. The debate over identity,  raising democratic standards, drafting of a new constitution, discussions over religion-state-society relations that are at the top of the country’s agenda requires reaching a common understanding with the participation of all sides that include the ruling party, the opposition, the extra parliamentary political parties and all segments of civil society.

 

Maturity of democracy is closely associated with the encouragement and strengthening of the highest level participation in the basic political issues of the country.

 

However today, politicians have another important responsibility when it comes to the democratic system renewing itself and raising its vision to global standards.

 

This task is the renewal of the political language.

 

The need to replace the old political language, which falls short of redressing contemporary stalemates and developments, with a new, dynamic and tolerant political language, is among the important agenda items today of world renowned political scientists and thinkers.

 

I attribute great importance to the construction of this new political language, because, the nature of the political language determines the outcome. The political language can be either constructive or destructive. With their choice of language, political actors can serve to foster a common understanding or division. Our recent political history is full of examples where the old political language we have worn out was more destructive than constructive.

 

That is why, all Members of Parliament present under this roof should contribute to this third point, which is as important as the first two, in order to develop a new political language. Let us not forget that we are a country that has fundamental issues to be solved. The new language we will use will facilitate the creation of a climate of dialogue and consequently the solution of Turkey’s important issues through a common understanding.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

At this point, I feel obliged to remind both our Nation and all those circles that are closely following Turkey a certain issue. The recent referendum held in Turkey was a concrete example of public participation. The Turkish Nation fulfilled its duties of participation and representation with making different choices through a high turnout in the referendum and woke up to the next day again with the consciousness of being a Nation and will of a strong Turkey. The same attitude shall also prevail in our political culture.

 

The Turkish public gave different answers to the package presented to their choice. There were those who said yes, those who said no and those who did not vote. The Nation’s will was manifested with the referendum. The issue is not about who said what before the referendum, but to acknowledge that the sum total of all that was said is the final word and will of the people and to hail this as a national consciousness.

 

As in elections and referenda held in every democratic country, there are and must be different preferences on political issues in our country as well. Otherwise, it would not be a democracy. Seeing different points of view as “polarization” is the manifestation of an immature democratic understanding.

 

These differences should not be perceived as exclusion, insult, disregard or cultural division but on the contrary should be regarded as an expression of democratic wealth. What is essential is to respect the preferences and to respond to the sensitivities, expectations, concerns and hopes of all segments who cast their votes at the referendum. This responsibility rests first and foremost with the ruling party and all the political parties that may or may not be represented in the National Assembly. This is a responsibility which all our public and private institutions must take seriously with utmost sensitivity.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

I also want to dwell on another issue which I find equally delicate. A mature democracy comes with its culture. Even if you were to build the most democratic institutions of the world, if you cannot develop a culture that accompanies them, makes them possible and enhances their worth, those democracies will have no lasting value or significance. It is without any doubt that democracy does not solely consist of elections. Democracy is as much a matter of structure as a matter of substance. Undoubtedly, democratic process starts with elections and with due respect to the choice of the people. And from there on, our democracy continues its course by expanding and deepening in tandem with the vision, will and institutions that extend well beyond the elections. On this course, it is clear that we have yet much distance to cover.

 

Developing a capable democratic culture and a culture of conciliation should not be regarded as the exclusive responsibility of the politicians. On this issue, the Legislative, Judiciary, Executive branches of the government and all the organs of the State as well as bureaucracy and civil society have a responsibility.

 

In this framework, the most important accomplishment of the last referendum is certainly the ratification by the Nation itself of amendments drafted by the elected representatives of the Nation. However, as important as these amendments may be, they are not sufficient. The need for a new constitution to be drafted entirely by the civilian will is evident today. I will touch upon the constitution in the last part of my address.

 

The recent period has witnessed a more conscious stance of the popular will in this country against circles that overlooked the people’s choices and resorted to non-democratic methods. This is a significant development. The representatives of the Nation under this roof, must be vigilant for the manifestation of the Nation’s will within the framework of democratic order and principles, and stand against attempts to suppress the voice and impede the will of the Nation. On behalf of the Nation, the Turkish Grand National Assembly must univocally counter the antidemocratic plans and schemes that have always threatened our democracy. I have no doubt about the presence of this determination under this roof.

 

In a country which has an open society and a free press, wrongdoings can never remain hidden. As far as those who go beyond the duties defined by the Constitution and the laws are concerned, all our institutions must immediately intervene against them. When such individual and local situations may arise, abusing these cases and consciously or unconsciously adopting destructive attitudes towards our institutions is another vital mistake and does great harm to our country. When our security forces are in question, discrediting their status will have even graver consequences. I want to draw everyone’s attention to this point.

 

Nevertheless, I deem it necessary to particularly emphasize an important matter within this context.

 

When we look at the process that we have left behind, we see that the harshest debate was held on the issue surrounding the independence and impartiality of the Judiciary and they led to a polarization over this issue. The greatest risk posed by this debate is that they are likely to produce deviations or deficiencies, even if minor, in the administration of the “justice” which we believe is the “foundation of the state”. I wish to indicate that I see this possibility as a threat that needs to be taken seriously by everyone.

 

The government, the opposition and all politicians in general, as well as the members of the Judiciary who must display their objectiveness and meticulousness for justice in their statements and deeds, are expected to be sensitive on this matter.

 

I believe that, regardless of what position they took as an individual in this process, all members of the judiciary, will reassume their commitment to the rule of law and justice and will continue to administer justice in the most just and impartial manner. I have no doubt about this.

 

I also believe that the “independence of the judiciary”, one of the issues that has generated the most lively debate during past period is not only a legal statute problem but also an attitude and stance that should be internalized at least as much as “impartiality”, and most importantly is a matter of conscience as a sign of national loyalty.

 

On the other hand, I also deem it necessary to touch upon the demands and common problems of all citizens, regarding the functioning of the judicial system.

 

The excessive work load of the judicial system and the delay in the administration of justice that this causes are among the most important problems affecting all citizens.

 

Delays in the judicial process, regardless of its causes, should not lead a custody situation to turn into a de facto conviction. It is with the understanding that “Justice delivered too late is no different from injustice”, correction of such deficiencies and the implementation of the required legal regulations as soon as possible are of significant importance.

 

It is obvious that this problem is not solely a matter of legal regulation; but that there is a necessity to also improve the efficiency of the judicial system and that this duty falls on the judicial system itself.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

I believe that in today’s Turkey, we have to discuss some fundamental issues in trying to understand each other in a mature way.

 

Religion, the individual, society and state relations; making politics more civilian and the preservation of democratic plurality are among the basic issues discussed most in recent years.

 

Building a common understanding on all issues I enumerated as well as those I could not, is the responsibility of all relevant parties. Our political history and experience have the power to resolve any possible deficiencies in these issues. More democracy, more politics and plurality are our common denominator. All other courses have been exhausted.

 

If I may speak frankly, it is because we left our problems of yesterday unresolved that they have grown to the proportions we face today. And if we do not solve them today, they will become the inheritance of tomorrow and their resolution will become all the more complicated. In this vein, the constant development of our democracy and the uninterrupted continuation of the reform process are essential. Let us not forget that this process will strengthen our country in all respects.

 

I would also like to once again remind you that politically exploiting these problems instead of resolving them courageously, will be at great cost to us in the future. Therefore, without disregarding them, we must make every effort with a sense of great responsibility to sincerely try to resolve these issues. We have to see that is in no one’s interest for our country to live any longer with these problems.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

We all well know that the common sense of our Nation as well as the political wisdom and experience of our state have the capacity to resolve these major problems.

 

One fundamental problem that is on our agenda has a unique dynamics, independent of all others. For this reason I found it appropriate to address this issue under a different section.

 

We need to solve Kurdish problem stemming from the deficiency of our democratic standards which is a reality of many long years by detaching it from separatist terrorism.

 

The bitter experiences, the many sacrifices, the pain and suffering endured in this respect causes us to get chocked up when speaking on this matter.

 

Today, unfortunately, this problem is intertwined with terrorism.  At this point, our duty, by trusting the insight of our people, is to act with common sense, and to distinguish the problems that stem from terrorism from that are not related with terrorism for a reasonable solution.

 

Despite all the suffering that we have endured, due to the common sense of our Nation as a whole as well as the mature attitudes of our political parties and civil society, we have come a long way even though there are still some difficulties.

 

The fundamental approach in this matter is to be sensitive in differentiating the fight against terrorism from democratic problems. The fight against terrorism should no longer be regarded as the only dimension of this issue. Our security forces have the maximum capacity to do what is needed regarding the security aspect of the problem. Those who insist on terrorism will never reach their aim; this has by now been understood by everybody. Besides the impact and might of our security forces, the Turkish Grand National Assembly and our democratic order are the greatest barriers against terrorism.

 

On this occasion, I recall with the deepest indebtedness and gratitude once again all our security forces, especially our martyrs and veterans that made great sacrifices in our fight against terrorism.

 

Regardless of any description, besides its security dimension, this problem has historical dimension; it has also democratic, socio-cultural, economic and other dimensions.  There are disappointments, resentments and doubts that emanate from wrong practices.

 

At the point we have arrived today, instead of discussing “is there a problem or not”, ”how it will be called or qualified”, it is necessary for us to face the mistakes by developing a civil will and solve the problem on a democratic basis by uniting around fundamental principles.

 

The responsibility of the politics and the political establishment is to approach the issue with a strategic vision and produce solutions that target the unity of our country and the well-being of our people.  I will not elaborate on this topic too much, instead I will confine myself to address some issues on which we should agree.

 

• As long as there is even a single gun pointed at our citizens, the response to that will be given in the strongest manner.
• The addressee of the democratization dimension of the problem as well as the ground for solution is the Turkish Grand National Assembly.
• It is necessary to develop a comprehensive method of problem solving by including all different sections of society, non-governmental organizations, associations, political parties and all legitimate counterparts, regardless of their titles and identities.
• More democracy and more pluralism are methods of solving political problems.
• The fundamental political perspective of our state is its unity and its integrity. This principle is not open to discussion.
• The solution is not an ethnic focused politics, but more democracy.

I would like to clearly reiterate one particular issue. If we postpone the settlement of problems, next generations will confront with a more complicated set of problems. As the President of the Republic of Turkey, I am making these remarks knowing the subject with all aspects, details and background. We must solve this problem with great determination. We shall never lose sight of our strength, potential and the value of our unity.

 

We have left behind the days when we were frightened of our differences.  We no longer believe that reconciliation takes place by exerting pressure.  Our deep affection and devotion to this land and our history, and our confidence in the happy and prosperous future which we will create together make us more firmly united.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

One of the most important conditions of becoming a country where its people are happy and safe is to have a strong economy.

 

A reformist, realistic and principled economic policy is essential for a successful economic performance.  Turkey has to build a vision which is foresighted and can govern future through stability programs.

 

We should not forget that a strong, sustainable and healthy economy is among the top priorities of our country.  Stability cannot be achieved in a country which does not have a sound economy and promise much for the future. However, it should also not be forgotten that a healthy economy can be maintained together with a healthy social system, functioning democratic institutions and a contemporary system of law.

 

As I expressed it on various occasions, it is necessary to ensure that our economy achieves a remarkable growth performance every year, However, it is clear that one of the principle conditions of ensuring the sustainability of this growth trend is not to make concessions on the financial discipline understanding.

 

Since the establishment of a balance between sources and requirements in the economy depends on the creation of an environment of lasting trust and stability, this further increases the importance of the economy administration adopting a resolute stance.

 

It is clear that all investment and consumption decisions and other economic behaviors are directly affected by the perception of financial discipline.  Therefore, the importance attached to financial discipline should in fact be considered important and seen as the guarantee of the entry of new and continuous sources into the economy and the financing of growth.

 

The necessary importance given to this subject will also ensure that economic units take decisions on production, investment and consumption in a more courageous manner by reviving positive expectations on the future of the economy. 

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

The intensity and depth of the global crisis which goes beyond all projections has affected all countries without exception. Turkey also experienced negative growth in 2009 for the first time after many years. 

 

We know that the main element which has triggered and increased the severity of the big crisis is the imbalances in the financial sector.

 

Turkey is a country which has succeeded in learning lessons from a similar experience that it went through by paying big costs in the past. This situation ensured that Turkey has been among the few countries whose financial sectors were not affected by the global crisis, and was appreciated by the international economy circles as an important success.

 

This success made an impact for the emergence of our economy from the crisis with the least damage and the quickest way, even placed our country in the front row seats among the economies which are expected to rise after the crisis.

 

In fact, Turkish economy’s growth rate of approximately 11 percent in the first half of this year, as the fastest-growing economy among OECD countries, is an achievement that should be appreciated.

 

Meticulous protection and promotion of the institutional infrastructure, regulatory and surveillance system and the objective decision making, which enabled this success, are also of great importance for the sustainability of this achievement.

 

As you know, the unavoidable result of the crisis period that pulled down the consumption and demand tendencies had the most negative effect on the employment indicators. However, we are glad to observe that return of the economy to a stable growth trend through the measures taken began to show its positive impact on employment.

 

At this point, I must also emphasize one issue that I find important for attaining social stability and welfare.

 

It is known that the structural transformation process of the economy has had many negative impacts on the relative situation of certain socio-economic segments.

 

In this context, I believe that socio-economic structure which is comprised of small-scale manufacturers, merchants, craftsmen, artisans and other subsistence level economic units is passing through a painful process and should be taken into consideration by all concerned and responsible.

 

We see that this transformation process, which took place a long time ago in today's developed countries, is now taking place with a certain delay in our country.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

It is natural that the economic policies formulated and implemented under the political responsibility of the government are criticized by various segments and sectors of the economy. It is apparent that the duty of the economy administration is to pay attention to these debates and criticisms but also to design selective policies which protect the general balance and financial discipline of the economy.

 

In terms of the general health of the economy, it is also crucial that the representatives of the sectors, considering this sensitivity, formulate and follow up their recommendations, and also think hard on deliberations on measures to increase efficiency and competitive strength among themselves.

 

Reflecting the importance given to scientific and industrial Research and Development (R & D) projects in recent years, I am glad to observe that serious resources are spared. Increasing these resources and distributing them in a well planned manner are of paramount importance because the projects undertaken now will only come to fruition in the medium and long term.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

Turkey's international reputation, influence and capability are increasing parallel to its rising political and economic power and the progressing democratic standards.

 

In fact, our many activities and contacts last week in New York on the occasion of the 65^th General Assembly meetings of the United Nations, confirmed this fact in the most striking manner.

 

In this context, I want to bring to your attention the United Nations Security Council Summit meeting that I chaired on September 23rd.  This Summit, which has been called upon by Turkey and chaired by myself, is the sixth Summit throughout the UN history of 65 years.

 

Turkey’s correct reading of the new dynamics of the changing world,  and its ability to transform its historical experience, geostrategic advantages and increased capabilities  into “active”, “constructive” and “realistic” policies and initiatives lies behind this serious and meaningful leap in our foreign policy.

 

Foreign policy is a field which requires to act rationally and necessitates to be proactive by taking reasonable and measurable risks. Therefore, despite all difficulties, it is natural that Turkey is willing to contribute to the resolution of problems at regional and global levels.

 

Through being member to numerous regional and global organizations, and establishing many strategic partnerships, Turkey has become a country that is well integrated with the world, enjoying a wide network of relations.  With the help of this new capability, Turkey is now highly appreciated as a state that not only assumes its regional mission and responsibilities, but also rises up to the challenges in resolving common problems of humanity.

 

Another indication of our awareness of global responsibility is the momentum that we have achieved in our relations with African countries and the least developed countries, in addition to the others..

 

Developing relations with our region, in particular with our neighbors, has become one of the main objectives of our foreign policy. Moreover, I wish to make it clear that we highly value our relations with the United States and other allies.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

With a view to putting on record my opinions and expectations on important foreign policy issues that concern our Nation and country, I would like to start with our relations with the EU.

 

The Western vocation of our country is a supra-generational policy which has a deep historical background and a strong strategic rationale. The goal of Turkey’s EU membership is a strategic choice built upon this historical foundation.

 

 

Since I have already openly criticized the European Union for difficulties emanating from the attitude of the EU in various European capitals, today, I will not repeat myself.

 

Here, I want to focus on what we will do.

 

In this process, we should follow our path without falling into pessimism, and realize all reforms which are beneficial for our country and Nation.

 

My advice to you is to prioritize throughout the legislative process the enactment of laws that are related to EU accession. In doing so, ways to expedite their enactment by separating them from other legislative works and ensuring their speedy conclusion should be found.

 

 You know yourself very well the extent of dynamism and advantages that our country has gained as a result of the reforms that have been realized to this date.

 

Obviously, this is not a unilateral process. It is our rightful expectation that the Union should fulfill its contractual obligations forthwith and completely. This should be vigorously and constantly reminded to our European partners.

 

On the other hand, we cannot remain indifferent to the important developments taking place in our region. We also cannot turn our backs to these regions which are directly linked to our national security and interests, and whose peoples to whom we have kinship, brotherly and friendly relations. To the contrary, our Nation’s genuine expectation and our historical responsibility dictate us to pursue active and constructive policies in this wide geography.

 

In this context, the fact that it has not been possible to achieve peace in the Middle East occupies the primary spot among the regional issues that deeply upsets us. The establishment of a lasting peace in the Middle East holds the key in securing a peaceful and stable future for the world. Unfortunately, the fact that peace is yet to be established in the region creates a source for serious and adverse strategic consequences in other parts of the world.

 

I would like to stress that we support every effort to reach comprehensive peace in the Middle East. The direct contacts that have commenced between Israel and Palestine have created a cautious optimism. The success of the negotiations will depend on Israel’s decision whether it will stop or not its settlement activities.

 

Another important issue that occupies the international agenda is the developments regarding Iran's nuclear program. We wish to have a resolution of the problem in accordance with the obligations emanating from the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. However, we also expect Iran's right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes to be respected.

 

In our efforts to resolve the issue around Iran’s nuclear program, we always keep in mind the costs that the developments in Iraq since 1990 had incurred for our country. We do not want to have a similar bad experience once again in our eastern borders. We expect our allies and the international community to recognize our sensitivity. Among its allies, Turkey is the only country capable of contributing to the solution of this issue. Our efforts offer the diplomatic solution a chance. We also expect appreciation for this. 

 

In a wide geography stretching from Iraq to Afghanistan; from the Balkans to Caucasus, our country strives to maintain peace and stability and to contribute to the prosperity and happiness of all the nations through creation of an atmosphere of cooperation.

 

In this framework, while we support the government formation efforts in Iraq where we embrace every segment of the Iraqi society on the one hand, the process initiated by my historic visit to Belgrade on the other, has laid the ground for a new rapprochement and a resolution environment in the Balkans. The Trilateral Consultation Mechanisms initiated with Balkan countries are the tangible results of this new perspective. It is also worth mentioning the Trilateral Summits that we organize together with Afghanistan and Pakistan as examples for Turkey’s constructive and result-oriented initiatives.

 

On the other hand, the de facto situation in the Caucasus serves no one’s interests. Therefore, we must maintain our determination for reaching a fair resolution of the existing problems between Turkey, Azerbaijan and Armenia.

 

Developing and deepening the relations in all aspects with the brotherly Turkish Speaking Countries has been another issue that I attach great importance to as the President of Turkey. In this context, at the 10^th Summit of the Heads of States of Turkish Speaking Countries which was held last month in Istanbul, an 18 year old dream has come true.  As agreed at the 9^th Summit held in Nakhchivan last year, the Council of Cooperation of Turkish Speaking Countries has been established. It is apparent that the Council whose headquarters will be located in Istanbul is an important milestone for institutionalizing cooperation among the Turkish Speaking Countries.

 

On the Cyprus issue which is our national cause, we maintain a strong will to find a lasting resolution. We fully support the negotiations which were started by President H.E. Mehmet Ali Talat and which are being continued with sincerity and patience by President H.E. Derviş Eroğlu. We expect the same commitment and goodwill from the other side in the negotiations and for a solution. 

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

It is highly likely that the international system, which could not somehow find its equilibrium after the end of the Cold War will evolve in the first quarter of the 21st century into an order based on harmony among major powers such as the European Union, Russia, China, India and Brazil under the leadership of the United States of America.

 

The Turkish Nation having a thousands of years old state tradition and the legacy of experience, memory and reflexes of major empires will take its deserved place in this new international order. Our rich human resources, developing economic power, deep-rooted culture and the virtue of our democracy will be the fundamental driving force in this process.

 

In order to attain this goal, we have to make every effort for a serious “catching up” and “forging ahead” drive in scientific, technological, military and economic terms in the coming 10-15 years and uniting around this objective as an entire society.

 

I am fully confident that Turkey will not be a state which follows the changes in the new world order but one which “demands” and contributes to the “shaping” of the change, if  we demonstrate the necessary will, determination, vision and courage.

 

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

Before I conclude my evaluation regarding the current situation of Turkey in the international arena, I also want to briefly share one observation with you. Whenever I travel abroad, I feel great pride in observing the dignity and significance that Turkey has gained in the world. Unfortunately, I also feel greatly distressed when I return to Turkey to find that this significance gained in the eye of the external world is not properly recognized here at home. As I have mentioned before, we have to be conscious of the added value that our strength, potential, unity and solidarity will create for our country.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

At the outset of my remarks, I had stated that the new legislative year coincides with a very meaningful and significant moment in time. Within this context, it is vital that this august Parliament should adamantly pursue its agenda of reforms without in anyway being affected by the upcoming elections. We have many agenda items before us of major importance, from trade laws to the EU harmonization legislation, from judicial reforms to procedural laws.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

Constitutions reflect the spirit and conditions of the period in which they were drafted. The Constitution of 1982 is the constitution of the Turkey of those years. Furthermore, it was drafted by the cadres, which was formed by the circumstances of that period, following an intervention that had brought restrictions to the will of the Nation. Major developments have been recorded both within the domestic and on the international political scene since then. Unfortunately, the amendments adopted to date so that Turkey could keep up with the developments do not fully meet the demands of a new constitution that Turkey requires.

 

Today’s Turkey needs a civilian, democratic and pluralistic constitution. Without a doubt, the timing for this constitution will be decided by the political institution. However, as the President of the Republic, I would like to remind this necessity and point out that the new constitution should be drafted with a participation that will make room for all the expectations of the society and a common understanding. With this understanding, I believe that the new legislative year should provide a wide forum and opportunity for discussions for civil society and political parties on a new constitution.

 

Mr. Speaker,

Distinguished Members of Parliament,

 

In concluding my remarks, I would like to pay tribute to the memory of, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk being foremost, all members of this august Parliament who have served our Nation. I wish from Allah that the coming period will bring prosperous tidings for our Nation and our state.

I salute you and through you my dear Nation.