战略与国际研究中心-Turkey-Update_-Mr-Ecevit-Comes-to-Washington_4页_77kb

Summary of the Document: MR. ECEVIT COMES TO WASHINGTON

Core Content

Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit arrived in Washington in September 1999 to begin a visit aimed at reinforcing the U.S.-Turkish relationship ahead of the 21st Century. His visit, which included a meeting with President Clinton, was preceded by the formation of a coalition government following the April 18 elections, and was marked by the White House's generous hospitality, including hosting him at Blair House.

The visit was part of a broader diplomatic effort to highlight the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Turkey, especially in light of Turkey's growing distance from Western Europe due to its exclusion from EU enlargement. The Clinton administration, known for its effective public relations, sought to present the relationship in a positive light, while also encouraging Turkey to re-engage with the EU and to improve relations with Greece following the earthquake in Turkey and the subsequent one in Athens.

Main Issues on the U.S.-Turkish Agenda

• Post-Earthquake Relief and Economic Aid: The 1999 earthquake in Turkey caused massive destruction and economic strain. The U.S. expressed support but the extent of aid remained uncertain. Ecevit had previously proposed using U.S.-guaranteed Turkish government bonds for housing, but this idea was rejected by the Bush administration due to concerns over setting a precedent.

• Cyprus Problem: The unresolved issue of Cyprus, particularly the reluctance of Turkish Cypriots to engage in peace talks without international recognition, remains a major obstacle. Ecevit, known for his hardline stance on Cyprus, is unlikely to push for direct pressure on the Turkish Cypriot leader, Rauf Denktas.

• Iraq and Regional Stability: Turkey is concerned about U.S. efforts to undermine Saddam Hussein, potentially leading to the breakup of Iraq. The U.S. has been supporting Iraqi Kurdish groups, which Turkey fears could destabilize the region. Ecevit’s past visit to Saddam Hussein in 1990 adds a layer of complexity to this issue.

• Baku-Ceyhan Pipeline: A major strategic and economic project, the Baku-Ceyhan pipeline is intended to transport Caspian oil to world markets via Turkey. However, the project faces significant challenges, including high construction costs, commercial viability, and the reluctance of the AIOC (Azerbaijan International Operating Company) to commit to it.

Key Points

• The U.S. and Turkey are working to maintain a close relationship, but both face internal and external challenges.
• The Clinton administration is in a difficult budgetary position, limiting its ability to provide substantial aid to Turkey.
• The Baku-Ceyhan pipeline is a symbol of U.S.-Turkish cooperation, but its future is uncertain due to commercial and strategic disagreements.
• Turkey's energy policy is influenced by the Motherland Party, which has had de facto control since 1996, complicating the country's role as a regional energy corridor.
• The visit is seen as an opportunity to reinvigorate cooperation, but the outcomes may be limited due to the complex political and economic landscape.

Conclusion

Ecevit's visit to Washington underscores the strategic importance of U.S.-Turkish relations, particularly in the context of regional stability and energy security. However, the visit also highlights the challenges and contradictions in both countries' policies, especially regarding economic support, Cyprus, and the Caspian energy pipeline. While the administration hopes to maintain a positive atmosphere, the long-term success of the visit may depend on the ability of both sides to address these underlying issues in a more realistic and pragmatic manner.