posted by Montine Walters at 27/07/2010
PM David Cameron visited Ankara Turkey today with a clear message of paving the road from Ankara to Brussels. Turkey is hoping that its fifty year fight for membership of the European Union might be over soon, thanks to the latest blast of support from the UK government. Much to the distress of France, Cameron is firmly on the Turkish bandwagon, going as far as accusing those set against Turkey’s accession to the European club of playing on fears about Islam - quite an accusation when his true intentions may not be what they seem. Where has Cameron’s love for all things Turkish come from?
The PM’s enthusiasm is said to stem from Turkey’s economic potential and its still potentially positive role in the Middle East conflict. It could be suggested that by bringing Turkey under the EU umbrella, Turkey’s support for Iran and its nuclear programme may be muzzled whilst the EU imposes further sanctions on Iran.
As such, it appears Cameron is not only considering trade relations but also the importance of national security. It seems Cameron’s upcoming visits which include a trip to India may be an attempt to build economic relationships to bind both countries and dissolve any fear felt by the UK as a result of India’s nuclear arsenal. Will Cameron’s wishes of Turkey not only guarding the camp but being allowed in for a cup of char come true? If his determination is anything to go by, the price of Turkish delight should fall sooner than anticipated.
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