Number 210 | November 29, 2012
The below letter was sent to President Barack H. Obama by G.Lincoln McCurdy, TCA President on November 27, 2012.
“Dear Mr. President:
When you visited Turkey on your first bilateral trip as President in 2009, you remarked that “Turkey and the United States must stand together – and work together – to overcome the challenges of our time.”
As you begin your second term as President, your words hold even greater importance. Turkey and the U.S. continue to face formidable challenges that threaten regional and, indeed, global peace and stability. Democratic transitions in Turkey’s region have created instability, turmoil and great suffering for civilians.
As a secular, democratic country with the 16th largest economy in the world, Turkey has become increasingly influential in global affairs and, with the support of its allies, is uniquely positioned to provide economic and political stability in this tumultuous region. The United States and Turkey must therefore remain in close consultation and be active, engaged and forward-thinking partners in addressing the many challenges ahead.
For Turkey to play a positive role that creates peace dividends for the region and the world, Turkey must receive the unequivocal support of its allies in fighting the scourge of PKK terrorism. The international community must stand united against the use of violence for political goals, when avenues for democratic change are available, like they are in Turkey. We appeal to you and your Administration to renew your strong support of Turkey’s efforts to end PKK terrorism.
Since you took office four years ago, Turkey and the United States have continued to strengthen their longstanding alliance. As NATO allies for more than 60 years, the United States and Turkey have enjoyed many years of close collaboration in economic, political, military, and cultural issues and a rich history that binds them. The Turkish American community has held a special place in promoting the importance of this partnership and building people-to-people bridges to strengthen it. TCA looks forward to working with you and your Administration in creating exchanges between Turks and Americans in different walks of life and to enhancing the contributions of Turkish Americans in strengthening US-Turkey relations.”
