A Turkish Perspective on Security Issues in the Mediterranean

GPoT Policy Brief (GPoT Center) No. 36, April 2013, 8 p.

by Şadi Ergüvenç *

The Mediterranean is where the atmosphere of mutual distrust, fear and polarization prevail. Arab-Israeli dispute and Turkish-Greek differences over the Aegean and Cyprus impede efforts for developing mutual confidence and co-operation. Recently,economic and financial crises and the “Arab Risings” have brought along more reasons for concern. Islamophobia and racism versus Islamic jihadism increase the risk of confrontation. Turkey together with Spain appeals for an “Alliance of Civilizations” and exploits its double identity, European and Muslim, through a proactive and multilateral policy for finding peaceful solutions to chronic regional solutions. Greece and Greek Cypriot governments should refrain from unilateral attempts to declare maritime borders.

* Lieutenant General Şadi Ergüvenç (ret.) graduated from the Air Force School in 1957 and completed his academic education at the Air Force Academy, the Armed Forces Academy and the Royal Airforce Staff College in the United Kingdom. His previous positions include: the Head of the Intelligence Department at The National Security Council Secretariat and the Strategy and Force Planning Division at the General Staff; the Turkish Military Representative within NATO Military Committee; and the Commander of the Second Tactical Air Force. Since his retirement in 1992 he has remained active in numerous national and international institutions, including the NATO Defense College and the Foreign Policy Institute.

Download full brief (Format PDF)