Placing Turkey at the center of the new world order

The devastating global economic crisis, the damage given to the world affairs by previous United States administration, the deepening intolerance, and the increasing number of conflicts between different religious and ethnic groups in the world sparked leaders, academics and prominent intellectuals around the world to consider the ways to stop this course. In addition to these problems, the rise of new powers such as India, China, Brazil and even Turkey complicates the scheme of international policies as the center of gravity is now more flexible and subject to further unexpected changes. And the election of Barack Obama, the symbol of change in the world’s only superpower, was another factor for a promising future for the world, through a new order established by the contributions of all countries and international organizations.

In fact, Obama’s trip to Europe and Turkey was an important step in this direction. He first participated in the G20 summit in London to deal with the economic crisis. Then, at the NATO summit, he contributed to the planning of the new security design of the Euro-Atlantic region and beyond. In Prague, he attended another multilateral meeting, something he promised during the election campaign. All were in line with his pursuit of changing the world order with a one that foresees stability, peace, dialogue and, of course, democracy.

Thus, adding Turkey to this tour perfectly matches with this purpose and helps carry this message to the greater Muslim people of the world. Here is how Obama formulated this in his speech to Parliament on Monday:

"Now, our two democracies are confronted by an unprecedented set of challenges. An economic crisis that recognizes no borders. Extremism that leads to the killing of innocent men, women and children. Strains on our energy supply and a changing climate. The proliferation of the world’s deadliest weapons, and the persistence of tragic conflict. These are the great tests of our young century. And the choices that we make in the coming years will determine whether the future will be shaped by fear or by freedom; by poverty or by prosperity; by strife or by a just, secure and lasting peace."

It’s where Obama places Turkey in his conceptualization of the new world order. That’s why he prefers to call Turkey a "critical ally" and suggests a new model partnership. Apparently, it would not be surprising to see Turkey playing a key role in the international arena during Obama’s tenure. But this role tailored for Turkey will also bring challenges and responsibilities. As for the responsibilities, it’s time to recall the words of a U.S. academic who visited Ankara just before Obama’s visit: "International policies are changing. The new powers are rising. The problem is whether these powers will be democratic or authoritarian, sharing modern values or opposing to them." That is, Turkey will play its role as long as it abides by the universal principles of democracy and human rights and it continues to make progress in this way. It’s an indirect message to the government to review its policies and practices.

But it’s just the beginning. The real test will be on foreign policy. The accordance with U.S. policies and the level of cooperation with international organizations will be closely watched.

In Afghanistan, Turkey will have to do more in order not to disappoint Obama, who said: "We must achieve our goals together. I appreciate that you have offered to help us train and support Afghan Security Forces, and expand opportunity across the region. Together, we can rise to meet this challenge like we have so many before." On Iran, Iraq, etc. Washington would not be very happy to hear jarring voices from its closest allies. On Armenia, urged by Obama to complete an agreement soon, Turkey has no left luxury to leave the table. Which results in less room for maneuvers for Turkey with regard its foreign policy implementations. It won’t be an easy term for Turkey; it will often have to take tough decisions.