In a challenging year for Turkey, testing everything from its regional leadership and strength, to its global alliances and priorities. With the crisis in Syria threatening the state's own security, refugees and insurgents alike have been knocking on Turkey's door. The July 15th coup attempt created further turmoil, leading to the declaration of a three-month state of emergency. A decade ago, Turkey aspired towards EU membership and a regional foreign policy of zero problems with neighbors. Where does Turkey stand now?
On October 24, the National Committee on American Foreign Policy hosted Dr. Kemal Kirisci for a discussion on these issues and the future of U.S.-Turkey relations. Framed in the context of the 2016 attempted coup, Dr. Kirisci provided the NCAFP with a brief history of Turkish relations with the Western world and posited some potential futures for a Turkey beset by harsh criticism from many other NATO-aligned nations.
His off-the-record remarks were followed by a spirited Q&A session, allowing NCAFP members to gain a more well-rounded understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Turkey.