President Obama’s charm offensive continues as he attempts to woo the Muslim world in a visit to Ankara:
“Let me say this as clearly as I can: the United States is not – and will never be — at war with Islam,” Obama said in remarks delivered in Ankara. “In fact, our partnership with the Muslim world is critical not just in rolling back the violent ideologies that people of all faiths reject but also to strengthen opportunities for all people.”
It’s a welcome change from Bush’s crusade gaffe. More news from Turkey after the jump.
An op-ed in Turkish daily Zaman described the visit’s orders of business – to reiterate Turkey’s role in NATO, its mediator role in talks between Israel and its rivals Hamas and Syria, resolving the question of the Armenian genocide, and Turkey’s participation in US pull-out efforts from Iraq. This is potentially one of the touchier topics. Turkey refused in 2003 to allow the US to use its soil to help it stage its invasion. The country also routinely clashes with Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq. But the arrival of a new US administration could bolster ties and allow greater cooperation in the pullout.
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