By Dominique Moisi
The Daily Star

Story Summary

In reality, nearly three years after the beginning of the “Arab Spring,” Turkey is more in search of itself than it is of Europe, even if it needs Europe more than Turks are willing to admit.

The Arab Spring was initially seen as a great opportunity for Turkey, an ideal setting in which to highlight the country’s economic success, democratic political model and indispensable strategic role in the region.

If a lazy and fearful Europe did not want Turkey, so much the worse for Europe; history was offering more glorious alternatives to the Turks.

Turkey could play some powerful cards, owing to its “good neighbor” policy with two partners and rivals, Iran and Syria, as well as its support for the short-lived presidency of Mohammad Morsi in Egypt.

So Turkey must wonder what purpose is to be served by courting the West.

That means that Turks may need Europe more than they are willing to admit, even to themselves. But is Europe today any more ready and willing than it was yesterday to engage in serious talks with Turkey?

Read more: http://dailystar.com.lb/Opinion/Commentary/2013/Oct-26/235806-turkeys-lost-illusions-on-strength-of-being-crossroads-of-the-world.ashx#ixzz2ivdhNReA
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