Kazakhstan, Astana, Oct. 21 / Trend K. Konyrova /
Given the fact that the Turkish-speaking countries have never had political unity, creation of commonwealth of these states as the European Union remains unrealistic, former Turkish President Suleyman Demirel said in an interview with the Kazakh Liter newspaper.
"Presently, Turkish-speaking countries are the majority of independent states developing their relations in various fields: economy, culture, education and politics, Turkey's president in office from 1993 to 2000 Demirel said."But they have never been in a political unity and it is hardly possible at this stage of history. We must look at things realistically."
According to Demirel, Turkey and Kazakhstan, as well as other Turkish-speaking countries should closely unite and encourage the processes contributing the integration of their countries.
"The Turkish-speaking countries are independent states. None of them above another and here nobody is elder brother of anyone," Demirel said. "Only the friendship expressed in an effort to establish good neighborly relations should unite us."
Turkey maintains good relations with its close neighbors and supports integration of the Turkish-speaking countries, which allows the private sector in these countries to develop fruitfully the business and trade cooperation, Demirel said.
"Recently, presidents of Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan undersigned a resolution on strengthening bilateral relations among our countries in Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan. Speaking about Kazakhstan, I can say this country is one of the most important partners for us," the ex-president added.
The Kazakhstan-Turkey relations should enter a wider orbit because for the past hundreds of years the relative nations turned out separated.
"At present the situation becomes intolerable. We have no right to further ignoring our peoples' aspiration for proximity. Kazakhs and Turks should be friends. After all, if the country's leadership leaves this desire of the people unanswered, this government will eventually be replaced. People will replace it," Demirel said.
Do you have any feedback? Contact our journalist at [email protected]