Volume II Perceptions Dec 1997 - Feb 1998

The first article by Yolbars A. Kepbanov discusses the evolving importance of addressing the Caspian Sea's unique ecological, geopolitical, and resource-related challenges, highlighting the necessity for a multilateral approach among the littoral states to establish a new legal framework, ensure equitable resource exploitation, and promote regional cooperation for peace and stability. Another significant article by Ünal Çeviköz outlines the historical evolution of multilateral cooperation in Southeast Europe, from initial attempts during the Cold War to post-Dayton Peace Accords initiatives, emphasizing the region's aspirations for integration with European institutions and the importance of regional cooperation for stability, security, and economic development. Statement by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its objection to the European Union's decision to commence accession negotiations with "Cyprus" based on the unilateral application of the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus, citing violations of the 1959-60 Agreements, disregarding the existence of two politically equal sides in Cyprus, and undermining the principle of equality fundamental to resolving the Cyprus issue. In the another statement by Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministry expressed its dissatisfaction with the conclusions of the Luxembourg Summit regarding Turkey's accession to the European Union, citing unequal treatment, biased assessments of Turkey's internal structure and foreign policy, and attempts to impose unacceptable political conditions. Despite maintaining association relations with the EU, Türkiye emphasized the need for a change in the EU's approach and mentality to establish a constructive dialogue and advance integration efforts based on mutual respect and non-discrimination. 

Another article by Sean Boyne argues that in recent years, Turkish factions have expressed concerns about Western powers using the Incirlik air base for Operation Northern Watch since 1997, aiming to enforce a 'no-fly' zone over Northern Iraq to protect Kurds from potential reprisals by Saddam Hussein's regime and monitor Iraqi compliance with UN directives, with the USA and the UK participating while France abstains, and Turkish personnel contribute within Turkey and its airspace without flying over Iraq. Roberto Aliboni argues that the establishment of a Euro-Mediterranean cooperative security regime bridges the expertise of the OSCE in the northern Mediterranean with the ongoing efforts of the Arms Control and Regional Security Working Groups in the southeastern region, marking a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy. Another article by Patrick Clawson discusses the rich oil and gas reserves in the Caspian Sea region, the challenges in selling these resources, potential markets like Iran, and the complex geopolitical dynamics involving the US, Russia, Turkey, and Iran, as well as technical details of oil and gas projects in the region. Orhan Güvenen discusses the impact of newly developing information and communication technologies on society. Crown Prince El Hassan Bin Talal makes comments about current developments in the Middle East. Bruce George focuses on the Central Asia and the Caucasus in particular NATO, OSCE and security issues. Bozkurt Güvenç writes on Turkish identity and secular trends. Ali Fuat Borovalı compares the Habsburgs and the Ottomans through postmodernity, multiculturalism and ex-imperial hinterlands. Finally Ahmet Davutoğlu’s paper is a critical re-examination of the Post-Cold War theories.

Download Yolbars A. Kepbanov's The New Legal Status Of The Caspian Sea Is The Basis Of Regional Co-operation And Stability Article

Download Ünal Çeviköz's European Integration And Regional Co-operation In Southeast Europe Article

Download Statement By The Turkish Ministry Of Foreign Affairs On 14 December 1997

Download Statement By The Turkish Government On 14 December 1997

Download Sean Boyne's Arguments In Favour Of Turkey’s Continuing Support For Operation Northern Watch Article

Download Roberto Aliboni's Confidence-building, Conflict Prevention And Arms Control In The Euro-mediterranean Partnership Article

Download Patrick Clawson's Iran and Caspian Basin Oil and Gas Article

Download Orhan Güvenen's The Impact Of Information And Communication Technologies On Society Article

Download H.R.H. Crown Prince El Hassan Bin Talal's The Elusive Peace Article

Download Decision Adopted By The States Parties To The Conventional Armed Forces In Europe Treaty (CFE) Concerning Certain Basic Elements For Treaty Adaptation - 23 July 1997

Download Bruce George's NATO, OSCE, And Regional Security Issues In Central Asia And The Caucasus Article

Download Bozkurt Güvenç's Secular Trends and Turkish Identity Article

Download Ali Fuat Borovalı's Post-modernity, Multiculturalism And Ex-imperial Hinterland: Habsburg And Ottoman Legacies Revisited Article

Download Ahmet Davutoğlu's The Clash Of Interests: An Explanation Of The World (Dis)order Article