Turkey and the European Union
European civilization that other members cannot offer. Turkey is not only a
,,demanding" party vis-à-vis the EU. It also wants to contribute. It has the features
that can ease Europe, on the verge of yet another edge, to leap to the next stage. In
this respect, Turkey has a request from the EU not just for itself but also for the future
of Europe and the whole world. In a sense, Turkey says ,,if you want an easier shift,
we have to stick together". (Laciner, S., Özcan, M. & Ihsan, B., 2005) This statement
might sound too naive and idealistic. But when looking at Turkish history, at their
weakest and strongest times, Turkeys have turned towards Europe, wanting to be a
part of it. Even after the Crusades, Turks' motion towards Europe was not bent on
destruction, but aimed at unification and contribution. In a process that lasted for
centuries, Turkey has a peculiar experience between East and West. In a sense, it
can be said that Turkey is a laboratory
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