The conference held on May 11, 2007 in Washington was attended by the representatives of the White House, US Defense Ministry, World Bank, TUSIAD America, US – Armenian Business Council as well as George Washington University, Georgetown University Turkish Studies, Eurasian Studies, European Studies, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Brookings Institution, Washington Institute for Near East Policy, U.S. Congress Turkish Caucus, Council on Foreign Relations, TADF, ATAA, ATC, Turkish Cultural Center-Manhattan, Turkish American Society-New Jersey, American Friends of Turkey and the Deputy Head in charge of International Relations of the US Trade Chamber General Mr. Daniel Christman, the Deputy Head responsible for Europe and Asia Mr. Gary Litman and the media institutions Fox News, BBC International, Anadolu Ajans, NTV, Milliyet, Hürriyet and Zaman dailies.

“We do not accept a non-friendly approach” Dr. Erdem, in his speech at the conference, emphasized that Turkish-US relations should be developed and the economic aspect of relations which so far predominantly continue in the social, cultural and political sphere need to be also assessed. Referring to the Middle East, Northern Iraq and Armenian issues, Dr. Zeynel Abidin Erdem finished his speech by saying: “The Turkish people know very well that the US is only real friend. The Turkish people are sad about the negative messages affecting us by American politicians and press institutions. We want them to stop. Because we will not accept a non-friendly approach. Our objective is to keep a stable government in the Middle East, in the region. But you should know that this is not at all easy.

Democratic reactions in Turkey are misunderstood by some circles. In fact, recent development in Turkey took place within the constitutional frame. Democratic demonstrations as well as the Presidential election and the army’s attitude in Turkey are all within the constitutional frame. Since the foundation of the Republic the military has been assigned the task to protect democracy, secularism and Atatürk’s principles. Turkish people are not disturbed in this regard, just the opposite, it gives them great happiness and confidence. “

DACOR House Group

The DACOR House Group consists of retired diplomats, ambassadors and various foreign ministry associates who have served in various parts of the world on US missions, and members of the foundation are currently active as advisors of various press and TV institutions and in non-governmental organizations. (www.dacorbacon.org )