Reforms in International Relations
Though nationalistic, Atatürk respected other’s national interests and fostered co-operation, a position establishing Turkey's decades of peace.
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"We are called nationalists. But we are such a nationalist that we have respect for all nations who co-operate with us. We recognize all their national requirements. Our nationalism is not a selfish and arrogant nationalism." |
I am honored to join in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the death of Kemal Atatürk. The name of Atatürk brings to mind the historic accomplishments of one of the great men of this century- his inspired leadership of the Turkish people, his perceptive understanding of the modern world, and his boldness as a military leader. Atatürk was deeply interested in the friendly relations that have traditionally existed between Turkey and the United States. He noted our democratic governments, and once said prophetically, "We are friends now, and we will be much closer friends in the future." Except from "President Kennedy Speech on Ataturk."
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The Turkish nation is democratic by nature. I have no doubt that the American nation, which has gone so far in this ideal, is Turkey's friend and her aim. This will not be all- perhaps it can lead to a world of love, with all old prejudices erased, with all nations coexisting in peace and prosperity. Excerpt from "The Twentieth Century: The Incredible Turk" |