State Department Report on Turkey Mission Released

ANKARA (A.W.)—The U.S. Department of State and the Broadcasting Board of Governors Office of Inspector General released a report in July on the U.S. mission to Turkey that delves into some important aspects of U.S. Turkey relations.

The report notes: “Embassy Ankara and its constituent posts ably represent U.S. interests at a time when Turkey is demonstrating a new level of activism, both regionally and domestically. The ambassador takes a firm lead on substance and the interagency review process. The substantive expertise of mission leaders and staff and the strong Turkish language capabilities in the mission ensure effective U.S. understanding of Turkey’s motives and goals, and unambiguous guidance on how to deal with Turkey.”

Under the section titled “Context” the report states: “Turkey’s role as mediator between Syria and Israel has run into headwinds, as its relationship with Israel wobbles after Gaza. Turkey has signed protocols with Armenia that would move the two countries closer to normal relations. It is not smooth sailing, however, as these protocols move through ratification by parliament. Turkey’s future links to both Israel and Armenia remain important to the United States. Turkey is also likely to play an ever-increasing role in the diversification of oil and gas supplies to Western Europe via pipelines through Turkey from Azerbaijan and others in the Caspian region.”

To access the report in full, click here.

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