Look at the World Map Please!

Submitted by Oktay Balamir (Turkey), Apr 10, 2005 at 06:51

Sir,
I am amazed how ignorant middle-class Americans are. I am aware that educated Americans are aware that Turkey is a true and long lasting American ally since the days of the Korean War, a strategic member of Nato since the 50's, and a bulwark of the ideals of world peace and democracy. Those that speak of "Midnight Express" today, should perhaps ask Mr. Billy Hayes, whether Oliver Stone distorted the facts of his prison term here while filming the Midnight Express. (By the way, Mr. Parker apologized from the Turkish Government in a recent visit to Turkey). Moreover, Americans should look at the world map and see how it is surrounded by countries like Syria, Iran, Iraq and until recently by hostile and expansionist neighbours like Greece and Bulgaria. Gentlemen, Turkey is a secular country and is not ruled by the teachings of Islam, thanks to the efforts of our founding father Atataturk.

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