Turkish Greek Conflict

Turkish/Greek Conflict Helena Smith argues that money, not time, heals all wounds, at least when it comes to the conflict between Turkey and Greece. In her New Statesman article, Smith points out that tensions between the two Mediterranean nations is lessening mainly due to entrepreneurship and joint business ventures. In a remarkably symbolic gesture, the company that manufactures the Greek flag is now set to buy its fabric from Turkish factories. However, money isn't the only bond between these age-old rivals.

Smith notes that humanitarian needs and causes has also helped mend the wounds between the two nations. They both agreed to cooperate in the Kosovo crisis and helped each other recover from recent earthquakes that affected both sides of the Aegean Sea. Turkey is situated in a unique geographic locale: half Asia, half Europe. The Bosphorous demarcates the division between two continents and runs straight through Istanbul. Therefore, Turkey itself suffers an identity crisis.

Especially with the dawn of the European Union, Turkey is struggling to be recognized as a European, not an Asian country. The two nations are finally beginning to realize the necessity of cooperation, and of letting bygones be bygones. The world is a much different place than it was in 1974, when the Cyprus conflict came to a head. Because of the economic benefits of smooth diplomacy between Greece and Turkey, the two nations are joining hands for mutual benefit.

In order to become key players in the global market, Turks and Greeks need to shake hands. This demonstrates the universal need for moving in the future without the burdens of past prejudices and grudges. Mutual resentment is rarely beneficial in any cross-cultural relationship. To their credit, Greece and Turkey are going a long way to mend wounds. Smith's article can also teach the world that mutual financial benefit can actually improve diplomatic relationships and ease inter-cultural tensions.