Turkish PM Urges Quick Reforms of IMF Quotas

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the agreement by G-20 countries on reforming the International Monetary Fund’s quotas signifies a great success for Korea, the chair country of the G-20 summit.

In a written interview with The Dong-A Ilbo ahead of the summit’s opening Thursday, he also said the process of implementing the reform will be more difficult and important.

Dong-A: What are the prospects for the implementation of the Gyeongju G-20 agreement?

Erdogan: For the agreement’s success, its implementation should be completed before the annual convention of the IMF and the World Bank in 2012. More than anything, countries should not procrastinate in implementing the agreement on reforming IMF quotas by linking it with other issues needing more time.

Dong-A: What role do you expect Korea to play given its experience as both a developing and advanced economy?

Erdogan: Development agenda proposed by Korea and supported by Turkey have been adopted officially (by the G-20 summit). Korea has proven that sustainable growth is not just a theory. In addition, Korea has stressed at every opportunity that underdevelopment issues should be treated as a major agenda item at the G-20 summit.

Dong-A: Expectations are high over negotiations between Korea and Turkey for nuclear power plants, though the matter is not on the official agenda of the G-20 summit. What do you think?

Erdogan: Turkey expects to form a comprehensive and long-term cooperative relationship with Korea, which has achieved great success in the nuclear energy sector over the last 30 years. This project is an important one for Turkey that includes not only the construction of a nuclear reactor but also the establishment of nuclear fuel facilities and a center for nuclear power technology. If the negotiations are successfully concluded, I hope the two governments can sign an agreement over the G-20 summit period.

Dong-A: What do you think are Turkey’s prospects for joining the European Union?

Erdogan: The comprehensive reforms the Turkish government has achieved over the last few years are near the EU level. EU membership for Turkey would not only benefit both Turkey and the EU but also significantly contribute to developing a dialogue venue between civilizations based on regional and global peace.

Dong-A: What are the foremost conditions for peace in the Middle East?

Erdogan: Mideast peace can be achieved by dialogue rather than blockades and occupation through military power. Israel should lift its inhumane blockade on the Gaza Strip and address the division of the Palestinians. In addition, Israel should reconsider its planned construction of Jewish settlements.

Erdogan is no stranger to Seoul. In February 2004, when President Lee Myung-bak was mayor of Seoul, the Turkish prime minister received honorary citizenship from the city.

On his return to Seoul, he said, “Through this interview, I pray for peace for all Koreans and Seoul.”

verso@donga.com