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Columnist in MILLIYET tries to minimize Cyprus´ relations with the Russian Federation and argues that Putin´s strategic vision is to counterbalance the strong US and EU with India, China and Turkey
Istanbul MILLIYET newspaper (12.01.05) publishes the following commentary by Taha Akyol under the title: "Turks and Russians":

"I am currently in Moscow for the opening ceremony of the Turkish Trade Center. Many journalists are taking part in the tour that the TOBB [Turkish Union of Chambers and Stock Exchanges] has organized. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and four cabinet members arrived the previous evening.

The opening of the Turkish Trade Center is very important for several reasons:

-- A Turkish construction company carried out the restoration of this historic building. I saw this lovely building, which is reminiscent of the Renaissance architecture, during the building [restoration] stage also. Located right next to the Kremlin, it is like a monument for "publicizing Turkey."

-- Publicizing the Turkish export products. The shops and offices located in the building are suitable places for marketing the Turkish export products and for conducting business contacts.

-- The most important aspect is the "Eurasia message" that Turkey conveys. This is a magnificent visit that includes the Turkish prime minister, the TOBB, and 500 Turkish businessmen. It gives the message that Turkey, which heads for the EU, will not neglect Eurasia.

Just recall the concern voiced in the Russian press when Turkey got a negotiating date from the EU: "Turkey has opted for Europe; it is abandoning Russia!"

Putin too made a similar allusion in a diplomatic language. Many people predict as follows: Putin's strategic vision is to create a strong network of relations among Russia, India, China, and Turkey that would counterbalance the strong US and EU!

In light of Turkey's very advanced business experience, would it be possible to pursue such an effective Middle East and Mediterranean policy, and even a European policy, without Turkey's involvement?

Russia is very important for Turkey as well: Eurasia's geopolitical status and energy resources. Both sides are aware of this fact.

Turkey takes to Moscow the `TRNC´ Chamber of Commerce President, whom Putin accepts. Erdogan asks for support on the Cyprus issue during his meeting with Putin. On his part, Putin, head of state of Russia, a member of the Security Council, stresses that he talked earlier to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan about the issue. He makes most positive remarks that might constitute a turning point on the Cyprus problem.

I am sure Putin's remarks have caused disappointment on the Greek Cypriot side.

Do you happen to know the volume of the Cyprus´ investment in Russia? According to the figures on paper, it amounts to $14 billion! It ranks second, after the US firms! The investment of the Turkish firms totals $2 billion!

It is said that a major part of the money, described as "Greek Cypriot capital", is "black money" that roams about in the Middle East. In other words, it is not reliable.

As for trade, our exports to Russia total $2.1 billion. We also have a tourism income of $1 billion.

Russia's exports to Turkey total $10 billion. Of this figure, $4 billion represent the amount of natural gas, oil, and hard coal exported to Turkey.

Turkey wants to sell more manufactured goods to Russia in order to offset this deficit. The opening of the Turkish Trade Center is a step in this direction. Just look at the ministers that Prime Minister Erdogan took with him on his visit to Russia: They are the ministers responsible for money, energy, trade, tourism, and labour.

Just think for a moment about the concept of "Turkey as an energy corridor", in the economic and strategic sense.

And, naturally, think about the TOBB, our biggest middle-class entrepreneur, TOBB President Rifat Hisarciklioglu, and around 500 businessmen.

The Turkish-Russian friendship and the "Eurasia perspective" give me great pleasure."