Davutoglu dismisses claims that Turkey has been silent on Tunisia, Egypt

Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu yesterday dismissed claims that the government has turned a blind eye to the growing upheaval in Egypt, asserting that since the protests began Turkey has called on Cairo to listen to its people's demands. In a joint news conference with his Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd, Davutoglu said that he had stressed the importance of democracy in the region, adding that he long ago stated that democratic freedoms, transparency and accountability are common values in struggles against corruption. "The demands of the Egyptian people are very legitimate," he said. "We are pursuing a principled policy." Turkey places great importance on democratic values as well as stability and peace in its neighbors, he said. Davutoglu and Rudd yesterday signed a joint action plan for a framework to improve bilateral relations.