Erdogan: "Turkey is seeking democracy, not clout, in the mideast"

Turkey wants only peace, democracy and the rule of law in its region, not to boost its influence for ulterior motives, said Prime Minister Recep Tayyip in a speech at a Russian university yesterday. Erdogan told students at the Kazan Privoljskiy Federal University in Russia's autonomous Republic of Tatarstan that while Turkey has been resolving longstanding problems with its neighbors, it's also been working to contribute to peace and stability in the Caucasus, Middle East and Balkans. Turkey and Russia are showing exemplary cooperation in solving problems with their neighbors, he said, and this cooperation will continue to grow. Erdogan added that Turkey is trying to build a relationship based on cooperation and solidarity in a region where Turkey and Tatarstan share a history, culture and faith. Erdogan had talks with President Dmitry Medvedev and other officials during his visit to Moscow this week, which he said ushered in a new era between Turkey and Russia. In his speech, Erdogan also called on Russian officials to help Turkish contractors complete infrastructure for the 2013 Summer Universiade games, set to be held in Kazan, Tatarstan. Erdogan added that the current level of trade, direct investment and tourism between Turkey and Tatarstan falls short of its potential, and so the two need to boost solidarity, communication and cooperation. He also said he hopes Turkey and Tatarstan will reach new heights in every area, starting with the construction of facilities for the 2013 Universiade.