Gore says Turkey could be a leader in climate policy

Turkey could be a leader in its region in reversing the effects of global warming through the climate policies it chooses, former US Vice President Al Gore on Monday told the Leaders of Change Summit in Istanbul. Gore, a longtime champion on environmental issues and fighting global warming, said Turkey has the ability to provide leadership and support for the changes in policy that the world needs. As Turkey is at the nexus of North Africa, the Middle East and Europe, it could become a lynchpin in a potential wind and solar energy grid, he said. Gore also warned that Turkey could experience a severe drought starting in the 2030s, citing a scientific study, unless the international community takes steps to prevent this. Gore stressed that Turkey is seen as a moral leader in its region and is making progress. "Turkey is a huge, prosperous country," he said. "It is showing unprecedented leadership." Pointing to the Arab world, he said that when young people there are told that their countries aren't ready for democracy, the first thing they say is, "Look at Turkey." He said this is just one example of Turkey's potential for moral leadership.

DATE:16-03-11