Think-Tank: "Turkey should prod Syria towards democracy

As pro-democracy uprisings continue in Syria, Turkey should develop policies to help steer the process in a democratic direction, according to a recent report by the Ankara-based International Strategic Research Organization (USAK). Syria is in need of "urgent change" and Turkey must develop policies in the direction of democratic change, says the report, released on May 9, adding that Turkey's priority should be preventing foreign intervention. "Foreign intervention in Syria would mean disaster for both Turkey and the region," argues the report. "A solution is necessary before it reaches that point. Turkey should focus on Syria with all of its strength." It also warns, "A Turkey that cannot be influential in solving matters in Syria will lose its positive image in the eyes of the Arab public."