This can only be seen natural, given that the professions have determinative impact on inclinations and character. For the first time in Turkish political history, a politician but not a party leader will assume the presidency. I should note that it is a great advantage that should be taken into account. The advantage of an election of Abdullah Gül’s to the presidency despite his not being a party leader should be clarified. Global developments suggest this: the presidential post is not a symbolic one anymore. Presidents no longer have the luxury to watch world developments from their ivory towers through television screens and newspaper pages. An important economic crisis may affect the entire world in a very short time. Terrorist activity of an outlawed organization may cause changes in previously set political goals and approaches. Whether we like it or not, globalization created an interdependent world. We are mutually affected by our behaviors and approaches.
In countries like Turkey which are to play a regional role, it is a requirement for presidents to have high-profile political and diplomatic skills and abilities. Some talents and assets are necessities now; they are not considered luxuries anymore. Foreign policy matters are now closely related to domestic affairs; developments in the outside world deeply affect internal politics. The era of isolationist policies and indifference to world events is over.
In addition to being competent in foreign affairs and having a global vision, it is equally important that a president have interest in more than one discipline. The president is the head of state and inevitably represents the commonwealth. For this reason, he is required to be knowledgeable in the fields of political science, economics, sociology, psychology, diplomacy, public relations and other relevant disciplines. Of course, it is impossible to find a person who is competent in all these fields -- but it is important to believe in the existence of those disciplines and hire experts and advisors accordingly.
Gül’s past experience in international affairs and diplomacy together with his service as prime minister and foreign minister are his greatest assets.
Turkey is situated in a multi-faceted geography. It is in the middle of five different major areas (Arab, Africa, Europe, Russia and Iran) each of which has its own peculiarities, historical experience, global position and future projects. The US, the Pacific region, the Central Asian republics and the Hind region should also be included on the list. The current global world cannot be comprehended without getting rid of strict bureaucratic and static perspectives.
Turkey’s president should be a visionary and competent in order to appreciate the importance of the abovementioned regions and take immediate action vis-à-vis developments in those regions. In addition to the global process, a cultural and historical language is also important. Abdullah Gül seems to be the most appropriate candidate for the presidency, given his assets and past experience.
