For example, what is left concerning the Cold War era today? Massive changes, which historically would have taken centuries to happen, are now occurring in five to 10 years. The winds of change are affecting individuals, families, nations and governments, and they will continue to do so. Of course, the largest reason behind this large change is the media. While the media may cause large problems with a small piece of news, it can also work to solve large problems.
The relationship between Russia and Turkey is very different than it was 30 years ago. The people of the two neighboring countries now know each other better. Furthermore, economic relations between the two countries are in a much better state. And the political leaders of both countries present themselves as being in a better relationship with the other side to the global public. Turkish President Abdullah Gül's Moscow visit was received well in both Russia and Turkey. The friendly embraces caught on camera between Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and host Vladimir Putin left a deep and peaceful image in the minds of not just Russians and Turks but the world.
Now Putin is preparing to visit Turkey on Aug. 6. The architects of Turkey's foreign policy are rushing to host Putin. The Turkish people are happy with the latest developments. Businessmen on both sides are in favor of continuing bilateral visits. Efforts being exerted in the domains of culture, education and tourism are valuable enough to be considered good global examples.
The Zaman newspaper had prepared a special supplementary edition, along with the Russian daily Izvestia, during President Gül's Russia visit. I had personally witnessed the positive role this edition, delivered along with Izvestia, played in Russian-Turkish relations. Now the Zaman daily is preparing to publish a similar supplement. I have no suspicions of the effect this supplement, prepared with the help of my esteemed friend, the editor-in-chief of Izvestia, Vladimir Mamontov, will have. I am sure that 30 years from now, the next generation will appreciate the efforts taken today for peace and will similarly cherish the cultural efforts.
