Publication

This publication contends that European fears of Turkish expansionism in the Western Balkans are unfounded. The text's author argues that it is true that Turkey’s economic and political influence in the region has grown and that Ankara views the Balkans as part of its geographical and emotional hinterland. However, Turkey is being supportive of the Western Balkans joining the EU and NATO. As a result, the author concludes that Europeans should cease questioning Ankara’s motives and work on shared goals instead – keeping Turkey close and away from Russia’s embrace.