President Erdogan highlights Berlusconi’s lasting impact – Last Minute Turkey News
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has written an article in the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, paying tribute to the late Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. In the article titled “My friend Berlusconi,” Erdoğan recalled his first encounters with Berlusconi after the 2002 elections when the AK Party came into power. Erdoğan highlighted that despite their victory, he was banned from politics due to a poem he recited, and Berlusconi was the first world leader to object to this unfair treatment in Turkey.
Describing Berlusconi as a true friend, Erdoğan shared how Berlusconi called to congratulate him on their election victory and expressed disapproval of the political ban. Berlusconi invited Erdoğan to Italy as the Prime Minister, where they had extensive discussions on Turkey-Italy relations and European Union issues. Berlusconi even promised to act as Erdoğan’s lawyer, supporting Turkey throughout its EU membership process.
Erdoğan also praised Berlusconi’s significant contribution to Turkey-Italy relations, particularly in the defense industry. He mentioned that their partnership reached new heights, with the Atak helicopter contract and support for the Blue Stream Natural Gas Pipeline project.
The article emphasized the deep friendship between Erdoğan and Berlusconi, who frequently met at various international organizations and visited each other’s countries. Erdoğan acknowledged Berlusconi as a person who genuinely cares for and respects the Turkish nation.
Erdoğan further shared that even after leaving office, their personal bond remained strong. They often met to watch football matches and attended each other’s significant events. Erdoğan expressed gratitude for Berlusconi’s presence at his son’s wedding in 2003, highlighting his graciousness.
Expressing his sadness upon hearing the news of Berlusconi’s passing, Erdoğan stated that Berlusconi had left an indelible mark on Italian politics during his many years in power. As a sign of their friendship, Erdoğan sent his Foreign Minister and Party Spokesperson to represent Turkey at the funeral. Erdoğan concluded the article by extending his condolences to Berlusconi’s family and the people of Italy.
President Erdoğan’s article serves as a tribute to Silvio Berlusconi, highlighting their friendship and the significant impact Berlusconi had on Turkish-Italian relations. It also showcases the mutual respect and admiration they had for each other as leaders and friends.
