US lawmakers introduce legislation to redesignate Turkey as Near Eastern country

A bipartisan group of US House members introduced legislation to redesignate Turkey from a European to a Near Eastern state. This document proposes to change Ankara’s diplomatic classification.

According to Turkish media, the initiative stems from Turkey’s independent foreign policy. Washington is concerned that Ankara acts contrary to Western interests. The US believes that Turkey’s strengthening ties with Russia, China, and Iran contradict Western strategic interests. The legislation also highlights Turkey’s territorial disputes with Greece and Cyprus.

The lawmakers urge the US State Department to reassign Turkey’s diplomatic status within 90 days. Additionally, a report should be prepared on Turkey’s foreign policy ties with Russia, China and Iran.