Page 208 - What Kind of Yemen ?

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Despite its geographic distance, Turkey is closer to Yemen in com-
parison to many other Arabic countries. These bonds are rooted in his-
tory, and also feelings of religious brotherhood are the source of this
affection. Turkey now has the opportunity to stand for its companion
when Yemen requires it the most.
The visits Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan paid to Saudi
Arabia and then to Iran may bring hopes for peace in Yemen. As a

guest of the King of Saudi Arabia, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Mr.
Erdogan paid an official visit to Saudi Arabia between 28 February – 2
March 2015: It was also a matter of interest that at the same time
Egypt's President Sisi was also in Saudi Arabia.
Right after this visit, following the airstrikes of the coalition pow-
ers on 26 March under the lead of Egypt, the Turkish Ministry of For-
eign Affairs announced a statement of support for the military opera-

tion. This proclamation prompted domestic critics of the Turkish gov-
ernment to the effect that the government was "following sectarian pol-

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