People International

Turkey is at a crossroads, it is a land stretching between two continents. 

After years of mounting difficulties which brought the country close to economic collapse, a tough recovery programme was agreed with the IMF in 2002. Since then, Turkey has seen impressive progress. Economic growth has been strong and inflation has fallen dramatically. However, huge foreign debt remains a major burden.

Turkey's powerful military - which sees itself as the guardian of the secular system - has a long history of involvement in politics. In recent years, as Ankara has set its sights firmly on European Union membership, the profile of the military has been lower in public life.

Turkey as a nation is torn in opposite directions.  Some seek closer ties with the West and membership with the EU.  Islamic fundamentalists desire to develop closer links with the Muslim world.