A Message from the Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP

“The bilateral relationship between Britain and Turkey is more important than ever. Both our countries are now seeing strong economic growth, which can only be enhanced by the ever improving commercial and business links between us.

As a democratic country with a strong civil society tradition, Turkey has a crucial regional and international role to play in these uncertain and difficult times. The UK and Turkey have clear shared interests in security and defence, where we cooperate closely on a range of regional challenges such as the appalling situation in Syria. Turkey is also a valued NATO ally and commercial partner.

In providing an opportunity to debate a broad spectrum of issues facing Turkey and the wider region, the Centre for Turkey Studies is helping to strengthen ties between Britain and Turkey at a range of levels.”

Nick Clegg