Message from David Cameron

A message from the Prime Minister and Leader of the Conservative Party, Rt Hon David Cameron MP

Anglo-Turkish relations have taken on a new significance in the past two years with the signing of the strategic partnership in 2010 and the Turkish President’s State visit to Britain in November 2011. With hundreds of thousands of Turks, Kurds and Turkish Cypriots and thousands of Turkish businesses here, the Turkish community is hugely important in Britain. Our deepening bilateral relationship contributes directly to our prosperity and security.

“As Britain aims to strengthen its links with Turkey, and help the country work towards EU accession, the role of the CTSD remains as important as ever.”

That is why an organisation like the CTSD – the first Turkey-focused policy forum in London – has such an important role to play. I welcome the Centre’s focus on relations between Turkey and Britain, and on Turkish, foreign affairs, economic issues and social developments. The Centre has made great leaps over the past year, growing in size and influence very quickly. Its Westminster Forum series in Parliament has been particularly impressive.

As Britain aims to strengthen its links with Turkey, and help the country work towards EU accession, the role of the CTSD remains as important as ever. I am convinced that the organisation will continue to go from strength to strength and I wish everyone attending this special anniversary dinner an enjoyable evening.

Best wishes,

Rt Hon David CameronMP
Prime Minister and Leader of the Conservative Party