US President Bush has also called to personally thank Turkish President Gul for his efforts in smoothing relations between the two countries, as well as for his efforts at stabilizing and securing Iraq. President Gul is also scheduled to host a further round of talks aimed at easing tensions between Kabul and Islamabad.

The chairing of these meetings between the countries could also help bolster Turkey’s EU candidacy, as the move proves that the regional power could serve to further healthy relations between countries east of Europe.

Adam Hazzout

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After being kidnapped and held captive for an excruciating month, three Turkish engineers have been freed in Afghanistan.  Nothing has been said about any ransom money being paid. Following their release, Turkey simply thanked the Afghan authorities for their help.

Olorunbunmi Hambolu

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Earlier attempts to negotiate with the Taliban were plagued by foreign intervention. Saudi Arabia was one of the countries that acknowledged the Taliban government before they were overthrown by the US in 2001. In addition to Saudi Arabia’s connection, Afghan intelligence believes that the Taliban leader, Mullah Omar is hiding in Pakistan. With assistance from these two countries, Karzai hopes that he will be more successful in his efforts to initiate peace talks with the Taliban.

Brandie Gordon

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Dennis Gallagher

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Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad continues to blame U.S. policies for the many problems plaguing the world today, with specific reference to the war in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Russian situation with Georgia. He makes sure it is understood that his insults are directed at Washington and politicians, stating that he believes the American people are far more understanding and rather unhappy with world events also. Ahmadinejad further stated that the U.S. should stop meddling in the problems of other countries and concentrate on domestic issues such as the failing economy and the ensuing $700 billion bailout plan. It has been suggested that this is slightly ironic, in light of Iran’s support of Hezbollah and Hamas. When asked about Iran’s domestic problems, Ahmadinejad was much less willing to answer questions. He also suggested that the U.S. focus on Afghanistan does not involve an understanding of the country, and the U.S. belief that “all problems can be fixed with military might and bombs and guns” would not be effective, as evidenced by the war in Iraq. In addition to his previous statements that U.S. policies are the reason for the failing economy, he also suggests that the U.S. provoked Russia to attack Georgia, a decision Ahmadinejad is “unhappy with.” He also continued to criticize the Zionist presence in Israel and U.S. opposition to Iran’s nuclear program.

Kayla Cahoon

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