That is exactly why the US opposed independence referendum, the outcome, or rather what was to come after that. US plans were to be washed down the drain…
Despite Turkiye's economic problems. It has a much bigger and stronger economy than its neighbours. Not just economic but also politically and militarily powerful.
There is a reason its a regional power. I know the Turkish economy is not like Germany. But in its region its pretty much stronger and bigger than Georgia, Iraq, Syria, Armenia, Iran, Lebanon, Cyprus, Bulgaria and Greece.
I know Bulgaria and Greece are in the EU but the EU is an economic powerhouse not Bulgaria or Greece.