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OBAMA'S MAN FOR EUROPE VIEWS ON CYPRUS, PATRIARCHATE, ARMENIA
Greek News
http://www.greeknewsonline.com/modules.php?na me=News&file=article&sid=10373&mode=th read&order=0&thold=0
May 11 2009
Exclusive: Philip Gordonʼs reply to 28 questions by Senator Robert
Menendez.
Washington.- By Apostolos Zoupaniotis
Assistant Secretary of State Designate Philip Gordonʼs confirmation
is expected to move into the Senate floor for a vote very soon,
a very well informed Congress source told the Greek News. Gordonʼs
confirmation although passed through the Senateʼs Foreign Relations
Committee in early April, it was held up by Senator John Ensign, a
Republican from Nevada who has co-sponsored a congressional resolution
on the Armenian Genocide in the past.
Ensign represents the State of Nevada in the U.S. Senate along
with Majority Leader Harry Reed, who is expected to have a tough
reelection in 2010. Although political pundits and some Armenian
Americans were predicting Ensignʼs position to force Reed to
withhold Gordonʼs nomination for some more time, it seems now that
the junior senator from Nevada will step back, for unknown reasons,
opening the way for a full Senate vote, as soon as the end of the
week. According to political sources, Ensignʼs hold happened just
before Obamaʼs Armenian Day proclamation and was just a warning to
the Obama Administration and the President himself to put pressure on
Ankara during its negotiations with Armenia to settle their disputes.
The fact that the Armenian government agreed to the process didnʼt
leave much alternatives to anyone in the Senate", the same sources
told the Greek News.
Gordonʼs position on Cyprus and the Armenian Genocide during his
confirmation hearing, on March 26, 2009, left many unanswered questions
about his objectivity.
Although he is the translator of the English edition of French
Presidentʼs Nicola Sarkozy book "Testimony", he criticized France for
criminalizing the denial of the Armenian Genocide. "Genocide Denial"
is a crime in many countries, including the United States in the case
of the Jewish Holocaust.
Gordon, a former director of the Brookings Institution was author
of many pro Turkish books and article. He was very critical of the
Greek Cypriot rejection of the Annan Plan and suggest the reward of
Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots.
According to figures released by Brookings Institution and provided to
the Senate by Philip Gordon, since 2006 Brookings has received $200,000
from the Turkish Industrialistsʼ and Businessmenʼs Association,
$200,000 from Sabanci University, $150,000 from the Eksiogullari Group
(a construction company in Turkey), and $100,000 from the Dogan Yayin
Holding Company, a media-entertainment conglomerate.
Brookings, in a note attached to the spreadsheet listing the donations,
said that the "primary funding for the work of Philip H. Gordon
in 2006-2007 was provided by the Smith Richardson Foundation. From
2007-2009 primary funding was provided to Mr. Gordon by the Norwegian
Foreign Ministry, the Carnegie Foundation, the Rockefeller Brothers
Fund, and the Brookings Endowment."
The question about Gordonʼs funding was asked by Senator Robert
Menendez (D, NJ) along with 27 other questions, seeking clarification
on his positions regarding Cyprus, the Ecumenical Patriarchate,
Turkeyʼs compliance with the Copenhagen Criteria, the Armenian
Genocide and the Turkish-Armenia dispute and Ukraine.
According to sources close to the Greek Lobby in Washington, although
during his confirmation hearing he denied to say if he agreed with
Obamaʼs statement about "the Turkish occupation of north Cyprus",
Gordonʼs written answers (to Menendez questions) regarding Cyprus and
the Ecumenical Patriarchate were satisfactory, reflecting the change
of tone in Washington in these issues. But, some of his answers about
Armenia left a bitter taste in many Armenian-Americans.
"Greek News" is publishing exclusively all his answers to the questions
regarding Cyprus and the Patriarchate and some of his replies to the
questions regarding Armenia.
ON CYPRUS
Question: In the case that negotiations between the parties in Cyprus
break down in the next four years, what are your views on how one
achieves a settlement on Cyprus? Specifically, what role would the
United States play in Cyprus negotiations and what would you advocate
as a U.S. policy towards Cyprus?
Answer: If confirmed, I will vigorously support the direct negotiations
between the parties that began in September 2008 under the United
Nations Good Offices Mission, and do everything possible to prevent the
breakdown of those talks. The only way to achieve a just and lasting
settlement is for the Cypriot parties themselves to negotiate their
own solution, with strong support from the international community
whenever the parties seek such support. If confirmed, I will continue
to support the reunification of Cyprus under a bi-zonal, bi-communal
federation, which has been the longstanding policy of the United
States, supported by United Nations Security Council Resolutions.
Question: Would you promote the equivalent of the Annan Plan in the
current context if negotiations were not moving forward?
Answer: If confirmed, I will continue to support a resolution of
the Cyprus Problem through the reunification of the island into a
bi-zonal, bi-communal federation. While it is important to build on
those areas of convergence reached during four decades of negotiations
under UN auspices, the Annan Plan was rejected by Greek Cypriots in a
referendum; I respect that democratic decision. The current leaders,
Demetris Christofias and Mehmet Ali Talat are to be commended for
taking the initiative in starting negotiations on September 3,
2008 under the auspices of the United Nations Good Offices Mission,
and for conducting those negotiations in good-faith. If confirmed,
I will support this Cypriot-led process and assist as needed, in
consultation with the parties.
ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE Question: If confirmed, would you urge that
the Government of Turkey respect the rights and religious freedoms
of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of the Orthodox Christian Church?
Answer: Yes, if confirmed, I will continue to urge Turkish officials
to recognize the ecumenical status of the Ecumenical Patriarchate,
to continue allowing the Holy Synod to select its members regardless
of whether they are Turkish citizens, restore confiscated religious
property and prevent spurious legal challenges to Patriarchate
property, and to reopen the Halki Seminary. The United States considers
Ecumenical Patriarch Batholomew a religious leader of global standing,
a position with which I agree. Like the administration, I share deep
respect for His All Holiness, and concern for the continued existence
of the Patriarchate, which for centuries has been a part of the rich
tradition of religious diversity exemplified in Istanbul.
Question: If confirmed, would you advocate that the European Union
focus on the elimination of all forms of discrimination in Turkey,
particularly with regard to the Ecumenical Patriarchate, while
continuing accession negotiations?
Answer: Yes. It is the policy of this Administration to promote
religious freedom and human rights worldwide, including in Turkey. If
confirmed I would strongly support this policy with our friends and
Allies in the European Union. Turkey has taken many steps toward
improving its overall record on human rights and religious freedom,
and has committed to implement further reforms, as desired by Turkish
voters and in line with the European Union accession requirements. The
United States fully supports Turkeyʼs accession to the European
Union. If confirmed, I will continue to encourage progress on these
reforms and will keep the issue of expanding religious freedom in
Turkey high on our bilateral agenda, which, in turn, will advance
Turkeyʼs efforts to meet the criteria for EU candidacy.
Question: If confirmed, would you advocate that the Government of
Turkey remove an obstacle in its relations with the United States
Government by taking positive steps to provide full religious freedom
for the Ecumenical Patriarchate?
Answer: If confirmed, I will continue to urge Turkish officials to
respect the ecumenical and legal status of the Ecumenical Patriarchate
in Turkey, continue allowing the Holy Synod to select members who are
not Turkish citizens, and to restore confiscated religious property
and prevent spurious legal challenges to Patriarchate property. If
confirmed, I will call on the Government of Turkey to reopen the
Halki Seminary.
The United States Mission in Turkey regularly promotes religious
freedom for all faiths and advocates for legal reforms to lift
restrictions on religious minorities as part of our efforts to
advance human rights. If confirmed, I will continue to support our
Missionʼs engagement with the Government of Turkey on religious
freedom issues, advocate for continued outreach and engagement with
Turkish religious leaders, and further our policy of active engagement
and consultation with religious minority groups, including those in
the Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, Syriac Orthodox, Protestant,
and Jewish communities.
Question: If confirmed, would you advocate that the Government of
Turkey recognize the right to the title of `Ecumenical Patriarch,'
grant the Ecumenical Patriarch appropriate international recognition
and ecclesiastic succession, grant the Ecumenical Patriarch the right
to train clergy of all nationalities, not just Turkish nationals;
and respect property rights and human rights of the Ecumenical
Patriarchate?
Answer: If confirmed, I will continue to urge Turkish officials to
recognize the ecumenicity of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, reflecting
our view of the Ecumenical Patriarch as a religious leader of global
significance. If confirmed, I will also urge Turkish officials to
reopen the school at Halki to ensure ecclesiastic succession. Just
as we encourage the Turkish Government to continue allowing the
Ecumenical Patriarchateʼs Holy Synod to select members who are not
Turkish citizens, so do we hope the Patriarchate will have the right
to train clergy of any nationality. On Patriarchate property, the
recent amendments to the Foundations Law should help advance intensive
U.S. efforts to elicit the return of the Buyukada Orphanage and other
properties to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Though the new Foundations
Law is a step in the right direction, it does not include a provision
for compensating original owners of property seized by the Government
of Turkey and then sold to third parties. The law also did not rescind
the authority of the government to expropriate property. The 2008
Annual Report on International Religious Freedom underscores the
status of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the legal challenges for
property ownership and, if confirmed, I will continue to strongly urge
the Turkish Government to restore confiscated religious property and
prevent spurious legal challenges to Patriarchate property.
TURKEY -EU Question: Is it your view that the Government of Turkey
should move expeditiously to meet the criteria set forth by the
European Council in Copenhagen?
Answer: Any country seeking membership in the European Union must
conform to the conditions established by the European Council in
Copenhagen. Turkey has taken many steps towards improving its overall
human rights and religious freedom record, and has made a commitment to
implement further reforms desired by the people of Turkey and in line
with the European Union accession process. The United States supports
Turkeyʼs accession to the European Union. As it fulfills the EUʼs
accession criteria, Turkey will become an even stronger and more
valuable partner of the United States and the entire Euro-Atlantic
community. If confirmed, I will continue to encourage progress on
these reforms and will keep the issue of expanding religious freedom
in Turkey high on our bilateral agenda.
ON ARMENIA
Question: Does your record also include speaking out to have
Turkey come to terms with its legacy of genocide and its denial of
genocide? Have you spoken out to ensure that Turkey open the border
with Armenia, which it has illegally kept closed for the last 15
years and is required under treaty obligations? If so, please provide
documentation of such writings.
Answer: I have repeatedly encouraged Turkey to come to terms with its
past and allow for an open and honest internal dialogue by expanding
freedom of expression, especially on this particular issue. I have
also advocated that the United States and Europe actively encourage
Turkey to normalize its relations with Armenia, re-open the border,
and allow open dialogue about the mass killings and forced exile
of 1915. Turkey and Armenia have sought U.S. support for their
reconciliation efforts, and following the lead of the President,
if confirmed, I will give mine fully. Resurrecting Turkey-Armenia
relations and reconciling with both peoplesʼ shared past is critical
to fostering peace and stability in the Caucasus region and beyond.
In my monograph Winning Turkey, I wrote that:
The West should "press Turkey to repair its relations with the Republic
of Armenia and to allow open debate within Turkey."
"Although such a sensitive matter must obviously be handled by the
Turks and Armenians themselves, their American and European friends
should actively encourage a solution, which should begin with Turkeyʼs
allowing more open research and debate about the subject. Turkeyʼs
contention that ʽhistory should be left to the historiansʼ is
fine as far as it goes, but it would be more convincing if Turkey
actually did that, rather than prosecute historians and others who
reach the conclusion that genocide took place. This is another reason
why Article 301 should be repealed."
"...the Erdogan government needs to be more vocal in its support
for freedom of speech on the Armenian question. [...] It is also
time for the Turkish government to take more constructive and
creative steps toward political and psychological reconciliation with
Armenia. [...] Ankara and the Turkish public need to understand better
the trauma of 1915 for the Armenian people and the Armenian diaspora."
In that study and in public interventions in Turkey, I have suggested
that Turkey offer "an olive branch to Armenia in the form of a
presidential letter of sympathy to commemorate the tragedy" which would
"bring a human dimension to relations between Ankara and Yerevan."
I also called in Winning Turkey for an acceleration of diplomatic
efforts "to resolve the bilateral conflict between Turkey and
the Republic of Armenia, which has for too long blocked peaceful
developments in the Caucasus and complicates Turkeyʼs accession to
the EU."
I wrote that "The United States should encourage Turkey to pledge
now that if Armenia shows a real commitment to a solution to the
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Turkey would reestablish diplomatic
relations with Armenia, end its blockade, and open the land border
between the two countries. Such steps not only would be in the interest
of both countries but also could create the climate for a long-term
solution in Nagorno-Karabakh as well as much better relations and
open trade between Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan."
Question: Given some of your public statements, how can you assure
me that you will be sensitive to preventing future genocides and
combating denial of the Armenian Genocide by Turkey?
Answer: I have strongly encouraged Turkey to come to terms with
its history and believe that an honest dialogue within Turkey
on historical events would help facilitate Turkish democracy and
reconciliation both within Turkeyʼs borders and in the region. Such
a dialogue would help promote prosperity, peace, and stability in the
region and would contribute to a full understanding of these terrible
events. If confirmed, I will continue to strongly support this effort,
and in particular will emphasize its importance to bilateral relations.
The Obama Administration is fully committed to preventing genocides. If
confirmed, I will work diligently with my interagency colleagues,
this committee, our European allies, and our partners to prevent
genocide anywhere in the world.
Questions for the Record Submitted to Assistant Secretary - Designate
Philip Gordon by Senator Robert Menendez (#4C) Senate Foreign Relations
Committee March 26, 2009
Question: A 1951 U.S. Government filing with the United Nations
stated that "The Genocide Convention resulted from the inhuman and
barbarous practices which prevailed in certain countries prior to
and during World War II, when entire religious, racial and national
minority groups were threatened with and subjected to deliberate
extermination. The practice of genocide has occurred throughout
human history. The Roman persecution of the Christians, the Turkish
massacres of Armenians, the extermination of millions of Jews and Poles
by the Nazis are outstanding examples of the crime of genocide." Do
you agree with this U.S. Government filing?
Answer: The United States has long acknowledged the horrific tragedy
that 1.5 million Armenians suffered mass killings and forced exile
by the Ottoman Empire. I, too, recognize and mourn the loss of so
many innocent lives. This tragedy should be the focus of an open and
honest dialogue among civic leaders, scholars, and the societies at
large. If confirmed, I would strongly support Turkey and Armeniaʼs
reconciliation efforts, including confronting their shared history. I
believe the United States must do all it can to prevent such tragedies
from ever happening again.
Question: In October 2006, you published "Why France Shouldn't
Legislate Turkey's Past," in regard to the French push to pass a law
that punishes the denial of the Armenian Genocide. You wrote that this
vote in Parliament "is a dangerous step down a slippery slope," adding
that "the new French legislation is just the latest illiberal policy
in Europe masquerading as liberalism." How do you seek to reconcile
your criticism of France with the blind eye you turn towards Turkey?
Answer: I have stated with regard to the proposed French legislation
in question that it is dangerous to criminalize the free expression
of views. I also strongly believe in, and have publicly called for,
a more open debate about the past in Turkey. I have encouraged
Turkey to repeal article 301 of its penal code, which can be used
to constrain free expression, and I have supported an open dialogue
between Turkey and Armenia. If confirmed, I would continue, along
with the Administration, to strongly encourage Turkey to come to
terms with the dark periods in its history.
Question: Do you agree with the characterization by President
Bush on April 24, 2004, when he stated "On this day, we pause in
remembrance of one of the most horrible tragedies of the 20th century,
the annihilation of as many as 1.5 million Armenians through forced
exile and murder at the end of the Ottoman Empire."?
Answer: Yes. I acknowledge and mourn as historical fact what President
Bush described as one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century,
the mass killings and forced exile of 1.5 million Armenians by the
Ottoman Empire.
Question: Do you agree that the use of the words "ethnic cleansing"
would include the deliberate inflicting on a group conditions of life
calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part?
Answer: I do not believe that there is a universally accepted
definition of "ethnic cleansing" under international law. In the
Bosnia v. Serbia case, the International Court of Justice described
the phrase "ethnic cleansing" as being in practice used "by reference
to a specific region or area, to mean rendering an area ethnically
homogenous by using force or intimidation to remove persons of given
groups from the area."
Question: Do you acknowledge and agree with the following facts of
the events that occurred between 1915-1923 as reported by American
officials at the time?
1. Where U.S. Ambassador Morgenthau wrote on July 16, 1915, "it
appears that a campaign of race extermination is in progress under
a pretext of reprisal against rebellion."
2. Where U.S. Consul in Aleppo, Jesse Jackson, reported to Ambassador
Morgenthau on June 5, 1915, "It is without doubt a carefully planned
scheme to thoroughly extinguish the Armenian race."
3. Where U.S. Consul in Harput, Leslie Davis reported to Ambassador
Morgenthau on July 24, 1915, "It has been no secret that the plan
was to destroy the Armenian race as a race, but the methods used
have been more cold-blooded and barbarous, if not more effective,
than I had at first supposed."
4. Where U.S. Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire from 1916-1917,
Abram I. Elkus, telegrammed the Secretary of State on October 17,
1916, "In order to avoid opprobrium of the civilized world, which
the continuation of massacres would arouse, Turkish officials have
now adopted and are executing the unchecked policy of extermination
through starvation, exhaustion, and brutality of treatment hardly
surpassed even in Turkish history."
Answer: I acknowledge the fact of the mass killings and forced exile
of 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. I do not dispute that
Ambassador Morgenthau, Ambassador Elkus, and other diplomats during
that time period reported on what they described as an attempt to
destroy the Armenian population.
Question: Would you agree that Article 2 of the Convention on the
Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, of which the
United States has both signed and ratified, where it states: In the
present Convention, genocide means any of the following acts committed
with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical,
racial or religious group, as such:
(a) Killing members of the group;
(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;
(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated
to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part;
(d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;
(e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.
Answer: Yes, that is what Article II says
Question: Do the events that occurred during the period of 1915-1923
meet the definition under Article 2 of the Convention on the Prevention
and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide?
Answer: I acknowledge and mourn the mass killings and forced exile of
1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. I feel very strongly about
the great suffering experienced by the Armenian people both at that
time and today as they remember this dark chapter in their history,
mourn the loss of so many innocent lives, and rightfully expect their
pain and loss to be acknowledged and the victims to be honored. It is
the prerogative of the President to determine the policy on how the
Administration characterizes these tragic events. If confirmed, my
focus will be on promoting Turkish-Armenian reconciliation and as part
of this an open and honest dialogue about the tragic events of 1915.
Question: How does the non-use of the genocide term, as you
have advocated, advance U.S. efforts to promote Armenian-Turkish
reconciliation?
Answer: I believe the United States should strongly support
Armenian-Turkish reconciliation and avoid steps that could derail
that process or discourage either party from participating in the
ongoing dialogue. Ultimately, Turkey and Armenia are the owners of
their historical reconciliation process, and I have been encouraged
by the bold steps taken recently in this direction by Turkish and
Armenian leaders to reconcile their countries with each other and
with their shared and painful past. I also believe the steps Turkey
and Armenia are taking towards normalizing relations and opening
their border will foster a better environment for confronting their
shared tragic history. Turkey and Armenia have sought U.S. support
and encouragement of their reconciliation efforts, and following the
lead of the President, if confirmed, I will give mine fully.
Question: Do you believe there can be reconciliation between Turkey
and Armenia without an acknowledgment of the genocide by Turkey?
Answer: The Turkish and Armenian governments have already started
taking courageous steps toward reconciliation, including by Armenian
President Sargsian and Turkish President Gul, who met in Yerevan at
President Sargsianʼs invitation to attend a World Cup qualifier soccer
match on September 6, 2008. I welcome the efforts by individuals in
Armenia and Turkey to foster reconciliation and peace, and to come to
terms with their shared past. I look forward to full normalization
of Armenia-Turkey relations, after which genuine reconciliation -
including through an open and honest dialogue of the tragic events of
1915 - can occur. If confirmed, I will strongly support ongoing efforts
between Turkey and Armenia to open their border and re-establish
diplomatic relations.
Question: Would you visit with government officials from
Nagorno-Karabakh, if they requested such a meeting?
Answer: As Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the United States
has played an active and important role in efforts to resolve the
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The U.S. Co-Chair, in addition to trips
to Yerevan and Baku, often travels to Stepanakert to meet with de
facto N-K authorities. The Obama Administration has stated that it
is committed to achieving a breakthrough on Nagorno - Karabakh, and
I look forward to assisting in this important effort if I am confirmed.
QUESTION: Would you permit USAID personnel, who are not Armenian
nationals, to visit Nagorno-Karabakh?
ANSWER: As the United States continues to work toward a settlement of
the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, the
United States Government is striving to use their assistance to address
the genuine humanitarian needs of the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh
in a spirit of cooperation and friendship. What matters most is that
we design and implement these programs properly, to have the greatest
possible positive impact in addressing urgent needs. At this sensitive
point in negotiations on a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh
conflict under the OSCEʼs Minsk Group, the Administration believes it
is prudent to avoid significant changes in the modus operandi of our
assistance efforts, especially in ways that might incorrectly imply
that the United States has formally recognized Nagorno-Karabakh as a
government, which neither the United States, Armenia, or any other
country has done. That said, U.S. assistance to Nagorno-Karabakh,
focused on improving the conditions of those living in the area,
is essential to building trust and confidence in our negotiating
efforts. U.S. assistance is doing critical work in demining and
providing potable water to the residents there. United States-based
NGOs have traveled to Nagorno Karabakh to provide humanitarian
assistance. Additionally, as you noted, USAID personnel visit
Nagorno-Karabakh to oversee and evaluate projects, conduct needs
assessments, and consult with both "officials" and ordinary residents.
Question: Would you advise President Obama to in any way weaken or
retreat from his clear pledge to the American people to recognize
the Armenian Genocide? Why or why not?
Answer: If confirmed, I would advise President Obama to do everything
possible to encourage Turkey to come to terms with its history and
honor the victims of these horrendous events, and to help Armenia
and Turkey come to terms with their shared and painful past. I will
faithfully support whatever policy is decided by President Obama. If
confirmed, I will strongly encourage Turkey and Armenia to deepen
their efforts in this regard, and to normalize their relations and
reopen their border.
Question: Then Senator Obama urged U.S. recognition of the Armenian
Genocide on numerous occasions: â~@¢ On July 28, 2006, in a letter
to Secretary Rice concerning the firing of US Ambassador to Armenia
John Evans, he wrote, "The occurrence of the Armenian genocide in
1915 is not an ʽallegation,ʼ a ʽpersonal opinion,ʼ or a ʽpoint
of viewʼ . . . . [I]t is a widely documented fact."
â~@¢ On April 28, 2008, in a Senate floor statement in remembrance of
the Armenian Genocide, he stated, "It is imperative that we recognize
the horrific acts carried out against the Armenian people as genocide
and I will continue to stand with the Armenian American community in
calling for the Government of Turkey to acknowledge it as such."
â~@¢ On January 19, 2008, Obama stated that "America deserves a
leader who speaks truthfully about the Armenian Genocide and responds
forcefully to all genocides."
Do you disagree with any of the above statements? If so, please
explain?
Answer: Policy on this issue is determined by the President, and,
if confirmed, I have a duty to faithfully represent the policy of
the President. I recognize the mass killings, ethnic cleansing, and
forced exile of 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. I feel
very strongly about the great suffering experienced by the Armenian
people both at that time and today as they remember this tragic chapter
in their history. I fully respect that the Armenian-American community
and the Armenian people want their pain and loss to be acknowledged. If
confirmed, I will do everything I can to encourage Turkey to come to
terms with this dark chapter in history, including through an open and
honest dialogue with Armenia and within Turkey on these events. These
efforts would help facilitate reconciliation, economic prosperity,
peace, and stability in the region and would help encourage a full
understanding of these terrible events. If confirmed, I am committed
to do everything possible to ensure such horrors never recur.
Question: Do you dispute that U.S. diplomats serving in the Ottoman
Empire during the Armenian Genocide documented a systematic,
government-sponsored campaign "with intent to destroy, in whole or
in part" the Armenian population?
Answer: No. I have read many of the historical records from 1915-1916
related to U.S. diplomatic reporting on these events, and I do not
dispute that Ambassador Morgenthau, Ambassador Elkus, and other
diplomats during that time period reported on what they described as
an attempt to destroy the Armenian population.
You have written articles opposing resolutions recognizing the
Armenian Genocide. If the Republic of Turkey ended its denial of the
Armenian Genocide, would you no longer counsel against using the term
"Armenian Genocide?" Why or why not?
Answer: I recognize and mourn the mass killings, ethnic cleansing,
and forced deportations that devastated over one and a half million
Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. The United States considers these
events to be one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th Century, the
"Great Calamity" as many Armenians refer to it. It is the prerogative
of the President to determine the policy on how the Administration
characterizes these tragic events.
I have encouraged Turkey to come to terms with its past and if
confirmed will continue to do so. That will not be easy, just
as it has not been easy for the United States to come to terms
with dark periods of our own past. I firmly commit to supporting
Turkish-Armenian reconciliation, if I am confirmed. I believe a
successful reconciliation will not only need to include normalization
of relations and reopening the border, but also an open and honest
dialogue about the tragic events of 1915. Turkey and Armenia have asked
for U.S. support and encouragement of their efforts, and following
the lead of the President, if confirmed, I will give mine fully.
Question: Who was responsible for the death of over 1.5 million
Armenians during WWI?
Answer: This administration, like those before it, does not deny the
facts -1.5 million Armenians were murdered, starved, or deported by
civilian officials and soldiers of the Ottoman Empire, some of whom
were sentenced to death for committing these crimes. The United States
mourns this terrible chapter of history and recognizes that it remains
a source of pain for the people of Armenia and of Armenian descent,
and all those who believe in the dignity and value of every human life.
Question: Despite the painful and ongoing legacy of the Armenian
Genocide, and the continued illegal, Turkish blockade, Armenia has,
repeatedly, offered to open diplomatic and economic relations with
Turkey without preconditions. Do you believe Turkey should accept
Armeniaʼs offer to establish full diplomatic and economic relations
without preconditions?
Answer: Turkey and Armenia have sought and received strong U.S. support
for their reconciliation efforts, and, if confirmed, I will give
mine fully. I welcome these efforts by individuals in Armenia and
Turkey and look forward to the realization of a fully normalized
Armenia-Turkey relationship. If confirmed, I will strongly support
ongoing efforts between Turkey and Armenia to open their border and
re-establish diplomatic relations. I am encouraged by the positive
developments toward normalization, including commercial flights,
considerable trade, and rapid visa issuance, as well as the courageous
steps by Armenian President Sargsian and Turkish President Gul to
improve bilateral relations, including through their historic meeting
in Yerevan last September. The Administration welcomes the plans of
both presidents to meet again in Ankara this October, and hope that
by then, the Turkey-Armenia border will be reopened.
GORDNʼS/BROOKINGS FINANCIAL COMPENSATION
Philip Gordon Payments Received from EUR Countries 2006-2009
Payee Country Date Amount Purpose
Encompass Publications Belgium 11/08 $400 article Encompass
Publications Belgium 9/08 $400 article Encompass Publications
Belgium 7/08 $400 article Financial Times UK 7/09/08 $500 oped
US-Spain Chamb Commerce Spain 6/05/08 $2,500 speech Foreign Policy
France France 5/15/08 $10,000 speech Encompass Publications Belgium
5/08 $400 article Encompass Publications Belgium 3/08 $400 article
Encompass Publications Belgium 1/08 $400 article Financial Times UK
1/04/08 $500 oped Financial Times UK 12/05/07 $500 oped Encompass
Publications Belgium 11/07 $400 article Encompass Publications Belgium
09/07 $400 article Norwegian Foreign Ministry Norway 08/07 $2,500
report Encompass Publications Belgium 07/07 $400 article Financial
Times UK 7/25/07 $500 oped Encompass Publications Belgium 05/07 $400
article Encompass Publications Belgium 03/07 $400 article Encompass
Publications Belgium 01/07 $400 article French Foreign Ministry France
2006 $7,000 translation
Corporate Donors with Foreign Addresses
Constituent Name Country Date Fund Description Cash Received Reference
Eksiogullari Group Turkey 3/5/2008 Turkey 2007 $75,000.00 Supported
research activities and conferences of Brookings Turkey project
Eksiogullari Group Turkey 9/29/2008 Turkey 2007 $75,000.00 Supported
research activities and conferences of Brookings Turkey project
Hedef-Alliance Holding Turkey 1/17/2007 Turkey 2007 $30,000.00
Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador
Mark Parris) Nurol Turkey 2/6/2008 Turkey 2007 $30,000.00 Support
for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark
Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association Turkey
3/8/2007 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007 initiative
(project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists'
and Businessmen's Association Turkey 6/8/2007 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00
Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador
Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association
Turkey 10/5/2007 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007
initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish
Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association Turkey 4/22/2008
Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project
run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and
Businessmen's Association Turkey 7/8/2008 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00
Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador
Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association
Turkey 2/27/2009 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007
initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish
Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association Turkey 2/6/2009 Turkey
2007 $50,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run
by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Dogan Yayin Holdings/Hanzade
Dogan Turkey 2/16/2007 CUSE $30,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007
initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Dogan Yayin
Holdings/Hanzade Dogan Turkey 2/16/2007 $70,000.00 Membership on
Brookings' international advisory committee Sabanci University Turkey
6/27/2006 CUSE $2,500.00 honorarium to Strobe Talbott for participation
as judge in research award Sabanci University Turkey 9/12/2008
Turkey Sabanci Lect T2 $9,673.21 travel costs for Sabanci delegation
Sabanci University Turkey 6/27/2006 Turkey Project $45,530.81 travel,
conference, and administrative costs for annual Sabanci lecture
Sabanci University Turkey 7/5/2007 CUSE - France Activities $49,588.75
travel, conference, and administrative costs for annual Sabanci lecture
Sabanci University Turkey 11/25/2008 Turkey Project $85,000.00 travel,
conference, and administrative costs for annual Sabanci lecture
*** NOTE: Primary funding for the work of Philip H. Gordon in 2006-2007
was provided by the Smith Richardson Foundation. From 2007-2009
primary funding was provided to Mr. Gordon by the Norwegian Foreign
Ministry, the Carnegie Foundation, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund,
and the Brookings Endowment.
Greek News
http://www.greeknewsonline.com/modules.php?na me=News&file=article&sid=10373&mode=th read&order=0&thold=0
May 11 2009
Exclusive: Philip Gordonʼs reply to 28 questions by Senator Robert
Menendez.
Washington.- By Apostolos Zoupaniotis
Assistant Secretary of State Designate Philip Gordonʼs confirmation
is expected to move into the Senate floor for a vote very soon,
a very well informed Congress source told the Greek News. Gordonʼs
confirmation although passed through the Senateʼs Foreign Relations
Committee in early April, it was held up by Senator John Ensign, a
Republican from Nevada who has co-sponsored a congressional resolution
on the Armenian Genocide in the past.
Ensign represents the State of Nevada in the U.S. Senate along
with Majority Leader Harry Reed, who is expected to have a tough
reelection in 2010. Although political pundits and some Armenian
Americans were predicting Ensignʼs position to force Reed to
withhold Gordonʼs nomination for some more time, it seems now that
the junior senator from Nevada will step back, for unknown reasons,
opening the way for a full Senate vote, as soon as the end of the
week. According to political sources, Ensignʼs hold happened just
before Obamaʼs Armenian Day proclamation and was just a warning to
the Obama Administration and the President himself to put pressure on
Ankara during its negotiations with Armenia to settle their disputes.
The fact that the Armenian government agreed to the process didnʼt
leave much alternatives to anyone in the Senate", the same sources
told the Greek News.
Gordonʼs position on Cyprus and the Armenian Genocide during his
confirmation hearing, on March 26, 2009, left many unanswered questions
about his objectivity.
Although he is the translator of the English edition of French
Presidentʼs Nicola Sarkozy book "Testimony", he criticized France for
criminalizing the denial of the Armenian Genocide. "Genocide Denial"
is a crime in many countries, including the United States in the case
of the Jewish Holocaust.
Gordon, a former director of the Brookings Institution was author
of many pro Turkish books and article. He was very critical of the
Greek Cypriot rejection of the Annan Plan and suggest the reward of
Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots.
According to figures released by Brookings Institution and provided to
the Senate by Philip Gordon, since 2006 Brookings has received $200,000
from the Turkish Industrialistsʼ and Businessmenʼs Association,
$200,000 from Sabanci University, $150,000 from the Eksiogullari Group
(a construction company in Turkey), and $100,000 from the Dogan Yayin
Holding Company, a media-entertainment conglomerate.
Brookings, in a note attached to the spreadsheet listing the donations,
said that the "primary funding for the work of Philip H. Gordon
in 2006-2007 was provided by the Smith Richardson Foundation. From
2007-2009 primary funding was provided to Mr. Gordon by the Norwegian
Foreign Ministry, the Carnegie Foundation, the Rockefeller Brothers
Fund, and the Brookings Endowment."
The question about Gordonʼs funding was asked by Senator Robert
Menendez (D, NJ) along with 27 other questions, seeking clarification
on his positions regarding Cyprus, the Ecumenical Patriarchate,
Turkeyʼs compliance with the Copenhagen Criteria, the Armenian
Genocide and the Turkish-Armenia dispute and Ukraine.
According to sources close to the Greek Lobby in Washington, although
during his confirmation hearing he denied to say if he agreed with
Obamaʼs statement about "the Turkish occupation of north Cyprus",
Gordonʼs written answers (to Menendez questions) regarding Cyprus and
the Ecumenical Patriarchate were satisfactory, reflecting the change
of tone in Washington in these issues. But, some of his answers about
Armenia left a bitter taste in many Armenian-Americans.
"Greek News" is publishing exclusively all his answers to the questions
regarding Cyprus and the Patriarchate and some of his replies to the
questions regarding Armenia.
ON CYPRUS
Question: In the case that negotiations between the parties in Cyprus
break down in the next four years, what are your views on how one
achieves a settlement on Cyprus? Specifically, what role would the
United States play in Cyprus negotiations and what would you advocate
as a U.S. policy towards Cyprus?
Answer: If confirmed, I will vigorously support the direct negotiations
between the parties that began in September 2008 under the United
Nations Good Offices Mission, and do everything possible to prevent the
breakdown of those talks. The only way to achieve a just and lasting
settlement is for the Cypriot parties themselves to negotiate their
own solution, with strong support from the international community
whenever the parties seek such support. If confirmed, I will continue
to support the reunification of Cyprus under a bi-zonal, bi-communal
federation, which has been the longstanding policy of the United
States, supported by United Nations Security Council Resolutions.
Question: Would you promote the equivalent of the Annan Plan in the
current context if negotiations were not moving forward?
Answer: If confirmed, I will continue to support a resolution of
the Cyprus Problem through the reunification of the island into a
bi-zonal, bi-communal federation. While it is important to build on
those areas of convergence reached during four decades of negotiations
under UN auspices, the Annan Plan was rejected by Greek Cypriots in a
referendum; I respect that democratic decision. The current leaders,
Demetris Christofias and Mehmet Ali Talat are to be commended for
taking the initiative in starting negotiations on September 3,
2008 under the auspices of the United Nations Good Offices Mission,
and for conducting those negotiations in good-faith. If confirmed,
I will support this Cypriot-led process and assist as needed, in
consultation with the parties.
ECUMENICAL PATRIARCHATE Question: If confirmed, would you urge that
the Government of Turkey respect the rights and religious freedoms
of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of the Orthodox Christian Church?
Answer: Yes, if confirmed, I will continue to urge Turkish officials
to recognize the ecumenical status of the Ecumenical Patriarchate,
to continue allowing the Holy Synod to select its members regardless
of whether they are Turkish citizens, restore confiscated religious
property and prevent spurious legal challenges to Patriarchate
property, and to reopen the Halki Seminary. The United States considers
Ecumenical Patriarch Batholomew a religious leader of global standing,
a position with which I agree. Like the administration, I share deep
respect for His All Holiness, and concern for the continued existence
of the Patriarchate, which for centuries has been a part of the rich
tradition of religious diversity exemplified in Istanbul.
Question: If confirmed, would you advocate that the European Union
focus on the elimination of all forms of discrimination in Turkey,
particularly with regard to the Ecumenical Patriarchate, while
continuing accession negotiations?
Answer: Yes. It is the policy of this Administration to promote
religious freedom and human rights worldwide, including in Turkey. If
confirmed I would strongly support this policy with our friends and
Allies in the European Union. Turkey has taken many steps toward
improving its overall record on human rights and religious freedom,
and has committed to implement further reforms, as desired by Turkish
voters and in line with the European Union accession requirements. The
United States fully supports Turkeyʼs accession to the European
Union. If confirmed, I will continue to encourage progress on these
reforms and will keep the issue of expanding religious freedom in
Turkey high on our bilateral agenda, which, in turn, will advance
Turkeyʼs efforts to meet the criteria for EU candidacy.
Question: If confirmed, would you advocate that the Government of
Turkey remove an obstacle in its relations with the United States
Government by taking positive steps to provide full religious freedom
for the Ecumenical Patriarchate?
Answer: If confirmed, I will continue to urge Turkish officials to
respect the ecumenical and legal status of the Ecumenical Patriarchate
in Turkey, continue allowing the Holy Synod to select members who are
not Turkish citizens, and to restore confiscated religious property
and prevent spurious legal challenges to Patriarchate property. If
confirmed, I will call on the Government of Turkey to reopen the
Halki Seminary.
The United States Mission in Turkey regularly promotes religious
freedom for all faiths and advocates for legal reforms to lift
restrictions on religious minorities as part of our efforts to
advance human rights. If confirmed, I will continue to support our
Missionʼs engagement with the Government of Turkey on religious
freedom issues, advocate for continued outreach and engagement with
Turkish religious leaders, and further our policy of active engagement
and consultation with religious minority groups, including those in
the Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, Syriac Orthodox, Protestant,
and Jewish communities.
Question: If confirmed, would you advocate that the Government of
Turkey recognize the right to the title of `Ecumenical Patriarch,'
grant the Ecumenical Patriarch appropriate international recognition
and ecclesiastic succession, grant the Ecumenical Patriarch the right
to train clergy of all nationalities, not just Turkish nationals;
and respect property rights and human rights of the Ecumenical
Patriarchate?
Answer: If confirmed, I will continue to urge Turkish officials to
recognize the ecumenicity of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, reflecting
our view of the Ecumenical Patriarch as a religious leader of global
significance. If confirmed, I will also urge Turkish officials to
reopen the school at Halki to ensure ecclesiastic succession. Just
as we encourage the Turkish Government to continue allowing the
Ecumenical Patriarchateʼs Holy Synod to select members who are not
Turkish citizens, so do we hope the Patriarchate will have the right
to train clergy of any nationality. On Patriarchate property, the
recent amendments to the Foundations Law should help advance intensive
U.S. efforts to elicit the return of the Buyukada Orphanage and other
properties to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. Though the new Foundations
Law is a step in the right direction, it does not include a provision
for compensating original owners of property seized by the Government
of Turkey and then sold to third parties. The law also did not rescind
the authority of the government to expropriate property. The 2008
Annual Report on International Religious Freedom underscores the
status of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the legal challenges for
property ownership and, if confirmed, I will continue to strongly urge
the Turkish Government to restore confiscated religious property and
prevent spurious legal challenges to Patriarchate property.
TURKEY -EU Question: Is it your view that the Government of Turkey
should move expeditiously to meet the criteria set forth by the
European Council in Copenhagen?
Answer: Any country seeking membership in the European Union must
conform to the conditions established by the European Council in
Copenhagen. Turkey has taken many steps towards improving its overall
human rights and religious freedom record, and has made a commitment to
implement further reforms desired by the people of Turkey and in line
with the European Union accession process. The United States supports
Turkeyʼs accession to the European Union. As it fulfills the EUʼs
accession criteria, Turkey will become an even stronger and more
valuable partner of the United States and the entire Euro-Atlantic
community. If confirmed, I will continue to encourage progress on
these reforms and will keep the issue of expanding religious freedom
in Turkey high on our bilateral agenda.
ON ARMENIA
Question: Does your record also include speaking out to have
Turkey come to terms with its legacy of genocide and its denial of
genocide? Have you spoken out to ensure that Turkey open the border
with Armenia, which it has illegally kept closed for the last 15
years and is required under treaty obligations? If so, please provide
documentation of such writings.
Answer: I have repeatedly encouraged Turkey to come to terms with its
past and allow for an open and honest internal dialogue by expanding
freedom of expression, especially on this particular issue. I have
also advocated that the United States and Europe actively encourage
Turkey to normalize its relations with Armenia, re-open the border,
and allow open dialogue about the mass killings and forced exile
of 1915. Turkey and Armenia have sought U.S. support for their
reconciliation efforts, and following the lead of the President,
if confirmed, I will give mine fully. Resurrecting Turkey-Armenia
relations and reconciling with both peoplesʼ shared past is critical
to fostering peace and stability in the Caucasus region and beyond.
In my monograph Winning Turkey, I wrote that:
The West should "press Turkey to repair its relations with the Republic
of Armenia and to allow open debate within Turkey."
"Although such a sensitive matter must obviously be handled by the
Turks and Armenians themselves, their American and European friends
should actively encourage a solution, which should begin with Turkeyʼs
allowing more open research and debate about the subject. Turkeyʼs
contention that ʽhistory should be left to the historiansʼ is
fine as far as it goes, but it would be more convincing if Turkey
actually did that, rather than prosecute historians and others who
reach the conclusion that genocide took place. This is another reason
why Article 301 should be repealed."
"...the Erdogan government needs to be more vocal in its support
for freedom of speech on the Armenian question. [...] It is also
time for the Turkish government to take more constructive and
creative steps toward political and psychological reconciliation with
Armenia. [...] Ankara and the Turkish public need to understand better
the trauma of 1915 for the Armenian people and the Armenian diaspora."
In that study and in public interventions in Turkey, I have suggested
that Turkey offer "an olive branch to Armenia in the form of a
presidential letter of sympathy to commemorate the tragedy" which would
"bring a human dimension to relations between Ankara and Yerevan."
I also called in Winning Turkey for an acceleration of diplomatic
efforts "to resolve the bilateral conflict between Turkey and
the Republic of Armenia, which has for too long blocked peaceful
developments in the Caucasus and complicates Turkeyʼs accession to
the EU."
I wrote that "The United States should encourage Turkey to pledge
now that if Armenia shows a real commitment to a solution to the
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Turkey would reestablish diplomatic
relations with Armenia, end its blockade, and open the land border
between the two countries. Such steps not only would be in the interest
of both countries but also could create the climate for a long-term
solution in Nagorno-Karabakh as well as much better relations and
open trade between Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan."
Question: Given some of your public statements, how can you assure
me that you will be sensitive to preventing future genocides and
combating denial of the Armenian Genocide by Turkey?
Answer: I have strongly encouraged Turkey to come to terms with
its history and believe that an honest dialogue within Turkey
on historical events would help facilitate Turkish democracy and
reconciliation both within Turkeyʼs borders and in the region. Such
a dialogue would help promote prosperity, peace, and stability in the
region and would contribute to a full understanding of these terrible
events. If confirmed, I will continue to strongly support this effort,
and in particular will emphasize its importance to bilateral relations.
The Obama Administration is fully committed to preventing genocides. If
confirmed, I will work diligently with my interagency colleagues,
this committee, our European allies, and our partners to prevent
genocide anywhere in the world.
Questions for the Record Submitted to Assistant Secretary - Designate
Philip Gordon by Senator Robert Menendez (#4C) Senate Foreign Relations
Committee March 26, 2009
Question: A 1951 U.S. Government filing with the United Nations
stated that "The Genocide Convention resulted from the inhuman and
barbarous practices which prevailed in certain countries prior to
and during World War II, when entire religious, racial and national
minority groups were threatened with and subjected to deliberate
extermination. The practice of genocide has occurred throughout
human history. The Roman persecution of the Christians, the Turkish
massacres of Armenians, the extermination of millions of Jews and Poles
by the Nazis are outstanding examples of the crime of genocide." Do
you agree with this U.S. Government filing?
Answer: The United States has long acknowledged the horrific tragedy
that 1.5 million Armenians suffered mass killings and forced exile
by the Ottoman Empire. I, too, recognize and mourn the loss of so
many innocent lives. This tragedy should be the focus of an open and
honest dialogue among civic leaders, scholars, and the societies at
large. If confirmed, I would strongly support Turkey and Armeniaʼs
reconciliation efforts, including confronting their shared history. I
believe the United States must do all it can to prevent such tragedies
from ever happening again.
Question: In October 2006, you published "Why France Shouldn't
Legislate Turkey's Past," in regard to the French push to pass a law
that punishes the denial of the Armenian Genocide. You wrote that this
vote in Parliament "is a dangerous step down a slippery slope," adding
that "the new French legislation is just the latest illiberal policy
in Europe masquerading as liberalism." How do you seek to reconcile
your criticism of France with the blind eye you turn towards Turkey?
Answer: I have stated with regard to the proposed French legislation
in question that it is dangerous to criminalize the free expression
of views. I also strongly believe in, and have publicly called for,
a more open debate about the past in Turkey. I have encouraged
Turkey to repeal article 301 of its penal code, which can be used
to constrain free expression, and I have supported an open dialogue
between Turkey and Armenia. If confirmed, I would continue, along
with the Administration, to strongly encourage Turkey to come to
terms with the dark periods in its history.
Question: Do you agree with the characterization by President
Bush on April 24, 2004, when he stated "On this day, we pause in
remembrance of one of the most horrible tragedies of the 20th century,
the annihilation of as many as 1.5 million Armenians through forced
exile and murder at the end of the Ottoman Empire."?
Answer: Yes. I acknowledge and mourn as historical fact what President
Bush described as one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century,
the mass killings and forced exile of 1.5 million Armenians by the
Ottoman Empire.
Question: Do you agree that the use of the words "ethnic cleansing"
would include the deliberate inflicting on a group conditions of life
calculated to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part?
Answer: I do not believe that there is a universally accepted
definition of "ethnic cleansing" under international law. In the
Bosnia v. Serbia case, the International Court of Justice described
the phrase "ethnic cleansing" as being in practice used "by reference
to a specific region or area, to mean rendering an area ethnically
homogenous by using force or intimidation to remove persons of given
groups from the area."
Question: Do you acknowledge and agree with the following facts of
the events that occurred between 1915-1923 as reported by American
officials at the time?
1. Where U.S. Ambassador Morgenthau wrote on July 16, 1915, "it
appears that a campaign of race extermination is in progress under
a pretext of reprisal against rebellion."
2. Where U.S. Consul in Aleppo, Jesse Jackson, reported to Ambassador
Morgenthau on June 5, 1915, "It is without doubt a carefully planned
scheme to thoroughly extinguish the Armenian race."
3. Where U.S. Consul in Harput, Leslie Davis reported to Ambassador
Morgenthau on July 24, 1915, "It has been no secret that the plan
was to destroy the Armenian race as a race, but the methods used
have been more cold-blooded and barbarous, if not more effective,
than I had at first supposed."
4. Where U.S. Ambassador to the Ottoman Empire from 1916-1917,
Abram I. Elkus, telegrammed the Secretary of State on October 17,
1916, "In order to avoid opprobrium of the civilized world, which
the continuation of massacres would arouse, Turkish officials have
now adopted and are executing the unchecked policy of extermination
through starvation, exhaustion, and brutality of treatment hardly
surpassed even in Turkish history."
Answer: I acknowledge the fact of the mass killings and forced exile
of 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. I do not dispute that
Ambassador Morgenthau, Ambassador Elkus, and other diplomats during
that time period reported on what they described as an attempt to
destroy the Armenian population.
Question: Would you agree that Article 2 of the Convention on the
Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, of which the
United States has both signed and ratified, where it states: In the
present Convention, genocide means any of the following acts committed
with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical,
racial or religious group, as such:
(a) Killing members of the group;
(b) Causing serious bodily or mental harm to members of the group;
(c) Deliberately inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated
to bring about its physical destruction in whole or in part;
(d) Imposing measures intended to prevent births within the group;
(e) Forcibly transferring children of the group to another group.
Answer: Yes, that is what Article II says
Question: Do the events that occurred during the period of 1915-1923
meet the definition under Article 2 of the Convention on the Prevention
and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide?
Answer: I acknowledge and mourn the mass killings and forced exile of
1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. I feel very strongly about
the great suffering experienced by the Armenian people both at that
time and today as they remember this dark chapter in their history,
mourn the loss of so many innocent lives, and rightfully expect their
pain and loss to be acknowledged and the victims to be honored. It is
the prerogative of the President to determine the policy on how the
Administration characterizes these tragic events. If confirmed, my
focus will be on promoting Turkish-Armenian reconciliation and as part
of this an open and honest dialogue about the tragic events of 1915.
Question: How does the non-use of the genocide term, as you
have advocated, advance U.S. efforts to promote Armenian-Turkish
reconciliation?
Answer: I believe the United States should strongly support
Armenian-Turkish reconciliation and avoid steps that could derail
that process or discourage either party from participating in the
ongoing dialogue. Ultimately, Turkey and Armenia are the owners of
their historical reconciliation process, and I have been encouraged
by the bold steps taken recently in this direction by Turkish and
Armenian leaders to reconcile their countries with each other and
with their shared and painful past. I also believe the steps Turkey
and Armenia are taking towards normalizing relations and opening
their border will foster a better environment for confronting their
shared tragic history. Turkey and Armenia have sought U.S. support
and encouragement of their reconciliation efforts, and following the
lead of the President, if confirmed, I will give mine fully.
Question: Do you believe there can be reconciliation between Turkey
and Armenia without an acknowledgment of the genocide by Turkey?
Answer: The Turkish and Armenian governments have already started
taking courageous steps toward reconciliation, including by Armenian
President Sargsian and Turkish President Gul, who met in Yerevan at
President Sargsianʼs invitation to attend a World Cup qualifier soccer
match on September 6, 2008. I welcome the efforts by individuals in
Armenia and Turkey to foster reconciliation and peace, and to come to
terms with their shared past. I look forward to full normalization
of Armenia-Turkey relations, after which genuine reconciliation -
including through an open and honest dialogue of the tragic events of
1915 - can occur. If confirmed, I will strongly support ongoing efforts
between Turkey and Armenia to open their border and re-establish
diplomatic relations.
Question: Would you visit with government officials from
Nagorno-Karabakh, if they requested such a meeting?
Answer: As Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, the United States
has played an active and important role in efforts to resolve the
Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The U.S. Co-Chair, in addition to trips
to Yerevan and Baku, often travels to Stepanakert to meet with de
facto N-K authorities. The Obama Administration has stated that it
is committed to achieving a breakthrough on Nagorno - Karabakh, and
I look forward to assisting in this important effort if I am confirmed.
QUESTION: Would you permit USAID personnel, who are not Armenian
nationals, to visit Nagorno-Karabakh?
ANSWER: As the United States continues to work toward a settlement of
the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, the
United States Government is striving to use their assistance to address
the genuine humanitarian needs of the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh
in a spirit of cooperation and friendship. What matters most is that
we design and implement these programs properly, to have the greatest
possible positive impact in addressing urgent needs. At this sensitive
point in negotiations on a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh
conflict under the OSCEʼs Minsk Group, the Administration believes it
is prudent to avoid significant changes in the modus operandi of our
assistance efforts, especially in ways that might incorrectly imply
that the United States has formally recognized Nagorno-Karabakh as a
government, which neither the United States, Armenia, or any other
country has done. That said, U.S. assistance to Nagorno-Karabakh,
focused on improving the conditions of those living in the area,
is essential to building trust and confidence in our negotiating
efforts. U.S. assistance is doing critical work in demining and
providing potable water to the residents there. United States-based
NGOs have traveled to Nagorno Karabakh to provide humanitarian
assistance. Additionally, as you noted, USAID personnel visit
Nagorno-Karabakh to oversee and evaluate projects, conduct needs
assessments, and consult with both "officials" and ordinary residents.
Question: Would you advise President Obama to in any way weaken or
retreat from his clear pledge to the American people to recognize
the Armenian Genocide? Why or why not?
Answer: If confirmed, I would advise President Obama to do everything
possible to encourage Turkey to come to terms with its history and
honor the victims of these horrendous events, and to help Armenia
and Turkey come to terms with their shared and painful past. I will
faithfully support whatever policy is decided by President Obama. If
confirmed, I will strongly encourage Turkey and Armenia to deepen
their efforts in this regard, and to normalize their relations and
reopen their border.
Question: Then Senator Obama urged U.S. recognition of the Armenian
Genocide on numerous occasions: â~@¢ On July 28, 2006, in a letter
to Secretary Rice concerning the firing of US Ambassador to Armenia
John Evans, he wrote, "The occurrence of the Armenian genocide in
1915 is not an ʽallegation,ʼ a ʽpersonal opinion,ʼ or a ʽpoint
of viewʼ . . . . [I]t is a widely documented fact."
â~@¢ On April 28, 2008, in a Senate floor statement in remembrance of
the Armenian Genocide, he stated, "It is imperative that we recognize
the horrific acts carried out against the Armenian people as genocide
and I will continue to stand with the Armenian American community in
calling for the Government of Turkey to acknowledge it as such."
â~@¢ On January 19, 2008, Obama stated that "America deserves a
leader who speaks truthfully about the Armenian Genocide and responds
forcefully to all genocides."
Do you disagree with any of the above statements? If so, please
explain?
Answer: Policy on this issue is determined by the President, and,
if confirmed, I have a duty to faithfully represent the policy of
the President. I recognize the mass killings, ethnic cleansing, and
forced exile of 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. I feel
very strongly about the great suffering experienced by the Armenian
people both at that time and today as they remember this tragic chapter
in their history. I fully respect that the Armenian-American community
and the Armenian people want their pain and loss to be acknowledged. If
confirmed, I will do everything I can to encourage Turkey to come to
terms with this dark chapter in history, including through an open and
honest dialogue with Armenia and within Turkey on these events. These
efforts would help facilitate reconciliation, economic prosperity,
peace, and stability in the region and would help encourage a full
understanding of these terrible events. If confirmed, I am committed
to do everything possible to ensure such horrors never recur.
Question: Do you dispute that U.S. diplomats serving in the Ottoman
Empire during the Armenian Genocide documented a systematic,
government-sponsored campaign "with intent to destroy, in whole or
in part" the Armenian population?
Answer: No. I have read many of the historical records from 1915-1916
related to U.S. diplomatic reporting on these events, and I do not
dispute that Ambassador Morgenthau, Ambassador Elkus, and other
diplomats during that time period reported on what they described as
an attempt to destroy the Armenian population.
You have written articles opposing resolutions recognizing the
Armenian Genocide. If the Republic of Turkey ended its denial of the
Armenian Genocide, would you no longer counsel against using the term
"Armenian Genocide?" Why or why not?
Answer: I recognize and mourn the mass killings, ethnic cleansing,
and forced deportations that devastated over one and a half million
Armenians by the Ottoman Empire. The United States considers these
events to be one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th Century, the
"Great Calamity" as many Armenians refer to it. It is the prerogative
of the President to determine the policy on how the Administration
characterizes these tragic events.
I have encouraged Turkey to come to terms with its past and if
confirmed will continue to do so. That will not be easy, just
as it has not been easy for the United States to come to terms
with dark periods of our own past. I firmly commit to supporting
Turkish-Armenian reconciliation, if I am confirmed. I believe a
successful reconciliation will not only need to include normalization
of relations and reopening the border, but also an open and honest
dialogue about the tragic events of 1915. Turkey and Armenia have asked
for U.S. support and encouragement of their efforts, and following
the lead of the President, if confirmed, I will give mine fully.
Question: Who was responsible for the death of over 1.5 million
Armenians during WWI?
Answer: This administration, like those before it, does not deny the
facts -1.5 million Armenians were murdered, starved, or deported by
civilian officials and soldiers of the Ottoman Empire, some of whom
were sentenced to death for committing these crimes. The United States
mourns this terrible chapter of history and recognizes that it remains
a source of pain for the people of Armenia and of Armenian descent,
and all those who believe in the dignity and value of every human life.
Question: Despite the painful and ongoing legacy of the Armenian
Genocide, and the continued illegal, Turkish blockade, Armenia has,
repeatedly, offered to open diplomatic and economic relations with
Turkey without preconditions. Do you believe Turkey should accept
Armeniaʼs offer to establish full diplomatic and economic relations
without preconditions?
Answer: Turkey and Armenia have sought and received strong U.S. support
for their reconciliation efforts, and, if confirmed, I will give
mine fully. I welcome these efforts by individuals in Armenia and
Turkey and look forward to the realization of a fully normalized
Armenia-Turkey relationship. If confirmed, I will strongly support
ongoing efforts between Turkey and Armenia to open their border and
re-establish diplomatic relations. I am encouraged by the positive
developments toward normalization, including commercial flights,
considerable trade, and rapid visa issuance, as well as the courageous
steps by Armenian President Sargsian and Turkish President Gul to
improve bilateral relations, including through their historic meeting
in Yerevan last September. The Administration welcomes the plans of
both presidents to meet again in Ankara this October, and hope that
by then, the Turkey-Armenia border will be reopened.
GORDNʼS/BROOKINGS FINANCIAL COMPENSATION
Philip Gordon Payments Received from EUR Countries 2006-2009
Payee Country Date Amount Purpose
Encompass Publications Belgium 11/08 $400 article Encompass
Publications Belgium 9/08 $400 article Encompass Publications
Belgium 7/08 $400 article Financial Times UK 7/09/08 $500 oped
US-Spain Chamb Commerce Spain 6/05/08 $2,500 speech Foreign Policy
France France 5/15/08 $10,000 speech Encompass Publications Belgium
5/08 $400 article Encompass Publications Belgium 3/08 $400 article
Encompass Publications Belgium 1/08 $400 article Financial Times UK
1/04/08 $500 oped Financial Times UK 12/05/07 $500 oped Encompass
Publications Belgium 11/07 $400 article Encompass Publications Belgium
09/07 $400 article Norwegian Foreign Ministry Norway 08/07 $2,500
report Encompass Publications Belgium 07/07 $400 article Financial
Times UK 7/25/07 $500 oped Encompass Publications Belgium 05/07 $400
article Encompass Publications Belgium 03/07 $400 article Encompass
Publications Belgium 01/07 $400 article French Foreign Ministry France
2006 $7,000 translation
Corporate Donors with Foreign Addresses
Constituent Name Country Date Fund Description Cash Received Reference
Eksiogullari Group Turkey 3/5/2008 Turkey 2007 $75,000.00 Supported
research activities and conferences of Brookings Turkey project
Eksiogullari Group Turkey 9/29/2008 Turkey 2007 $75,000.00 Supported
research activities and conferences of Brookings Turkey project
Hedef-Alliance Holding Turkey 1/17/2007 Turkey 2007 $30,000.00
Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador
Mark Parris) Nurol Turkey 2/6/2008 Turkey 2007 $30,000.00 Support
for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark
Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association Turkey
3/8/2007 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007 initiative
(project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists'
and Businessmen's Association Turkey 6/8/2007 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00
Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador
Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association
Turkey 10/5/2007 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007
initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish
Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association Turkey 4/22/2008
Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project
run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and
Businessmen's Association Turkey 7/8/2008 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00
Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run by former Ambassador
Mark Parris) Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association
Turkey 2/27/2009 Turkey 2007 $25,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007
initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Turkish
Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association Turkey 2/6/2009 Turkey
2007 $50,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007 initiative (project run
by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Dogan Yayin Holdings/Hanzade
Dogan Turkey 2/16/2007 CUSE $30,000.00 Support for Turkey 2007
initiative (project run by former Ambassador Mark Parris) Dogan Yayin
Holdings/Hanzade Dogan Turkey 2/16/2007 $70,000.00 Membership on
Brookings' international advisory committee Sabanci University Turkey
6/27/2006 CUSE $2,500.00 honorarium to Strobe Talbott for participation
as judge in research award Sabanci University Turkey 9/12/2008
Turkey Sabanci Lect T2 $9,673.21 travel costs for Sabanci delegation
Sabanci University Turkey 6/27/2006 Turkey Project $45,530.81 travel,
conference, and administrative costs for annual Sabanci lecture
Sabanci University Turkey 7/5/2007 CUSE - France Activities $49,588.75
travel, conference, and administrative costs for annual Sabanci lecture
Sabanci University Turkey 11/25/2008 Turkey Project $85,000.00 travel,
conference, and administrative costs for annual Sabanci lecture
*** NOTE: Primary funding for the work of Philip H. Gordon in 2006-2007
was provided by the Smith Richardson Foundation. From 2007-2009
primary funding was provided to Mr. Gordon by the Norwegian Foreign
Ministry, the Carnegie Foundation, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund,
and the Brookings Endowment.