The History Department discusses a PhD dissertation on Turkish–Romanian relations
The Department of History at the College of Education for Human Sciences, University of Samarra, discussed a doctoral dissertation entitled “Turkish–Romanian Relations (1923–1950)” by researcher Faiz Mohammed Fazaa, considering it an important foundational phase in the history of relations between the two countries following the First World War and the political and regional transformations that accompanied it.
The researcher initially explained that, following the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey on 29 October 1923, Turkey sought to establish a foreign policy based on mutual respect and non-interference in the internal affairs of other states. This approach contributed to the development of its relations with the Balkan countries, including Romania.
The dissertation highlighted the evolution of political, economic, cultural, and social relations between the two countries, beginning with the resumption of diplomatic relations and the signing of trade agreements, and extending to cultural cooperation and the Migration Agreement signed in 1936.
The researcher noted that the topic was selected due to the scarcity of specialized Arabic studies in this field, as well as the significance of Turkish–European relations in modern history. The study begins in 1923, marking the establishment of the modern Turkish Republic, and concludes in 1950, which witnessed the end of the rule of the Republican People\’s Party and the beginning of political pluralism in Turkey.
The dissertation consists of an introduction, four chapters, a conclusion, and appendices. The first chapter examines the historical background of Ottoman–Romanian relations up to 1923, while the second chapter focuses on the political and military relations between the two countries during the period under study. The third chapter is devoted to economic relations, whereas the fourth chapter discusses cultural and social relations and their role in strengthening ties between the two peoples.
In conclusion, the researcher found that Turkish–Romanian relations experienced significant development across various fields despite regional and international challenges. These relations contributed to strengthening bilateral cooperation and promoting stability in the Balkan region during the first half of the twentieth century.
