Hatay issue
is important in Turk-French relationships as much as in Ataturk term Turk Foreign Policy.
As the majority of Hatay’s population, considered to be Sancak, is composed of Turks;
this region Misak-ý Milli boundaries. But,
because of the hard conditions of the Turkish National Struggle for Independence,
Ýskenderun Sub-province located in Syria boundaries, was given a special status with
Ankara Agreement provided the truce with France. Ankara government, had hold rules put
into agreement that will protect the advantages of Turks in Sancak and will provide the
region to be given self-governing. According to the 7th item of agreement;” A special
regime will be set up for Ýskendurun zone. Turks residents of this region will take
advantages of every opportunity for developing their culture and Turkish will be
free.
With 20 October 1921 dated agreement,
Sancak was given Syria dominancy. In the meantime, French Mandate was keeping on in Syria.
Till France gave its independence to Syria in the September of 1936, Turk-French relations
went on well. After the withdrawal of French form Syria, it was necessary to move
amendments for Turkey’s advantage. But this couldn’t be made. While France was
withdrawing from Syria, it turned its authorities over Syria. This unexpected situation
was impossible to be accepted by Ankara.
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