Why are Greece and Turkey not considered Arab countries?

Asked 12-Oct-2022
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The Arab world is often thought of as a homogeneous bloc, but the reality is far more complex. There are dozens of Arab countries, each with its own unique history, culture, and politics. And while many Arab countries do have close ties to each other, there are also significant differences between them.

One of the most significant divisions within the Arab world is between those countries that are considered part of the Arab world and those that are not. This division is often based on language, religion, and political affiliation.

Arabic is the primary language of the Arab world, but it is not the only language spoken in Arab countries. In fact, there are dozens of different languages spoken in the Arab world, including Turkish, Kurdish, Berber, and Persian.

Religion is also a significant factor in defining the Arab world. The vast majority of Arabs are Muslims, but there are also sizable Christian and Druze minorities.

Finally, political affiliation is another key factor in determining whether a country is considered part of the Arab world. Most Arab countries are members of the Arab League, an organization of Arab states. But there are also a number of Arab countries that are not members of the Arab League, including Turkey and Greece.

Why are Greece and Turkey not considered Arab countries?

So why are Greece and Turkey not considered Arab countries? 

There are a number of reasons.

First, neither Greece nor Turkey is an Arab state. Both countries have their own distinct histories, cultures, and politics.

Second, both Greece and Turkey have sizeable non-Arab populations. In Greece, for example, there are significant numbers of Turks, Kurds, and other minorities. In Turkey, meanwhile, Kurds make up a significant portion of the population.

Third, both Greece and Turkey have strong ties to non-Arab countries. Greece is a member of the European Union, while Turkey is a close ally of the United States.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, neither Greece nor Turkey identify as Arab countries. Both countries see themselves as part of Europe, not the Arab world.

So while Greece and Turkey may have close ties to Arab countries, they are not themselves Arab countries.