Kasparov speaks in Turkey

Being in İstanbul for the enterprise application software provider SAP’s largest event in the European, Middle Eastern and African regions, Kasparov said he was reminded of his trip to Turkey long ago.

“It is very important to see the improvement of this growing city that is full of energy and this country that is full of dynamism. It is now being said that Turkey could join the European Union in 2015. But will there be an EU in 2015?” Kasparov said.

Kasparov drew a parallel between the complexities and decision-making power of the game of chess and computers. The world-renowned chess player also drew attention to the use of social media and the Internet in the overthrow of dictator regimes in the Middle East. Thanks to the Internet and social media, Kasparov said that millions of people were able to share information and mobilize rapidly in the “Arab Spring.”

Reflecting on the slowing down of progress to protect the status quo, Kasparov said: “Countries like Turkey have great potential. You are lucky. You don’t have natural resources, you don’t have oil. Nothing comes from your maintaining the status quo. Technology can play a very large role in the development of your country.”