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Tuesday, November 30, 2004

EU draft draws fire in Turkey

"EU draft draws fire in Turkey
By Graham Bowley International Herald Tribune Tuesday, November 30, 2004
BRUSSELS Turkey will have to recognize the Republic of Cyprus, if only tacitly, if it wants to begin membership negotiations with the European Union, according to a draft document that was leaked here Monday.
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The document emerged as intense maneuvering began in anticipation of a decision by EU governments on whether Turkey can begin accession negotiations. The decision is set for Dec. 17.
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The issue of Turkish membership has split the Continent, with skeptics doubting that the EU could absorb a large Muslim country.
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Worries that richer Western European nations would be forced to subsidize Turkey, which would be one of the EU's biggest but poorest members, and that Turkey's entry into the EU could trigger a wave of migration have combined with concerns that Turkey does not share European values.
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These doubts have hardened public opinion in some countries and led some governments, such as in France where a majority of citizens oppose Turkey's membership, to suggest that Turkey be given a loose association with the EU rather than full membership.
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The focus on new conditions and obstacles, such as Turkey's lack of recognition of Cyprus, has dismayed Ankara.
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It insists it will not recognize Cyprus, which joined the EU in May, despite Cypriot threats to veto accession negotiations. Turkey is the only European country that does not recognize the Cypriot government, which it claims represents only the majority Greek Cypriot community on the divided island.
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The draft document, prepared by the Dutch government, appeared to hold out the prospect for negotiations between the EU and Turkey to begin next year, as Turkey desires.


More:EU draft draws fire in Turkey

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Influential Turkey represents a tremendous opportunity

"Influential Turkey represents a tremendous opportunity
By Ana Palacio
Published: November 30 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 30 2004 02:00

From Mrs Ana Palacio.

Sir, Despite his stated aim, Val�ry Giscard d'Estaing ('A better European bridge to Turkey', November 25) fails to bring much reason to the debate over Turkey joining the European Union.
It is time we saw Turkey for what it is: a huge opportunity. From its market potential to its role as an energy transit country; from an EU presence in regions of vital interest to our future (the southern Caucasus, the Middle East) to the proof that mankind is not inevitably doomed to suffer a 'clash of civilisations', Turkish membership will bring economic and strategic benefits to the EU."

More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Influential Turkey represents a tremendous opportunity

Boston.com / News / World / Europe / Tough EU terms for Turkey Draft of document draws framework

"Tough EU terms for Turkey Draft of document draws framework
By Marie-Louise Moller and Paul Taylor, Reuters | November 30, 2004
BRUSSELS -- Turkey will have to accept tough conditions, including de facto recognition of Cyprus and a permanent brake on labor migration, to open European Union entry talks, according to a draft EU summit statement.
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The draft circulated by the Dutch EU presidency and obtained by Reuters left blank the crucial wording of the decision on whether, when, and how to open entry negotiations with Ankara. The 25 EU leaders will fill it in at their Dec. 16-17 summit."

More:Boston.com / News / World / Europe / Tough EU terms for Turkey Draft of document draws framework

EUobserver.com:"EU considers setting tough conditions for Turkey

"c
30.11.2004 - 09:30 CET | By Honor Mahony Turkey may have to agree to some tough conditions before EU member states agree to go ahead and open membership negotiations.

A draft of the conclusions for a meeting of EU leaders next month, circulated by the Dutch EU Presidency on Monday (29 November), set conditions that would mean Ankara having to recognise Cyprus and accept permanent restrictions on the movement of its workers.

While the draft welcomes the 'decisive progress made by Turkey in its far reaching reform process', according to Reuters, it does not set a date for when negotiations should be opened.

This is expected to be left for EU leaders to decide when they meet on 17 December in Brussels."

More:EUobserver.com

ekathimerini.com | EU leak over Turkish bid

"EU leak over Turkish bid
Ankara insisted yesterday that it would not recognize the Republic of Cyprus before the December 17 European Union summit which will determine whether to grant Turkey a date for the start of EU accession talks.
This came just after a draft of the summit statement, prepared by the Dutch EU presidency, was leaked to the press. This set a strict framework for negotiations, called for de facto Turkish recognition of Cyprus and provided for suspension of talks with Ankara if a third of EU members decides that Turkey has gone back on reform pledges."

More:ekathimerini.com | EU leak over Turkish bid

Monday, November 29, 2004

Channelnewsasia.com:EU eyes green light for Turkey, but voices warning

"EU eyes green light for Turkey, but voices warning

BRUSSELS : The EU seems set to give Turkey a green light next month to start entry talk with the bloc, but warns it cannot guarantee the vast Muslim-majority country will eventually join, according to a draft document.

The first draft of conclusions for a crunch December 16-17 summit of EU leaders emerged as Turkey reiterated that it wants a clear date to start talks, and will accept nothing less than full membership of the bloc.

The European Union 'welcomes the decisive progress made by Turkey in its far-reaching reform process' said the draft, extracts of which were obtained by AFP Monday. "

More:Channelnewsasia.com

Aljazeera.Net - EU: Tough terms for Turkey

"EU: Tough terms for Turkey

Monday 29 November 2004, 20:36 Makka Time, 17:36 GMT

EU leaders will hold a summit between 16-17 December
Turkey will have to accept tough conditions to open European Union entry talks a draft EU summit statement showed.
The draft circulated by the Dutch EU presidency left blank the crucial wording on how to open entry negotiations with Ankara for leaders to fill in at their 16 -17 December summit.
It welcomed 'the decisive progress made by Turkey in its far-reaching reform process' but set a strict framework for negotiations, saying membership talks could not be concluded until the bloc had agreed on its post-2014 budget. "

More:Aljazeera.Net - EU: Tough terms for Turkey

EUbusiness - Turkey to consider Cyprus recognition after EU talks start date

"Turkey to consider Cyprus recognition after EU talks start date 29/11/2004

Turkey will consider demands to recognize European Union member Cyprus only after the 25-nation bloc gives Ankara the green light to begin accession talks, Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said Monday. 'We have expectations. We will consider these issues when our expectations are met, a decision is taken and membership talks begin,' Gul told reporters before leaving for a two-day 'Euromed' meeting of EU and Mediterranean leaders in The Hague. 'The European Union should meet its obligations,' Gul said. "

More:EUbusiness - Turkey to consider Cyprus recognition after EU talks start date

Scotsman.com News - Latest News - Blair Urges Fair Treatment of Turkey's EU Bid

"Blair Urges Fair Treatment of Turkey's EU Bid

By Joe Churcher, PA Political Staff

Turkey's application to join the European Union must be treated the same as any other nation's, Prime Minister Tony Blair said today.

EU leaders will decide whether to open accession negotiations at their summit next month after the European Commission recommended the process should begin.

Mr Blair told journalists at his monthly press conference that "no special obstacles" should be placed in Turkey's way."

More:Scotsman.com News - Latest News - Blair Urges Fair Treatment of Turkey's EU Bid

Are We Ready For 2006?

"Are We Ready For 2006?
BYEGM: 11/29/2004
BY ZEYNEP GURCANLI
STAR- Ankara had hoped that its EU membership negotiations would start in the first half of next year. Following all our reforms, the EU encouraged high spirits. However, the expected failed to materialize. Just two weeks before the Dec. 17 EU summit, the EU's stance on Turkey is getting clearer while Ankara grows confused. Firstly, let's talk about a realistic estimate of what we should expect on Dec. 17. During a recent meeting between Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul and the EU troika at The Hague, Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot summarized Turkey's shortcomings on the Copenhagen criteria by saying that six more laws were needed."

More:Are We Ready For 2006?

Cyprus says could support Turkey EU bid - (United Press International)

"Cyprus says could support Turkey EU bid

Bratislava, Slovakia, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos said Monday he would not oppose Turkish European Union accession talks provided Turkey met European standards. "

More:Cyprus says could support Turkey EU bid - (United Press International)

EUbusiness - EU eyes green light for Turkey, but voices warning

"EU eyes green light for Turkey, but voices warning 29/11/2004

The EU seems set to give Turkey a green light next month to start entry talk with the bloc, but warns it cannot guarantee the vast Muslim-majority country will eventually join, according to a draft document. The first draft of conclusions for a crunch December 16-17 summit of EU leaders emerged as Turkey reiterated that it wants a clear date to start talks, and will accept nothing less than full membership of the bloc. The European Union 'welcomes the decisive progress made by Turkey in its far-reaching reform process' said the draft, extracts of which were obtained by AFP Monday. "

More:EUbusiness - EU eyes green light for Turkey, but voices warning

Turks.US - Turkey's Kurds and Europe

"Turkey's Kurds and Europe
Monday, November 29 2004 @ 07:01 AM Central Standard Time

The 'Kurdish Problem' of Turkey has for a long time been a destabilizing element and reason for retardization of the country's economy and democratic standards"

More:Turks.US - Turkey's Kurds and Europe

BBC NEWS | Europe | EU summit to make Turkey demands

"EU summit to make Turkey demands

The European Commission has recommended opening talks
The European Union is expected to set out a series of tough conditions that Turkey may have to accept before starting membership talks.
A statement drafted for December's EU summit is said to contain a number of requirements, like recognising Cyprus.
The final wording of whether and when to start talks with Ankara is said to have been left blank until the summit. "

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | EU summit to make Turkey demands

cantonrep.com: Germany fears Muslims becoming a society apart

"Germany fears Muslims becoming a society apart
Monday, November 29, 2004 BERLIN (AP) - Shop signs in Arabic and Turkish, storefront mosques and women wearing headscarves in the streets are evidence of how new arrivals have found a slice of home in Berlin�s heavily immigrant Neukoelln neighborhood.
For years, Germans viewed such neighborhoods as a sign of a tolerant, multicultural society. But the Nov. 2 slaying of Dutch filmmaker Theo van Gogh allegedly by an Islamic radical has raised alarm in next-door Germany, which is home to more than 3 million Muslims."

More:cantonrep.com

President Putin to visit Turkey on December 5-6

"President Putin to visit Turkey on December 5-6
29 November 2004 13:30
Russian President Vladimir Putin will pay an official visit to Turkey on December 5-6, the Kremlin press service said.
The Russian leader is to hold talks with Turkish President Ahmet Sezer and Prime Minister Recep Erdogan. "

More:President Putin to visit Turkey on December 5-6

Reuters | EU draft sets tough terms for Turkey

"EU draft sets tough terms for Turkey
Mon 29 November, 2004 12:01

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Turkey will have to accept tough conditions, including de facto recognition of Cyprus and possible permanent restrictions on labour migration, to ensure the start of European Union membership talks, a draft EU summit statement says.
The draft, circulated by the Dutch EU presidency on Monday and obtained by Reuters, left the crucial wording of the decision on whether and when to open entry negotiations with Ankara blank for leaders to fill in at a December 16-17 summit.
It welcomed 'the decisive progress made by Turkey in its far-reaching reform process' but set a strict framework for negotiations and said talks could not be concluded until the bloc had agreed on its post-2014 budget."

Reuters | Latest Financial News / Full News Coverage

Erdogan calls for EU leaders to be positive toward Turkey

"Erdogan calls for EU leaders to be positive toward Turkey

The Turkish Prime Minister said EU leaders should show political courage.

November 29- Turkey's Prime Minister has called on the leaders of the European Union's member states to act positively towards his country's bid to be given a firm date to open accession negotiations with the bloc."

More:Erdogan calls for EU leaders to be positive toward Turkey

Sunday, November 28, 2004

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Turkey in EU is start of fraternal links to Islam

"Turkey in EU is start of fraternal links to Islam
By Anthony Staines
Published: November 29 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 29 2004 02:00

From Dr Anthony Staines.

Sir, Valery Giscard d'Estaing opposes the admission of Turkey to the European Union ('A better European bridge to Turkey', November 25), apparently on the grounds that Turkey lacks cultural roots in ancient Greece and Rome, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and the contribution of rational and scientific thought. This shows a surprising ignorance of both European and Turkish history."

More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Turkey in EU is start of fraternal links to Islam

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Ankara is pledged to improve rights

"Ankara is pledged to improve rights
By Mary Honeyball
Published: November 29 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 29 2004 02:00

From Mary Honeyball MEP.

Sir, To read Valery Giscard d'Estaing, no one would believe that Turkey had been a European Union applicant since 1999. There is no doubt that Turkey is making progress towards meeting the criteria for EU membership, the acquis communautaire. This is what matters, not Mr Giscard's very particular view of what constitutes a European state.
The present AKP government, elected with a large majority, is pro-European and pro-reform. Turkey has been a secular state for the best part of a century and is committed to bringing human and minority rights into line with the EU."

More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Ankara is pledged to improve rights

The Daily Star - Opinion Articles - The European Union needs Turkey

"The European Union needs Turkey

By Soner Cagaptay

Saturday, November 27, 2004
On Oct. 6, the European Union issued its much-anticipated report evaluating Turkey's accession prospects. The report said that Ankara satisfied the EU's membership rules sufficiently to begin accession talks. However, the report also suggested a special track for talks with Turkey, one with no promise of membership. This sets Turkey apart from all other candidate countries for which accession talks have been close ended. "

More:The Daily Star - Opinion Articles - The European Union needs Turkey

Chicago Tribune | Younger Turks favor joining EU as way to better nation

"Younger Turks favor joining EU as way to better nation
Country forced to make reforms

By Catherine Collins
Special to the Tribune
Published November 28, 2004

ISTANBUL -- Nearly a century after a cabal of young Turks engineered the downfall of the Ottoman Empire, a new generation of young Turks is embracing the start of another kind of revolution.

Although many Europeans have doubts about admitting Turkey to the European Union, the prospect of Turkey's joining has been greeted eagerly across this country--and particularly among its vast young population.

In their enthusiasm, Turks under 30 seem undaunted by the remaining EU membership hurdles. Instead, many say they understand that their country must make further progress in areas such as education and must solidify human-rights and political reforms before it can join Europe's club."

More:Chicago Tribune | Younger Turks favor joining EU as way to better nation

Greater Kashmir :To allow or not to allow, that's the question

"To allow or not to allow, that's the question

What makes EU so divided over Turkey's membership, comments S. Islam
With just three weeks to go before European Union leaders decide on whether to start membership talks with Turkey, many of the bloc's leaders are getting cold feet about opening the EU's doors too wide for Ankara. Diplomats say the EU leaders meeting in Brussels on December 16-17 will probably say yes to the opening of entry negotiations with Turkey but make such discussions conditional on a range of additional political reform efforts by Ankara over the coming years. Such a qualified yes, however, is not what Turkey wants. "

More:Greater Kashmir Daily English Newspaper from Kashmir (INDIA) Beta Site.:

Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Germany Takes Steps to Integrate Muslims

"Germany Takes Steps to Integrate Muslims

Monday November 29, 2004 12:01 AM
By TONY CZUCZKA
Associated Press Writer
BERLIN (AP) - Shop signs in Arabic and Turkish, storefront mosques and women wearing headscarves in the streets are evidence of how new arrivals have found a slice of home in Berlin's heavily immigrant Neukoelln neighborhood.
For years, Germans viewed such neighborhoods as a sign of a tolerant, multicultural society. But the Nov. 2 slaying of Dutch filmmaker Theo van Gogh allegedly by an Islamic radical has raised alarm in next-door Germany, which is home to more than 3 million Muslims. "

More:Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Germany Takes Steps to Integrate Muslims

FT.com / World - Croatian war crime threat to Turkey's EU bid

"Croatian war crime threat to Turkey's EU bid
By George Parker and Daniel Dombey in Brussels
Published: November 28 2004 21:13 | Last updated: November 28 2004 21:13

Turkey's bid to start talks to join the European Union could be complicated by a separate dispute over Croatia's membership application, senior EU diplomats are warning.

Some EU members, including Britain and several Nordic countries, have reservations about initiating talks with Croatia because of its failure to hand over wanted war criminals."

More:FT.com / World - Croatian war crime threat to Turkey's EU bid

Aga Khan Award for Architecture Goes to Turkey

"Aga Khan Award for Architecture Goes to Turkey

One of the world's most respected architectural awards, the 9th.Aga Khan Foundation Awards for Architecture, went this year to the B2 House designed by Turkish architect Han Tumertekin for Bilsar Tekstil's owners Selman and Suha Bilal. In the contest, which aims to understand and evaluate Islamic culture through architecture, a jury of nine people including artists, philosophers, architects and city planners evaluated 378 projects from 44 countries."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER

The Turkish-US Love-Hate Relationship

"The Turkish-US Love-Hate Relationship
Ugur Akinci: 11/28/2004
Turks have such a love-hate relationship with the United States � and they are by no means alone in this, as the latest anti-American student protest in Greece has demonstrated clearly.
Turks know that the US supports Turkey in a number of policy issues ranging from Baku-Ceyhan oil pipeline to Turkey`s EU membership. But they are also very wary that the US is doing all that for a 'sinister reason.' Conspiracy, the danger of being sucked into somebody else`s less-than-noble plans, the danger of losing one`s independence and dignity is always in the foreground of Turkish thinking. The worst scenario is 'Americans are trying to split Turkey.' "

More:The Turkish-US Love-Hate Relationship

Saturday, November 27, 2004

Europeans Love Ottoman Jewelry

"Europeans Love Ottoman Jewelry

Motifs for Anatolian weddings are quickly becoming a popular source of inspiration for many jewelry exporting nations across the world and especially in Europe. Turkish competitors want to overthrow Italy, which annually exports $5 billion worth of jewelry, by annually exporting $5 billion by 2010. Turkish exports currently make $1 billion. "

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2004112814213)

Turks.US - Turkey Hopes for a 2005 Start in Negotiations

"Turkey Hopes for a 2005 Start in Negotiations
Saturday, November 27 2004 @ 09:18 AM Central Standard Time

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul assured Turkey that membership negotiations with the European Union (EU) will take place in 2005.

Gul stressed yesterday that he does not think European Union (EU) leaders will delay negotiations until 2006.

The Minister reported that there is no final decision yet and that both the EU and Turkey mutually seek the sensitivity to implement these decisions. "

More:Turks.US - Turkey Hopes for a 2005 Start in Negotiations

Turks.US - 80% of German Turks Feel Discriminated Against

"80% of German Turks Feel Discriminated Against
Saturday, November 27 2004 @ 11:22 AM Central Standard Time

Up to 80 percent of the sizable Turkish community in Germany feel discriminated against, a new study has revealed.

Five years ago, only 65 percent of the estimated 2.1 million Turks in Germany felt they were being treated as second-class citizens compared to 80 percent in 2004, said the study released Friday, November 26, by the Turkish Studies Center in the Rhein region.

It warned that such discrimination could push the community members into isolations and a ghetto life."

More:Turks.US - 80% of German Turks Feel Discriminated Against

WSJ.com - In Muslim Turkey , A Minister's Quest: Starting a Church

"In Muslim Turkey ,
A Minister's Quest:
Starting a Church
Religious Restrictions Begin
To Ease as Nation Seeks
Entry in European Union
Coffeehouse and Prayer Hall
By HUGH POPE
Staff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
November 26, 2004; Page A1
ANTALYA, Turkey -- Strolling through the jasmine-scented alleys of this Mediterranean port city in 1997, Rev. James Bultema stumbled on an abandoned stone chapel. Instantly, he envisioned it restored and reconsecrated. Here was the home he was seeking for his budding congregation.
'I walked in, stood there and imagined how beautiful it could be,' says the Presbyterian pastor from Muskegon, Mich."

More:In Muslim Turkey , A Minister's Quest: Starting a Church

Turks.US - 2 Negative Signals on Turkey's EU Bid

"2 Negative Signals on Turkey's EU Bid
Saturday, November 27 2004 @ 09:16 AM Central Standard Time

Views: 26
During a meeting at The Hague on November 24th between the European Union (EU)'s troika and Turkish delegates, the EU Term President, Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot, pressured Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul about a 'privileged partnership' and the 'permanent restriction of free movement [within the Union].' "

More:Turks.US - 2 Negative Signals on Turkey's EU Bid

MEETING AT THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

"27/11/2004 | MEETING AT THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT PROMOTED BY THE DELEGATION OF RADICAL DEPUTIES. BRUSSELS, 6/8 DECEMBER 2004

EMMA BONINO - MARCO PANNELLA, DEPUTIES TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT

Meeting at the European Parliament
promoted by the Delegation of Radical Deputies. Brussels, 6/8 December 2004

In the crescendo of controversies and debates that have finally exploded about the urgency to tackle the topic, both secular and Christian, of the relationships between faith and science, between rights and freedom, between Caesar and the "Representatives of God", alias highest dignitaries of "religious" confessions, the afternoon of the 6th and the morning of the 7th December , we will hold a first meeting about "Turkey and the European Union: reason for a historic choice", with the insured presence of authoritative exponents of the Turkish government and European Union personalities, on the eve of the European Council's decision about immediately opening negotiations for Turkish acceptance in the EU. As is known, the choice the Council will effect involves opposing views of the relationship between soul, European federalist spirit, secular and therefore also spiritual and religious, of the two confronting parties."

More:MEETING AT THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT PROMOTED BY THE DELEGATION OF RADICAL DEPUTIES. BRUSSELS, 6/8 DECEMBER 2004

Friday, November 26, 2004

Yeni Turk Lirasi: the New Turkish Lira

"January 1, 2005 sees the introduction of the New Turkish Lira (Yeni Turk Lirasi, YTL) to replace the old Turk Lirasi (TL).
The New Turkish Lira is equivalent to one million (old) Turkish Liras (TL). In other words, six zeros have been dropped from the old TL to make the YTL.
If you paid TL1,000,000 for a drink in 2004, you pay YTL1 in 2005."

Official New Turkish Lira Website

More:Yeni Turk Lirasi: the New Turkish Lira

The Epoch Times | Turkey - Where Europe meets Asia

"Turkey - Where Europe meets Asia
A historical tour for the potential tourist

Anna Skibinsky
The Epoch Times
Nov 25, 2004

The Library of Celsus built between 117 and 120 A.D., Ephesus. (Anna Skibinsky/Epoch Times)
Most visitors to Turkey do not venture far from the white beaches and turquoise waters.
Since the fall of the Soviet Union, the Mediterranean coast of Turkey has beckoned crowds of Russia�s Nuevo-riche to its resorts which have been sprouting up expeditiously. For lovers of ancient history and connoisseurs of classical art and architecture, the rest of Turkey is a treasure chest that holds the remnants of culture dating back 4000 years. "

More:The Epoch Times | Turkey - Where Europe meets Asia

Jerusalem Post | German leader backs Turkish EU bid

"German leader backs Turkish EU bid
By ASSOCIATED PRESS

European leaders have a historic chance to build 'a bridge to the Islamic world' when they decide next month whether to open European Union membership talks with Turkey, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder said Friday. "

More:Jerusalem Post | Breaking News from Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish World

Christian News - The Christian Post | No Consensus in EU yet For Turkey

"No Consensus in EU yet For Turkey
The European Union has pressed Turkey to step up the pace of legal reforms and hinted that there was still no consensus in the Union's 25 capitals.
Friday, Nov. 26, 2004 Posted: 11:17:49AM EST

Three and a half weeks before European Union leaders are expected to endorse the executive body's recommendation to open membership talks with Turkey at their Dec. 17 summit, the EU pressed the country to step up the pace of legal reforms and hinted that there was still no consensus in the Union's 25 capitals."

More:Christian News - The Christian Post | No Consensus in EU yet For Turkey

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - EU should not waste energy on atlases of the past

"EU should not waste energy on atlases of the past
By Deniz Erocal
Published: November 26 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 26 2004 02:00

From Mr Deniz Erocal.

Sir, There is no doubt that existing European Union members are entitled to decide whether from a political and cultural point of view they wish to have Turkey included in their Union, as argued by Val�ry Giscard d'Estaing ('A better European bridge to Turkey', November 25). However, to hide the political decision behind a geographical argument is absolute rubbish. There is no answer to the question whether Turkey is in Europe or Asia. Turkey is located precisely in that part of the world where the notions of Europe and Asia were invented. One can see maps of the Roman Empire from the first centuries AD in which regions designated 'Asia' (western Anatolia) and 'Evropa' (essentially Thrace) are both situated in what is now Turkey."

More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - EU should not waste energy on atlases of the past

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Editorial comment - A bit too late to go cold on Turkey

"A bit too late to go cold on Turkey
Published: November 26 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 26 2004 02:00

In three weeks' time, European Union leaders must make up their minds whether Turkey can be admitted to accession negotiations that in 10 to 15 years should make it a member of their club. Val�ry Giscard d'Estaing, the former French president who headed the recent convention to devise a new constitution for the EU, explained in these pages yesterday why they should say No. We beg to differ.

There is a perfectly legitimate argument to be had here - and Turkey had better get used to it because this is going to be a long and rough ride. The debate should be out in the open, and it is pointless to pretend - as Mr Giscard tries to do - that the religion question is not part of it. It plainly is."
More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Editorial comment - A bit too late to go cold on Turkey

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - If Turkey is 95% in Asia what about Cyprus?

"If Turkey is 95% in Asia what about Cyprus?
By Bob Maltz
Published: November 26 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 26 2004 02:00

From Mr Bob Maltz.

Sir, I am surprised that when Valery Giscard d'Estaing consulted his atlas and noticed that 95 per cent of Turkey is in Asia, he failed to notice that 100 per cent of Cyprus, nestled off the shores of Eastern Anatolia and recently welcomed with open arms into the European Union, is in Asia.
He then goes on to raise the spectre of EU membership for Morocco, which would not be all that surprising as his atlas would have shown him that Morocco lies far closer to Europe than Cyprus does.
Perhaps 'selective geography' is one of the 'contributions of rational and scientific thought' to which he refers as one of the defining characteristics of Europe.
Bob Maltz, London N8 9HR, UK"

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - If Turkey is 95% in Asia what about Cyprus?

FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - If EU seeks peace and stability then Turkey is a prize

"If EU seeks peace and stability then Turkey is a prize
By Stephen Wall
Published: November 26 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 26 2004 02:00

From Sir Stephen Wall.

Sir, The 1963 agreement between the European Community and Turkey says: 'As soon as the operation of the agreement has advanced far enough to justify envisaging full acceptance by Turkey of the obligations arising out of the treaty establishing the Community, the contracting parties shall examine the possibility of the accession of Turkey to the Community.'"

More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - If EU seeks peace and stability then Turkey is a prize

Reuters | Turk lawmaker says US in Iraq worse than Hitler

"Turk lawmaker says US in Iraq worse than Hitler
Fri 26 November, 2004 14:21

By Gareth Jones
ANKARA (Reuters) - The head of Turkey's parliamentary human rights group has accused Washington of genocide in Iraq and behaving worse than Adolf Hitler, in remarks underscoring the depth of opposition in Turkey to U.S. policy in the region.
The United Sates embassy said the comments were potentially damaging to Turkish-U.S. relations."

More:Reuters | Latest Financial News / Full News Coverage

Turkish Daily News Online:Fitch: Turkish TV manufacturers become market leader in Europe

"Fitch: Turkish TV manufacturers become market leader in Europe

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News


International credit rating agency Fitch yesterday said that Turkish TV manufacturers have rapidly expanded their sales in Europe at the expense of their continental counterparts in the last five years to become the new market leaders. Fitch expects this strong growth to continue in the medium-term, as Turkish producers ramp up their capacity.

'More than 50% of the TVs sold in Europe in this summer was manufactured and assembled by the Turkish original equipment manufacturers (OEM), namely Vestel, Beko, Profilo, eroding the market shares of established European TV makers such as Grundig, Formenti, Sei and Finlux,' commented Kaan Kiziroglu, Associate Director at Fitch's European Industrial team. "

More:Turkish Daily News Online...ECONOMY

When negotiations begin: the next phase in EU-Turkey relations

"When negotiations begin: the next phase in EU-Turkey relations

In Short:

This essay by Heather Grabbe , published by the Centre for European Reform , is about the challenges that lie ahead for the EU and Turkey once accession negotiations begin. It considers which aspects of the accession process and the EU's rule-book will be unpalatable to various Turkish interest groups. The essay concludes with the lessons which Turkey can learn from the experience of the Central and East European countries which joined the EU in May 2004."

More:When negotiations begin: the next phase in EU-Turkey relations

King-Crane Commission Report

"King-Crane Commission Report" was written in the 1920's. The report was regarding Anatolia & post Ottoman Turkey, and what the USA should do about Turkey and the Turks. The report was meant for the allies. However, there was a secret appendix to this report, which surfaced later, and this appendix was for American eyes only. The links for the original report and the addendum plus a preface to this publication can be found below.

We thank Mr Hulusi Tezcan for bringing these important documents to our attention.

1- Turkey-World Center of News Interest- A preface to the publication of the King-Crane Commission Report, published in Editor & Publisher, 1919

2- The King-Crane Commission Report, August 28, 1919-Report of [the] American section of Inter-allied Commission of mandates in Turkey

3- Confidential Appendix-Prepared By The Commission For Use of Americans Only

Chicago Tribune | Europeans in no mood to welcome Turkey

"Europeans in no mood to welcome Turkey
EU membership lacks popular appeal

By Tom Hundley
Tribune foreign correspondent
Published November 26, 2004

PARIS -- Too big. Too poor. Too Muslim.

For most Europeans, the recent recommendation of the European Union's executive body to open membership talks with Turkey goes a step too far.

Although EU political leaders are expected to endorse the executive's recommendation at their Dec. 17 summit, public opinion in most of the EU's 25 member states is deeply opposed to Turkey joining the club.

Surveys indicate that a referendum on Turkish membership would fail in every major EU country."

More:Chicago Tribune | Europeans in no mood to welcome Turkey

Greek Cypriots Would Block Turkey's EU Bid

"Greek Cypriots Would Block Turkey's EU Bid

(CPOD) Nov. 26, 2004 - Many residents of Greek Cyprus are opposed to allowing Turkey to join the European Union (EU), according to a poll by Cyprus College published in Simerini. 62 per cent of respondents believe their government should veto Turkey's accession, unless the Turkish government recognizes the Greek Cypriot administration."

More:::.centre for public opinion and democracy.::

Thursday, November 25, 2004

Europarl: The role of women in Turkey

"The role of women in Turkey
At a discussion held on Thursday by Parliament's Committee on Women's Rights and Gender Equality with the Turkish Ambassador to the EU, Oguz DEMIRALP, MEPs had the opportunity to hear the official viewpoint of the Turkish Government on respect for women's rights. This exchange was part of preparations for a report on the role of women in Turkey which is being drafted by Emine BOZKURT (PES, NL). The Women's Rights Committee is also sending a fact-finding mission to Turkey in January 2005 and plans to hold a public hearing on the same topic in March 2005."

News Report�:�25-11-2004

Politics.ie - EU should open accession negotiations with Turkey - De Rossa

"EU should open accession negotiations with Turkey - De Rossa

Speaking at the Oireachtas Joint Committee on European Affairs today (25th November), Dublin Labour MEP Proinsias De Rossa said that the European Union should decide in mid-December to open membership negotiations with Turkey."

More:Politics.ie - EU should open accession negotiations with Turkey - De Rossa

Agenzia Giornalistica Italia:FINI WANTS TO SET A DATE FOR ACCESSION

"EU-TURKEY: "EU-TURKEY: FINI WANTS TO SET A DATE FOR ACCESSION TALKS
(AGI) - Rome, Italy, Nov. 25 - Foreign Minister Gianfranco Fini hopes that during the next meeting of the European Council to be held on December 17 a specific date for the start of accession talks with Turkey will be set. 'We will keep stating that a date should be set as soon as possible', Fini said at the end of his meeting with his Turkish counterpart Abdullah Gul,who has been invited to take part in the Italy-Turkey forum organized by Unicredit in Rome. "

More:Agenzia Giornalistica Italia - News In English

Reality may hurt, but it can't be ignored

"Reality may hurt, but it can't be ignored
Turkish Daily News: 11/25/2004
By Yusuf Kanli
Whenever the European Union issue pops up on the agenda, we stress that Turkey's membership road will be a rather difficult one and will require substantive compromises on what have been Turkey's �fundamental positions� over the past decades. "

More:Reality may hurt, but it can't be ignored

EU dampens Turkey's hopes for membership -DAWN

"EU dampens Turkey's hopes for membership

THE HAGUE, Nov 24: The European Union said on Wednesday that its member states will make their own decision on whether Turkey has fulfilled conditions to start membership talks despite a favourable view by the European Commission which had boosted Ankara's hopes.

Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot, whose country holds the rotating EU presidency, also urged Ankara to pass several outstanding reforms and stressed that the EU would be 'very strict' in assessing Turkey's merits for ultimate membership. "

More:EU dampens Turkey's hopes for membership -DAWN - International; 25 November, 2004

Turkish FM calls for objectivity from EU

"Turkish FM calls for objectivity from EU

There are no problems for non-Muslim citizens in Turkey, Gul said.

November 25� The European Union must be objective in assessing whether to start membership talks with Turkey, Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said Wednesday."

More:Turkish FM calls for objectivity from EU

Turkish Daily News : Cyprus festering

"Cyprus festering

The countdown to the Dec. 17 summit brings an increase in EU pressure on Ankara to recognize the Greek Cypriot government before a decision on whether to open membership negotiations is made

Pressure on Turkey to acknowledge the internationally recognized Greek Cypriot administration, one of the 25 members of the European Union, became even stronger on Ankara yesterday when the union�s top officials told Foreign Minister Abdullah G�l that the issue must be settled before a critical summit in mid-December, which will decide whether to start accession talks. "

More:Turkish Daily News Online...FOREIGN NEWS

Turkish Daily News Online:Turkey focussed on EU

"Turkey focussed on EU

'Turkey will continue keeping its eyes fixed on the West and Europe, even if the EU does not open accession talks next month,' Turkish Ambassador in Washington Logoglu says

ANKARA-Turkish Daily News


Turkey's Ambassador to the United States Faruk Logoglu said yesterday that Ankara expected the European Union at its summit on Dec.17 in Brussels to decide on starting accession talks with Turkey in the second half of next year, the Anatolia news agency reported.
Turkey will not change its course towards Western civilization, even if EU leaders did not make a decision paving the way for Turkey's eventual EU membership, said Logoglu, speaking at a meeting organized by the European-American Business Council.
"Even if a positive outcome does not emerge from the summit on Dec. 17, Turkey will not turn to Russia, the Islamic World or the Middle East," Anatolia quoted him as saying at a meeting entitled 'Turkey in the New Millennium.'
The European leaders' decision is expected to be in line with an EU Commission recommendation for the opening of Turkey's talks. The commission said last month that Turkey had fulfilled the Copenhagen criteria which are assumed as the only standards needed in order to open accession talks. ,
Logoglu said Turkey would definitely protect its current alliances without relying on the decision of the EU Council. He added there would be a process of questions if the EU rejected the opening of Turkey's talks and some circles may seek that Turkey turn towards another direction rather than its current objective of modernization.
"Nevertheless, Turkey will keep its eyes fixed on the West and Europe," Logoglu said. He added that Turkey would not give up its reform process.

Logoglu, speaking on American the C-SPAN television station, said the United States would also benefit from Turkey’s EU membership in relation to its strategic, security and political interests. He added international relations of the United States would be strengthened by Turkey's EU accession. "

More:Turkish Daily News Online...FOREIGN NEWS

Telegraph | News | Turkish workers a mistake, claims Schmidt

"Turkish workers a mistake, claims Schmidt
By Hannah Cleaver in Berlin
(Filed: 25/11/2004)
Helmut Schmidt, the former German chancellor, has inflamed the country's debate on immigration by saying that multiculturalism can only work under authoritarian regimes, and that bringing millions of Turkish guest workers to Germany was a mistake."

More:Telegraph | News | Turkish workers a mistake, claims Schmidt

FT.com / Home UK - Turkey's astute new champion

"Turkey's astute new champion
By Peter Marsh
Published: November 25 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 25 2004 02:00

Guler Sabanci looks faintly amused when asked about the consternation in some parts of western Europe about the idea of Turkey joining the European Union. 'We are just at the beginning. If you see the reaction from some people in France, it's as though Turkey will join on January 1 2005.'"

More:FT.com / Home UK - Turkey's astute new champion

Dutch FM says extension of customs union protocol implementation by Turkey desirable

"Dutch FM says extension of customs union protocol implementation by Turkey desirable
Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot said here on Wednesday the extension of the customs union protocol's implementation to all European Union member-states by Turkey, including Cyprus, is 'desirable.'"

More:Today's Home News

Expatica: No EU membership for Turkey, argues Giscard

"No EU membership for Turkey, argues Giscard

PARIS, Nov 25 (AFP) - Former French president Valery Giscard D'Estaing issued a strongly-worded appeal against Turkish membership of the European Union Thursday, arguing that it would require the drafting of yet another constitution to replace the one currently awaiting ratification. "

More:Expatica � Living in, moving to, or working in France, plus French news in English

Turks.US - Good news from Brussels

"Good news from Brussels

By Mehmet Ali Birand

European Union foreign ministers met earlier this week while yesterday the EU troika (previous, current and future EU term-presidents) met with Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul in The Hague.
The statement to be released on Dec. 17, was discussed by the foreign ministers and Gul was notified."

More:Turks.US - Good news from Brussels

Wednesday, November 24, 2004

FT.com / World - Giscard lends weight to plan for Turkish/EU 'partnership'

"Giscard lends weight to plan for Turkish/EU 'partnership'
By Daniel Dombey in Brussels and Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: November 24 2004 22:03 | Last updated: November 24 2004 22:03

Valery Giscard d'Estaing, the former French president and chief architect of Europe's draft constitution, has backed a growing campaign to offer Turkey a "privileged partnership" with the European Union rather than full membership."

More:FT.com / World - Giscard lends weight to plan for Turkish/EU �partnership'

IHT:Being 'clear,' EU keeps pressure on Turkey

"Being 'clear,' EU keeps pressure on Turkey
By Katrin Bennhold International Herald Tribune Thursday, November 25, 2004
THE HAGUE Three and a half weeks before European Union leaders will decide whether to allow Turkey to start membership talks, the EU pressed the country to step up the pace of legal reforms and hinted that there was still no consensus in the Union's 25 capitals.


More:Being 'clear,' EU keeps pressure on Turkey

EUbusiness - Majority of Greek Cypriots favour vetoing Turkey's EU bid: poll

"Majority of Greek Cypriots favour vetoing Turkey's EU bid: poll 24/11/2004

Sixty-two percent of Greek Cypriots favour vetoing Turkey's EU accession bid unless Ankara recognizes the Cypriot government, a poll indicated Wednesday. The survey, published by Simerini newspaper, showed that these respondents also insist that Turkey agree to a gradual withdrawal of its troops from the divided island and sign the EU customs union agreement to incorporate Cyprus. "

More:EUbusiness - Majority of Greek Cypriots favour vetoing Turkey's EU bid: poll

EP Socialist group warns Ankara over Cyprus

"EP Socialist group warns Ankara over Cyprus

The chairman of the Socialist Group in the European Parliament Martin Schulz gave full support to Turkey's European Union membership.

November 24- The head of the European Parliament's Socialist Group has called on Ankara to resolve the problem of Turkey not recognising the Greek Cypriot state, a European Union member."

More:EP Socialist group warns Ankara over Cyprus

EUbusiness - EU hopes for progress in Turkey-Cyprus ties

"EU hopes for progress in Turkey-Cyprus ties Abdullah Gul (L), Turkish Minister for Foreign Affairs - Photo Council of the European Union24/11/2004

The EU cautioned Turkey Wednesday that its refusal to recognize Cyprus may hurt its membership bid and expressed hope that ties between the two would improve before Ankara starts accession talks. In a reminder to Turkey not to dismiss Cyprus' role in EU decisions, Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot said: 'Turkey will be negotiating with 25 member states.' "

More:EUbusiness - EU hopes for progress in Turkey-Cyprus ties

EU Troika cautious ahead of December 17 Summit

"EU Troika cautious ahead of December 17 Summit

The Dutch Foreign Minister said that starting the negotiation process with Turkey relied on Ankara passing six regulations and implementing then.

November 24� The EU Troika held its regular six monthly meeting with candidate member Turkey at ministerial level in the Hague on Wednesday."

More:EU Troika cautious ahead of December 17 Summit

EUbusiness - Members will make up their own minds on accession talks, EU tells Turkey

"Members will make up their own minds on accession talks, EU tells Turkey 24/11/2004

EU member states will make their own decision on whether Turkey has fulfilled conditions to start membership talks despite a favorable view by the European Commission, Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot said here Wednesday. 'Member states are free to decide for themselves whether the Copenhagen criteria are fulfilled ... Member states are master of the field,' Bot, whose country holds the EU presidency, told reporters after EU officials held talks here with Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul. "

More:EUbusiness - Members will make up their own minds on accession talks, EU tells Turkey

EUbusiness - EU, Turkish leaders meet ahead of crucial December decision

"EU, Turkish leaders meet ahead of crucial December decision Abdullah Gul, Turkish Minister for Foreign Affairs - Photo Council of the European Union24/11/2004

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul meets in The Hague on Wednesday with EU leaders in the last high-level talks between the two sides in the run-up to December 17 when Turkey faces the moment of truth on its bid to join the European Union. Gul was to discuss his country's prospects of starting accession talks with the so-called EU 'troika,' comprised of the current Dutch presidency, the next one, Luxembourg, and the European Commission. "

More:EUbusiness - EU, Turkish leaders meet ahead of crucial December decision

Turks.US - We Attacked And Raped Turks

"We Attacked And Raped Turks
Tuesday, November 23 2004 @ 11:18 PM Central Standard Time

Andreas Dimitriu a former militant of EOKA (Greek Cypriot terror organization) confessed that they attacked Turkish Cypriots, and raped them, 30 years ago. "

More:Turks.US - We Attacked And Raped Turks

Yahoo! News - TURKEY MOVES CLOSER TO E.U. MEMBERSHIP

"TURKEY MOVES CLOSER TO E.U. MEMBERSHIP

By Georgie Anne Geyer
WASHINGTON -- Earlier this fall, at the bureaucratic, utilitarian offices of the European Union (news - web sites) in downtown Brussels, a scene unfolded that was historic and filled with pathos. "

More:Yahoo! News - TURKEY MOVES CLOSER TO E.U. MEMBERSHIP

AEI - Events:Turkey in the European Union: Consequences for Europe

"November 2004
Turkey in the European Union: Consequences for Europe

Jonathan Davidson, Joost Lagendijk, Radek Sikorski, Zeyno Baran, Helga Flores Trejo
In December, European leaders will decide whether to act on the European Commission's recommendation to open accession negotiations with Turkey. While the United States sees Turkey's EU membership mainly in strategic terms, European policymakers also have to consider the political, economic, and social aspects of admitting Turkey into the European Union. Such a step would alter the demographics of the European Union and change its power relations. If Turkey joins the European Union under the proposed European Constitution, Germany will no longer have the most votes in the Council of Ministers or the European Parliament; the Common Agricultural Policy would face radical reform; and the borders of the European Union would stretch to the Middle East. On November 9, 2004, the New Atlantic Initiative and the Heinrich Boell Foundation organized a discussion to see whether these changes would make a better Union. "

More:AEI - Events

Tuesday, November 23, 2004

Brock Press-Turkish delight

"Brock Press - Features
Issue: 11/23/04

Turkish delight


BURNABY, B.C. (CUP) - It all began with Turkey. Civilization, that is.

The region now known as Turkey boasts more ancient wonders of the world, Biblical sites and ruins than just about any other country. It's a hotbed of history, an Ottoman odyssey waiting to be explored. Turkey is a whirling dervish of spicy Middle Eastern culture, with as many experiences to offer as there are varieties of Turkish delight.

And delightful it is."

More:Brock Press

Ankara Warns U.S. to Observe "Red Line" Around Northern Iraq's Turkmens

"Washington Report, November 2004, page 58, 60
Talking Turkey
Ankara Warns U.S. to Observe "Red Line" Around Northern Iraq's Turkmens
By Jon Gorvett

Iraqis from Tal Afar wait at the entrance of their battered northern town Sept. 15 to be allowed to retun home. More than 56 people were said to have been killed and 152 wounded in five days of heavy fighting between U.S. forces and resistance fighters (AFP photo/Mujahed Mohammed).

WITH BOMBS falling on the northern Iraqi town of Tal Afar in mid-September, Turkey�s political, military and civil organizations seemed for once united in their reaction. As the largely Turkmen inhabitants of the besieged town appealed to their ethnic Turkish brethren for support, Ankara issued its strongest warning yet to Washington, and thereby highlighted a growing anxiety here over the future of northern Iraq. "

More:Ankara Warns U.S. to Observe "Red Line" Around Northern Iraq's Turkmens

Turks.US - Time for new threat concept

"Time for new threat concept
Tuesday, November 23 2004 @ 12:05 PM Central Standard Time

Views: 20
By Burak Bekdil

The press coverage of Gen. Hilmi Ozkok�s most recent speech was probably disproportionate to its significance. The speech by the chief of the General Staff, ironically at the Turkish War Academy in Istanbul, has sent the first signals that military headquarters in Ankara seriously intends to revise its static, perhaps unrealistic, "threat analysis," a move this column has invariably advocated."

More:Turks.US - Time for new threat concept

Asia Times - Muslim anguish and Western hypocrisy

"Muslim anguish and Western hypocrisy
By Spengler

Muslims who have made their life in Western countries while adhering to Islam face a frightful dilemma. After the November 2 murder of Dutch filmmaker Theo van Gogh (The assassin's master sermon, Nov 16), European authorities have demanded that resident Muslims repudiate violence. Many mainstream Muslim leaders, though, cannot bring themselves to denounce the murderer of van Gogh, whose film Submission showed Koranic verses superimposed on the naked skin of Muslim women. "

More: f="http://atimes.com/atimes/Front_Page/FK23Aa01.html">Asia Times - Asia's most trusted news source

FT.com / Home UK - Cyprus threat to Turkey's EU accession talks

"Cyprus threat to Turkey's EU accession talks
By Vincent Boland in Ankara, Andreas Hadjipapas in Nicosia and,Kerin Hope in Athens
Published: November 23 2004 02:00 | Last updated: November 23 2004 02:00

Officials in Ankara declined to comment yesterday on remarks at the weekend by George Iacovou, the Greek Cypriot foreign minister, calling for Turkey to recognise his government.

Turkey is insisting it will not recognise the republic of Cyprus ahead of next month's European Union decision on opening membership talks with Ankara despite renewed Cypriot threats to veto the move."

More: FT.com / Home UK - Cyprus threat to Turkey's EU accession talks

Monday, November 22, 2004

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey(6): End of the road

"Turkish journey: End of the road
The BBC's Istanbul correspondent Jonny Dymond is exploring Turkish life across the vast country as it lobbies the European Union to open membership talks.
He sent the last in a series of reports from the town of Kars, near the Armenian border. "

More: BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey: End of the road

Opinion: Who's Afraid of the Sorbs? | Press Reviews & Opinion | Deutsche Welle |

"Opinion: Who's Afraid of the Sorbs?

Germany cultivates the culture of Sorbs but not of Muslims

Numerous politicians have recently called on Muslims to increase their efforts to integrate into German society. But Germany shouldn't become fixated on the issue of parallel societies, according to DW's Peter Philipp."

More: Opinion: Who's Afraid of the Sorbs? | Press Reviews & Opinion | Deutsche Welle |

Turks.US - Turkey's Kurds and Europe

"Turkey's Kurds and Europe
Monday, November 22 2004 @ 06:52 AM Central Standard Time

Views: 44
By Dogu Ergil

The 'Kurdish Problem' of Turkey has for a long time been a destabilizing element and reason for retardization of the country�s economy and democratic standards"

More:Turks.US - Turkey's Kurds and Europe

Cyprus split clouds Turkey's EU ambitions - The Washington Times: World - November 22, 2004

"Cyprus split clouds Turkey's EU ambitions

By Andrew Borowiec
THE WASHINGTON TIMES

NICOSIA, Cyprus � Diplomatic skirmishes have intensified between Greece and Turkey as the European Union prepares to decide at a Dec. 17 summit whether to set a date for talks on Turkey's membership application.
The pre-summit climate also was marred by what Greece says are increasing violations of its Aegean Sea airspace by Turkish warplanes and a hardening of Turkey's views on its EU membership credentials. "

More:Cyprus split clouds Turkey's EU ambitions - The Washington Times: World - November 22, 2004

ekathimerini.com | Nicosia lays out terms for Turkey

"Nicosia lays out terms for Turkey
Cyprus has identified five key issues it wants to be addressed in return for supporting Turkey�s EU accession talks, according to statements made by Cypriot Foreign Minister Giorgos Iacovou on Saturday.
In the first public move by either Athens, Nicosia or Ankara to publicly reveal their hand ahead of December 17 negotiations, when EU leaders will decide if and when to start membership talks with Turkey, Iacovou said that the five problems that need to be resolved are: the recognition of Cyprus by Turkey; Ankara�s veto of Cypriot participation in various international organizations; the settlement of Turks in occupied northern Cyprus; the protection of property owned by Greek-Cypriots in the Turkish-occupied territories and the presence of Turkish troops on the island."

More:ekathimerini.com | Nicosia lays out terms for Turkey

Sunday, November 21, 2004

EUbusiness - Last meeting Turkey-EU before December EU summit, vital for accession talks

"Last meeting Turkey-EU before December EU summit, vital for accession talks 21/11/2004

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul travels to the Netherlands, which holds the rotating European Union presidency, on Wednesday for a final ministerial meeting before the EU summit on December 17 that will decide whether to open accession talks with Ankara. The European 'troika' -- comprised of the current and future presidency, Luxembourg, and the European Commission -- and Turkey meet twice a year but all parties have stressed the importance of Wednesday's meeting. "

More: EUbusiness - Last meeting Turkey-EU before December EU summit, vital for accession talks

:: Xinhuanet - English :Cyprus sets five demands for Turkey's EU aspiration

"Cyprus sets five demands for Turkey's EU aspiration

www.chinaview.cn 2004-11-22 02:22:48

NICOSIA, Nov. 21 (Xinhuanet) -- Cyprus Foreign Minister George Iacovou has outlined five demands for Turkey in connection with Ankara's aspiration to join the European Union (EU), the semi-official Cyprus News Agency reported Sunday.
Speaking at Larnaca airport on his way to Brussels, the minister was quoted as saying that the five aspects relate to the need for Ankara to recognize the Republic of Cyprus, the change of the Turkish policy of vetoing Cyprus' participation in various international or ganizations, the need for the illegal Turkish settlers in northern Cyprus to return to Turkey, the protection of Greek Cypriot property in northern Cyprus and the withdrawal of Turkish troops from the island. "

More::: Xinhuanet - English ::

Thousands at Cologne Anti-Violence Rally | Germany | Deutsche Welle |

"Thousands at Cologne Anti-Violence Rally

Waving the Turkish flag before Cologne's landmark cathedral

Some 20,000 people took to the streets in the western German city of Cologne on Sunday, waving German and Turkish flags, to protest against the use of violence in the name of Islam."

More:Thousands at Cologne Anti-Violence Rally | Germany | Deutsche Welle |

Saturday, November 20, 2004

ZAMAN: High Schools to Provide EU Language Passport

"High Schools to Provide EU Language Passport

High School principles will issue 'language passports' to students next year. The Language Passport will apply in 2005 in schools across Europe according to an agreement signed by the education ministers of European Commission member countries. "

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2004112114040)

The Independent: Ankara Stories: Everything stops still for Ataturk and coffee cups

"Ankara Stories: Everything stops still for Ataturk and coffee cups
By Meriel Beattie
21 November 2004
It's a stunning transformation. At 9.04am, Ankara's ugly four-way junction at Kizilay is, as usual, manic. Beeping yellow taxis and pushy blue minibuses cut each other up. Businessmen, students, street hawkers and shoppers surge off the kerb as soon as the lights change. When I join my friend near a half-hearted fountain, I can barely hear her above the noise."

More: News

The New York Times > International > Europe > Some Hard-Liners in Turkey See Diversity as Divisive

"Some Hard-Liners in Turkey See Diversity as Divisive
By SUSAN SACHS

Published: November 21, 2004

ISTANBUL, Nov. 20 - In the cavernous Panayia church, one of the few Greek Orthodox churches still active in Turkey, ceiling panels dangle precariously over the choir loft. Flying glass has pitted the frescos of biblical scenes. Musty carpets are rolled up and stored like logs beside the elaborate Byzantine iconostasis."

More:The New York Times > International > Europe > Some Hard-Liners in Turkey See Diversity as Divisive

Integration Debate Heats up in Germany | Germany | Deutsche Welle |

"Integration Debate Heats up in Germany

Willing to integrate by wearing Germany's national colors?

Leading German politicians have said Muslims will have to integrate themselves better if they wish to remain in the country. This coincides with conservatives' calls to emphasize patriotism and Christian values."

More:Integration Debate Heats up in Germany | Germany | Deutsche Welle |

Friday, November 19, 2004

IHT: Turkish Cypriots deserve EU support

"Turkish Cypriots deserve EU support
Faruk Sen International Herald Tribune
Saturday, November 20, 2004


ESSEN, Germany In a referendum last April 24, Turkish Cypriots voted overwhelmingly for a reunification plan endorsed by the UN secretary general, Kofi Annan, while their Greek counterparts rejected it. The voting changed the perception of the two sides of the Cyprus issue and removed an important obstacle to Turkey's eventual membership in the European Union.

Yet while the Greek part of the island was granted membership in the EU in May, Turkish Cypriots, regretfully, have yet to benefit from their positive vote. The EU and the international community need to adapt to the new realities, end the economic and political isolation of the Turkish Cypriots and work to increase their welfare."


More:Turkish Cypriots deserve EU support

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey(5): A town called Trouble

"Turkish journey: A town called Trouble
The BBC's Istanbul correspondent Jonny Dymond is exploring Turkish life across the vast country as it lobbies the European Union to open membership talks.
He sent the fifth of a series of reports from the Kurdish town of Tunceli. "

More: BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey: A town called Trouble

EurActiv: Turkey's EU bid: a 'third way' looming?

"Turkey's EU bid: a 'third way' looming?

In Short:

A month before the EU's scheduled decision on Turkey's membership bid, question marks remain over the 25 member states' ability to reach a unanimous verdict. Meanwhile, the spectre of a 'third way out' appears to loom large."

More:Turkey's EU bid: a 'third way' looming?

ekathimerini.com | Turkey refuses to budge for EU

"Turkey refuses to budge for EU

REUTERS
Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos, in Rome yesterday.
Athens yesterday labeled as "absurd" the Ankara's insistence that it will not recognize Cyprus in the buildup to the December 17 European Union summit, when the possibility of Turkey eventually joining the union is to be discussed.
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said that his government had no intention of recognizing Cyprus as it had already "done our part" by supporting UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan�s plan for reunification, which was rejected by Greek-Cypriots in an April referendum."

More:ekathimerini.com | Turkey refuses to budge for EU

Thursday, November 18, 2004

The Statesman: Double Dutch

"Double Dutch
The killing of controversial Dutch filmmaker Theo van Gogh by a suspected Islamic extremist and the subsequent spate of retaliatory attacks on Muslim targets are a damaging blow to relations between European Union�s 15 million Muslims and their host communities. Dutch violence has also spotlighted the need to speed up the integration of Muslim immigrants in the EU and sparked off a debate on the place of Islam in an increasingly secular Europe. "

More:The Statesman

Brussels talks on trade and aid face deadlock

"Brussels talks on trade and aid face deadlock
By Myria Antoniadou in Brussels

THE DEADLOCK in the European Commission�s bid to bring the Turkish Cypriots out of their isolation looks set to be confirmed today in Brussels, when permanent representatives from member states in COREPER discuss the two regulations prepared by the Commission for economic aid of 259 million euros and direct trade to the north.

Diplomatic sources believe there is not much hope for breakthrough, despite the fact that the issue has been on the agenda for months. "

More:

The New York Times > Opinion > Op-Ed Contributor: Under the Cover of Islam

"November 18, 2004
OP-ED CONTRIBUTOR
Under the Cover of Islam
By IRSHAD MANJI


As one young Turk told me, "If Western values are tolerance, democracy, justice, equality and freedom, then I live in a Western country: Turkey." Try explaining that to those Europeans who want to impose their baggage from the Vatican onto Muslim immigrants. Their secularism can be zealous, missionary - dare I say it, religious.

More:The New York Times > Opinion > Op-Ed Contributor: Under the Cover of Islam

Channelnewsasia.com:Turkey as gateway between Asia and the Middle East: SM Goh

"Turkey as gateway between Asia and the Middle East: SM Goh
By Channel NewsAsia's Asha Popatlal in Ankara

ANKARA : Singapore's Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong has said Turkey can play a greater role as a gateway between Asia and the Middle East.

He said while two-way bilateral investments were still relatively low, trade, cargo and passenger traffic between the two countries have been on the rise. "

More:Channelnewsasia.com

Wednesday, November 17, 2004

Turkish Daily News: No fundamentalist or coup threat anymore

"No fundamentalist or coup threat anymore
Turkish Daily News: 11/17/2004
By Mehmet Ali Birand
TDN- Everyone can see how fast Turkey is changing.
However, no one knows whether the negotiations between Turkey and the European Union will take place or not. Moreover, if they do, no one knows how long they will last, how they will end or if Turkey will ever become a full member.
Despite these uncertainties, our outlook is changing. "

More:No fundamentalist or coup threat anymore

EUobserver.com - Chirac points to third way on Turkey

"Chirac points to third way on Turkey
16.11.2004 - 09:48 CET | By Honor Mahony
French President Jacques Chirac has pointed to a third way for Turkey, which would see it have a strong link to the EU but not actual membership."

More:EUobserver.com - Print format

Identity politics: Is a Christian or Kurd 'a Turk'? | csmonitor.com

"Identity politics: Is a Christian or Kurd 'a Turk'?

By Yigal Schleifer | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor

ISTANBUL � An advisory council report that calls on the country to broaden its official definition of minorities and to embrace multiculturalism is stirring a bitter public debate here about national identity.
It has become so heated, in fact, that when the head of the council tried to present the document at a press conference Nov. 1, another council member tore the notes out of his hands and publicly denounced the report, forcing the event to be canceled."

More:Identity politics: Is a Christian or Kurd 'a Turk'? | csmonitor.com

Expatica:Sarkozy remains opposed to Turkey's EU entry

"Sarkozy remains opposed to Turkey's EU entry

BRUSSELS, Non 16 (AFP) - French Finance Minister and future ruling party chief Nicolas Sarkozy repeated his opposition to Turkish membership of the EU Tuesday, saying a decision next month from heads of government should focus instead on 'partnership.'
'On December 17 the perspective of partnership must feature in the decision of the council of ministers,' Sarkozy told French journalists in Brussels. "

More:Expatica � Living in, moving to, or working in France, plus French news in English

ZAMAN :Lagendijk: Turkey's EU Membership Would be a Blow to Bin Laden and Huntington

"Lagendijk: Turkey's EU Membership Would be a Blow to Bin Laden and Huntington


The European Union (EU)-Turkey Mixed Parliamentary Committee's Co-Chair, Joost Lagendijk, has said that Turkey's membership in the Union will be a blow to terrorist Osama Bin Laden and to historian Samuel Huntington's clash of civilizations theory.
A panel titled 'Turkey in the EU: Results for Europe' was organized by the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) in Washington and the German Heinrich B�ll Association.
Lagendijk said at the panel, 'When Turkey becomes a member of the EU, those who say a bridge cannot be established between Islam and the West will be mistaken. Turkey's EU membership will be a blow to Osama Bin Laden and to Samuel Huntington.'
'I believe the AKP should be awarded for its work so far. EU member countries should say 'yes' in December and negotiations should start in the second half of next year.'
Lagendijk emphasized that when negotiations start with Turkey, the main focus should be 'full membership' and expressed his opposition to other approaches such as privileged partnership. "

ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2004111013737)

Turks.US - EU-Turkey, Unending debate

"EU-Turkey, Unending debate
Monday, October 18 2004 @ 07:30 AM Central Daylight Time

By Dogu Ergil

A country that loses its youth has no future. If we want a bright future in or beside Europe, we have to win our youth in the first place. Then they will find a way to live together and build a common future with their European counterparts "

More:Turks.US - EU-Turkey, Unending debate

Bloomberg.com: Europe:Luxembourg Leader Urges EU-Turkey Talks in First Half of 2005

"Luxembourg Leader Urges EU-Turkey Talks in First Half of 2005
Nov. 17 (Bloomberg) -- Luxembourg Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker called for the European Union to start membership negotiations with Turkey by the middle of 2005. "

More:Bloomberg.com: Europe

European Parliament approves aid to TRNC

"European Parliament approves aid to TRNC

The regulation to transfer aid to the Turkish republic of Northern Cyprus also requires the approval of the European Union Commission.

November 17� The European Parliament on Wednesday approved the granting of 250 million Euros to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus."

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Le Monde Diplomatique: Turkey: welcome to Europe

"Turkey: welcome to Europe
By Ignacio Ramonet
THE debate about Turkey's impending membership of the European Union - planned for 2015 - has been characterised by overblown rhetoric and lack of finesse. Framed in terms of the 'clash of civilisations', it testifies to the identity crisis of western societies when faced with Islam. It also reveals the anti-Islamic sentiment lurking in almost every sector of the political classes."

More: Turkey: welcome to Europe

Khaleej Times Online:Luxembourg PM sees Turkey EU talks early next year

"Luxembourg PM sees Turkey EU talks early next year
(Reuters)

17 November 2004

LUXEMBOURG - Luxembourg's Prime Minister Jean-Claude Juncker said on Wednesday he believed the European Union should start entry talks with Turkey in the first half of 2005, when his country holds the bloc's rotating presidency."

More:Khaleej Times Online

Turkish PM says EU member states will also undergo a test on December 17th

"Turkish PM says EU member states will also undergo a test on December 17th
Anadolu Agency: 11/17/2004
LUXEMBOURG - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that the European Union (EU) member states would also undergo a test (during the European Council to be held) on December 17th (when they are expected to decide whether and when to open full membership negotiations with Turkey). "

More:Turkish PM says EU member states will also undergo a test on December 17th

THE GREEK FOREIGN MINISTER MEETS WITH HIS DUTCH COUNTERPART

"THE GREEK FOREIGN MINISTER MEETS WITH HIS DUTCH COUNTERPART
The Hague, 17 November 2004 (18:27 UTC+2)

Turkey's EU accession course in view of the EU Summit meeting on December 17 was discussed in the meeting Greek Foreign Minister Petros Moliviatis had in The Hague today with his Dutch counterpart Bernard Bot."

More:THE GREEK FOREIGN MINISTER MEETS WITH HIS DUTCH COUNTERPART

BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Turkish journey(4): City in transition

"Turkish journey: City in transition
The BBC's Istanbul correspondent Jonny Dymond is exploring Turkish life across the vast country as it lobbies the European Union to open membership talks.
He sent the fourth of a series of reports from the Kurdish city of Diyarbakir. "

BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Turkish journey: City in transition

Tuesday, November 16, 2004

Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign:Ecevit recalls dramatic events in HS interview

"Ecevit recalls dramatic events in HS interview
'EU finally rang Turkey's doorbell'

By Kaius Niemi

Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit undoubtedly had the biggest smile of all as the cameras flashed in the faces of leaders of the EU member states and membership applicants in Helsinki on December 11th, 1999.
Ecevit, who stood in the front row of the family portrait, had hardly slept at all the previous night, but no matter: Turkey had just been accepted as a candidate country for EU membership after 36 years of trying. "

More: Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign

Russian Information Agency Novosti:RUSSIA-TURKEY-EU: PARTNERSHIP INEVITABLE

"RUSSIA-TURKEY-EU: PARTNERSHIP INEVITABLE
Professor Mikhail Meyer, Doctor of Science (History), Director of the Institute of Asian and African Countries attached to Moscow State University
Although Russia expressed apprehension over this year's EU enlargement, it has reacted calmly to the prospect of Turkey's joining this organization. Indeed, Moscow might even gain something from Ankara's accession to the EU.
Moscow understands that Turkey still faces a long wait before it can become an EU member and the Europeans will be wary of the Turks for some considerable time to come, despite a number of European prominent politicians' support for this integration. "

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FrontPage magazine.com :: European Muslims and the Quest for the Soul of Islam by Mustafa Akyol

"European Muslims and the Quest for the Soul of Islam
By Mustafa Akyol
New Europe Review | November 16, 2004
There are about thirteen million Muslims living in Europe, nearly all of them law-abiding citizens. Since September 11, 2001, however, European Muslims have been seen as potential base for a radical, anti-Western ideology founded on a crude misinterpretation of Islam that has nothing to do with true Islamic faith and is rejected by the majority of Muslims worldwide. The contest between these two views of Islam may define the course of the 21st century."

More:FrontPage magazine.com :: European Muslims and the Quest for the Soul of Islam by Mustafa Akyol

Paradise Post - News Features:'New' Turkey, mostly Asian, eyes Europe

"'New' Turkey, mostly Asian, eyes Europe
By Lowell Blankfort

The Middle East's largest country and straddling both Europe and Asia, crucial U.S. ally Turkey is undergoing big changes. Lowell Blankfort, a prize-winning writer and former Post co-owner, and his wife April have just returned from a three-week reporting trip there. This is the first of a series of articles.

The past has vanished.
Everything that was uttered belongs there.
Now is the time to think of new things.

- Jelaluddin Rumi,
Turkish poet (1207-1273)"

More:Paradise Post - News Features

Paradise Post - News Features:U.S.-Turkey alliance; It ain't what it used to be

"U.S.-Turkey alliance; It ain't what it used to be
By Lowell Blankfort

Second in a series by former Post co-owner Lowell Blankfort, who recently returned from a three-week reporting trip in Turkey.

For more than four decades in the last century, Turkey was America's first frontier.
Bordering the Soviet Union, Turkish soil for more than half that era held American nuclear missiles pointed at Moscow and the heart of the Soviet empire (until they were removed in return for the removal of Soviet missiles from Cuba).
Today Turkey is again a front-line state for America. It borders on Iraq - and also on Iran and Syria, other crucial pieces in the Middle East power game into which Washington has intruded itself."

More:Paradise Post - News Features

Monday, November 15, 2004

Chirac: It Is Meaningless To Claim Turkish People Are Not European

"Chirac: It Is Meaningless To Claim Turkish People Are Not European
Anadolu Agency: 11/15/2004
PARIS - French President Jacques Chirac said, ''it is meaningless to claim that Turkish people are not European.''
Speaking at a conference in Marseilles on Monday, Chirac reiterated his support to Turkey's EU membership.
Opposing geographical restriction of Europe, Chirac said, ''it is meaningless to say Turkish people are not European. Also you know that we are all children of Byzantine.'' "

Chirac: It Is Meaningless To Claim Turkish People Are Not European

Turkey could join EU in 2015 if all goes smoothly: Dutch FM

"Turkey could join EU in 2015 if all goes smoothly: Dutch FM
AFP: 11/15/2004
THE HAGUE, Nov 15 (AFP) - Dutch Foreign Minister Bernard Bot said Monday that Turkey's entry into the European Union by 2015 was feasible if everything went as scheduled and Ankara held up its end of the bargain. "

More: Turkey could join EU in 2015 if all goes smoothly: Dutch FM

Welcome to Northern Cyprus - autonomous entity of the European Union

"Welcome to Northern Cyprus - autonomous entity of the European Union

In Short:

So the Greek Cypriots voted 75% no, and the Turkish Cypriots 65% yes in the referendum on the Annan Plan for re-unifying Cyprus. What next, asks Michael Emerson in his article published by the Centre for European Policy Studies (CEPS). "

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Jerusalem Post :Turkish Jews, Muslims mark anniversary of attacks

":Turkish Jews, Muslims mark anniversary of attacks
By ASSOCIATED PRESS

ISTANBUL, Turkey

Turkish Jews and Muslims cried in the rain and recited prayers of mourning Monday as they marked the first anniversary of suicide bombings that struck two Istanbul synagogues in attacks blamed on a local al-Qaida cell"

More:Jerusalem Post | Breaking News from Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish World

Helsingin Sanomat:Turkish EU candidacy divided Finnish foreign policy leadership

"Turkish EU candidacy divided Finnish foreign policy leadership in 1999
Helsingin Sanomat investigates what happened before the Helsinki European Council summit in December 1999

The issue of possible Turkish membership of an expanded European Union caused deep divisions within Finland's foreign policy leadership in the early weeks of Finland's stint as the rotating EU Presidency in 1999. "

More:Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign

Saturday, November 13, 2004

Welcome to AJC! | ajc.com:Turkish envoy in EU's corner

"Turkish envoy in EU's corner
Ambassador to U.S. recommends focus on integration, not conflicts.
Shelia M. Poole - Staff
Wednesday, November 10, 2004

Turkey's inclusion in the European Union would send a powerful message to the world, said that country's ambassador to the United States during a recent visit to Atlanta.
'The most significant gain for the European Union will be the philosophical and moral plane,' said Osman Faruk Logoglu, who represents the predominantly Muslim country's interests in America. "

More:Welcome to AJC! | ajc.com

The New York Times > International > Europe > Dutch Hold 38 on Terror Charges After Raid on Camp

"Dutch Hold 38 on Terror Charges After Raid on Camp
By CRAIG S. SMITH

Published: November 13, 2004


ARIS, Nov. 12 - The Dutch police said Friday that they had raided a site they described as a terrorist training camp for Kurdish separatists in the southern Netherlands, arresting 38 people there and at other places in the country in an ongoing crackdown on militants."

More: The New York Times > International > Europe > Dutch Hold 38 on Terror Charges After Raid on Camp

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey (3): European dreams

"Turkish journey: European dreams
The BBC's Istanbul correspondent Jonny Dymond is exploring Turkish life on a trip across the vast country as it lobbies the European Union to open membership talks.
He sent the third of a series of reports from Gaziantep. "

More: BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey: European dreams

Turkish Daily News Online:European religious leaders support Turkey's EU bid

"European religious leaders support Turkey's EU bid
Aydin: Turkey's EU membership is to be one of the best ways to prevent a possible clash of civilizations

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
European religious leaders supported Turkey's EU bid saying that Turkey's EU membership would bring major developments for the EU itself, reported Anatolia news agency yesterday.
Religious Affairs Directorate Deputy Chairman Mehmet Gormez who attended the European Religious Leaders Summit in Belgium earlier this week, said the summit yielded strong support for Turkey's EU membership.
'We are to set a date on December 17 for Turkey to start negotiations; get ready for that,' the religious leaders said during the summit, Gormez told Anatolia. 'They said that Turkey, whose membership was discussed, has improved itself with legal arrangements and would lead to major developments in the EU,' Gormez was quoted as saying by Anatolia.
The European leaders said in the fact sheet of the summit, that Turkey was the first EU candidate country which was Muslim. They condemned the murders and violence that were committed in the name of religion recently. 'Violence in the name of religion is violence against religion,' the leaders said.
State Minister Mehmet Aydin said religion was never handled as a basic principle for the foundation or functioning of the EU. Aydin, speaking to the governing Justice and Development Party's (AKP) bulletin, said the EU was actually an economic and political process and Europe considered Turkey's EU membership as a cultural matter.
'If there is a possibility of the clash of civilizations, one of the best ways to prevent it would be Turkey's participation in the EU,' Anatolia quoted Aydin as saying.
Turkey's EU bid has led to domestic debates in EU member countries and debates heated up following the EU Commission's Progress Report issued on Oct. 6. The commission recommended that the EU Council make a decision at the upcoming Brussels summit to open entry talks with Ankara. The debates focused on whether Turkey had a European identity with its huge Muslim dominated population of 70 million."

Turkish Daily News Online...FOREIGN NEWS

BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Cyprus calls Turkey to EU talks

"Cyprus calls Turkey to EU talks

Cyprus has said it wants to hold talks with Turkey to discuss the stalemate over the divided island which it says is crucial to Turkey's EU entry. "

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EurasiaNet Eurasia Insight - Turkey Makes Diplomatic Push for EU Membership

"TURKEY MAKES DIPLOMATIC PUSH FOR EU MEMBERSHIP
Mevlut Katik 11/12/04

Turkey is pressing ahead with a diplomatic campaign to get the European Union to name a date for the start of accession talks. An EU summit next month is expected to consider the issue. While Turkish leaders canvass the continent, France, the most influential critic of Ankara's EU ambitions, may advocate a potential consolation prize - a special EU-Turkish relationship that falls short of full membership."

More: EurasiaNet Eurasia Insight - Turkey Makes Diplomatic Push for EU Membership

Friday, November 12, 2004

AlterNet: War on Iraq: Misreading Islam

"Misreading Islam
By Michael Hirsh, Washington Monthly. Posted November 12, 2004.

The disastrous war in Iraq is the consequence of a fundamental misunderstanding of Islam and its strong relationship to democracy in the Middle East.

America's misreading of the Arab world – and our current misadventure in Iraq – may have really begun in 1950. That was the year a young University of London historian named Bernard Lewis visited Turkey for the first time. "

More:AlterNet: War on Iraq: Misreading Islam

Western Policy Center:European Leaders Weigh In on EU Bid as December Summit Approaches

"Turkey
November 12, 2004
European Leaders Weigh In on EU Bid as December Summit Approaches

Washington, D.C. - Although the Dutch government, which currently holds the rotating EU presidency, endorsed the opening of Turkey's accession talks with the bloc, it called on the EU to clearly state the consequences of Turkish non-adherence to its reform path in preparation for membership. "

More:Western Policy Center

Thursday, November 11, 2004

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey (2): Islamic Citadel

"Turkish journey: Islamic Citadel
The BBC's Istanbul correspondent Jonny Dymond is exploring Turkish life on a trip across the vast country as it lobbies the European Union to open membership talks.
He sent the second of a series of reports from Konya. "

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey: Islamic Citadel

The European Transformation

"The European Transformation
BYEGM: 11/9/2004
BY DERYA SAZAK
MILLIYET- As next month�s European Union summit looms closer, Turkey�s strategies for its membership talks and intellectual preparations over its problems are being discussed on various platforms. A meeting organized by the Economics and Foreign Policy Forum which started in Brussels last month continued in Istanbul yesterday. "

More: The European Transformation

Turkish Press: Something is changing... or is it?

"Something is changing... or is it?
Turkish Daily News: 11/9/2004
By Gunduz Aktan
TDN- Following the European Union's failure to lift the embargoes on the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC) following the referendum in Cyprus our liberal Turkish friends, who were previously fervent supporters of EU membership, have begun to show their irritation. They also criticized former Democracy Party (DEP) deputies Leyla Zana and her friends' statements in support of the terrorist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK/Kongra-Gel) after their release from prison. The separatism in the progress report released by the European Commission also annoyed many liberals. Some were even angry with the release of the 'minority report' in the name of the Prime Ministry. "

More:Something is changing... or is it?

ekathimerini.com | Important December date

"Important December date
By K.I. Angelopoulos
The next European Union summit is not far off. On December 17, the EU partners will decide, some joyfully, others regretfully, the date for the start of accession talks between Ankara and Brussels.
In view of this fact, it is expected that Greece will vote in favor, since its political leaders have in the past few years taken the view that a "European" Turkey would be a tamer neighbor, an interlocutor for Greece."

More: ekathimerini.com | Important December date

Xinhuanet - English :Czech agrees with EU negotiations with Turkey

"Czech agrees with EU negotiations with Turkey

PRAGUE, Nov 10 (Xinhuanet) -- Czech government decided to support the launch of negotiations on Turkey's entry into the European Union, the Czech government spokeswoman Vera Duskova said Wednesday. "

More: :: Xinhuanet - English ::

ZAMAN:Turkey's EU Bid Contributes to Mid East Democracy Dialogue

"Turkey's EU Bid Contributes to Mid East Democracy Dialogue


The US Assistant Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, Alan Larson, has said that Turkey's European Union (EU) membership bid will contribute to the work of the Democracy Assistance Dialogue group, within the Greater Middle East and North Africa Initiative.
At the foreign press center in Washington, Larson spoke to journalists along with US President George W. Bush's Assistant to the National Security Adviser, Faryar Shirzad, about the Initiative. The next meeting on the Initiative will be held in Morocco on December 11, 2004.
At the latest G-8 summit held in the state of Georgia in the US, Turkey, Yemen, and Italy were included among the partners of the Democracy Assistance Dialogue group.
Larson emphasizing that Turkey is not perceived as being in the Middle East or the Greater Middle East, 'Turkey is one of the European countries and hopes to start negotiations with the European Union (EU) soon.'
08:40


11.11.2004
Anadolu Agency (aa)
Washington, D.C."

ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2004111113761)

Wednesday, November 10, 2004

Turks.US - Turkey mourns Ataturk

"Turkey mourns Ataturk
Wednesday, November 10 2004 @ 06:40 AM Central Standard Time

Today is the 66th anniversary of the passing of Turkey's founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. At 9:05 a.m. air-raid sirens will wail across Turkish cities, morning rush-hour traffic will halt and schoolchildren will stand to attention. "

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BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey: Ankara train

"Turkish journey: Ankara train

The BBC's Istanbul correspondent Jonny Dymond is exploring Turkish life on a trip across the vast country as it lobbies the European Union to open membership talks.
He sent the first of a series of reports from the capital, Ankara."

More: BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish journey: Ankara train

EUobserver.com:Strategic reasons for Turkish EU membership 'unconvincing', says study

"Strategic reasons for Turkish EU membership 'unconvincing', says study

10.11.2004 - 09:57 CET | By Honor Mahony The strategic reasoning for arguing in favour of Turkish membership of the European Union is 'not convincing', according to a new study published by a German think-tank.

Reported in Die Welt, the study by the East-European Studies Institute says that because Turkish membership of the EU will bring little economic benefit, the emphasis of the discussion has shifted instead to the strategic benefits.

But, says the report, 'political-strategic arguments are not convincing'. The study goes on to say that Turkey's accession 'is not a way of preventing the 'clash of civilisations''.

It also criticises claims by the German government that a democratic Turkey could be a shining example to Islamic states in the Middle East as 'difficult to understand'.

The study has been picked up by opposition Christian Democrat politicians - who favour Turkey having a 'privileged partnership' with the EU rather than full membership.

Bavaria's Europe minister Eberhard Sinner (CSU) said that the study should be 'required reading for every head of state and government in Europe'."

EUobserver.com

EUbusiness - Turkish FM rules out EU membership "at any cost"

"Turkish FM rules out EU membership 'at any cost' 10/11/2004

Turkey will make every effort to join the European Union, but its membership in the bloc is not an objective it will pursue at 'any cost,' Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said late Tuesday. Gul told parliament the EU was wary of admitting a country as vast as Turkey but was forced to consider the issue when Ankara -- to the surpise of many -- conducted a series of far-reaching reforms to align itself with EU democracy norms. "

More: EUbusiness - Turkish FM rules out EU membership "at any cost"

Tuesday, November 09, 2004

Mathaba.Net News: Which way is west for Turkey?

"Which way is west for Turkey?
Posted: 11/09
From: Jordan Times


by Soli Ozel

When Turkey's parliament voted in March 2003 against allowing American troops to open a northern front against Iraq, Turkey's traditional strategic partnership with the United States ended. The two countries still recognise many mutual interests, but now they manage these interests on a far different basis.

The vote shocked "old Europe" and the Arab world as much as the Bush administration. Europeans who considered Turkey a potential Trojan horse for America within the European Union were forced to reconsider. For many Arabs, the vote showed that Turkey was not an American lackey and would not cooperate with American imperial designs, despite close Turkish-Israeli relations. "

More: Mathaba.Net News

Securing Turkey for secularism and democracy (by Philip Robins) - Media Monitors Network (MMN)

"Securing Turkey for secularism and democracy
by Philip Robins
(Tuesday 09 November 2004)

'In the political geography of EU foreign policy, Turkey is likely to be an active and strident advocate of its own interests in the Middle East, rather than a supporter of the bland platitudes favored but weakly pursued by Europe's majority. In the same way that Spain has led on the EU's relations with Latin America, and France on policy toward North Africa, so Turkey will demand to make the running on Iraq, Iran, Syria, and, at least to some extent, Israeli-Palestinian relations.' "

More: Securing Turkey for secularism and democracy (by Philip Robins) - Media Monitors Network (MMN)