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Tuesday, October 31, 2006

theparliament.com - Turkey faces EU censure

"Turkey faces EU censure

Turkey will be criticised for a lack of progress on freedom of expression, torture and accountability of the military in a European commission report out next week.

FT Deutschland on Tuesday published the commission’s draft report that is due to be published on November 8. "

More:theparliament.com - Turkey faces EU censure

United Press International - NewsTrack - Report: Turkey behind on EU schedule

"Report: Turkey behind on EU schedule

BRUSSELS, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- A forthcoming European Commission report on Turkey's bid for EU accession says the country is lagging on freedom of expression and torture.

The report is due to be released Nov. 8, but was seen by the Financial Times, which said Turkey will be at a disadvantage at a 2-day EU summit on Dec. 14. "

More:United Press International - NewsTrack - Report: Turkey behind on EU schedule

fashion.psfk : Harvey Nichols Opens in Istanbul

"Harvey Nichols Opens in Istanbul

Harvey Nichols has launched its first Turkish store amid the rapidly growing fashion market inHarveynics_istanbul Istanbul, quietly opening its doors earlier this month in the new state-of-the-art luxury shopping mall, Kanyon. The store is the fifth extension outside the UK, after the exclusive stores in Riyadh, Hong Kong, Dublin and Dubai."

More:fashion.psfk : Harvey Nichols Opens in Istanbul

Leaked report shows EU reluctance to admit Turkey - World - Times Online

"Leaked report shows EU reluctance to admit Turkey
From David Charter, of The Times, in Brussels
Crisis talks to try to put Turkey back on track to join the European Union were called tonight as a leaked assessment found the country’s progress stalling in a number of key areas."

More:Leaked report shows EU reluctance to admit Turkey - World - Times Online

After Headscarf Comments: Police Protection for German Parliamentarian - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"Police Protection for German Parliamentarian

A German parliamentarian of Turkish origin has called for Muslim women to throw off their headscarves and embrace Western values. After receiving death threats for the remarks, she is under police protection. Politicians are defending her right to free speech."

More:After Headscarf Comments: Police Protection for German Parliamentarian - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

Erdoğan says gov’t will not give away Cyprus

Erdoğan says gov’t will not give away Cyprus

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan yesterday harshly criticized those accusing his government of making concessions on Cyprus.

“There is no Turkish government right now that would give away Cyprus,” Erdoğan was quoted as saying during a meeting at Ankara's Sheraton Hotel. “We have nothing to sell at this point.”

More: Erdoğan says gov’t will not give away Cyprus

Cyprus may be main victim of Turkey-EU deadlock

"Cyprus may be main victim of Turkey-EU deadlock
By Michele Kambas

IN THE looming showdown between Turkey and the European Union over its troubled entry talks, the biggest casualty could be Cyprus, in what some say may be a self-inflicted wound for the divided island.

If EU members, unhappy with Ankara's slow reforms, and Cypriot demands make for a negative November 8 progress report on Turkey, it could lead EU leaders to freeze or postpone the talks, dashing hopes of stalled peace talks resuming anytime soon.

'It would be a huge own goal if it goes wrong,' said Hubert Faustmann, political analyst at Nicosia’s Intercollege. 'The moment Turkey is blocked, they can kiss hopes of finding a Cyprus solution goodbye.'

Cyprus has been blocking Turkey's access negotiations for the past five months, citing Ankara's obligation to open its ports and airports to traffic from the island since it invaded in 1974.

Turkey has dug its heels in. Despite warnings from Brussels, it has refused to implement treaty obligations on Cyprus, demanding the EU meet its own promises to ease the economic isolation of the Turkish Cypriots."

More:Cyprus may be main victim of Turkey-EU deadlock

theparliament.com - Negative Brussels report hits Turkish EU entry bid

"Negative Brussels report hits Turkish EU entry bid

Turkey will be criticised for a lack of progress on freedom of expression, torture and accountability of the military in a European commission report next week.

FT Deutschland has obtained a draft report, set to be published on November 8, assessing Turkish progress towards EU membership."

More:theparliament.com - Negative Brussels report hits Turkish EU entry bid

[Turquie Européenne] - About the identity of Europe : why it is a problem ? (2)

"About the identity of Europe : why it is a problem ? (2)

Hans-Peter Geissen
le Tuesday 31 October 2006 - 31/10/2006
Afficher la version imprimable de cet article. Envoyer à un ami

«The role of Islam in the emergence of the Christian Humanism and the enlightenment was largely omitted and forgotten : Islamic theology could not take place in Christian Europe as no Muslims had been allowed to survive...»

- Hans-Peter Geissen lives in Koblenz (Germany), at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Interested in all what concerns faunistics (data about animal species) of the Midrhine region, he is the author of many scientific publications on these issues. He bent on the Turkish issue with a very specific approach so as "to prevent a self-definition of Europe on the grounds of historical or religious mythologies.""

More:[Turquie Européenne] - About the identity of Europe : why it is a problem ? (2)

Helsinki tables crisis meeting on Cyprus-Turkey problem

"Helsinki tables crisis meeting on Cyprus-Turkey problem
31.10.2006 - 09:29 CET | By Lucia Kubosova
The Finnish EU presidency is organising a meeting between EU, Turkey, Greece, Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot authorities in an attempt to prevent a collapse in EU-Turkey accession talks.

The crisis meeting is set to take place on 5 and 6 November in an as-yet unknown location, just two days before the European Commission publishes a key enlargement report critical of Ankara's reform progress."

More:EUobserver.com

Geopolitical realities in Ankara - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"Geopolitical realities in Ankara

TODAY'S COLUMNIST
By Tulin Daloglu
October 31, 2006

ANKARA, Turkey.
Turkey faces an exceptional dilemma: retaining its cultural heritage while maintaining the character of its majority-Muslim population and making sure that its secular principles and foundation remain aligned with the goals of a modernized Western future. "

More:Geopolitical realities in Ankara - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

The European Union’s Turkish dilemma Krzysztof Bobinski - openDemocracy

"The European Union’s Turkish dilemma
Krzysztof Bobinski
2 - 12 - 2005
A tough year for the European project could become a critical decade unless the prospect of Turkish accession becomes an imperative to a meeting of minds on both sides and at every level, says Krzysztof Bobinski."

More:The European Union’s Turkish dilemma Krzysztof Bobinski - openDemocracy

Turkey welcomes Finnish initiative for Cyprus talks

"Turkey welcomes Finnish initiative for Cyprus talks
Published: 10/30/2006

ANKARA - Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul on Monday expressed backing for a proposal by EU term president Finland to hold meetings on the long-running Cyprus problem, but said their format was yet to be finalised."

More:Turkey welcomes Finnish initiative for Cyprus talks

FT.com / World / Europe - European leaders head for showdown on Turkey

"European leaders head for showdown on Turkey

Daniel Dombey in London, Fidelius Schmid in Brussels and Vincent Boland in Ankara

Published: October 30 2006 22:03 | Last updated: October 30 2006 22:03

The European Union’s decision to open membership talks with Turkey was always a gamble. At present, it looks like it may not come off.

That is the subtext of a long-awaited European Commission report that sets the scene for a showdown between EU leaders over the future of Ankara’s European aspirations."

More:FT.com / World / Europe - European leaders head for showdown on Turkey

Armenian Law Designed to Keep Turkey Out of the EU

"Armenian Law Designed to Keep Turkey Out of the EU
Gwynne Dyer, Arab News

Words matter. The holocaust of the European Jews during World War II was a genocide. The mass deportation of Chechens from their Caucasian homeland during the same war was a crime but not a genocide, even though half of them died, because Moscow’s aim was to keep them from collaborating with German troops who were nearing Chechnya, not to exterminate them. Which brings us to the far more controversial case of the Armenians and the Turks"

More:Armenian Law Designed to Keep Turkey Out of the EU

The New Anatolian - Street children saved via sports

"Street children saved via sports

The New Anatolian / Ankara
31 October 2006

The police in a northwestern city have saved 90 children from streets over the last seven months.

Kocaeli's Gebze district police has rehabilitated some 90 street children so far with a project aiming to adapt them to society through sports.

Speaking to the Anatolia news agency yesterday, Gebze Police Force Sports Club Association Press Secretary Vahap Turfanda said that the project, which was launched for the rehabilitation of street children, has been going on for seven months. "

More:The New Anatolian - Street children saved via sports

The New Anatolian - Ilnur Cevik - Cyprus remains thorn in Turkey's EU quest

"Cyprus remains thorn in Turkey's EU quest
Ilnur Cevik

ilnurcevik@yahoo.com
31 October 2006

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan says no Turkish government can give away Cyprus and stresses the issue should be solved within the framework of the United Nations…

The prime minister is right in stressing especially after the fact that the Turkish Cypriots approved the Annan plan in a referendum and the Greek Cypriots did not thus creating an impasse Turkish frustration is at an all- time high."

More:The New Anatolian - Ilnur Cevik - Cyprus remains thorn in Turkey's EU quest

Monday, October 30, 2006

Asia Times Online :: Middle East News - The fallen bridge over the Bosporus

"The fallen bridge over the Bosporus
By Spengler

Not since Boris Pasternak refused the Nobel Prize for literature in 1958 has a Nobel laureate regarded the award with such mixed feelings as Turkish novelist Orhan Pamuk. He set out to be a political dilettante, as befits a postmodern European novelist, and to his profound consternation has had to become a man of principle. That in no way diminishes the poignancy of Pamuk's position, but it makes him more interesting than the average martyr, in a postmodern sort of way. "

More:Asia Times Online :: Middle East News - The fallen bridge over the Bosporus

Papadopoulos: Turkey's EU Bid Should be Kept Alive

"Papadopoulos: Turkey's EU Bid Should be Kept Alive
By Foreign News Desk
Monday, October 30, 2006
zaman.com

The Greek Cypriot leader Tasos Papadopoulos stated that Turkey’s membership talks with the EU might be suspended because of its unwillingness to fulfill its obligations, but the door for Turkey’s full membership to the EU should be kept open."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006103037768)

Sharing the Tigris River: Iraq Worried about Turkish Dam - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"Iraq Worried about Turkish Dam

The Ilisu Dam will, when it's finished, provide hydroelectric power in south-eastern Turkey. Iraq, though, is worried it may also cut flows of the vital Tigris River.

Officials in Iraq are angered by Turkish plans to construct a gigantic dam on the river Tigris in southeast Turkey, near the Iraqi border. The so-called Ilisu Dam's 300 square kilometer reservoir would be a significant source of hydroelectric power, and Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at an opening ceremony on Aug. 5 that it 'will bring big gains to the local people.' But in Iraq, health officials are concerned that these gains will come at the expense of their own people."

More:Sharing the Tigris River: Iraq Worried about Turkish Dam - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

Africa News : Greeks, Turks clash again... in TV reality show

"Greeks, Turks clash again... in TV reality show
8 Hour,54 minutes Ago

ANKARA - For decades, politicians and arms dealers capitalized on the animosity between troubled neighbours Greece and Turkey — now television producers are reaping the profits."

More:Africa News : Greeks, Turks clash again... in TV reality show

If Ataturk Had Lived

"If Ataturk Had Lived
Published: 10/30/2006

BY TAHA AKYOL

MILLIYET- Ataturk was the one who published a declaration to the Islamic world before the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM, Parliament) opened in an Islamic style. He was the leader who wrote a letter to Lenin saying that Turkey would establish an economic order much like the Bolsheviks. Ataturk also said that nations in the east will fight for the survival of non-aggressive states against imperialism and capitalism. It is again Ataturk who told the Izmir Economic Congress that we are against capitulations but open to foreign capital even as the diplomatic war at Lausanne went on. He told French journalist Maurice Pernot that we were always oriented to the West and that his aim is a European Turkey or, more precisely, a Turkey oriented to the West. "

More:If Ataturk Had Lived

JTW - Turkish Chilli : Turks still rule Europe

"Turks still rule Europe

If you are reading me for the first time, please read to the end before sending me hate mail. Yes, it is provocative to claim such a thing. You may be asking yourself, 'How come this poor nation which has no major contribution to Europe other than Turkish coffee, doner(shwarma) and kebap can rule Europe?' But, at the end of this article you will probably have some sympathy for me, of which I need a lot. Love me!"

More:JTW - Turkish Chilli : Turks still rule Europe

PvdA Takes a Step Back; Immigrants Cautious

"PvdA Takes a Step Back; Immigrants Cautious

The Dutch Social Democrat Labor Party (PvdA) has backpedaled about genocide allegations; this after it had removed the names of Turkish deputies from its electoral lists prior to general elections on Nov. 22 on the grounds that they did not recognize an Armenian genocide."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006103037771)

Why France shouldn't legislate Turkey's past-Historical Crimes

"Why France shouldn't legislate Turkey's past.
Historical Crimes
by Philip H. Gordon & Omer Taspinar
Only at TNR Online | Post date 10.30.06

As European nations debate the idea of accepting Turkey into their ranks, vestiges of the country's authoritarian nationalism--particularly its tendency to constrain free speech in the name of national honor and unity--have antagonized proponents of the European Union's accepted liberal values. For example, when Turkish novelist Orhan Pamuk was recently prosecuted for claiming that a million Armenians were massacred by the Ottomans during World War I--in violation of a Turkish law that prohibits "insulting Turkish identity"--Europeans howled in protest until the charges were finally dropped. In recognition of his politics and his writing, Pamuk was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature...."

More:Historical Crimes

Istanbul To Host Auto Show 2006

"Istanbul To Host Auto Show 2006
Published: 10/30/2006

ISTANBUL - Istanbul will host 'Auto Show 2006' which has been included in world-famous automobile fairs by the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) between November 3rd and 12th, 2006."

More:Istanbul To Host Auto Show 2006

The New Anatolian - Cengiz Candar - The Republic of Melancholy

"The Republic of Melancholy
Cengiz Candar

ccandar@superonline.com
30 October 2006

83 year of age is an old age for a human being. It could be considered as adolescence for states. The Republic of Turkey celebrated its 83rd anniversary in the usual fanfare and rituals. It was a remarkable event, in which Turkey presented both, paradoxically, a senility that could be expected from an old man and the immaturity from a teenager."

More:The New Anatolian - Cengiz Candar - The Republic of Melancholy

..:: ABHABER.COM : PACE head criticizes both French Armenian 'genocide' bill and Turkish supporters of Article 301

"PACE head criticizes both French Armenian 'genocide' bill and Turkish supporters of Article 301

Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) President Rene van der Linden yesterday strongly criticized France's lower house of Parliament for passing a controversial bill that aims to ban questioning of Armenian genocide claims."

More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..

Turkey ranked eighth in world with its tourism income of $18.2 bln - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

"Turkey ranked eighth in world with its tourism income of $18.2 bln
Monday, October 30, 2006

Turkey's sun, sea and historic treasures earned the country the world's fastest growth rate in the world last year, beating both China and the United States with a total of $18.2 billion in tourism income it was revealed on Sunday in a report by the World Tourism Organization (WT0) reported the Anatolia news agency. In addition to the fastest growth rate, the new figures rank Turkey in eighth spot among countries in tourism income. "

More:Turkey ranked eighth in world with its tourism income of $18.2 bln - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

The backbone of Turkey: Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

"The backbone of Turkey: Istanbul
Monday, October 30, 2006

Turkey's metropolitan city of Istanbul made YTL 41.66 for the Turkish government's coffers for each YTL 100 of their allocated budget between January and September, according to statistics provided by the Ministry of Finance."

More:The backbone of Turkey: Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

‘Turkish accession danger for Europe, illusion for Turkey’ - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

"‘Turkish accession danger for Europe, illusion for Turkey’
Monday, October 30, 2006

FULYA ÖZERKAN

STRASBOURG - Turkish Daily News

Jacques Toubon, French member of the European Parliament, voiced strong opposition to Turkey's bid to join the European Union, defending privileged partnership for Ankara instead of full membership. "

More:‘Turkish accession danger for Europe, illusion for Turkey’ - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

Children of the world to meet in Ürgüp - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

"Children of the world to meet in Ürgüp
Monday, October 30, 2006
print this page mail to a friend
Children of the world to meet in Ürgüp

The World Children's Festival 2006, an educational gathering of children held annually by the Netherlands, will be held in Nevşehir's Ürgüp this year on Nov. 18-21.
"

More:Children of the world to meet in Ürgüp - Turkish Daily News Oct 30, 2006

Reuters AlertNet - FEATURE-Turkey's Kurds back ceasefire, call on state to follow

"FEATURE-Turkey's Kurds back ceasefire, call on state to follow
30 Oct 2006 07:04:48 GMT
Source: Reuters
(This story is part of a package of features on Turkey issued on Oct. 30 ahead of a European Union progress report next week)

By Paul de Bendern

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey, Oct 30 (Reuters) - In the 'Republic' shanty town, children with toy guns play rebel against soldier, but their parents hope a ceasefire by separatist guerrillas will finally bring peace to Turkey's southeast."

More:Reuters AlertNet - FEATURE-Turkey's Kurds back ceasefire, call on state to follow

Cyprus Takes a Hard Line on Turkish EU-Entry Ambitions

"Cyprus Takes a Hard Line on Turkish EU-Entry Ambitions
Reuters

NICOSIA, Cyprus -- Turkey could face a suspension of EU entry talks for failing to meet its obligations by the end of this year, but the door to Turkish European Union membership should be left open, Cyprus said Sunday.

Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos said delaying or conditionally suspending the talks were alternatives to the two 'extremes' of allowing Turkey to continue negotiations unhindered, and a complete breakdown in talks. 'I have never spoken about exercising a veto. ... Vetoes are for those who do not wish to see Turkey face any sanctions [for non-compliance], not the opposite. Not us,' Papadopoulos, Turkey's fiercest critic in the EU, told the Cypriot daily Phileleftheros."

More:Cyprus Takes a Hard Line on Turkish EU-Entry Ambitions

Sunday, October 29, 2006

Lagendijk Marries Turkish Journalist

"Lagendijk Marries Turkish Journalist
By Cagri Cobanoglu, Istanbul
Sunday, October 29, 2006
zaman.com

Turkey-EU Joint Parliamentary Commission Co-chair Joost Lagendijk was married to Turkish NTV journalist Nevin Sungur in Istanbul at the Pera Palace by Beyoglu Mayor Ahmet Misbah Demircan"

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER)

Mavi Boncuk Archives: EU Watch | Two Trains on a Collision Course?

"EU Watch | Two Trains on a Collision Course?

Turkey and Europe: Two Trains on a Collision Course?
Joschka Fischer

By intervening in Lebanon, Europeans have made a far-reaching, risk-fraught, and, at the same time, correct decision. The reason is that the future of Europe’s security will be determined in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. Europe, whether it likes it or not, has taken on a new, strategic role in the region. Should it fail, the price will be high.
"

More:Mavi Boncuk Archives: EU Watch | Two Trains on a Collision Course?

Two new masterpieces on Turkey's national day: 'The Symphony of the Sea' and 'The Legend of Nazım Hikmet' - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

"Two new masterpieces on Turkey's national day: 'The Symphony of the Sea' and 'The Legend of Nazım Hikmet'
Sunday, October 29, 2006

ŞEFİK KAHRAMANKAPTAN

The national holidays of countries are celebrated as that respective country's �national day.� Britons celebrate the queen's birthday as their national day and Germans celebrate the unification of the two Germanys while the Turkish national day is the Republic Day on Oct. 29: the day when the Turkish Republic, which should be protected and cared for by the whole nation, was proclaimed by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. "

More:Two new masterpieces on Turkey's national day: 'The Symphony of the Sea' and 'The Legend of Nazım Hikmet' - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

Museum honoring Atatürk chronicles birth of the Turkish nation - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

"Museum honoring Atatürk chronicles birth of the Turkish nation

A visit to the museum is essential for the well-being of Turkish democracy Republic Day celebrations throughout Turkey on Oct. 29 mark the commemoration of the 1923 proclamation of the Republic of Turkey and the election of Atatürk as Turkey's first president "

More:Museum honoring Atatürk chronicles birth of the Turkish nation - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

Gourmand's corner - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

"Gourmand's corner
Sunday, October 29, 2006

Seychellois Chicken Curry:

Ingredients (Serves 2): 1 medium-sized chicken 3 cloves garlic 2 tablespoons quatre épices (mixture of nutmeg, cloves, ginger and pepper) 1 tablespoon saffron 2 tablespoons curry powder Salt & pepper 200g potatoes Cinnamon leaves 1 cup coconut milk 2 tablespoons oil Ginger "

More:Gourmand's corner - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

Nation celebrates 83 years of republican governance - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

"Nation celebrates 83 years of republican governance
Sunday, October 29, 2006

More than eight decades after the founding of the republic, it is still the defining feature of the country with millions professing their commitment to it and their determination to protect it come what may "

More:Nation celebrates 83 years of republican governance - Turkish Daily News Oct 29, 2006

Turkey Refuses NATO Request to Go Outside Kabul

"Turkey Refuses NATO Request to Go Outside Kabul

Saturday, October 28, 2006
zaman.com

Debates continue after General James Jones, NATO’s supreme allied commander in Europe, requested Turkish forces in Afghanistan lift its self-imposed restrictions and perform operations outside Kabul."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006102837739)

Saturday, October 28, 2006

German politicians decry sharp reaction to lawmaker's comment on head scarves - iht,europe,Germany Head Scarves - Europe - International Herald Tribun

"German politicians decry sharp reaction to lawmaker's comment on head scarves

BERLIN German politicians on Saturday expressed concern about sharp reactions to remarks by an opposition lawmaker of Turkish origin who urged Muslim women living in Germany to take off their head scarves.

The Tagesspiegel daily reported that Ekin Deligoz, of the center-left Greens, had received a death threat following her comments and said she was under police protection."

More:German politicians decry sharp reaction to lawmaker's comment on head scarves - iht,europe,Germany Head Scarves - Europe - International Herald Tribune

KGB Used Istanbul as Base During WWII

"KGB Used Istanbul as Base During WWII
By Mirza Cetinkaya, Moscow
Saturday, October 28, 2006
zaman.com

It has recently been reported that the KGB, the most renowned intelligence agency in the former Soviet Union, had carried out its espionage operations and other relevant activities through a passenger vessel in Istanbul during World War II."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006102837727)

Turkish Foreign Ministry Reacts to Barroso

"Turkish Foreign Ministry Reacts to Barroso
By Zaman, Ankara
Saturday, October 28, 2006
zaman.com

As the row between Ankara and Brussels over Cyprus continues, the release of the 2006 Progress Report on Turkey prepared by the European Commission (EC) will be announced on Nov. 8."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006102837733)

The Desire to Conserve: The Limits of Europe

"The Limits of Europe

Aki Paasovaara, a Finnish-born, Danish-based political leader of Europe United (a pan-European federalist political party established in 2005) says in Finnish newspaper Kaleva (28.10.2006) what the majority of Europeans think: Europe should recognize it has cultural and geographical limits; the EU cannot enlarge forever. According to Paasovaara, Turkey is not part of Europe, and shouldn't be taken into EU. Furthermore, Paasovaara points out, that while the political elite in Turkey drives the accession into EU, Turkish people don't see themselves as Europeans. Although I haven't paid much attention to this new party before, I can wholeheartedly agree at least with this statement. I only wish more influential European politicians would have sense to issue similar statements."

More:The Desire to Conserve: The Limits of Europe

Turkey EU Progress Report Open to Future Revisions

"Turkey EU Progress Report Open to Future Revisions

Saturday, October 28, 2006

European Commissioner (EC) for Enlargement Olli Rehn has implied the progress report on Turkey to be issued on Nov.8 could be updated later. "

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006102837722)

World Economic Forum in Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Oct 28, 2006

"World Economic Forum in Istanbul
Saturday, October 28, 2006

s soon as it rids itself of the holiday haze, Istanbul will be experiencing exciting days: In November, a number of international conferences are due to take place in the city "

More:World Economic Forum in Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Oct 28, 2006

Ankara sees EU’s repetitive calls incompatible with fairness - Turkish Daily News Oct 28, 2006

"Ankara sees EU’s repetitive calls incompatible with fairness
Saturday, October 28, 2006

The European Commission will update the progress report to be released on Nov. 8 if needed, says Rehn, noting that the Cyprus issue will remain on the table until December’s summit in Finland "

More:Ankara sees EU’s repetitive calls incompatible with fairness - Turkish Daily News Oct 28, 2006

Cyprus bicommunal discussion and chat forum : Turkish Minority of Thrace

"UNITED NATION COMMISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
SUB-COMMISSION ON THE PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS
WORKING GROUP ON MINORITIES
TWELFTH SESSIONON, GENEVA 8-11 AUGUST 2006

MUSLIM TURKISH MINORITY OF WESTERN THRACE – GREECE

Thank you Mr. Chairman,
My name is Tzemil Kapza; I am representing Western Thrace Minority University Graduates Association in Greece.

INTRODUCTION

With the expansion of the Ottoman Empire during the twelfth century in the Balkans, Turks settled in Western Thrace, in the North East part of Greece and today the estimated population of ethnic Turks living in this area is around 150.000. Members of the Muslim Turkish Minority identify themselves as ethnic Turks.
Although Greece has been a member of the European Union for 25 years, has signed and ratified most of the international instruments protecting basic human rights, unfortunately continues to ignore its obligations regarding the recognition and the protection of the rights of the Muslim Turkish Minority of Western Thrace as well as the rights of other existing ethnic minorities in Greece, such as the Macedonian minority.
Our 24-year-old association has been participating to the UN Working Group on Minorities since 1998. The Greek delegation by using the right to reply has been showing the good will; however, it is embarrassing to receive insults such as “so-called NGO”. By appraising our statements, as “allegations” is only misleading the truth. "

More:Cyprus bicommunal discussion and chat forum : Turkish Minority of Thrace

Anti-woman Islamism in the news | World War 4 Report

"Anti-woman Islamism in the news
Submitted by Bill Weinberg on Fri, 10/27/2006 - 20:29.

First this, from DPA, Oct. 25:

Police protection given to German MP in headscarf row

BERLIN - A female member of parliament from the Greens party has been given police protection after calling on Muslim women in Germany to give up wearing headscarves, a parliamentary spokesman said Wednesday. Turkish-born Ekin Deligoz has been subject to attacks in fundamentalist media in Turkey and Germany for her views and has also received a death threat."

More:Anti-woman Islamism in the news | World War 4 Report

Mention the desire for peace

"Mention the desire for peace

27.10.2006

The President of the Peace and Democracy Movement, Mustafa Akinci wished the Turkish Cypriots happier, more peaceful and many more Bayram holidays in the future than they are presently experiencing today. In his Ramadan holiday message he said: “In our country and throughout the whole world there are many problems to be solved and issues to be dealt with; however there is no other way than by making an effort towards reaching solutions without losing hope. I believe there are no problems which cannot be solved after making some serious effort and I once again wish a happy holiday to all our public” said Akinci."

More:Mention the desire for peace

PACE president voices support for Turkey's EU bid (SETimes.com)

"PACE president voices support for Turkey's EU bid

27/10/2006

A possible disruption of Turkey's EU accession talks will serve neither the Union's, nor Ankara's interests, the president of the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly said on Thursday, urging Turkish authorities to step up reforms."

More:PACE president voices support for Turkey's EU bid (SETimes.com)

LONDRA GAZETE :Cyprus last chance – again?

"Cyprus last chance – again?

EU ENLARGEMENT Commissioner Ollie Rehn met with UK Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett this week and said on Monday that a new bid to reunite Cyprus could be the last chance for progress for years on the Cyprus issue.

He urges EU member state backing for the Finnish efforts at opening up Famagusta and Varosha and putting them under UN control, in a bid to solve the decades old dispute."

More:LONDRA GAZETE :: Ana sayfa

Khaleej Times Online - Women-only park plan causes stir in secular Turkey

"Women-only park plan causes stir in secular Turkey
(Reuters)

27 October 2006

ISTANBUL - Strong reaction to a plan for a women-only park in Istanbul has focused attention on the divisions between Turkey’s secularists and supporters of the ruling AK Party, which has its roots in political Islam."

More:Khaleej Times Online - Women-only park plan causes stir in secular Turkey:

EU Unblocks Millions in Aid to Turkish Northern Cyprus | Europe | Deutsche Welle | 27.10.2006

"EU Unblocks Millions in Aid to Turkish Northern Cyprus
The flags of Turkey and the Turkish Cypriot State
Großansicht des Bildes mit der Bildunterschrift: Turkey's stand on Cyprus could hinder its EU membership bid

The European Commission said Friday it was unblocking 38 million euros ($48 million) in the first tranche of an aid package promised to the Turkish north of Cyprus two years ago."

More:EU Unblocks Millions in Aid to Turkish Northern Cyprus | Europe | Deutsche Welle | 27.10.2006

U.S. Dissatisfied with Efforts To Curb Kurdistan Workers Party

"U.S. Dissatisfied with Efforts To Curb Kurdistan Workers Party

State's Satterfield says more must be done to stop PKK violence

By David Shelby
Washington File Staff Writer

Washington – The United States is not satisfied with efforts by Iraq’s Kurdish leadership to rein in the activities of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which has launched numerous cross-border attacks against Turkish military, police and government targets since abandoning its unilateral cease-fire with the Turkish government in August 2004."

More:U.S. Dissatisfied with Efforts To Curb Kurdistan Workers Party

Freedom of speech under continuing attack in Turkey : Indybay

"Freedom of speech under continuing attack in Turkey
by wsws (reposted)
Friday Oct 27th, 2006 7:27 AM

Last week, a court in Istanbul began hearings against the Turkish publisher, editors and translator of the book Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media by Noam Chomsky and Edward S. Herman. The charges related to Article 301 and Article 216 of the Turkish Penal Code (TCK)."

More:Freedom of speech under continuing attack in Turkey : Indybay

TÜSİAD invites Armenian businessmen to Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Oct 28, 2006

"TÜSİAD invites Armenian businessmen to Istanbul
Saturday, October 28, 2006

The Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen's Association (TÜSİAD) has invited Armenian businessmen to Istanbul following the approval of a bill on Oct. 12 in the lower house of the French Parliament to criminalize denial of an alleged Armenian genocide. "

More:TÜSİAD invites Armenian businessmen to Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Oct 28, 2006

FOCUS Information Agency-Ankara Disturbed by Romania's Nominee for EU Commissioner

"Ankara Disturbed by Romania's Nominee for EU Commissioner
27 October 2006 | 16:31 | FOCUS News Agency
Ankara. Ankara is reportedly uncomfortable over Romania’s decision to appoint an ethnically Armenian government member, Senator Varujan Vosganian, to the post of EU Commissioner, the online edition of the Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reports. Vosganian, who belongs to the Romanian Liberal Party, played a critical role in his country's decision to declare April 24 'genocide remembrance day.' The 48-year-old Vosganian, who presided over the Romanian Senate's Budget and Planning Commission, will assume the post on the first day of the New Year, when Romania will officially become an EU member state."

FOCUS Information Agency

People's Daily Online -- Ankara dismisses Barroso's remarks on Turkey's EU member ship process

"Ankara dismisses Barroso's remarks on Turkey's EU member ship process

Ankara on Friday dismissed European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso's recent remarks on Turkey's European Union (EU) membership process.

Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Namik Tan made the criticism at a news briefing, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported."

More:People's Daily Online -- Ankara dismisses Barroso's remarks on Turkey's EU member ship process

Freedom of expression and the European Union

"Freedom of expression and the European Union
by
Graham Watson*

Last week a founding EU Member State, France, suffered the indignity on receiving a lecture from the Turkish Government on fundamental human rights after its lower chamber of parliament approved a bill that, if passed into law, would make it a crime to deny the Armenian genocide. Fortunately, it seems unlikely to enter into law as it must both pass through the Senate and obtain the signature of the French President."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006102837699)

Friday, October 27, 2006

..:: ABHABER.COM : EU working on new crisis management plan to keep Turkey's talks on track

"EU working on new crisis management plan to keep Turkey's talks on track

Brussels is working on new crisis management plan to avoid a 'train crash' in membership talks with Turkey because of the deadlock on Cyprus, as the deadline for Ankara to open ports and harbors to the Greek Cypriots looms."

More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..

We're more than what we wear | The Daily Telegraph

"We're more than what we wear

By Evelyn Yamine

October 27, 2006 12:00

THEY are modern working women who have embraced Australian values along with their Islamic faith.

They have chosen not to wear the hijab and have joined the chorus of Australians condemning Sheik Taj el-Dene Elhilaly's comments.

Wajiha Ahmed, Alia Karaman and Semra Batik yesterday expressed their outrage over the mufti's explosives comments about women being a piece of meat."

More:We're more than what we wear | The Daily Telegraph

People's Daily Online -- Two Hellenistic-era mausoleums unearthed in western Turkey

"Two Hellenistic-era mausoleums unearthed in western Turkey
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut

Archeologists have unearthed two mausoleums dating as far back as the Hellenistic-era at the ancient city of Antandros in Turkey's Aegean province of Balikesir, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported on Thursday.

During the excavations carried out in the necropolis near Altinoluk village of Balikesir, traces signing that the area was used as a residential place in the late Roman period were found, assistant professor Gurcan Polat, head of the excavation team, was quoted as saying."

More:People's Daily Online -- Two Hellenistic-era mausoleums unearthed in western Turkey

SABAH Newspaper English Edition - National - There are 18 'stones' in the way to EU

"There are 18 'stones' in the way to EU

Turkey finished scanning in 35 titles in detail during the negotiation stage with the EU; however, Turkey will have at least 18 titles of opening criteria. Ankara is getting ready to face possible difficulties.

Turkey finished scanning in 35 titles in detail during the negotiation stage with the EU; however, Turkey will have at least 18 titles of opening criteria. Ankara is getting ready to face possible difficulties. Only the title of 'Science-Research' was opened up to negotiation and the head negotiator Ali Babacan instructed the European Union General Secretariat to push the oEU commission to send the scanning reports."

SABAH Newspaper English Edition - National - There are 18 'stones' in the way to EU

Greeks first, Greek Cypriots sixth, on Gaming list

"...Turks are way down the list
The personal investment in games of fortune in the US is US$11,159; while in Italy it is US$ 6,067. The amount spent on such games in Turkey is US$ 1,245 which places them 35th on the list of 44 countries.
The countries that follow Turkey on the list are Romania, Chile, Bulgaria, Mexico, China, Ghana, Kazakhstan, Macedonia and Moldavia. "

More:Greeks first, Greek Cypriots sixth, on Gaming list

From Holland to Kurdistan: Orhan Kemal Cengiz: "Minds must also change"

"Orhan Kemal Cengiz: 'Minds must also change'

The president of the Human Rights Agenda Association, Orhan Kemal Cengiz, explaining the aim of the booklet to the Turkish Daily News in an exclusive interview, made some interesting comments:

Cengiz said that despite the important steps taken in certain human rights areas, standard practice in Turkish courts has not changed. 'The prosecution of writers, artists and journalists who have expressed their non-violent opinions is an everyday occurrence. For this reason, domestic and international organizations that closely monitor the situation in Turkey have reached the common conclusion that human rights problems in Turkey cannot be solved by legal changes alone and that 'minds must also change.' Genuine progress cannot be achieved without a change of mentality. If we look at the historical record of the judiciary in Turkey, we see an unfortunate pattern -- laws are interpreted in such a way as to narrow rather than broaden freedoms, and the values of the 'sacred state' take precedence over the freedoms of the individual.'"

More:From Holland to Kurdistan: Orhan Kemal Cengiz: "Minds must also change"

Kebab Connection - Starring: Denis Moschitto, Adnan Maral, Nora Tschirner, Given Kirac, Hasan Ali Mete

"PLOT SYNOPSIS
Comedy and tragedy revolves around two rival food stands--one selling Turkish food, the other Greek--in KEBAB CONNECTION. The nephew of the owner of the Turkish stand shoots a commercial for his uncle's business, but the short film fails to attract new customers. But this doesn't prevent the owner of the Greek stand from requesting a commercial from the budding young filmmaker, and when he goes against his uncle's wishes and starts filming, pandemonium breaks out."

More:Kebab Connection - Starring: Denis Moschitto, Adnan Maral, Nora Tschirner, Given Kirac, Hasan Ali Mete

Interesting Times: Turkish delight | Jerusalem Post

"Interesting Times: Turkish delight
By SAUL SINGER
Istanbul is a great place for a vacation. We had been worried that it might feel like we were stuck in Jerusalem's Old City writ large. As absorbing as our home town's sites are, spending a precious four days in a too-familiar labyrinth of cramped bustle seemed like a poor prospect for rejuvenation."

More:Interesting Times: Turkish delight | Jerusalem Post

Hürriyet - French radio RFI cuts Turkish broadcasts

"French radio RFI cuts Turkish broadcasts

Radio France International (RFI) has announced an end to the Turkish broadcasts it has done since 1971. Speaking about the decision, Antoine Schwarz, the head of RFI's board of directors, said RFI is planning on forming a forum for the discussion of Turkish-French relations instead of the Turkish radio programming. "

More:Hürriyet - French radio RFI cuts Turkish broadcasts

Hürriyet - French radio RFI cuts Turkish broadcasts

"French radio RFI cuts Turkish broadcasts

Radio France International (RFI) has announced an end to the Turkish broadcasts it has done since 1971. Speaking about the decision, Antoine Schwarz, the head of RFI's board of directors, said RFI is planning on forming a forum for the discussion of Turkish-French relations instead of the Turkish radio programming. "

More:Hürriyet - French radio RFI cuts Turkish broadcasts

EU Commission clears €38 million aid to Turkish Cypriots - iht,europe,EU Cyprus - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"EU Commission clears €38 million aid to Turkish Cypriots
The Associated Press

BRUSSELS, Belgium The European Commission on Friday cleared €38 million (US$48 million) in aid to the Turkish Cypriots as part of a plan to help boost the economy in the northern part of the island and bring it closer to the EU.

"It is another step by the EU towards putting an end to the isolation of this community and thus facilitating the reunification of Cyprus," said Olli Rehn, the EU enlargement commissioner."

More:EU Commission clears €38 million aid to Turkish Cypriots - iht,europe,EU Cyprus - Europe - International Herald Tribune

Hürriyet - Turkish tourism sector slows down in 2006

"Turkish tourism sector slows down in 2006

The Turkish tourism sector is showing numbers that pale in comparison with last year. According to figures provided by sector analysts, the first 9 months of this year show a 5.8% drop in tourism profits compared with the first 9 months of last year. "

More:Hürriyet - Turkish tourism sector slows down in 2006

Thursday, October 26, 2006

Council of Europe official backs Turkey's EU bid

"Council of Europe official backs Turkey's EU bid
Published: 10/26/2006

ANKARA - The European Union and Turkey should work to resolve their differences because a possible disruption of Ankara's accession talks would be 'in no one's interest,' the president of the Council of Europe's parliamentary assembly said here Thursday."

More:Council of Europe official backs Turkey's EU bid

Quake hits Istanbul, second in days : Mail & Guardian Online

"Quake hits Istanbul, second in days
Istanbul, Turkey
24 October 2006 04:14

An earthquake measuring 5,2 on the Richter scale hit north-western Turkey on Tuesday and was felt in Istanbul, just days after another quake of the same size in the area, Turkey's earthquake monitoring centre said."

More:Quake hits Istanbul, second in days : Mail & Guardian Online

Hürriyet - Mehmet Yilmaz: The last thing the Armenians want is a debate

"Mehmet Yilmaz: The last thing the Armenians want is a debate

The Anadolu news agency has reported that the Armenian parliament has shelved a suggestion to form a commission dealing with genocide allegations and research. Deputy head of the Armenian parliament, Vahan Hovanisian, said recently of the unformed commission 'It will only serve the purposes of Turks who wish to deny the reality of the Armenian genocide.' He then went on to add 'The forming of such a commission would mean that even Armenians didn't know what happened in 1915.' "

More:Hürriyet - Mehmet Yilmaz: The last thing the Armenians want is a debate

>>> AsiaNews.it <<< Turkish edition of \"I believe\", synthesis of Catholic Catechism for papal visit

"Turkish edition of \'I believe\', synthesis of Catholic Catechism for papal visit

This is an initiative by Aid to the Church in Need, which sees the papal trip and talks about Turkey’s EU entry as opportunities to call for full respect for religious freedom in that country. Mgr Padovese said the Pope is going to talk to Muslims, and especially to the Orthodox.

Königstein (AsiaNews) – A Turkish edition of 'I Believe', a syntesis of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, will be published by Aid to the Church in Need to mark the visit of Benedict XVI (28 November – 1 December). The initiative was announced on the sidelines of a meeting in Königstein, Germany, by Mgr Luigi Padovese, Apostolic Vicar for Anatolia."

More:>>> AsiaNews.it <<< Turkish edition of \"I believe\", synthesis of Catholic Catechism for papal visit

INDIAN CATHOLIC - Catholic aid organization says Turkey needs religious liberty that matches European standards

"Catholic aid organization says Turkey needs religious liberty that matches European standards

Konigstein (CNA) - In advance of Pope Benedict XVI’s late November trip to Turkey and in the midst of continuing talks regarding Turkey’s possible entry into the European Union, international aid agency, Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), is asking for “religious liberty of European standard,” in Turkey.
In a press release Oct.25, ACN said “religious liberty of European standard” includes the legal recognition of Christian Churches in Turkey, especially in the areas of property ownership and the right to form priests."

More:INDIAN CATHOLIC - NEWS SITE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS' CONFERENCE OF INDIA:

Turkey-Europe: The Widening Gap - Council on Foreign Relations

"Turkey-Europe: The Widening Gap

October 24, 2006
Prepared by:
Carin Zissis

The possibility of Turkish EU accession appears increasingly uncertain. In recent weeks, European leaders have voiced unease over Ankara’s membership bid, citing concerns over Turkey’s infringement on freedom of expression and its embargo on Cypriot ships and planes (AP), the latter a manifestation of a long-standing dispute over division of the Aegean Sea with Greece. Some EU members, including France and Germany, have suggested Turkey seek “privileged partnership” rather than full membership. Olli Rehn, commissioner of EU enlargement, opposed this idea, but warned the Turkish accession process that began in October 2005 has been slowed by Ankara’s failure to repeal Article 301, which gives the government free reign to arrest journalists and activists for disparaging Turkey. In an interview with the BBC, EU President Jose Manuel Barroso said it could take twenty years for Turkey to become a member nation."

More:Turkey-Europe: The Widening Gap - Council on Foreign Relations

Ambassador's Genocide Denial Case Delayed

"Ambassador's Genocide Denial Case Delayed
By Ali Ihsan Aydin, Paris
Thursday, October 26, 2006
zaman.com

A lawsuit opened against Turkish Ambassador to Paris Aydin Sezgin has once again been delayed because of problems with the court’s computer system.

Following a ‘computer breakdown,’ the Paris Court of Appeals delayed its verdict in a lawsuit opened by Armenians against Sezgin for openly denying the alleged Armenian genocide on the embassy’s website."

More:Ambassador's Genocide Denial Case Delayed

Travel community reveal hottest spots for 2007

"Travel community reveal hottest spots for 2007

Pamukkale in Turkey has been named as the world's hottest travel destination in a survey conducted by travel website TripAdvisor.

The website's annual travel trends survey suggests that the attraction, located in the south-west of the country, is likely to be the best up-and-coming destination in 2007."

More:Travel community reveal hottest spots for 2007

Academic to face court for remarks on Islamic veil - Women - Middle East Times

"Academic to face court for remarks on Islamic veil
Burak Akinci
AFP
October 26, 2006

ISTANBUL -- At 92, Muazzez Ilmiye Cig, doyenne of Turkish academics, goes on trial next month for scientific writings deemed offensive to Islamists who disagree with her interpretation of the origins of the Muslim headscarf. "

More:Academic to face court for remarks on Islamic veil - Women - Middle East Times

The Korea Times : [Country Report] Turkey-Korea Relations Historically Strong

"Turkey-Korea Relations Historically Strong

The following was contributed by Turkish Ambassador to Seoul Deniz Ozmen on the occasion of Turkey’s National Day, which falls on Oct. 29. _ ED.

Turkish Ambassador Deniz Ozmen
On the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Turkey, I would like to extend my best wishes to the friendly people of the Republic of Korea. On Oct. 29, 1923, after the Turkish National War of Independence, under the leadership of our leader Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the Republic of Turkey was proclaimed."

More:The Korea Times : [Country Report] Turkey-Korea Relations Historically Strong:

Hürriyet - Richard Holbrooke warns Bush: Turkish-Kurdish conflict in N. Iraq dangerous

"Richard Holbrooke warns Bush: Turkish-Kurdish conflict in N. Iraq dangerous

The Washington Post newspaper this week carried a letter written by former US ambassador to the UN, Richard Holbrooke, in which Holbrooke warns Bush of the dangers inherent in a Turkish-Kurdish conflict in Northern Iraq. "

More:Hürriyet - Richard Holbrooke warns Bush: Turkish-Kurdish conflict in N. Iraq dangerous

Ankara Rejects NATO Request to Move Beyond Kabul

"Ankara Rejects NATO Request to Move Beyond Kabul
By Suleyman Kurt, Ankara
Thursday, October 26, 2006
zaman.com

Ankara has once more rejected a NATO request to contribute additional combat troops for Afghanistan. A high-ranking official from the Turkish foreign ministry told Zaman: “Our stance is very clear. A change in our task description is not likely at all.”"

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2006102637676)

Turkey's Attitude Towards So-called Armenian Genocide Is More European Than France's, Babacan

"Turkey's Attitude Towards So-called Armenian Genocide Is More European Than France's, Babacan
Published: 10/25/2006

BRUSSELS - 'The attitude Turkey has assumed against so-called Armenian genocide allegations is more European than the attitude of France,' Turkish State Minister & Chief Negotiator for EU talks Ali Babacan who spoke at round-table meeting organized by think-tank institution 'Friends of Europe' in Brussels said on Thursday."

More:Turkey's Attitude Towards So-called Armenian Genocide Is More European Than France's, Babacan

Turks Rethink Future as Part as Europe: Angus Reid Global Monitor

"Angus Reid Global Monitor : Polls & Research
Turks Rethink Future as Part as Europe
October 26, 2006

- The point of view of adults in Turkey about the European Union (EU) has shifted over the past year, according to a poll by A&G published in Milliyet. 32.2 per cent of respondents believe their country should certainly join the continental group, down 25.2 points in a year."

More:Turks Rethink Future as Part as Europe: Angus Reid Global Monitor

The New Anatolian - Turkish consul in Germany accused of being sect leader

"Turkish consul in Germany accused of being sect leader

The New Anatolian / Mainz
26 October 2006

The Turkish consul in Mainz, Yalman Okan, has been accused of pressuring staff at his consulate and immigrants living in Germany to learn the teachings of his sect.

The situation was revealed following complaints by Turkish immigrants and consulate staff, reported the Anka news agency. "

More:The New Anatolian - Turkish consul in Germany accused of being sect leader

The New Anatolian - Ilnur Cevik - Iraqi Kurdish leaders misreading the Turks

"Iraqi Kurdish leaders misreading the Turks

ilnurcevik@yahoo.com
26 October 2006

Iraqi Kurdish leaders feel they have achieved a great success by convincing the terrorist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to declare a cease-fire and feel now it is up to the Turkish leaders in Ankara to reciprocate with some goodwill gestures to the Kurds and even to the PKK …"

More:The New Anatolian - Ilnur Cevik - Iraqi Kurdish leaders misreading the Turks

Spero News | Turkey and the EU: Keeping a friendly distance

"Turkey and the EU: Keeping a friendly distance
The immediate problem is Cyprus, where the EU has committed every error possible, and an issue which more than any other unites all Turks.

Thursday, October 26, 2006
by Michael Radu

The alienation between Turkey and the EU has grown on both sides to the point that more and more people in Brussels and Ankara are beginning to realize that not only is Turkey’s EU membership unlikely, but that it is not in the interest of either party."

More:Spero News | Turkey and the EU: Keeping a friendly distance

Turks main users of Atatürk Airport, Germans and Russians next - Turkish Daily News Oct 26, 2006

"Turks main users of Atatürk Airport, Germans and Russians next
Thursday, October 26, 2006

Over 9 million travelers, 60 percent of whom were Turkish citizens, passed through Istanbul's Atatürk Airport in the first nine months of the year, the Anatolia news agency reported.

As Turkey's largest border gate, the airport recorded 9,235,940 entries/exits during the January-September period, 5,755,272 of them Turkish citizens. A similar proportion of Turkish citizens made up the number of international travelers. "

More:Turks main users of Atatürk Airport, Germans and Russians next - Turkish Daily News Oct 26, 2006

The New Anatolian - pACE president visits Turkey to boost ties

"pACE president visits Turkey to boost ties

The New Anatolian / Strasbourg
26 October 2006

Parliamentary Assembly of Council of Europe (PACE) President Rene van der Linden began yesterday a four-day working visit to Turkey to strengthen ties."

More:The New Anatolian - pACE president visits Turkey to boost ties

theparliament.com - Barroso fears for Turkey talks

"Barroso fears for Turkey talks

In an interview with Il Corriere della Sera European commission president José Manuel Barroso says he fears talks with Turkey could be stopped.

“On Turkey, I fear there may be a stop in accession negotiations,” the paper quotes the commission chief as saying in a headline."

More:theparliament.com - Barroso fears for Turkey talks

Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Main Line Times - Cruising from Venice to Istanbul

"Cruising from Venice to Istanbul
By: RALPH COLLIER, Main Line Times
10/25/2006
email this storyEmail to a friendpost a commentPost a Commentprinter friendlyPrinter-friendly

Sailing aboard a foreign flagged vessel opens a variety of opportunities to delve deep into the magic, mystery and spirit of other countries. On a walking tour of Kotor, Montenegro, one
of the better preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic, it dawns on the visitor why the city has
been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage & Cultural Site. The Gulf of Kotor has a fjord
where mountains plunge into a clear blue sea, and the local burgermeister emphasizes that his government regulates development to avoid, at all costs, the transformation of the entire coast into a giant piece of concrete. "

More:Main Line Times - Cruising from Venice to Istanbul

FOCUS Information Agency-Cypriot Turks Ready to Cooperate on Cyprus Issue: Northern Cyprus Leader

"Cypriot Turks Ready to Cooperate on Cyprus Issue: Northern Cyprus Leader
25 October 2006 | 17:03 | FOCUS News Agency
Nicosia. The Cypriot Turks have proved they are ready to cooperate in the solving of the Cyprus issue, to share the island, to rule the northern part of the island and to form an integrated administration system based on political equality. This is what the leader of Northern Cyprus Mehmet Ali Talat said cited by the online edition of Cypriot newspaper Phileleftheros."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

18 Early Anatolian Buildings lack UNESCO Prospects

"18 Early Anatolian Buildings lack UNESCO Prospects

Wednesday, October 25, 2006
zaman.com

With no Turkish items appearing on the World Heritage list for U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) since 1994, 18 historical works from Turkey have been waiting the past six years for inclusion."

More:18 Early Anatolian Buildings lack UNESCO Prospects

Turkey's Economy Stabilizes - Forbes.com

"Turkey's Economy Stabilizes
Oxford Analytica 10.25.06, 6:00 AM ET

The International Monetary Fund on Monday endorsed Ankara's economic policies following a visit by a Fund delegation to Turkey. The economy appears to have weathered the financial turbulence of May and June with only minor scratches, but it continues to require large capital inflows at a potentially critical time in European Union relations and domestic politics."

More:Turkey's Economy Stabilizes - Forbes.com

Turkey caught at a crossroads - CNN.com

"Turkey caught at a crossroads
POSTED: 1043 GMT (1843 HKT), October 25, 2006
By Simon Hooper for CNN

(CNN) -- Standing at the south-easterly edge of mainland Europe, Turkey's fortunes have always been closely linked to the continent's wider historical currents.

In 1683 the Ottoman Turks marched to the gates of Vienna as they built an empire stretching from the Balkans to the Middle East."

More:Turkey caught at a crossroads - CNN.com

German Muslim MP defends veil comment, wins support | Reuters.com

"German Muslim MP defends veil comment, wins support
Thu Oct 26,:14 AM IST162

By Eva Kuehnen

BERLIN (Reuters) - A German Muslim politician, who received death threats after calling on other Muslim women to take off their veils, stood up for her right to free speech on Wednesday and was backed by the head of the German parliament.

Ekin Deligoez, a Turkish-born Muslim who grew up in Germany, told Reuters that she stood by a newspaper interview in which she addressed Muslim women, saying: "Wake up to today's Germany. This is where you live, so take off your veils.""

More:German Muslim MP defends veil comment, wins support | Reuters.com

Turkish Women Mps Send Letter To Dutch Mp

"Turkish Women Mps Send Letter To Dutch Mp
Published: 10/25/2006

ANKARA - Women parliamentarians from ruling Justice & Development Party (AKP) sent a letter to Dutch MP Tineke Huizinga Heringa, who submitted a resolution to the Dutch House of Representatives asking for imprisonment and fine for those who deny the allegations about the so-called Armenian genocide."

More:Turkish Women Mps Send Letter To Dutch Mp

EU to unblock 38 million euros in aid to Turkish northern Cyprus

"EU to unblock 38 million euros in aid to Turkish northern Cyprus
Published: 10/25/2006

BRUSSELS - The European Union will this week unblock 38.1 million euros (47.9 million dollars) in aid promised to the Turkish north of Cyprus two years ago, an EU source said Wednesday."

More:EU to unblock 38 million euros in aid to Turkish northern Cyprus

Turkey's G.N.P. Continues To Rise Rapidly So As Its Social Problems, Dervis

"Turkey's G.N.P. Continues To Rise Rapidly So As Its Social Problems, Dervis
Published: 10/25/2006

ANKARA - United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Administrator Kemal Dervis indicated that Turkey's gross national product (GNP) rose rapidly but social problems in the country continued."

More:Turkey's G.N.P. Continues To Rise Rapidly So As Its Social Problems, Dervis

Sibel Edmonds vindicated? FBI reveals investigation continues

"Sibel Edmonds vindicated? FBI reveals investigation continues
By John Stanton
Online Journal Contributing Writer


Oct 25, 2006, 00:37

On October 10, FBI spokesman Bill Carter confirmed that matters raised by Sibel Edmonds and shielded form public view by the invocation of the US States Secret privilege were still under internal investigation by the bureau."

More:Sibel Edmonds vindicated? FBI reveals investigation continues

MSU plans to send students to Turkey

"MSU plans to send students to Turkey

By ANDREA JOHNSON, Staff Writer ajohnson@minotdailynews.com

Minot State University President David Fuller hopes to send up to 20 business students to study in Istanbul, Turkey, and to accept Turkish students into the business program at MSU.

“Being international is one of our real goals,” said Yucel Yilmaz, rector of Kadir Has University in Istanbul, who shares Fuller’s goals. "

More:Minot Daily News

globeandmail.com: Ottawa to soothe Turks angry over 'genocide' tag

"Ottawa to soothe Turks angry over 'genocide' tag

BRIAN LAGHI

OTTAWA BUREAU CHIEF

The federal government has moved to mend fences with Turkey by qualifying its support for a controversial declaration that the Turks perpetrated a genocide against Armenians during the First World War.

The move comes just months after Turkey agreed to take in thousands of Canadians stranded in strife-torn Lebanon and after the Turks protested diplomatically by temporarily removing their ambassador and then pulling out of air exercises taking place in Alberta earlier this summer."

More:globeandmail.com: Ottawa to soothe Turks angry over 'genocide' tag

Cyprus warns Turkey on EU entry - CNN.com

"Cyprus warns Turkey on EU entry
POSTED: 0850 GMT (1650 HKT), October 25, 2006

NICOSIA, Cyprus (Reuters) -- Cyprus has warned of a 'serious problem' in Turkey's negotiations to join the European Union unless it opens its ports to Cypriot traffic by the end of the year.

In some of the strongest language from Nicosia yet, Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos said Turkey could not dictate or impose conditions on the EU."

More:Cyprus warns Turkey on EU entry - CNN.com

Finnish PM optimistic EU can avoid breakdown in Turkey membership talks - iht,europe,EU Turkey - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"Finnish PM optimistic EU can avoid breakdown in Turkey membership talks

STRASBOURG, France Finnish Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen said Wednesday he was optimistic the European Union would continue membership negotiations with Turkey and avoid a breakdown in talks over the pace of the country's reforms."

More:Finnish PM optimistic EU can avoid breakdown in Turkey membership talks - iht,europe,EU Turkey - Europe - International Herald Tribune

Marmaris Bomber Captured in Gaziantep

"Marmaris Bomber Captured in Gaziantep
By Cihan News Agency
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
zaman.com

A Kurdish suspect who was accused of blowing up a minibus in southwestern Turkey, was captured in the southeastern Turkish city of Gaziantep on Monday.

Mehmet Yildirim, who was wanted for the bombing the minibus in Marmaris district of Mugla in August, was captured by police in Gaziantep."

More:Marmaris Bomber Captured in Gaziantep

NATO Commander asks Turkish Troops to Fight Outside Kabul

"NATO Commander asks Turkish Troops to Fight Outside Kabul
By Cihan News Agency
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
zaman.com

James Jones, NATO’s top commander, has asked Turkish troops to fight against Taliban forces outside of Kabul, the capital province of Afghanistan.

U.S. Gen. Jones criticized Turkey for restricting the operation of its forces only to Kabul, adding that Turkey should help NATO with duties in other locations of Afghanistan."

More:NATO Commander asks Turkish Troops to Fight Outside Kabul

Sharp decline in Turkish EU support | European Union Enlargement

"Sharp decline in Turkish EU support

In Short:

The survey by A&G shows a dramatic drop in Turkish public support for entering the EU. This signal comes as a warning only weeks before the Commission’s report."

More:Sharp decline in Turkish EU support | European Union Enlargement

Marmaris Bomber Captured in Gaziantep

"Marmaris Bomber Captured in Gaziantep
By Cihan News Agency
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
zaman.com

A Kurdish suspect who was accused of blowing up a minibus in southwestern Turkey, was captured in the southeastern Turkish city of Gaziantep on Monday.

Mehmet Yildirim, who was wanted for the bombing the minibus in Marmaris district of Mugla in August, was captured by police in Gaziantep."

More:Marmaris Bomber Captured in Gaziantep

Burcu Uyar Best Young Soprano in Europe

"Burcu Uyar Best Young Soprano in Europe
By Anadolu News Agency (aa), Izmir

zaman.com

Burcu Uyar won first prize out of a group of young female opera singers at the European Opera Singing Competition DEBUT 2006 in Mannheim, Germany, October 7."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER)

Azerbaijan Best, France Worst for Turks: Angus Reid Global Monitor

"Azerbaijan Best, France Worst for Turks
October 25, 2006

- Few adults in Turkey express positive feelings on two European nations, according to a poll by A&G published in Milliyet. Only 2.8 per cent of respondents trust France, and 3.2 per cent feel the same way about Britain.

The United States was next on the list with 3.6 per cent, followed by Greece with 4.2 per cent and Russia with 17.7 per cent. The three most trusted countries are Azerbaijan with 71.4 per cent, Pakistan with 47.3 per cent, and Iran with 29 per cent."

More:Azerbaijan Best, France Worst for Turks: Angus Reid Global Monitor

Tuesday, October 24, 2006

JTW News - EU Commissioner Olli Rehn: Turkey's EU Accession Serves Both Sides' Interests

"EU Commissioner Olli Rehn: Turkey's EU Accession Serves Both Sides' Interests

Tuesday , 24 October 2006

European Union Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn said yesterday that Turkey’s EU accession would serve both sides’ interests.

Speaking in Berlin, Rehn said the EU had decided to begin accession talks with both Turkey and Croatia in October 2005, adding that the talks were aimed at full membership. "

More:JTW News - EU Commissioner Olli Rehn: Turkey's EU Accession Serves Both Sides' Interests

E.U. To Fund Kilim Project In Van

"E.U. To Fund Kilim Project In Van
Published: 10/24/2006

VAN - Project 'Silent Scream of Women' which aims to provide employment to women in eastern city of Van and revitalize Van kilims (rugs) will be funded by European Union."

More:E.U. To Fund Kilim Project In Van

Turkey-Europe: The Widening Gap - Council on Foreign Relations

"Turkey-Europe: The Widening Gap

October 24, 2006
Prepared by:
Carin Zissis

The possibility of Turkish EU accession appears increasingly uncertain. In recent weeks, European leaders have voiced unease over Ankara’s membership bid, citing concerns over Turkey’s infringement on freedom of expression and its embargo on Cypriot ships and planes (AP), the latter a manifestation of a long-standing dispute over division of the Aegean Sea with Greece. Some EU members, including France and Germany, have suggested Turkey seek “privileged partnership” rather than full membership. Olli Rehn, commissioner of EU enlargement, opposed this idea, but warned the Turkish accession process that began in October 2005 has been slowed by Ankara’s failure to repeal Article 301, which gives the government free reign to arrest journalists and activists for disparaging Turkey. In an interview with the BBC, EU President Jose Manuel Barroso said it could take twenty years for Turkey to become a member nation."

More:Turkey-Europe: The Widening Gap - Council on Foreign Relations

"Mr. Erdogan's Turkey" - Middle East Forum

"'Mr. Erdogan's Turkey'

by Michael Rubin
Wall Street Journal
October 19, 2006

Five years into the war on terror, inept U.S. diplomacy risks undercutting a key democracy (and ally) that President Bush once called a model for the Muslim world. The future of Turkey as a secular, Western-oriented state is at risk. Just as in Gaza and Lebanon, the threat comes from parties using the rhetoric of democracy to advance distinctly undemocratic agendas. Turkey has overcome past challenges from terrorism and radical Islam; always its system has persevered. But now, as Turkish politicians and officials work to defend the Turkish constitution, U.S. diplomats interfere to dismiss Turkish concerns and downplay the Islamist threat."

More:"Mr. Erdogan's Turkey" - Middle East Forum

Istanbul To Host Turkey Energy Congress And International Energy Exhibition

"Istanbul To Host Turkey Energy Congress And International Energy Exhibition
Published: 10/24/2006

ISTANBUL - 10th Turkey Energy Congress and 5th International Energy Exhibition, organized by Turkish National Committee of World Energy Council will be held in Istanbul between November 27th and 30th, 2006."

More:Istanbul To Host Turkey Energy Congress And International Energy Exhibition

Lipponen Holds A News Conference

"Lipponen Holds A News Conference
Published: 10/24/2006

ANKARA - The Party of European Socialists (PES) group co-chairman, Finnish Parliament Speaker Paavo Lipponen said that he would meet secretary general of Socialist Party in France to discuss the bill (aims to criminalize denial of so-called Armenian genocide) which would be voted in the French parliament this week."

More:Lipponen Holds A News Conference

village voice > film > Climates by J. Hoberman

"Heavy Weather
Intimate Turkish drama chronicles a rocky relationship
by J. Hoberman
October 24th, 2006 2:08 PM

post to del.icio.us
post to furl


Climates
Written and directed Nuri Bilge Ceylan
Zeitgeist, opens August 27, Film Forum
A terrific movie in the Antonioni tradition, Climates confirms 47-year-old Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan as one of the world's most accomplished filmmakers—handling the end of a relationship and the cloud of human confusion rising from its wreckage as if the subject had never before been attempted."

More:village voice > film > Climates by J. Hoberman

Yale Daily News - Onhon addresses Turkey's positions

"Onhon addresses Turkey's positions
By Jae Hyung Ryu
Contributing Reporter

Turkish Consul General Omer Onhon discusses Turkey’s opinions on the Middle East crisis at Luce Hall on Monday with more than 50 students and guests.

Turkish Consul General Omer Onhon discussed Turkey's stance on the crisis in Lebanon before an audience of over 50 students and guests on Monday."

More:Yale Daily News - Onhon addresses Turkey's positions

Exeter News-Letter Community News: Tulip mania strikes

"Tulip mania strikes

By Anne Moore

As I pot up some tulip bulbs, I’m thinking about the colorful story of the tulip and how it made its way from Turkey to Europe, and brought about one of the major commercial upheavals of the 17th century. Yes, this little bulb did all that!"

More:Exeter News-Letter Community News: Tulip mania strikes

IOL: Turks can live without EU - poll

"Turks can live without EU - poll

October at 10:48AM

Less than a third of Turks think Turkey must enter the European Union, a poll showed on Tuesday, the latest sign of waning support for membership as Ankara faces increasing pressure from Brussels.
"

More:IOL: Turks can live without EU - poll

Water Is Running Out: How Inevitable Are International Conflicts? - Worldpress.org

"....In a similar case, Turkey, which profits from the headwaters of the Tigris and the Euphrates, has developed 19 hydroelectric power stations and 22 dams as part of their Southeastern Anatolia Project, which is commonly known by its Turkish acronym GAP. The project is intended to increase the quantity of irrigated water available to Turkish farmers. A side effect, however, is that downstream Iraq and Syria have seen a decline of approximately 50 percent of water from both rivers since the 1990's — and the project is still four years from its planned completion date in 2010. Syria obtains around 80 percent of its water supply from these rivers, while Iraq is 100 percent dependent."

More:Water Is Running Out: How Inevitable Are International Conflicts? - Worldpress.org

Hürriyet - Journalists Without Borders ranks Turkey 100th in "media freedom"

"Journalists Without Borders ranks Turkey 100th in 'media freedom'

According to the Paris-based media organization 'Journalists Without Borders,' Turkey ranks 100th in the world in the arena of 'freedom in the media.' A list published yesterday by Journalists Without Borders puts Finland, Iceland, Ireland, and the Netherlands in a tie for first place in this category. Other noteable placements on the list were Armenia, which ranked immediately before Turkey at 99, and Denmark, which gained notoriety for the caricature crisis earlier in the year: Danish media ranked 20th. The US was ranked at 56th, while North Korea came in last at 168.

Journalists Without Borders declared in May 2002 that Turkey, among other countries, was an 'enemy of the media.'"

Hürriyet - Journalists Without Borders ranks Turkey 100th in "media freedom"

SABAH Newspaper English Edition - World - Rehn: "Finland's interference could be the last chance for Cyprus"

"Rehn: 'Finland's interference could be the last chance for Cyprus'

EU Commission's Directorate General for Enlargement Olli Rehn said Finland's suggestion for Cyprus could be the last chance to solve the problem which had been going on forever. "

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - World - Rehn: "Finland's interference could be the last chance for Cyprus"

Turks in France Self-Critical over Armenian Bill

"Turks in France Self-Critical over Armenian Bill

Tuesday, October 24, 2006
zaman.com

Turkish businessmen in France have admitted their failure in handling the situation with the French parliament’s controversial Armenian genocide bill."

More:Turks in France Self-Critical over Armenian Bill

NYC Turkish Film Festival Kicks off

"NYC Turkish Film Festival Kicks off

Tuesday, October 24, 2006
zaman.com

The 8th Annual New York Turkish Film Festival has started. The festival is traditionally organized by the Moon and Stars Project, a non-governmental organization operating in New York City, to develop cultural relations between Turkey and United States."

More:NYC Turkish Film Festival Kicks off

Makfax vesnik-Roughly 78 percent of Turks mistrust EU

"Roughly 78 percent of Turks mistrust EU

Ankara /24/10/ 12:50

Some 78.1 percent of Turkish citizens have no confidence in the European Union, Ankara's daily Milliet said.

The latest opinion poll shows that one third of Turks reckon that their country should not join the EU. Scores of respondents are with no stance over the issue."

More:Makfax vesnik

Humanitarian NGO's are Turkey's Pride in EU Bid

"Humanitarian NGO's are Turkey's Pride in EU Bid
By Suleyman Kurt
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
zaman.com

Turkey-based humanitarian relief organizations who have provided substantial aid in Turkey and abroad have become Turkey’s pride in its bid for European Union membership."

More:Humanitarian NGO's are Turkey's Pride in EU Bid

Turkish MPs Announce 'Shame List'

"Turkish MPs Announce 'Shame List'
By Cihan News Agency
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
zaman.com

On Thursday, the Turkish parliament took a new step in condemnation of the French parliament's acceptance of a bill criminalizing any denial of an Armenian genocide.

It compiled a 'shame list' of massacres committed by European countries, including France, Germany and the Netherlands."

More:Turkish MPs Announce 'Shame List'

And now for something completely different

"LAKE SUPERIOR
STATE UNIVERSITY

*************************
Musicians to bring blend of Persian, Turkish melodies to LSSU

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – A pair of Turkish and Persian musicians will bring the music of two cultures to Lake Superior State University in a one-night performance that is being well received throughout the country.
"

More:Sault Ste. Marie Arts and Entertainment Pages on SooToday.com

Monday, October 23, 2006

Babacan Makes Newsweek's 'International Perspectives'

"Babacan Makes Newsweek's 'International Perspectives'
By Anka, Ankara
Sunday, October 22, 2006
zaman.com

Newsweek, one of the top weekly news magazines in the world, reprinted Turkey's chief EU negotiator and Economic Minister Ali Babacan’s statement, “Leave history to historians.”

Newsweek selected Babacan’s statement as one of the three most important perspectives of the week."

More:Babacan Makes Newsweek's 'International Perspectives'

Logoglu: Turkey Expects Usa To Take Concrete Steps In Fight Against Terrorist Organization

"Logoglu: Turkey Expects Usa To Take Concrete Steps In Fight Against Terrorist Organization
Published: 10/23/2006

ANKARA - 'Turkey expects the United States to take concrete steps in regard to fight against terrorist organization PKK,' said retired ambassador Faruk Logoglu, chairman of Eurasia Strategic Studies Center in Ankara (ASAM)."

More:Logoglu: Turkey Expects Usa To Take Concrete Steps In Fight Against Terrorist Organization

Turkey - E.U. Screening Process

"Turkey - E.U. Screening Process
Published: 10/23/2006

DETAILED SCREENING MEETING ON REGIONAL POLICY AND COORDINATION OF STRUCTURAL INSTRUMENTS BEGINS

BRUSSELS - The detailed screening meeting on Chapter 22 'Regional Policy and Coordination of Structural Instruments' of the EU accession negotiations has begun in Brussels."

More:Turkey - E.U. Screening Process

Growing European Interest In Turkish Black Figs

"Growing European Interest In Turkish Black Figs
Published: 10/23/2006

BURSA - Sale of black figs, considered the figs of the highest quality in the world, rose by nearly 250 percent on the weekly basis as a result of effective promotion carried out by the Alara Agricultural Products Corp."

More:Growing European Interest In Turkish Black Figs

Turkish Pharmacist Aksu Elected Eufeps Board Member

"Turkish Pharmacist Aksu Elected Eufeps Board Member
Published: 10/23/2006

PARIS - Turkish pharmacist Buket Aksu was elected a member of the Executive Board of the European Federation for Pharmaceutical Sciences (EUFEPS)."

More:Turkish Pharmacist Aksu Elected Eufeps Board Member

Excavations Underway To Uncover 1500-year-old Six-layer Underground City In Cankiri

"Excavations Underway To Uncover 1500-year-old Six-layer Underground City In Cankiri
Published: 10/23/2006

CANKIRI - Six experts and ten workers have been carrying out excavations to unearth a 1500-year-old six-layer massive underground city near Huyuk village in Orta town of Cankiri city, in central Anatolia."

More:Excavations Underway To Uncover 1500-year-old Six-layer Underground City In Cankiri

Letter From Yok President Tezic To Chirac

"Letter From Yok President Tezic To Chirac
Published: 10/23/2006

ANKARA - 'Can it be stated that the resolution making denial of the so-called Armenian genocide a crime in France, does not contradict freedom of expression,' Supreme Board of Education (YOK) President Prof. Erdogan Tezic asked in a letter he sent to French President Jacques Chirac."

More:Letter From Yok President Tezic To Chirac

Turkey | Troubles ahead | Economist.com

"Troubles ahead

Oct 19th 2006 | ISTANBUL
From The Economist print edition
There may be serious fall-out from Turkey's present poor relationship with both the European Union and America
AP

“THERE'S a lot of talk these days of a train-wreck later this year bringing Turkey's negotiations for membership [of the European Union] to a shuddering halt. Is this exaggeration? Or just brinksmanship? Neither, I fear. The danger is real.” These valedictory words from the outgoing British ambassador, Sir Peter Westmacott, reflect a growing concern over Turkey's relationship with the EU."

More:Turkey | Troubles ahead | Economist.com

Turkish Associations In France Reacts To Bill On So-called Armenian Genocide

"Turkish Associations In France Reacts To Bill On So-called Armenian Genocide
Published: 10/23/2006

PARIS - Turkish associations in France have criticized a French bill which aims to criminalize denial of so-called Armenian genocide on the grounds that 'it is against freedom of expression' and 'it will harm friendship between Turks and Armenians living in France.'"

More:Turkish Associations In France Reacts To Bill On So-called Armenian Genocide

Istanbul According To Foreign Journalists

"Istanbul According To Foreign Journalists
Published: 10/23/2006

ISTANBUL - A new book titled ''Istanbul According to Foreign Journalists '' and consisting of the impressions and observations of journalists from Britain, Israel, Palestine, South Korea, Macedonia, Azerbaijan, Italy and many other foreign countries, was published in Istanbul."

More:Istanbul According To Foreign Journalists

Algerian Genocide Monument In Ankara

"Algerian Genocide Monument In Ankara
Published: 10/23/2006

ANKARA - Members of (Turkish capital) Ankara Municipality Assembly submitted a resolution in regard to construction of a monument representing French genocide in Algeria to Turkish Parliament on Monday."

More:Algerian Genocide Monument In Ankara

Algerian Genocide Monument In Ankara

"Algerian Genocide Monument In Ankara
Published: 10/23/2006

ANKARA - Members of (Turkish capital) Ankara Municipality Assembly submitted a resolution in regard to construction of a monument representing French genocide in Algeria to Turkish Parliament on Monday."

More:Algerian Genocide Monument In Ankara

EJP | News | Eastern Europe | Swiss minister wants to legalise genocide deniers

"Swiss minister wants to legalise genocide deniers
By Oliver Bradley

BERN (EJP)--- Switzerland’s justice minister has called on the Swiss government to reverse a law which makes historical revisionism illegal."

More:EJP | News | Eastern Europe | Swiss minister wants to legalise genocide deniers

Belfast Telegraph-Shopping in Turkey: a world of choice

"Shopping in Turkey: a world of choice
You'll have to travel to the bazaars of Turkey if you want to buy authentic Iznik tiles, says Claire Wrathall. And it's not the only place worth visiting to make a special purchase
23 October 2006"

More:Belfast Telegraph

Turkish Cypriots want say in Finnish plan - Turkish Daily News Oct 21, 2006

"Turkish Cypriots want say in Finnish plan
Saturday, October 21, 2006

Turkish Cypriots want to have a say in a plan prepared by the Finnish presidency of the European Union to find a compromise to the Cyprus problem, the new foreign minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC) said here in Ankara Friday."

More:Turkish Cypriots want say in Finnish plan - Turkish Daily News Oct 21, 2006

Bulgarian Turks Vote Against Racism

"Bulgarian Turks Vote Against Racism
By Beynur Suleyman, Cihan News Agency, Sofia
Monday, October 23, 2006
zaman.com

Bulgaria voted in its fourth presidential elections since 1989, the end of the communist regime in the country.

Competition in the presidential elections will be between current president Georgi Pirvanov and nationalist Volen Siderov, whose campaign was about “taking back Bulgaria for Bulgarians.”"

More:Bulgarian Turks Vote Against Racism

People's Daily Online -- Turkey monitors clash between Turkish, Kazakh workers in Kazakhstan

"Turkey monitors clash between Turkish, Kazakh workers in Kazakhstan
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut

Turkey has been monitoring the 'saddening events' between Turkish and Kazakh workers in Kazakhstan, and the Turkish Embassy in Almaty has launched necessary initiatives, Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Sunday. 'We have been closely monitoring the saddening events between Turkish and Kazakh workers at the Tengiz Chevron oil field in western Kazakhstan,' the statement said.

'The Turkish Embassy in Almaty has held talks with the Kazakh authorities, and asked them to tighten security measures in the oil field,' it said."

More:People's Daily Online -- Turkey monitors clash between Turkish, Kazakh workers in Kazakhstan

ThreatsWatch.Org: RapidRecon: Turkey and Islamism: The Debate

"Turkey and Islamism: The Debate
Kirk

The primary rubbing point between the United States and Turkey right now is not related to radical Islam. Quite the opposite - it is related to the Marxist Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a Kurdish terrorist group which has taken refuge in Iraqi Kurdistan. Yet as Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his ruling Justice and Development Party (known by its Turkish initials, the AKP) continue to dominate Turkey’s political scene, there are rising concerns on both sides of the Atlantic about the rise of Islamism in Turkey."

More:ThreatsWatch.Org: RapidRecon: Turkey and Islamism: The Debate

The New Anatolian - The Economist warns for deteriorating relations with EU and U.S.

"The Economist warns for deteriorating relations with EU and U.S.

The New Anatolian / Ankara
22 October 2006

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The Economist warned that there may be serious fall-out from Turkey's present poor relationship with both the European Union and America.

Citing outgoing British Ambassador to Turkey Sir Peter Westmacott as saying that there's a lot of talk these days of a train-wreck later this year bringing Turkey's negotiations for membership of the European Union to a shuddering halt, the daily said that the ambassador considers the threat real, which reflects a growing concern over Turkey's relationship with the EU. "

More:The New Anatolian - The Economist warns for deteriorating relations with EU and U.S.

The New Anatolian - Talat: 'Papadopoulos wants to make Turkish Cypriots a minority'

"Talat: 'Papadopoulos wants to make Turkish Cypriots a minority'

The New Anatolian / Ankara
22 October 2006

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Papadopoulos wants to change the status quo in Cyprus through osmosis, Mehmet Ali Talat, President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), said in his letter sent to the United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan.
"

More:The New Anatolian - Talat: 'Papadopoulos wants to make Turkish Cypriots a minority'

Commercial property in Istanbul attracts foreign investors - Turkish Daily News Oct 23, 2006

"Commercial property in Istanbul attracts foreign investors
Monday, October 23, 2006

Foreign investors are particularly interested in Turkish commercial property, Cansel Turgut Yazıcı, general manager of real estate appraisal company TSKB Gayrimenkul Değerleme, has said."

More:Commercial property in Istanbul attracts foreign investors - Turkish Daily News Oct 23, 2006

The Muslim News-Cyprus digs in heels over EU-Turkey compromise

"Cyprus digs in heels over EU-Turkey compromise

By Mark Beunderman

EUObserver:

Cypriot president Tassos Papadopoulos has warned that his country will not 'pay the price' for Finnish EU presidency efforts to avert a suspension of Turkey's EU membership talks. "

More:The Muslim News

ekathimerini.com | Politics and middlemen

"Politics and middlemen

By Costas Iordanidis

The relationship between the European Union and Turkey was not on the agenda of talks during the unofficial EU summit that took place last week in the Finnish town of Lahti.

As a consequence, neither Greece nor Cyprus were subjected to any coordinated pressure from anxious Union partners with the aim of sweeping away the obstacles in Turkey’s European Union-oriented path and ensuring that its accession to the bloc is secured."

More:ekathimerini.com | Politics and middlemen

..:: ABHABER.COM : Ankara: Cyprus dispute shouldn't poison Turkey's EU bid

"Ankara: Cyprus dispute shouldn't poison Turkey's EU bid

The Turkish Foreign Ministry stated yesterday that the deadlock on Cyprus shouldn't poison Turkey's accession process in the European Union.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Namik Tan also ruled out speculations that Turkey won't be able to start substantial negotiations unless the deadlock over Cyprus will be resolved. "

More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..

Hürriyet - Atatürk Airport looks like a "Bee-Hive"

"Atatürk Airport looks like a 'Bee-Hive'

16,244,000 passengers used Istanbul's Ataturk Airport in the first nine months of the year 2006. Out of this number, 9,235,440 passengers used the international departures and arrivals terminal. In the first nine months of 2006, the number of airplanes that used Ataturk Airport was 181,936. "

More:Hürriyet - Atatürk Airport looks like a "Bee-Hive"

The Times & The Sunday Times, Malta

"Turkey will be great asset to the EU - OECD head

Gareth Jones, Reuters

Turkey would be an economic asset to the European Union and is sure to join one day despite present political difficulties, the head of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said.

Turkey began EU entry talks one year ago, but officials have warned of the dangers of a 'train crash' in the next few months due to disagreements over EU member Cyprus."

More:The Times & The Sunday Times, Malta

TEPAV warns against misreading EU officials' comments - Turkish Daily News Oct 23, 2006

"TEPAV warns against misreading EU officials' comments
Monday, October 23, 2006

‘The EU will in a way complete the enlargement and deepening process; what Turkey should do is not to deviate from its EU path but to keep up with reforms and prepare itself for full membership,’ TEPAV says in an assessment paper"

More:TEPAV warns against misreading EU officials' comments - Turkish Daily News Oct 23, 2006

IOL: Turkey struggles to stamp out honour killings

"Turkey struggles to stamp out honour killings

October at 12:58PM

By Benjamin Harvey

As the sun rose over the southern city Gaziantep one summer morning, Selahattin Sezgin, 22, decided it was time to kill his sister."

More:IOL: Turkey struggles to stamp out honour killings

The Tide Online-A/Ibom, Turkish chambers of commerce to create 300 industries

"A/Ibom, Turkish chambers of commerce to create 300 industries
• Monday, Oct 23, 2006

The Akwa Ibom and Turkish Chambers of Commerce are to establish about 300 small scale industries under a joint business and industrial relations."

More:The Tide Online

The New Anatolian - Three-day Seker Bayrami celebrated in Turkey

"Three-day Seker Bayrami celebrated in Turkey

The New Anatolian / Ankara
22 October 2006

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Much sunshine, many displaced people and, consequently, more traffic jam accompanies Eid al-Fitr, Muslim holiday marking the end of Ramadan, known popularly as Seker Bayrami (Sugar Feast) in Turkey."

More:The New Anatolian - Three-day Seker Bayrami celebrated in Turkey

Sunday, October 22, 2006

Al-Ahram Weekly | Culture | Seeing through the snow

"Seeing through the snow
Azade Seyhan* examines the achievements of Orhan Pamuk, winner of this year's Nobel Prize for Literature

Yashar Kemal, one of the most prolific names in modern Turkish literature, had been a perpetual contender for the Nobel Prize for Literature. Kemal had taken the Turkish novel beyond Istanbul's metropolitan centre, interwoven its texture with Anatolian ballads, legends, songs and colours and developed a poetic prose of epic grandeur. Yet the coveted prize eluded him. After a lot of speculation on part of the Turkish literati and press it was Orhan Pamuk who finally became the first Turkish Nobel laureate. Pamuk is also the first writer to be recognised from a predominantly Muslim country since 1988, when Egypt's Naguib Mahfouz, who died on 30 August, 2006, was awarded the Noble Prize by the Swedish Academy for his richly nuanced work that lent Arabic narrative a revolutionary energy."

More:Al-Ahram Weekly | Culture | Seeing through the snow

Chinese to be Taught in Turkish High Schools

"Chinese to be Taught in Turkish High Schools
By Cihan News Agency
Sunday, October 22, 2006
zaman.com

Turkish National Education Minister Huseyin Celik said that Chinese will be taught in Turkish high schools.

Celik, who has been in China to attend the Education Forum for Asia (EFA) conference in Beijing, said the Education Ministry decided that Chinese was to teach at high schools in Turkey."

More:Chinese to be Taught in Turkish High Schools