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Monday, March 31, 2008

Turkey continues to ‘assist’ AfricaTimes News Service

"Turkey continues to ‘assist’ Africa
Times News Service
Tuesday, April 01, 2008 12:17:33 AM Oman Time

MUSCAT — Turkey has decided to extend its development projects assistance to the tune of $50 million to African countries, said Engin Turker, ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Oman, in a statement yesterday."

More:Times of Oman

Milan, Seeking Facelift, Wins Bid to Host 2015 Expo

"Milan, Seeking Facelift, Wins Bid to Host 2015 Expo (Update2)

By Armorel Kenna and Sara Gay Forden

March 31 (Bloomberg) -- Milan won the bidding to host Expo 2015, an international event that may create 70,000 jobs and generate 3.7 billion euros ($5.8 billion) of revenue and economic benefits for Italy's business capital."

More:Bloomberg.com: Europe

JTW News - ‘The New Turkish Republic’

"‘The New Turkish Republic’
Print
Monday , 31 March 2008

* View by Sahin ALPAY

Graham E. Fuller is one of the foremost Western experts on the Muslim world in general and on Turkey in particular. His most recent book, titled 'The New Turkish Republic: Turkey as a Pivotal State in the Muslim World' (United States Institute of Peace Press, 2007), is undoubtedly the most noteworthy attempt so far to analyze Turkey's changing foreign policy in the 21st century. The book's arguments may be summarized around the following points:"

More:JTW News - ‘The New Turkish Republic’

Modernity must be protected through modern means - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

"Modernity must be protected through modern means
Monday, March 31, 2008

Article 301 sets Turkey apart from all the other modern European democracies which do not have or apply such restrictions on freedom of expression"

More:Modernity must be protected through modern means - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

Turkish firm to start building Siberian bottle plant in May

"Turkish firm to start building Siberian bottle plant in May

NOVOSIBIRSK, March 31 (RIA Novosti) - A Turkish firm will start building a 130 million euro ($205 mln) glass container factory in Novosibirsk in West Siberia in May, the regional state investment agency said on Monday."

More:RIA Novosti - Business - Turkish firm to start building Siberian bottle plant in May

A Turkish flim made in Europe by a newcomer - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

"A Turkish flim made in Europe by a newcomer
Monday, March 31, 2008

'Made in Europe' by İnan Temelkuran, who was named Most Promising Director at the Ankara Film Festival, takes a documentary-style, near-voyeuristic look at the lives of Turkish immigrants living in Europe and the movie’s dialogue is turning heads. Festival organizers, jurors and audience members say they are impressed with the dialogue"

More:A Turkish flim made in Europe by a newcomer - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

Turkey prepares Istanbul to be European Capital of Culture

"Turkey prepares Istanbul to be European Capital of Culture

The Garanti Contemporary Art Centre and the Garanti Gallery are to be renovated and converted into a multi-functional culture centre. The 116-year old building in Istanbul, Turkey is one of several historic buildings being redesigned as part of a huge renovation programme as Istanbul prepares to be the European Capital of Culture in 2010. The aim is to make Istanbul a city of art for 2010."

More:Turkey prepares Istanbul to be European Capital of Culture

Turkey to attract more German visitors

"Turkey is set to attract a greater number of German holidaymakers this year, a travel firm has revealed.

Alltours.com stated that the European country is becoming increasing popular with consumers from Germany, reports Today's Zaman."

More:Turkey to attract more German visitors

Products of global warming in Turkish fish markets - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

"Products of global warming in Turkish fish markets
Monday, March 31, 2008

Tropical oceanic puffer fish (lagocephalus sceletarus), which represents a evidence of global warming in Turkish seas, has begun to be sold in fish markets. Puffer fish, found in the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean, started to migrate to the Mediterranean from the Red Sea as a result of climate change."

More:Products of global warming in Turkish fish markets - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

Three more charged in Ergenekon probe - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

"Three more charged in Ergenekon probe
Monday, March 31, 2008

A court remanded two politicians and a journalist Saturday who had been detained as part of an investigation into a shadowy anti-government network, raising the total number of those arrested to 47."

More:Three more charged in Ergenekon probe - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2008

Trend News : Detectives scour site of arson attack on Turks in Germany

"Detectives scour site of arson attack on Turks in Germany
30.03.08 15:44

(dpa) - Detectives were conducting a major inquiry Sunday into an arson attack the previous day on an apartment block in Germany inhabited by Turkish immigrants, but said they had no firm leads yet.

Five residents inhaled toxic fumes in the pre-dawn Saturday incident and two younger women among them were treated in hospital. A man living in the house used a hand-held fire extinguisher to put out the blaze, lit in a pram, before it could spread."

More:Trend News : Detectives scour site of arson attack on Turks in Germany

Top UN diplomat optimistic over Cyprus talks

"Top UN diplomat optimistic over Cyprus talks
Top UN official Lynn Pascoe said on Monday he was optimistic progress could be made in Cyprus reunification talks after arriving on the island for a three-day visit to offer his support, AFP reported."

More:Top UN diplomat optimistic over Cyprus talks

Turkish lira slides more than 2 pct | Reuters

"Turkish lira slides more than 2 pct
Mon Mar 31, 2008 7:17pm IST

ISTANBUL, March 31 (Reuters) - Turkey's high-yielding lira currency fell as much 2.2 percent from Friday's close to 1.3240 against the dollar on Monday, as weak global markets compounded losses caused by political uncertainty at home."

More:Turkish lira slides more than 2 pct | Reuters

Turkish markets fell on ruling AKP closure case

"Turkish markets fell on ruling AKP closure case
Turkish stocks and lira currency fell sharply on Monday after the Constitutional Court decided to take on the case against AKP, demanding its closure. Lira lost more than 2 percent against dollar and shares ended down 1 percent."

More:Turkish markets fell on ruling AKP closure case

Turkish company ready to withdraw claim against NEC - Business news

"Turkish company ready to withdraw claim against NEC
14:40 Mon 31 Mar 2008 - Elena Koinova

The Bulgarian Government has tied in the withdrawal of the 75 million euro claim lodged by CCG Insaat Sanayi Yatirim Ve Turizm of Turkey with the International Court of Arbitration (IIA) against Bulgaria's power grid operator National Electric Company (NEC) with the construction of Tundzha dam."

More:Turkish company ready to withdraw claim against NEC - Business news

Turkey investment boost from Kuwait

"Turkey investment boost from Kuwait

His Highness the Amir of Kuwait has vowed to boost Kuwaiti investments in Turkey whilst on an official visit. This is his first visit to Turkey since he became the Amir of Kuwait in 2006."

More:Turkey investment boost from Kuwait

Made in Germany » Turkey promotes German investment

"Turkey promotes German investment

A new contact for German companies planning investments in Turkey has been working since the beginning of 2008. The German office of the “Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Turkey” (ISPAT) is directly subordinate to the Turkish Prime Minister. The representative of German businesses in Turkey is Mr. Michael Maasmeier, an entrepreneur from Cologne and managing director of the Counterpart agency. The ISPAT is to support companies wishing to enter the Turkish market."

More:Made in Germany » Turkey promotes German investment

Turkey Court Considers Ruling Party Ban - The Lexington Dispatch

"Turkey Court Considers Ruling Party Ban

FILE - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is seen during an opening ceremony in Istanbul, Turkey, in this Wednesday, March 19, 2008 file photo. Turkey's top court has convened on Monday, March 31, 2008, to decide whether to hear a case for a ban on the Islamic-rooted governing party. The 11-member Constitutional Court is discussing the argument for dissolving Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's party on the grounds that it is trying to scrap secular principles enshrined in the constitution. (AP Photo/Ibrahim Usta, File)

By SELCAN HACAOGLU
Associated Press Writer

Turkey's top court unanimously voted Monday to hear a case for banning the Islamic-rooted ruling party, a decision that could lead to months of political uncertainty in a nation divided over the role of Islam in society."

More:Turkey Court Considers Ruling Party Ban - The Lexington Dispatch

European Ignorance When It Comes To Turkey - AKP Closure

"European Ignorance When It Comes To Turkey - AKP Closure

I’m happy to be able to publish yet another guest post, written by reader Kemal. The guest post published today is, basically, a follow-up to the post he wrote which was published last week. In today’s post Kemal looks at how the EU has responded to the attempt of a Turkey’s highest prosecutor to shut down the Justice and Development Party (AK Parti) of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The main point: EU representatives have no idea what they’re talking about."

More:PoliGazette » European Ignorance When It Comes To Turkey - AKP Closure

theparliament.com - Turkey must withdraw from Cyprus, says former EU commissioner

"Turkey must withdraw from Cyprus, says former EU commissioner

Markos Kyprianou, the new Cypriot foreign minister, has said that it’s time for Turkey to withdraw its troops from Cyprus.

Writing exclusively in the latest issue of the Parliament Magazine, Kyprianou, former EU commissioner for health, writes:

“Though the settlement should be reached and agreed upon by Cypriots themselves, the importance of Turkey in the efforts for the reunification of the island cannot be ignored."

More:theparliament.com - Turkey must withdraw from Cyprus, says former EU commissioner

Turkey court considers party ban

"Turkey court considers party ban
A supporter of the AK party in Istanbul. File photo

Turkey's constitutional court has decided unanimously that it can hear a case aimed at closing down the country's governing AK Party."

More:BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Turkey court considers party ban

Erdogan Faces Ouster Threat From Lawyers Instead of Soldiers

"Erdogan Faces Ouster Threat From Lawyers Instead of Soldiers

By Ben Holland

March 31 (Bloomberg) -- Every Turkish leader who won an election victory as big as Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's 2007 triumph was forced from office by the military.

Erdogan may be different: He's facing a threat from lawyers."

More:Bloomberg.com: Worldwide

Sunday, March 30, 2008

Turkish court expected to take up case against ruling party - Breaking News - World - Breaking News

"Turkish court expected to take up case against ruling party

March 31, 2008 - 12:08PM

Turkey's top court is expected to decide this week whether to put the ruling party on trial for anti-secular activity, in a case that threatens the country's stability and European Union aspirations."

More:Turkish court expected to take up case against ruling party - Breaking News - World - Breaking News

Rehn warns Turkey on closure case against ruling party

"Rehn warns Turkey on closure case against ruling party
European Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn stepped up criticism on Saturday of an attempt by Turkish state prosecutors to close the ruling AKP, saying it could jeopardise Ankara's EU entry talks, in a news conference after EU foreign ministers met with Turkish FM Ali Babacan. Turkish FM said EU reform process should continue separately from political atmosphere."

More:Rehn warns Turkey on closure case against ruling party

Turks, Turkey and a load of Turkish Delight! « Joe on the Road

"Turks, Turkey and a load of Turkish Delight!
30Mar08

OK, so the title stinks of cheese, I know, I’ve got writers block. I suppose you could say that Istanbul is where east meets west, and that therefore the old cliche is true. Yet Istanbul lacked a magic for me that I had expected and hoped for, yes the kebabs got cheaper and were no longer made of pork, the people got more charming and had swapped iced cappuccinos for chai. My bizarre preconceived images of snake charmers, ottoman bazaars and a sudden abundance of rutted and potholed roads were not met in the slightest. Perhaps it was a result of driving to Turkey, that the culture change was less sudden and more gradual , but the city is like any other European city, albeit with more mosques and a lower quality of road etiquette. Nobody was wearing a fez."

More:Turks, Turkey and a load of Turkish Delight! « Joe on the Road

Asimed Urges Wikipedia To Remove "semi-protection" Over Article On Armenian Allegations

"Asimed Urges Wikipedia To Remove 'semi-protection' Over Article On Armenian Allegations
Published: 3/30/2008

ERZURUM - The Turkish Association for Fight Against Unfounded Genocide Allegations (ASIMED) launched an e-mail campaign against Wikipedia urging it to remove the 'Semi-Protection' lock over the article on Armenian allegations concerning the incidents of 1915."

More:Asimed Urges Wikipedia To Remove "semi-protection" Over Article On Armenian Allegations

Turkey Ranks Second Among Textile Suppliers Of E.U.

"Turkey Ranks Second Among Textile Suppliers Of E.U.
Published: 3/30/2008

ISTANBUL - Turkey ranked the second among countries which supply textiles and clothing to EU countries, according to EU's official statistics institution Eurostat."

More:Turkey Ranks Second Among Textile Suppliers Of E.U.

Plane Of Lufthansa Airways Makes Emergency Landing In Istanbul

"Plane Of Lufthansa Airways Makes Emergency Landing In Istanbul
Published: 3/30/2008

ISTANBUL - A passenger plane of Lufthansa Airways --coming from German city of Munich to Turkish capital of Ankara-- made an emergency landing at Istanbul`s International Ataturk Airport on Friday."

More:Plane Of Lufthansa Airways Makes Emergency Landing In Istanbul

The culture of Turkey

"The culture of Turkey

Posted by sahra

The modern Turkish culture is a fusion of different cultures. This may alia, the alttürkische nomadic culture of Central Asia and Siberia, the culture in the Ottoman Empire, with its Arab, Byzantine and Persian influences, and the strong European direction since the founding of the Republic by
Atatürk counted. The cultural center of the country is the metropolis Istanbul.
The vast majority of the Turkish population Approximately 98%, belongs to the ISLAM (Muslims). Of these, approximately 60% Sunni, and the remaining 30-35% Alevis. According to other estimates, there are 70-75% Sunni and 20 to 25% Alevis. In addition to live in Turkey, 0.2% Christian (125,000) and 0.04% of Jews (23,000)."

More:WwW-worldturkey.BiZ-world-turkey-travel-hotel-car-picture-flash-play-game-program-download | The culture of Turkey

Turkish Delegations Speed Up Lobbying On Izmir's Expo 2015 Bid

"Turkish Delegations Speed Up Lobbying On Izmir's Expo 2015 Bid
Published: 3/27/2008

IZMIR - The lobbying activities carried out in an effort to support Aegean province of Izmir`s EXPO 2015 bid speeded up prior to the final voting to take place on March 31st."

More:Turkish Delegations Speed Up Lobbying On Izmir's Expo 2015 Bid

Christofias on EU-Turkey relations

"Christofias on EU-Turkey relations

Cyprus President Demetris Christofias on Sunday was quoted here as stressing that the European Union must become more exacting vis-à-vis the obligations assumed by EU candidate-state Turkey towards the Union."

More:Christofias on EU-Turkey relations

Genocide Committed by Armenians in Guba District of Azerbaijan to be Discussed in Turkish Parliament

"Genocide Committed by Armenians in Guba District of Azerbaijan to be Discussed in Turkish Parliament
30.03.08 11:09

Azerbaijan, Baku, 30 March / corr. TrendNews A. Gafarov/ The genocide committed by the Armenians in Guba district of Azerbaijan will be discussed in the parliament of Turkey, said the members of the Turkish government and media who visited the mass burial place discovered in Guba."

More:Trend News : Genocide Committed by Armenians in Guba District of Azerbaijan to be Discussed in Turkish Parliament

Molotov cocktail hurled on Turkish newspaper

"Molotov cocktail hurled on Turkish newspaper
A molotov cocktail was hurled to the garden of leftist anti-AKP Cumhuriyet newspaper's building in Sisli district of Istanbul late on Saturday. A series of bombings, released on the Cumhuriyet offices in May 2006, led to traumatic investigations in the country recently."

More:Molotov cocktail hurled on Turkish newspaper

Turkish lottery tender expected for May, June

"Turkish lottery tender expected for May, June
A tender for the privatization of Turkey's national lottery is expected for May or may be June, as major international lottery operators as well as national firms are expressing willingness for the lucrative business, sources have said."

More:Turkish lottery tender expected for May, June

Turkish yacht manufacturers set sail

"Turkish yacht manufacturers set sail

Making a name in the world market thanks to the momentum they gained in the last 5 years, Turkish yacht and motoryacht manufacturers are shaking the throne of many global firms deemed to be the leaders on the planet in this field."

More:GÖZLEM GAZETESİ - Turkish yacht manufacturers set sail

Turkish top court to do preliminary assessment on closure case Monday

"Turkish top court to do preliminary assessment on closure case Monday
Members of the Turkish Constitutional Court are expected on Monday to do their preliminary examinations on the indictment regarding the closure case against ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). Turkey's chief prosecutor, Abdurrahman Yalcinkaya, said on Saturday there were no preparations for an additional indictment on the lawsuit against AKP and expects tension to be reduced."

More:Turkish top court to do preliminary assessment on closure case Monday

Turkish Police Department Marks Its 163rd Anniversary

"Turkish Police Department Marks Its 163rd Anniversary
Published: 3/30/2008

NEW JERSEY - Turkish Police Department marked the 163rd anniversary of its foundation in New Jersey state of the United States."

More:Turkish Police Department Marks Its 163rd Anniversary

Saturday, March 29, 2008

Trend Capital : Alliance Involving SOCAR to Obtain Shares of Turkish Petrochemical Holding until Mid- May

"Alliance Involving SOCAR to Obtain Shares of Turkish Petrochemical Holding until Mid- May
29.03.08 14:09

Azerbaijan, Baku, 29 March / TrendCapital / The Alliance of Companies Socar/Turcas Petrol/Injaz Projects will obtain 51% of the shares of the Turkish petrochemical holding Petkim until May 7, Erdal Aksoy, the member of the board of directors of Turcas said to Turkuish media. The way of payment of the share in the company will become known on 14 April, Aksoy said. The Alliance offers set of 51% of shares at US$2.04bln."

More:Trend Capital : Alliance Involving SOCAR to Obtain Shares of Turkish Petrochemical Holding until Mid- May

US soldiers save Turkish pool table producers - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2008

"US soldiers save Turkish pool table producers
Saturday, March 29, 2008

Pool halls in Turkey are replaced by Internet cafes and the number of pool table producers drops from 150 to 10. Producers now hope to earn their bread through the pool market in northern Iraq as demand by US troops located in the region increases day by day"

More:US soldiers save Turkish pool table producers - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2008

Turkey: 'Kurdish rebels killed in northern Iraq' - CNN.com

"Turkey: 'Kurdish rebels killed in northern Iraq'

(CNN) -- Turkey's military said it killed at least 15 rebels in operations in northern Iraq earlier this week, but a spokesman for the Iraqi Kurdish Regional Security Forces denied the report, saying Turkey has not conducted any military operation or air assault there in the past two weeks."

More:Turkey: 'Kurdish rebels killed in northern Iraq' - CNN.com

EU urges Turkey to consider 'long-term interests' in AKP case — EUbusiness.com - business, legal and financial news and information from the European

"EU urges Turkey to consider 'long-term interests' in AKP case
29 March 2008, 20:39 CET

(BRDO PRI KRANJU) - The EU Commission on Saturday urged Turkey's judges to consider Ankara's 'long-term interests' in deciding if the ruling party can be tried on charges of undermining the country's secular order."

More:PEU urges Turkey to consider 'long-term interests' in AKP case — EUbusiness.com - business, legal and financial news and information from the European Union

The Canadian Press: EU's Rehn warns Turkey of impact of court case against the ruling party

"EU's Rehn warns Turkey of impact of court case against the ruling party

11 hours ago

BRDO PRI KRANJU, Slovenia — The European Union's enlargement chief said Saturday he was very concerned about efforts to ban Turkey's Islamic-oriented ruling party and suggested the issue could have ramifications for Turkey's EU membership bid.

A top Turkish court could decide as early as next week whether to hear a case to shut down the Justice and Development Party and ban 71 people, including Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and President Abdullah Gul, from politics for five years."

More:The Canadian Press: EU's Rehn warns Turkey of impact of court case against the ruling party

Paris in Turkey

"Paris in Turkey
Updated: 09:21, Sunday March 30, 2008

Heiress Paris Hilton has added another talent to her ever-increasing list - judging beauty contests in Turkey.

The often-controversial blonde says she's looking to make the most of her time in Istanbul."

More:Sky News: Paris in Turkey

African Americans to study abroad in Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2008

"African Americans to study abroad in Turkey
Saturday, March 29, 2008

SPOT: With the help of the Turkish Coalition of America and the United Negro College Fund, the future Obamas and Oprahs of the United States can make Turkey one of their stops as they pursue their academic careers. The TCA has also set up a fund for Turkish Americans to study public policy with the hope to strengthen the Turkish lobby in the United States
"

More:African Americans to study abroad in Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2008

Cooperation with Iraqi Kurds depends on action against PKK, says Babacan - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2008

"Cooperation with Iraqi Kurds depends on action against PKK, says Babacan

Turkey's ability to find a different kind of relationship with the regional administration in northern Iraq depends on action against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), said the foreign minister in an interview published in the business magazine Fortune Friday."

More:Cooperation with Iraqi Kurds depends on action against PKK, says Babacan - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2008

NDTV.com: European Union divided over Turkey's entry

"European Union divided over Turkey's entry

The otherwise expanding European Union is presently divided over admitting Turkey. The reason cited is that it's an Islamic nation.

There's no Muslim country in this 27-nation club.

Turkey has 90 million people. Some fear that could change the Christian character of the Union.
"

More:NDTV.com:
European Union divided over Turkey's entry

CHP Lodges Complaint Against Book Insulting Ataturk

"CHP Lodges Complaint Against Book Insulting Ataturk
Published: 3/29/2008

DENIZLI - A local branch of the main opposition Republican People`s Party (CHP) lodged Thursday a complaint against a book insulting Ataturk, the Founder of Republic of Turkey."

More:CHP Lodges Complaint Against Book Insulting Ataturk

Meeting On Turkey - E.U. Relations To Be Organized In Gaziantep

"Meeting On Turkey - E.U. Relations To Be Organized In Gaziantep
Published: 3/29/2008

ANKARA - A meeting on 'Turkey-EU Relations' jointly organized by Turkish Parliamentary Committee for Adjustment to European Union (EU) and British NGO LINKS in association with the British Embassy and Turkish Democracy Foundation will take place in southeastern province of Gaziantep between March 28th and 29th, 2008."

More:Meeting On Turkey - E.U. Relations To Be Organized In Gaziantep

Izmir And Milan Accelerate Promotion Activities For Expo 2015

"Izmir And Milan Accelerate Promotion Activities For Expo 2015
Published: 3/29/2008

PARIS - Izmir and Milan, the two candidates to host EXPO 2015 fair, accelerated activities in Paris to promote cultures of Turkey and Italy."

More:Izmir And Milan Accelerate Promotion Activities For Expo 2015

Former CHP deputy’s appointment as EU advisor angers CHP

"Former CHP deputy’s appointment as EU advisor angers CHP
The Republican People’s Party (CHP) has demanded the resignation from its ranks of Zeynep Damla Gürel, a CHP deputy from İstanbul between 2002-2007 who has been appointed by President Abdullah Gül as his advisor on the European Union; however, Gürel had already resigned two days before the CHP order was issued, in line with the legal requirements of her new post."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Turkish military hits Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq - International Herald Tribune

"Turkish military hits Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq

ISTANBUL, Turkey: Turkey's military hit Kurdish rebel targets in northern Iraq with artillery and strikes by warplanes in a two-day operation that killed at least 15 rebels, the military said Saturday."

More:Turkish military hits Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq - International Herald Tribune

European Union divided over Turkey's entry

"European Union divided over Turkey's entry

Sam Daniel
Saturday, March 29, 2008 (Brussels)
The otherwise expanding European Union is presently divided over admitting Turkey. The reason cited is that it's an Islamic nation.

There's no Muslim country in this 27-nation club.

Turkey has 90 million people. Some fear that could change the Chrisitian character of the Union. "

More:NDTV.com: European Union divided over Turkey's entry

Turkish court becomes stage for conflict between Islamic-rooted government and opposition

"Turkish court becomes stage for conflict between Islamic-rooted government and opposition

ISTANBUL, Turkey (AP) - A top court could decide as early as next week whether to hear a case for a ban of Turkey's Islamic-oriented ruling party, in a dispute that threatens to deepen political divisions, hurt the economy and slow an already troubled bid to join the European Union."

More:Turkish court becomes stage for conflict between Islamic-rooted government and opposition

Access to Indymedia-Istanbul and YouTube websites blocked by court orders

"Access to Indymedia-Istanbul and YouTube websites blocked by court orders

(BIANET/IFEX) - Access to the Indymedia-Istanbul website has been blocked following a court decision. Access to the Wordpress and YouTube websites is also currently blocked. Turkey continues to close down whole sites because of individual contributions, a measure which has been condemned by both BIANET and Reporters without Borders (RSF)."

More:IFEX ::

Another setback for Greece, another win for the Turk | Domina Graecia

"Another setback for Greece, another win for the Turk

By txenos | March 29, 2008

The long-awaited European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) judgment on the “Turkiki enosi Xanthis” (Turkish association of Xanthi) has been issued and Greece is the loser. The judgment (see press release) is in favor of the “Turks” of western Thrace, who now have the right to begin flaunting “Turkish associations” everywhere in the sensitive region of Greece bordering Turkey. Greek courts had prohibited the use of the word “Turkish” in relation to Muslim-only associations in Greek Thrace and Ankara’s agents smartly went to the ECHR to teach the Greek “oppressors” a lesson, which they did."

More:Another setback for Greece, another win for the Turk | Domina Graecia

Turkish unions protest retirement change - UPI.com

"Turkish unions protest retirement change

Published: March 29, 2008 at 12:00 AM

ANKARA, Turkey, March 28 (UPI) -- Turkish unions have announced plans for a short strike and massive demonstration to protest a plan to raise the retirement age."

More:Turkish unions protest retirement change - UPI.com

Bush nominates envoy to Armenia, after block of earlier choice

"Bush nominates envoy to Armenia, after block of earlier choice

2008-03-28 22:22:04 -

WASHINGTON (AP) - President George W. Bush has nominated a career diplomat to be U.S. ambassador to Armenia after the last nominee was blocked by Democrats because of a refusal to call the World War I-era killings of Armenians a genocide.
Bush announced on Friday the nomination of Marie Yovanovitch, who is currently ambassador to
the Kyrgyz Republic."

More:Bush nominates envoy to Armenia, after block of earlier choice

Friday, March 28, 2008

Turkish Pop Icon Appears In Paris Concert To Promote Izmir's Candidacy For Expo 2015

"Turkish Pop Icon Appears In Paris Concert To Promote Izmir's Candidacy For Expo 2015
Published: 3/25/2008

PARIS - Turkey's Eurovision winning pop star Sertap Erener gave a concert at Theatre of Champs-Elysees in Paris to boost Izmir's candidacy to host EXPO 2015."

More:Turkish Pop Icon Appears In Paris Concert To Promote Izmir's Candidacy For Expo 2015

Hilton Sparks Paparazzi Violence

"Hilton Sparks Paparazzi Violence

Paris at the Miss Turkey contest.

Several photographers have been injured after the arrival of socialite Paris Hilton in Turkey sparked riots among the paparazzi at Istanbul airport.

The hotel heiress landed in the city on Thursday ahead of her stint as a judge in the Miss Turkey 2008 contest."

More:SFGate: Daily Dish : Hilton Sparks Paparazzi Violence

Turkey Injects Billions in Kurdish Region to Bolster Economy

"Turkey Injects Billions in Kurdish Region to Bolster Economy
By Dorian Jones
Istanbul
28 March 2008

Turkey's predominantly Kurdish southeast has been the center of a bloody 20-year conflict between the Turkish state and Kurds fighting for autonomy. For decades, the region has remained one of the poorest in the country, despite widespread calls for greater economic development. Earlier this month, the Turkish prime minister announced a commitment to invest in the region. For VOA, Dorian Jones reports from Istanbul on this latest program,"

More:VOA News - Turkey Injects Billions in Kurdish Region to Bolster Economy

The EarthTimes: Anti-Islam film fails to provoke Dutch Muslims

For the complete report from The EarthTimes click on this link

Anti-Islam film fails to provoke Dutch Muslims

In the crowded shopping streets of Lombok in the fourth largest Dutch city, Muslims appeared much less motivated to take action against Wilders. Friday's shopping continued as usual. "No, we are not talking about Fitna," a man standing among a large group of Muslims standing outside a local mosque after prayers on Friday, told Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa. "We are talking about my new car. That's really more important than some film by a Dutch legislator about the Koran."

Dutch Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists seem to have found a common denominator: EU Citizenship, Democracy, and Free Enterprise. It might not be perfect, but its better than cutting each others throat or having some fanatic blow up your family.

Turkish Akbank appoints Sabanci Dincer chairwoman | Reuters

"Turkish Akbank appoints Sabanci Dincer chairwoman
Fri Mar 28, 2008 7:45pm IST

ISTANBUL, March 28 (Reuters) - Turkish lender Akbank's AKBNK.IS board has unanimously voted in Suzan Sabanci Dincer as chairwoman, the bank said in a statement."

More:Turkish Akbank appoints Sabanci Dincer chairwoman | Reuters

Turkey may change energy sell-off strategy-sources | Reuters

"Turkey may change energy sell-off strategy-sources
Fri Mar 28, 2008 7:11pm IST

ISTANBUL, March 28 (Reuters) - Turkey may change its privatisation strategy to sell off both its electricity distribution grids and power generation plants at the same time, government officials told Reuters on Friday."

More:Turkey may change energy sell-off strategy-sources | Reuters

Turkey's disintegrating democracy - Los Angeles Times

"Turkey's disintegrating democracy

A Turkish American takes Justice and Development Party leaders to task.
By Cüneyt M. Serdar
March 28, 2008
Recently The Times published two very interesting articles, one by Soner Cagaptay, citing solid references, discussing the ruling Islamist party's impact on Turkey, and another by a member of that party, Egemen Bagis."

More:Turkey's disintegrating democracy - Los Angeles Times

Turkish Businesses encouraged to tender for Olympic contracts - Londra gazete www.londragazete.com

"Turkish Businesses encouraged to tender for Olympic contracts

80% of jobs and business opportunities to go to BME’s

Turkish Businesses, whether large or small, were encouraged to tender for business opportunities that are already being created in the run up to the 2012 Olympics at a conference last Tuesday. "

More:Turkish Businesses encouraged to tender for Olympic contracts - Londra gazete www.londragazete.com

Match making between Turkey and rest of world

"Match making between Turkey and rest of world

In May 2008 the biggest Match-Making Event of Anatolia, 'The Mediterranean Business Partneria (www.MBP2008.com)” brings 300 international and 1000 Turkish companies from over 40 countries together in Antalya, the Turkish heart of tourism. The main objective is to create new international business chances for companies and establish long term economic cooperation."

More:Match making between Turkey and rest of world

Turkey and NATO: Ankara Unhappy about Request for More Help - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"TURKEY AND NATO
Ankara Unhappy about Request for More Help

By Daniel Steinvorth in Istanbul

Turkey plays an important role in Afghanistan -- as the only Muslim member of NATO, its troops provide living proof that the Western alliance is not an army of Christian crusaders. But Ankara is unwilling to bolster its engagement."

More:Turkey and NATO: Ankara Unhappy about Request for More Help - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

Turkey: Suit to Ban Governing Party Threatens to Plunge the Country into Crisis

"TURKEY: SUIT TO BAN GOVERNING PARTY THREATENS TO PLUNGE THE COUNTRY INTO CRISIS
Yigal Schleifer 3/28/08

Turkey is teetering on the brink of a constitutional crisis, as the nation’s highest court grapples with a motion to shut down the governing party. The Constitutional Court is now expected to consider the case on March 31.

If the high court decides that the case can go forward, experts predict newfound political and economic stability in Turkey would quickly crumble. The suit has already further undermined the country’s troubled bid for European Union membership. [For background see the Eurasia Insight archive]. Turkey’s currency, the lira, hit a seven-month low on March 28, amid the suit’s uncertain outcome."

More:EurasiaNet Eurasia Insight - Turkey: Suit to Ban Governing Party Threatens to Plunge the Country into Crisis

Mozart’s Zaide staged in Turkey

"Mozart’s Zaide staged in Turkey

Performing in Turkey for the first time at The Sabancý University Performance Hall, artists from the German Baden State Opera will perform Mozart's Zaide, one of Mozart's two works that feature Turks."

More:Mozart’s Zaide staged in Turkey

Turkish lira hit 7-month low, stocks fell %2 due to political uncertainty

"Turkish lira hit 7-month low, stocks fell %2 due to political uncertainty
Turkey's currency ans stocks fell sharply on Friday to its weakest level since September 11, 2007, as local investors joined the foreign funds in selling lira amid increased political uncertainty. Lira fell below 1.30 against dollar, weakening more than 2 percent. Istanbul benchmark stock exchange lost 2 percent in value and ended below the 40,000 points mark. "

More:Turkish lira hit 7-month low, stocks fell %2 due to political uncertainty

Turkey Walks On E.U. Path With Decisive Steps, Erdogan

"Turkey Walks On E.U. Path With Decisive Steps, Erdogan
Published: 3/27/2008

TIRANA - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Wednesday Turkey had been taking decisive steps towards full membership to EU."

More:Turkey Walks On E.U. Path With Decisive Steps, Erdogan

Istanbul to host International Swimming Championship_English_Xinhua

"Istanbul to host International Swimming Championship
www.chinaview.cn 2008-03-28 21:47:34
ANKARA, March 28 (Xinhua) -- International Swimming Championship will start in the Turkish largest city of Istanbul on Saturday, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported on Friday."

More:Istanbul to host International Swimming Championship_English_Xinhua

Strmz Video: "FBI Report About 911 and Illegal Nuclear Sales To Turkey" [Dennis Hastert Videos on YouTube]

"FBI Report About 911 and Illegal Nuclear Sales To Turkey
Did Speaker Hastert Accept Turkish Bribes to Deny Armenian Genocide and Approve Weapons Sales? Former FBI translator turned whistleblower, Sibel Edmonds is now appealing her case to the U.S. Supreme Court. In March 2002, she was fired and she has been fighting now for nearly 3 years to blow the whistle on US government failures prior to 9-11. She has faced fierce opposition from the Bush administration, the FBI and some in Congress."

More:Strmz Video: "FBI Report About 911 and Illegal Nuclear Sales To Turkey" [Dennis Hastert Videos on YouTube]

Kamil Pasha » Turkish Education: Authority or Critical Thinking, Assertive Maculinity or Consensus

"Turkish Education: Authority or Critical Thinking, Assertive Maculinity or Consensus
Posted on March 28th, 2008 by Jenny White

The journalist Nicole Pope has spent many years traveling in all corners of Turkey. In her column, she writes about the background issues and implications of the UNDP report on the state of Turkish youth (see my March 22 blog entry, where you can access the full report). She pays particular attention to the hidden problems of education in Turkey, especially in rural areas, ranging from lack of infrastructure to authoritarianism and reliance on rote learning that leaves students unable to synthesize information and develop a critical approach."

More:Kamil Pasha » Turkish Education: Authority or Critical Thinking, Assertive Maculinity or Consensus

Re-Orientations: Islamic Art and the West in the 18th and 19th Centuries - Art - Review - New York Times

"When the Islamic World Was Inspired by the West

By HOLLAND COTTER
Published: March 28, 2008

Sometimes in the history of art everything seems to be happening everywhere, all at once. The 16th century was like that. It was a grand global burst of lights. The Ming dynasty in China; the Renaissance in Europe; Islamic empires in India, Iran and Turkey were all burning at high incandescence. Visitors traveled from one to another, buying, selling, making plans, taking notes, amazed."

More:Re-Orientations: Islamic Art and the West in the 18th and 19th Centuries - Art - Review - New York Times

Dexia to provide extra capital to Turkish unit | Industries | Financial Services & Real Estate | Reuters

"Dexia to provide extra capital to Turkish unit

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Belgian-French financial services group Dexia said on Friday it would provide about 400 million Turkish lira ($315 million) in additional capital to its Turkish subsidiary DenizBank."

More:Dexia to provide extra capital to Turkish unit | Industries | Financial Services & Real Estate | Reuters

Turkey's religious bent - Los Angeles Times

"Turkey's religious bent

The ruling party is corrupting the country's secular character.
By Robert Ellis
March 28, 2008
In his Blowback, 'My party is good for Turkey,' Egemen Bagis does what can only be described as a hatchet job on Soner Cagaptay, director of the Turkish Research Program at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Bagis, who is a foreign policy advisor to the Turkish prime minister, calls Cagaptay a 'self-proclaimed Turkey expert,' but this kind of language is nothing new to Bagis."

More:Turkey's religious bent - Los Angeles Times

The Local - Suspected PKK ringleader arrested in Germany

"Suspected PKK ringleader arrested in Germany

Published: 28 Mar 08 08:12 CET
Online: http://www.thelocal.de/10945/

German police have arrested a 34-year-old suspected ringleader of Turkey's banned Kurdish separatist rebel movement PKK, the federal prosecutor's office said on Thursday."

More:The Local - Suspected PKK ringleader arrested in Germany

It's the Wedge Issues, Stupid - Commentary

"It's the Wedge Issues, Stupid
Turkey and the U.S. Focus on Polarizing, Unproductive Politics
Corey James Prachniak
Issue date: 3/31/08 Section: Commentary

It seems a reasonable observation that when people do not have much control over their government and political process, they narrow in on a few divisive issues that they have little hope of affecting but that for some reason rile them up."

More:It's the Wedge Issues, Stupid - Commentary

TheStar.com | living | Canuck finds growing fashion scene in Turkey

"Canuck finds growing fashion scene in Turkey

Canadian makeup artist Shelley Lashley finds new fashion challenges and true love by moving to Istanbul"

More:TheStar.com | living | Canuck finds growing fashion scene in Turkey

Erdogan says German Turks scared, knocks Merkel | International | Reuters

"Erdogan says German Turks scared, knocks Merkel

BERLIN (Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan said in a newspaper on Thursday that his relatives in Germany fear for their safety and criticized Chancellor Angela Merkel for backing out of an event with Turks last month."

More:Erdogan says German Turks scared, knocks Merkel | International | Reuters

Another false dawn? - International Herald Tribune

"Another false dawn?

The history of attempts to overcome the division of Cyprus can be measured out in false dawns. One or another leader could always be relied on to stand athwart the effort and yell "no!" Support from either Ankara or Athens would go missing. But last Friday, the newly minted Greek Cypriot leader, Demetris Cristofias, and his Turkish Cypriot counterpart, Mehmet Ali Talat, agreed to begin a new effort. Why should we be excited?"

More:Another false dawn? - International Herald Tribune

Turkey: do headscarves signal Islamization? | Spero News

"Turkey: do headscarves signal Islamization?
Turkey's secular liberals argue that increasing number of women in hijab in public are not evidence of Islamization, but of deep social changes that the country has been experiencing as a result of democratization."

More:Turkey: do headscarves signal Islamization? | Spero News

12-vote surprise in Israeli Knesset - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2008

"12-vote surprise in Israeli Knesset
Friday, March 28, 2008

Turkey engages in diplomatic efforts with the Israeli government and the Foreign Ministry to block the genocide initiative, and is assured that the motion will die in the Israeli panel before reaching the full parliament floor"

More:12-vote surprise in Israeli Knesset - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2008

New season brings innovationfor 2010 - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2008

"New season brings innovationfor 2010
Friday, March 28, 2008

Istanbul's Atatürk Culture Center (AKM), located in the heart of Istanbul's Taksim Square, is set to undergo maintenance. The plan is to start in June and finish by September 2009. Another plan of the Culture and Tourism Ministry is to build an archaeological park in Sultanahmet"

More:New season brings innovationfor 2010 - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2008

Turkey is not black or white - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2008

"Turkey is not black or white
Friday, March 28, 2008

CAMILLE LEGANZA
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

The first three months of this year have been tumultuous in Turkey, from the border actions against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to the lifting of the headscarf ban in universities and now the litigation against the governing Justice and Development Party (AKP), in an attempt to remove it from power. Each day brings more news, both from Turkish press and foreign press on the situation in Turkey."

oreTurkey is not black or white - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2008

Stakes are now higher in the 'Battle of Ankara' - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

"Stakes are now higher in the 'Battle of Ankara'
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

BURAK BEKDİL

A few years ago, Turkey had a slow, inefficient and sometimes embarrassingly corrupt judiciary. Today, the Crescent and Star boasts a slow, inefficient, sometimes embarrassingly corrupt and deeply politicized judiciary. Turkish courtrooms are increasingly becoming a dangerous battlefield for ideological wars between Most Important Persons (MIPs) in Ankara, with an increasing risk of 'unwanted civilian casualties.'"

oreStakes are now higher in the 'Battle of Ankara' - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

PKK threatens to retaliate against Turkey | France 24

"PKK threatens to retaliate against Turkey

Turkey's rebel Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) has threatened to retaliate against Ankara after the violence during the New Year celebration of Newroz in southeastern Turkey.

'The Turkish state must listen to the message of freedom from the Kurdish people and immediately halt its violence against civilians,' the number two of the PKK group, Bozam Tekim, told AFP in an interview on Thursday."

More:PKK threatens to retaliate against Turkey | France 24

IMF seeks "fiscal rule" arrangement with Turkey after stand-by expires

"IMF seeks 'fiscal rule' arrangement with Turkey after stand-by expires
IMF signaled it is in favor of continuation of its relations with Turkey under an arrangement involving a fiscal rule after the 10 billion dollars loan program expires in May and warned the external risks could cause a disorderly correction in financial markets."

More:IMF seeks "fiscal rule" arrangement with Turkey after stand-by expires

The Muslim News - Should we worry about freedom of religion in Turkey?

"Should we worry about freedom of religion in Turkey?

By Talip Küçükcan

Freedom of religion and worship is one of the fundamental human rights that everyone should enjoy regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality and religious preference. The right to believe in a particular religion and practice its rituals are recognised is by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the European Convention of Human Rights. The 1981 UN Declaration on Religious Tolerance and Non-Discrimination and 1990 Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam also underline the significance of freedom of religion for a plural world and urge states and societies to respect and protect these basic rights."

More:The Muslim News - Should we worry about freedom of religion in Turkey?

Mission Network News

Persecution in Turkey targets children, evangelism is at risk

For the complete report from Mission Network News click on this link

Persecution in Turkey targets children, evangelism is at risk

While the trial of five men accused of killing three Christians in Turkey has yet to resume, persecution continues for Christians. It's happening almost every day, and children are the targets. IN Network's Turkey Country Director Behnan Konutgan says Christian children face problems every day. "Every student has to attend Islamic classes, even our children. And when they are in the class, they speak lies about the Christians and the Christian faith." Konutgan says these lies perpetuate antagonism toward Christian students, calling them the enemy or infidels. "Just last month one of my sons was playing football with his class against another class, and a student from another class said, 'I don't want to play with this evil infidel man.'"

Thursday, March 27, 2008

EU plans to open new negotiation chapter with Turkey

"EU plans to open new negotiation chapter with Turkey
The EU is planning to open a new negotiation chapter with Turkey on April 21, despite more than a year having passed since the Turkish capital sent the bloc its negotiation position paper on the subject.


Ankara sent its negotiation position paper on the chapter on education and culture back in May 2006, but the EU was unable to move to open any further chapters due to French objections, supported by Greece and Greek Cyprus."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Dutch Lawmaker Releases Anti-Quran Film

"Dutch Lawmaker Releases Anti-Quran Film

By TOBY STERLING – 2 hours ago

AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (AP) — A Dutch lawmaker released a film highly critical of Islam on Thursday, setting verses of the Muslim holy book against a background of violent images from terrorist attacks.

Geert Wilders posted his 15-minute film on a Web site. Shortly afterward, Dutch television channels showed segments of the film and broadcast discussions by analysts on the possible impact of its release.."

MoreŞThe Associated Press: Dutch Lawmaker Releases Anti-Quran Film

Countering AKP Propaganda

"Countering AKP Propaganda
Filed under: AK Parti, Europe, Turkey — Michael van der Galien on March 27, 2008 @ 9:50 pm CET

A friend of mine, and reader of this blog, Kemal, has written a guest post for PoliGazette in response to an op-ed by Mustafa Akyol, which was published in the Wall Street Journal. As you all will know, we encourage readers to send us their opinions; if we like what they write - we don’t have to agree with it of course - we’ll publish it. Here’s Kemal’s post called “Countering AKP Propaganda.”"

MoreŞPoliGazette » Countering AKP Propaganda

SUMMARY OF THE INDICTMENT AGAINST JUSTICE AND DEVELOPMENT PARTY

"SUMMARY OF THE INDICTMENT AGAINST JUSTICE AND DEVELOPMENT PARTY

A state prosecutor has asked Turkey's highest court to shutdown the ruling AK Party for allegedly undermining secularism. Abdurrahman Yalcinkaya, the court of appeals chief prosecutor, as quoted by Turkish television as saying he wanted senior party members, including the president and prime minister, banned from politics for five years.Below are some excerpts from the indictment submitted by Abdurrahman Yalcinkaya, the Chief Public Prosecutor of the Supreme Court of Appeals, to the Constitutional Court on March 14, 2008, demanding the Justice and Development Party (JDP) should be closed down on the grounds that the party has become a focal point for anti-secular activities."

More:İşte AKP davasının ingilizce metni - Haber 10

Turkish markets hit by U.S. equity losses | Reuters

"Turkish markets hit by U.S. equity losses
Thu Mar 27, 2008 9:00pm IST

ISTANBUL, March 27 (Reuters) - Losses in U.S. stocks helped wipe out earlier gains in Turkish markets on Thursday, pushing the lira 1.4 percent lower from Wednesday's close and hitting Turkish stocks harder than other emerging markets."

More:Turkish markets hit by U.S. equity losses | Reuters

European deputy questions trust in Turkish judiciary

"European deputy questions trust in Turkish judiciary

The New Anatolian / Ankara
27 March 2008

Christian Democrat MEP Ria Oomen-Ruijten said Thursday there is no judiciary in Turkey that every one can rely on.

'Turkey needs to work on this matter,' Oomen-Ruijten, who is also Turkey rapporteur of the European Parliament (EP), said during a meeting at the External Relations Committee of the EP in which MEPs discussed a draft report on Turkey."

More:The New Anatolian

$600 Million Turkish Investments in Bulgaria

"$600 Million Turkish Investments in Bulgaria

Updated on: 27.03.2008, 17:14

$ 600 million figured out to be the Turkish investments in Bulgaria, on the official Bulgarian - Turkish business forum became clear."

More:News.bg - $600 Million Turkish Investments in Bulgaria

Railway Gazette: Istanbul to build second light metro

"Istanbul to build second light metro

TURKEY: The Municipality of Istanbul has awarded a joint venture led by Italian firm Astaldi a €751m contract for civil, electromechanical and signalling works on the Kadiköy - Kartal light metro line."

More:Railway Gazette: Istanbul to build second light metro

Izmir Mayor To Meet Representatives Of 51 Countries

"Izmir Mayor To Meet Representatives Of 51 Countries
Published: 3/27/2008

IZMIR - Izmir Metropolitan Mayor Aziz Kocaoglu will meet delegates and ambassadors of 51 countries prior to the voting in Paris on March 31st to elect the host city (Turkey's Izmir or Italy's Milan) of EXPO 2015."

More:Izmir Mayor To Meet Representatives Of 51 Countries

Netherlands Supports Turkey's E.U. Bid, F.M. Babacan

"Netherlands Supports Turkey's E.U. Bid, F.M. Babacan
Published: 3/27/2008

THE HAGUE - Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan said Monday the Netherlands was supporting Turkey's membership bid."

More:Netherlands Supports Turkey's E.U. Bid, F.M. Babacan

7th Boston Turkish Films Festival To Begin On March 27th

"7th Boston Turkish Films Festival To Begin On March 27th
Published: 3/27/2008

NEW YORK - The 7th Boston Turkish Films Festival will begin Thursday with the screening of renown Turkish director Fatih Akin's film 'The Edge of Heaven' ."

More:7th Boston Turkish Films Festival To Begin On March 27th

Turkish Pianist To Perform His "nazim" Oratorio In Russia

"Turkish Pianist To Perform His 'nazim' Oratorio In Russia
Published: 3/27/2008

ANKARA - Turkish pianist and composer Fazil Say will perform his 'Nazim' oratorio in Russian capital of Moscow in April."

More:Turkish Pianist To Perform His "nazim" Oratorio In Russia

Turk business group meets speaker of parliament

"Turk business group meets speaker of parliament
Turkey's leading business group got the support of the speaker of the parliament on Thursday in his recent initiative calling for social collaboration and dialogue following a rise in political tension in the country."

MoreTurk business group meets speaker of parliament

Babacan Meets His Dutch Counterpart Verhagen

"Babacan Meets His Dutch Counterpart Verhagen
Published: 3/27/2008

THE HAGUE - Turkish Foreign Minister & Chief Negotiator for the EU talks Ali Babacan met on Wednesday Dutch Foreign Minister Maxime Verhagen."

More:Babacan Meets His Dutch Counterpart Verhagen

Turkey, Netherlands to cooperate in power generation_English_Xinhua

"Turkey, Netherlands to cooperate in power generation
ANKARA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Hilmi Guler said Thursday Turkey and the Netherlands can develop joint projects regarding renewable energy resources and energy efficiency."

More:Turkey, Netherlands to cooperate in power generation_English_Xinhua

Chances for Recognizing Armenian Genocide by Israeli Knesset are Small: Experts

"Chances for Recognizing Armenian Genocide by Israeli Knesset are Small: Experts
27.03.08 17:34

Israel, Jerusalem, 27 March / corr. TrendNews R. Abdullayev, E, Huseynov/ The chances of Israeli Knesset’s recognizing the so-called Armenian genocide committed in Ottoman Empire in 1915-17 are small and it is possible that the very issue will not be approved once again, the experts in Jerusalem said."

More:Trend News : Chances for Recognizing Armenian Genocide by Israeli Knesset are Small: Experts

Turkey, Netherlands to cooperate in power generation_English_Xinhua

"Turkey, Netherlands to cooperate in power generation
www.chinaview.cn 2008-03-27 21:28:08 Print

ANKARA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Hilmi Guler said Thursday Turkey and the Netherlands can develop joint projects regarding renewable energy resources and energy efficiency."

More:Turkey, Netherlands to cooperate in power generation_English_Xinhua

BenAdam: Malaysia’s Foreign Policy Strategy and Turkey

"Malaysia’s Foreign Policy Strategy and Turkey

By Abdul Rahman Adam
National University of Malaysia, Bangi
(A paper presented at 1st International Turkish Asian Congress on 25-27 May 2006 in Istanbul.)

Introduction

In his address to the “The Conference of Malaysian Heads of Mission” in July, 2004 Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi stressed that “The thrust and purpose of Malaysia’s foreign policy has always been, and will continue to be, the protection and promotion of national interest. Malaysia has no ideology to export and it has no secret agenda to carry out anywhere in the world. We will, however, work to promote the establishment of a regional and international environment that is stable and peaceful.”[1] In essence, Malaysia must strive to continue maintaining an independent and non aligned foreign policy in order to be able to exercise flexibility in safeguarding the national interest."

More:BenAdam: Malaysia’s Foreign Policy Strategy and Turkey

Ertugrul Ozkok: One step back prime minister

"Ertugrul Ozkok: One step back prime minister
Will everybody take one step back? Nobody can or should ask the judiciary to do such thing. So we need to discuss ''one step back'' issue in terms of politics. When it comes to judiciary all we can say is 'I wish it happened like this'."

More:Ertugrul Ozkok: One step back prime minister

Turkish top judge says examination on AKP case likely to be on Monday

"Turkish top judge says examination on AKP case likely to be on Monday
Hasim Kilic, chief judge of the Turkish Constitutional Court, said on Thursday they would most probably make the preliminary examination of the indictment about closure case against the ruling AKP on March 31st. Kilic told reporters that the rapporteur would complete his report on Friday at latest."

More:Turkish top judge says examination on AKP case likely to be on Monday

Northern Cyprus between independence and re-unification; possible PMR precedent

"Northern Cyprus between independence and re-unification; possible PMR precedent
TransnistriaThe Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has begun talks with its internationally recognized neighbor on re-unification. The possibility of a precedent setting status resolution model for the Moldova/PMR conflict is not ruled out. But as an already de-facto independent state, the TRNC prefers the Kosovo precedent and is at the same time seeking international recognition of its current status."

More:Northern Cyprus between independence and re-unification; possible PMR precedent

Turkish army: we’ll leave once a fair settlement is found

"Turkish army: we’ll leave once a fair settlement is found
By Simon Bahceli

THE TURKISH army will withdraw from Cyprus if a solution to the Cyprus problem is found, the head of the Turkish armed forces indicated yesterday.

“We came to Cyprus to make peace, and will remain here keeping the peace until a fair and lasting settlement is found,” Chief of Staff Yasar Buyukanit said during a one-day visit to Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat yesterday.

As if to drum the message home, Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat echoed Buyukanit’s statement, saying that the Turkish army had provided security for the Turkish Cypriot people over the last three decades, and would continue to do so “until a fair and lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem has been found”."

More:http://www.cyprus-mail.com/news/main.php?id=38325&cat_id=1

Turkish Tekstilbank shares surge 13 pct | Reuters

"Turkish Tekstilbank shares surge 13 pct
Thu Mar 27, 2008 1:47pm IST

ISTANBUL, March 27 (Reuters) - Shares in Turkish lender Tekstilbank TEKST.IS surged 13 percent to 1.91 lira on Thursday after the bank's parent company GSD Holding GSDHO.IS said the company was working on a possible sale or partnership."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkish Tekstilbank shares surge 13 pct | Reuters

IDL to Set Up Grading Lab in Istanbul: Turkey’s First

"IDL to Set Up Grading Lab in Istanbul: Turkey’s First
(March 27, '08, 4:11 IDEX Online Staff Reporter)

IDL plans to set up a fully fledged laboratory in Istanbul at the headquarters of the Istanbul Chamber of Jewelry (IKO), the first of its kind in Turkey. The news was announced during the Istanbul Jewelry Show.

The lab, which will offer diamond and jewelry certification services, will be located in the headquarters of IKO in the heart of the Istanbul diamond and jewelry center and will be run by a team of international experts. The first certificate is expected to be issued in June."

More:News Room - Full Article

Iraqi Kurds ready to work with Turkey to solve PKK problem, Cheney says - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2008

"Iraqi Kurds ready to work with Turkey to solve PKK problem, Cheney says
Thursday, March 27, 2008

U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney informed Turkey that the Iraqi Kurds are willing to cooperate with Ankara in its fight against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a top U.S. diplomat said late Tuesday."

More:Iraqi Kurds ready to work with Turkey to solve PKK problem, Cheney says - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2008

Court halts Inmet's project in Turkey

"Court halts Inmet's project in Turkey

Development stopped at Cerattepe copper mine
Mar 27, 2008 04:30 AM

A Turkish court has granted an injunction that halts work at Inmet Mining Corp.'s Cerattepe copper project in Turkey.

The Toronto-based metals miner said yesterday the injunction was put in place as a Turkish court considers applications by two non-governmental groups looking to cancel the operating licences of Inmet subsidiary Artvin Bakir Maden Isletmeleri AS."

More:TheStar.com | Business | Court halts Inmet's project in Turkey

Darkening our future for the sake of the turban - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2008

"Darkening our future for the sake of the turban
Thursday, March 27, 2008

Mehmet Ali Birand

I felt sad as I read the prime minister's speech addressed to the students in Bosnia Herzegovina.

Drawing attention to the reluctance of European Union countries to include Turkey among them, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Turkey would lose nothing by not joining the EU. "

More:Darkening our future for the sake of the turban - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2008

YouTube expects restored access for users in Turkey after removing several video clips

"YouTube expects restored access for users in Turkey after removing several video clips

ISTANBUL, Turkey (AP) - YouTube has removed several video clips that prompted Turkish authorities to block access to the video-sharing Web site and expects that access will be restored soon, the company said.
The videos, which a Turkish prosecutor deemed insulting to the country's revered founding father, were removed, YouTube said in a statement e-mailed
to The Associated Press on Thursday."

More:YouTube expects restored access for users in Turkey after removing several video clips

Turkey sparkles as jewellery fair opens

"Turkey sparkles as jewellery fair opens

Turkey is hosting a sparkling fair this week. The 26th International Jewellery, Silver, Watch and Equipment Fair, opened at the Istanbul Expo Centre yesterday."

More:Turkey sparkles as jewellery fair opens

Survey shows: Turks willing to pay more taxes to combat terrorism

"Survey shows: Turks willing to pay more taxes to combat terrorism

27 Mar 2008
bbj.hu

Turks consider terrorism to be a greater global threat than environmental issues, unlike Europeans, Americans and Canadians, and are willing to pay more taxes to combat the problem, a study by the British Council released last week has found."

More:www.bbj.hu :: Survey shows: Turks willing to pay more taxes to combat terrorism

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Is Europe alienating itself from Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 24, 2008

"Is Europe alienating itself from Turkey
Monday, March 24, 2008

GÖKÇE AYTULU - News Analysis
İSTANBUL - REFERANS

Turkey's European Union bid appears to have been put on the backburner of the domestic agenda for a while, due to new social and political developments in the country. "

More:Is Europe alienating itself from Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 24, 2008

Soccer-Euro 2008 finalists Turkey held to a draw in Belarus | Reuters

"Soccer-Euro 2008 finalists Turkey held to a draw in Belarus
Wed Mar 26, 2008 8:45pm GMT

MINSK, March 26 (Reuters) - Tuncay Sanli scored one goal and set up another to help Euro 2008 finalists Turkey draw 2-2 with Belarus in a friendly on Wednesday.

Vitali Kutuzov gave the hosts a 1-0 lead in the 34th minute before Middlesbrough striker Tuncay levelled with a low drive from the edge of the box three minutes later."

More:Soccer-Euro 2008 finalists Turkey held to a draw in Belarus | Reuters

Cuba, Turkey Sign Coop Accords - Prensa Latina

"Cuba, Turkey Sign Coop Accords

Ankara, Mar 26 (Prensa Latina) Turkey and Cuba concluded the 8th Mixed Commission of Collaboration with the signature of several agreements that will strengthen bilateral relations even more."

More:Cuba, Turkey Sign Coop Accords - Prensa Latina

Turkish FM Babacan arrives in the Netherlands

"Turkish FM Babacan arrives in the Netherlands

The New Anatolian / Ankara
26 March 2008

Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan arrived in the Netherlands early on Wednesday on a formal working trip.

Babacan, who will begin his talks later on Wednesday, will meet Dutch FM Maxime Verhagen. The two foreign ministers are expected to discuss Turkey's EU membership bid and regional and international matters as well as bilateral relations."

More:The New Anatolian

Turkey Is Also Europe!

"TURKEY IS ALSO EUROPE! (translated and summarised)

The declarations of Valery Giscard d'Estaing against the integration of Turkey to the European Union caused embarrassment, anger or satisfaction with Convention on the future of Europe which the former French president directs and who sat as a plenary session in Brussels. Valery Giscard d'Estaing indeed decided firmly against the integration of Turkey in the EU, by estimating in an interview published by Le Monde that it would mark 'the end of the European Union' (sic). The Convention on the future of Europe is charged to think about the institutional contours of the EU after its widening.
It includes representatives of all the countries applying for accession, including Turkey."

More:European Social Republicans: Turkey Is Also Europe!

Emergence of an eTurkey

Pakistan Christian Post: "Emergence of an eTurkey. By Itir Akdogan

Helsinki - For more than 40 years Turkey has been taking certain measures to reach the European Union criteria of a member state. As part of a drive to increase innovation in and access to technology, the EU has allocated more than 100 billion euros for the i2010 Programme to create a 'Single European Information Space', in which innovation and investment in technology is a priority. Becoming an information society is one of the reforms Turkey is undertaking to increase its chances of joining the EU."

In Turkey, secularists escalate fight against ruling AKP | csmonitor.com

"In Turkey, secularists escalate fight against ruling AKP
The country's highest court is weighing whether to allow a motion to shut down the party, saying its Islamic initiatives cross a constitutional line.
By Yigal Schleifer | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor

from the March 27, 2008 edition

Istanbul - Turkey's secular establishment has dramatically escalated its fight to thwart the growing influence of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and the emerging socially and religiously conservative middle class that it represents."

More:In Turkey, secularists escalate fight against ruling AKP | csmonitor.com

T V Program "turkish Hour" On U.S. Tv

"T V Program 'turkish Hour' On U.S. Tv
Published: 3/26/2008

NEW YORK - TV program 'Turkish Hour' which promotes Turkey will be broadcast across the United States as of the end of March."

More:T V Program "turkish Hour" On U.S. Tv

Ergenekon Investigation -Three More People Detained

"Ergenekon Investigation -Three More People Detained
Published: 3/26/2008

ANKARA/IZMIR - Police took three more people into custody within the scope of ongoing 'Ergenekon' investigation, sources said on Tuesday"

More:Ergenekon Investigation -Three More People Detained

Istanbul University To Represent Orphanet In Turkey

"Istanbul University To Represent Orphanet In Turkey
Published: 3/26/2008

ISTANBUL - Istanbul University (IU) of Turkey has become the representative of Orphanet, an internet portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs, visited by nearly 20,000 people from 170 countries each day."

More:Istanbul University To Represent Orphanet In Turkey

Erdogan: Turkey Has Nothing To Lose If EU Members Exclude It

"Erdogan: Turkey Has Nothing To Lose If EU Members Exclude It
Published: 3/26/2008

SARAJEVO - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Tuesday that Turkey had nothing to lose if EU members excluded it."

More:Erdogan: Turkey Has Nothing To Lose If EU Members Exclude It

Yased's Report On Foreign Direct Investments

"Yased's Report On Foreign Direct Investments
Published: 3/26/2008

ISTANBUL - A report released by International Investors` Association (YASED) said that Turkey could expect a foreign investment inflow of 15-20 billion USD in 2008 and in the following years."

More:Yased's Report On Foreign Direct Investments

Passengers of cruise liner "Sky Wonder" evacuated in Turkey _English_Xinhua

"Passengers of cruise liner 'Sky Wonder' evacuated in Turkey
www.chinaview.cn 2008-03-26 21:48:48 Print

ANKARA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Passengers of cruise liner 'Sky Wonder' which ran aground at Setur Marina while docking Kusadasi port in western Turkey were evacuated on Wednesday, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported. A total of 1,029 passengers were evacuated and brought to Kusadasi safely, according to the report.It said that 'Sky Wonder' ran aground due to storm on Tuesday while approaching the Kusadasi port."

More:Passengers of cruise liner "Sky Wonder" evacuated in Turkey _English_Xinhua

Turkish president to meet opposition leaders in effort to ease tension

"Turkish president to meet opposition leaders in effort to ease tension
On Wednesday, representatives from some of Turkey’s leading NGOs called for calm and an easing of political and social tensions."

More:Turkish president to meet opposition leaders in effort to ease tension

Turk court denies report on AKP case ready

"Turk court denies report on AKP case ready
Deputy chairman of the Constitutional Court denied the reports on Wednesday the rapporteur recommend the court to accept the lawsuit against AKP in his preliminary analysis"

More:Turk court denies report on AKP case ready

Bulgaria: Bulgaria's "Ataka" Nationalists Oppose Visit of Turkish PM

"Bulgaria's 'Ataka' Nationalists Oppose Visit of Turkish PM

26 March 2008, Wednesday

Bulgaria's extreme right and nationalist Ataka ("attack") party issued a statement Wednesday calling for the cancellation of the planned visit to Bulgaria of the Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan."

More:Bulgaria: Bulgaria's "Ataka" Nationalists Oppose Visit of Turkish PM

TURKEY RISKS LOSING INTERNATIONAL FUNDS FOR ILISU DAM - Eurasia Daily Monitor

"TURKEY RISKS LOSING INTERNATIONAL FUNDS FOR ILISU DAM

By John C. K. Daly

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

When covering Turkey’s complex relationship with its Kurdish minority, Western media outlets have tended to focus on the military activities in southeastern Anatolia against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK)."

More:TURKEY RISKS LOSING INTERNATIONAL FUNDS FOR ILISU DAM - Eurasia Daily Monitor

UNFICYP begins demining at Ledra Street in Cyprus

"UNFICYP begins demining at Ledra Street in Cyprus

26/03/2008

The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) is expected to begin demining work at
Ledra Street
, to enable the opening of the crossing point as agreed to last Friday by President Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat.

UNFICYP spokesperson Jose Luis Diaz told the Cyprus News Agency that “we expect to start very soon with the demining team to go in and make sure there are no unexploded ammunitions”."

More:Financial Mirror

Turkish banks grow despite global crisis - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

"Turkish banks grow despite global crisis
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Financial giants in the United States and Europe may be shedding jobs by the thousands, however in Turkey the picture is starkingly different. Turkish banks have announced plans to hire 20,000 new staff just this year"

More:Turkish banks grow despite global crisis - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

Women’s Memory from the Ottoman Era to the Present « History of Feminism Network

"Women’s Memory from the Ottoman Era to the Present

CALL FOR PAPERS

The Problem of Sources in [Turkish] Women’s Memory from the Ottoman Era to
the Present

20th Anniversary Symposium of the Women’s Library and Information Centre
Foundation

From 17-19 April 2009, as part of our 20th anniversary celebrations, the
Women’s Library and Information Centre [WLIC] will be holding an
international symposium on “The Problem of Source in Women’s Memory from
the Ottoman Era to the Present.”"

More:CfP - The Problem of Sources in [Turkish] Women’s Memory from the Ottoman Era to the Present « History of Feminism Network

PKK only problem with N. Iraq, Turkey tells US - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

"PKK only problem with N. Iraq, Turkey tells US
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

During talks with Cheney, Ankara expresses willingness to expand ties with northern Iraq once the region is completely cleared of terrorist elements"

More:PKK only problem with N. Iraq, Turkey tells US - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

Istanbul Film Festival will host Cardinale - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

"Istanbul Film Festival will host Cardinale
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Famous Italian � Tunisian born � actress Claudia Cardinale will come to Istanbul as a guest of the 27th International Istanbul Film Festival."

More:Istanbul Film Festival will host Cardinale - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

Southwesterly storm rips through Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

"Southwesterly storm rips through Turkey
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

A southwesterly storm that struck Turkey yesterday blew the roofs off many buildings, and uprooted sign plates and trees."

More:Southwesterly storm rips through Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

Political conflict among students interrupts lectures - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

"Political conflict among students interrupts lectures
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Lectures at Ankara University's Department of Languages, History and Geography have been suspended for the rest of the week due to a fight that broke out yesterday between two student groups of different political views."

More:Political conflict among students interrupts lectures - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

The Global Buzz: Turkey: Still finding itself

"Turkey: Still finding itself

Istanbul_turkey Turkey is facing its second constitutional crisis in as many years. Last year, the Turkish military threatened on its website to intervene in Turkey's domestic politics if Abdullah Gul of the mildly Islamist AK Party was nominated by the parliament for the position of president - the so-called 'e-coup.' Following snap elections called by prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in which the AKP won, Erdogan called the military's bluff and nominated Gul anyway. The military backed down and Gul is now the president of Turkey. Crisis averted right?"

More:The Global Buzz: Turkey: Still finding itself

Alliance between Turkey's ultranationalist hardliners and left wing 'nationalists'

"Alliance between Turkey's ultranationalist hardliners and left wing 'nationalists'

NEWS ANALYSIS by Ilnur Cevik The New Anatolian
26 March 2008

Three years ago we had written that some ultranationalist businessmen were arming extremist nationalists against the Kurds.

At the time we were accused of trying to create sensation by some of our colleagues in the press."

More:The New Anatolian

Turkish Yapi Kredi Bankasi Cooperates With Northern Cyprus Iktisatbank

"Turkish Yapi Kredi Bankasi Cooperates With Northern Cyprus Iktisatbank
Published: 3/25/2008

ISTANBUL - Yapi Kredi Bankasi of Turkey signed a cooperation agreement on credit card with Kibris Iktisatbank in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)."

More:Turkish Yapi Kredi Bankasi Cooperates With Northern Cyprus Iktisatbank

Demining for opening key Cypriot crossing starts

"Demining for opening key Cypriot crossing starts
The U.N. peacekeepers started on Wednesday to clean the landmines in Ledra Street, a busy pedestrian thoroughfare in the heart of Nicosia, in an important step for the opening of the crossing point on the street."

More:Demining for opening key Cypriot crossing starts

Turkish parliamentary speaker backs call for common sense

"Turkish parliamentary speaker backs call for common sense
Earlier Wednesday, an umbrella grouping of NGOs called for a stepping back from the tension that had arisen in the political arena and society."

More:Turkish parliamentary speaker backs call for common sense

Businesswomen build ties at Turkish forum

"Businesswomen build ties at Turkish forum
By Ana Datiashvili
Wednesday, March 26

Four Georgians took part in the First International Businesswomen Forum in Mersin, Turkey from March 12–15.

“It was interesting and useful for my business… The Turkish Embassy gave us a wonderful opportunity,” Georgian businesswoman Maia Simsive said after the forum."

More:The Messenger - Businesswomen build ties at Turkish forum

Rap star's sister ready to fly with her own wings - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

"Rap star's sister ready to fly with her own wings
Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Counting down the days to release her debut album 'Sensin O,' female rapper Ayben is following her brother Ceza's footsteps. Considering the success that Ceza had, assuming that she might be bothered about being overshadowed is not the right thing to think"

More:Rap star's sister ready to fly with her own wings - Turkish Daily News Mar 26, 2008

Turkey's top NGOs call everybody to take a step back to reduce tension

"Turkey's top NGOs call everybody to take a step back to reduce tension
Seven of Turkey’s leading non-governmental organizations issued a statement on Wednesday calling for a scaling back of political tensions, warning that the nation is at risk of being polarized. The NGOs, who represent almost 50 million people, called everybody 'to take a step back from their recent positions'. Turkish PM Erdogan said on Wednesday he agreed with the content of the call, and he was pleased with it."

More:Turkey's top NGOs call everybody to take a step back to reduce tension

Turkish government to open up the package weekend

"Turkish government to open up the package weekend
Turkish Minister of Labor and Social Security Faruk Celik said on Wednesday the government may open up the employment package for debates this weekend. The package will cut social security premiums five percentage point."

More:Turkish government to open up the package weekend

Trend News : Dutch, Turks to sign new cooperation agreement

"Dutch, Turks to sign new cooperation agreement
26.03.08 13:51

(dpa) - Dutch Foreign Minister Maxime Verhagen and his Turkish counterpart Ali Babacan were due to sign a new cooperation agreement on Wednesday in the town of Wassenaar, near The Hague, a Dutch Foreign Ministry spokesman said Wednesday.

Verhagen said he was pleased with Turkey's pro-European policy and the reforms recently announced by the Turkish government."

More:Trend News : Dutch, Turks to sign new cooperation agreement

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Unicef Turkey Representative Huseini In South-eastern Anatolia

"Unicef Turkey Representative Huseini In South-eastern Anatolia
Published: 3/25/2008

BATMAN - Riza Huseini, Turkey representative of the United Nations International Children`s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), is holding talks in south-eastern Anatolia."

More:Unicef Turkey Representative Huseini In South-eastern Anatolia

Comment is free: Fundamentally secular

"Fundamentally secular

Turkey's ruling party does not represent a threat to the tenets of its constitution, and the chief prosecutor is wrong to suggest otherwise
Alfred Stepan

All Alfred Stepan articles
About Webfeeds
March 25, 2008 3:00 PM | Printable version

The chief prosecutor of Turkey's high court of appeals recently recommended to the country's constitutional court that the ruling Justice and Development party (AKP) be permanently banned. Only last July, the AKP was overwhelmingly re-elected in free and fair elections to lead the government. The chief prosecutor also formally recommended that prime minister Recep Erdogan, president Abdullah Gul, and 69 other leading political figures be banned from politics five years."

More:Comment is free: Fundamentally secular

Turkey's Dilek Percin Chosen For Women's Leadership Program

"Turkey's Dilek Percin Chosen For Women's Leadership Program
Published: 3/25/2008

KOCAELI - Dilek Percin, an administrator at the Golcuk Municipality Art Gallery, was chosen by U.S. Santa Clara University's Global Women's Leadership Network (GWLN) to join the program titled '500 Women Leaders by 2011'."

More:Turkey's Dilek Percin Chosen For Women's Leadership Program

Turkish Folk Poet Commemorated In Vienna

"Turkish Folk Poet Commemorated In Vienna
Published: 3/25/2008

VIENNA - Veysel Satiroglu or Asik Veysel, a highly regarded poet of the Turkish folk literature, was commemorated in Vienna on the 35th anniversary of his death."

More:Turkish Folk Poet Commemorated In Vienna

Erciyes University To Represent Turkey In "Shell Eco Marathon"

"Erciyes University To Represent Turkey In 'Shell Eco Marathon'
Published: 3/25/2008

KAYSERI - Erciyes University (in central province of Kayseri) will represent Turkey in 'Shell Eco Marathon' challenge which will take place in France in May."

More:Erciyes University To Represent Turkey In "Shell Eco Marathon"

Berlin May Bail on Divisive Turkish Dam

"Berlin May Bail on Divisive Turkish Dam
The German government is reviewing export guarantees made to construction firm Züblin after an expert report criticizes the dam project

Germany is considering suspending export guarantees for the planned construction of a controversial bridge in Turkey that would flood ancient cultural treasures and force the displacement of tens of thousands of residents."

More:Berlin May Bail on Divisive Turkish Dam

Turkey Shows the Middle East’s Potential–and it Doesn’t Look Good « Powell History Recommends

"Turkey Shows the Middle East’s Potential–and it Doesn’t Look Good

March 25, 2008 by Scott Powell

In lecture 3 of the Islamist Entanglement, I presented the history of the Ottoman Empire and modern Turkey. I introduced this topic to my students by explaining that Turkey is by far the most westernized of all the Islamic countries in the Middle East. As such, Turkey is a kind of historical prototype–an advanced model whose development can help us predict how other countries in the Middle East might develop."

More:Turkey Shows the Middle East’s Potential–and it Doesn’t Look Good « Powell History Recommends

Danish FM arrives in Ankara

"Danish FM arrives in Ankara

The New Anatolian / Ankara
25 March 2008

Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moleller arrived Tuesday in Turkish capital Ankara on a two-day working visit."

More:The New Anatolian

Turkey Bans Facebook Application For Offensive Content - Internet news

"Turkey Bans Facebook Application For Offensive Content
Published on Internet | March 25, 2008, 14:53

Turkey has made a habit of banning sites hosting content that the country's officials considered to be insulting to Ataturk. Now it was Facebook's to join the club."

More:Turkey Bans Facebook Application For Offensive Content - Internet news

Turkish FM to visit the Netherlands

"Turkish FM to visit the Netherlands

The New Anatolian / Ankara
25 March 2008

Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan will leave for the Netherlands on Tuesday evening upon an invitation of his Dutch counterpart Maxime Verhagen."

More:The New Anatolian

Turkey parliament to debate labour bill on Thursday

"Turkey parliament to debate labour bill on Thursday

ISTANBUL, March 25 (Reuters) - Turkey's parliament will begin discussion of a long-delayed IMF-sought social security bill on Thursday, state-run Anatolian agency quoted Labour Minister Faruk Celik as saying on Tuesday.
No further details were immediately available."

More:Feed Article | Business |

Turkey sees strong FDI despite slowing trend

"Turkey sees strong FDI despite slowing trend

By Selcuk Gokoluk
ANKARA, March 25 (Reuters) - Turkey can expect hefty foreign investment due to attractive company valuations and banks with strong balance sheets, but data shows the trend is slowing as buyers scared by the global credit crisis become more selective."

More:Feed Article | Business |

Turkey's Global Promotion

"Turkey's Global Promotion

Turkey is promoting its culture on 47 TV channels in 200 countries around the world in a campaign to increase Turkey’s exposure and entice visitors to the country. The project set up between the Turkish Culture and Tourism ministry and Earth TV involves TV channels including BBC World, N24, Al Jazeera and several other media organisations airing economic, cultural, tourist and sporting events in Turkey every day."

More:Turkey's Global Promotion

LCC Secures Multiple 2008 Contracts with Turkish Operators

"LCC Secures Multiple 2008 Contracts with Turkish Operators

25/03/2008 12:00:00 Business Wire US22002T1088 LCC International, Inc.
(NASDAQ:LCCI), a global leader in wireless turnkey services, today announced it has received new awards and contract extensions totaling over $7 million for Managed Services from Turkey, a key growth market for LCC."

More:Noticias Infobolsa / Titulares

Women's World Championship in Istanbul?

"Women's World Championship in Istanbul?
25.03.2008 – The Atatürk International Women Masters was a great success, enjoyed by all involved. At the closing ceremony, where the players were given a tour of the sponsoring bank, there was an important meeting between the Turkish Sports Minister and FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov. Result: the faltering Women's World Championship will most likely be held in Istanbul. Big illustrated report."

More:ChessBase.com - Chess News - Women's World Championship in Istanbul?

Nuclear power in Europe » Blog Archive » Turkey invites bids to build first nuclear power plant

"Turkey invites bids to build first nuclear power plant

ANKARA (Thomson Financial) - Turkey’s energy minister today invited bids for the construction of the country’s first nuclear power plant, which is to be built on the Mediterranean coast despite strong opposition from environmentalists."

More:Nuclear power in Europe » Blog Archive » Turkey invites bids to build first nuclear power plant

CrossRoads: Daughter Of The Wind

"Daughter Of The Wind

''If these mountains have a rival, it's the wind;
here the wind rules surpreme''
taken from Sabahattin Ali's poem 'Wind'

When a person believes only in wind, its magical power enables him to elude the past and contemplate the future with hope. So Alacati is a chosen spot where the wind becomes an anonymous sough, caressing the the skin of everyone without distinction. The home of wind, Alacati, is a miniature paradise where the wind views with the gods, becoming synonymous with them. Known in Greek mythology as the home of the wind god, Alacati is a bohemian haven of tranquility for ordinary folk fleeing not only Izmir, but Bodrum as well."

More:CrossRoads: Daughter Of The Wind

TURKEY DATE FOR SAM-SKELTON

"TURKEY DATE FOR SAM-SKELTON
Date: 25 Mar

Matt Skelton will have to travel to Turkey for his European heavyweight showdown with Sinan Samil Sam.

The fight is set for Istanbul on May 30, with Sam guaranteed massive home support.

Although based in Germany for much of his career, Sam’s nickname – The Bosphorus Bull – highlights his Turkish nationality."

More:welcome to uk boxing from sports network

NBA notebook - Hedo Turkoglu

"NBA notebook
Saturday, March 22, 2008

Orlando's Hedo Turkoglu was cheered during Friday night's home victory over Philadelphia by a 300-member delegation from his home country of Turkey. They were in town for the annual meeting of a Turkish manufacturing company, which was planned for Central Florida partly to watch him play."

More:NBA notebook - cleveland.com

Japan says giving residency to Turkish Kurd's family - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

"Japan says giving residency to Turkish Kurd's family

Agence France-Presse
First Posted 19:28:00 03/25/2008

TOKYO -- Japan said Tuesday it was giving residency to a Turkish Kurd, his Filipina wife and their daughter in a rare move by a country that accepts few refugees or immigrants."

More:Japan says giving residency to Turkish Kurd's family - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

Ertugrul Ozkok: What did I see in Selcuk's house?

"Ertugrul Ozkok: What did I see in Selcuk's house?
Yesterday I looked at the photo on the first page of Hurriyet for a long time. Because the social structure of a period lies in that photo. Ilhan Selcuk lives in a small house.

The decoration of the house with the library on the left, carpet on the front, small paintings and photos on the walls reminded me houses around us in 1970's in Ankara.

A standard house of a Turkish intellectual.

Journalists have earned quite well money since mid-1980s.

When I look at the photo of this house, I couldn't observe such an increased welfare in the decoration of this house."

More:Ertugrul Ozkok: What did I see in Selcuk's house?

Turkish parliament to debate IMF-sought labor reform on Thursday

"Turkish parliament to debate IMF-sought labor reform on Thursday
Turkey's parliament will begin discussion of a long-delayed IMF-sought social security bill on Thursday, Labor Minister Faruk Celik told the official Anatolian Agency on Tuesday, a day after reaching a partial agreement with the unions.A union leader said on Monday there is still no agreement on the 80-90 percent of the controversial parts of the bill. (UPDATED)"

More:Turkish parliament to debate IMF-sought labor reform on Thursday