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Sunday, November 30, 2008

Two arrested after insulting north Cyprus leader on Facebook

"Two arrested after insulting north Cyprus leader on Facebook

BREAKING NEWS
Two Turkish Cypriot men have been arrested and remanded in custody after insulting Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat on a personal internet webpage.

According to our correspondent in north Cyprus, the two men made various “insulting remarks” about Talat on their Facebook page, which was spotted by the Turkish Cypriot security services."

More: Famagusta Gazette

Turkish film awarded in Egypt

"Turkish film awarded in Egypt
Turkish movie-maker Dervis Zaim's film 'Dot' has won the 'Best Digital Film Award' in the 32nd International Cairo Film Festival."

More:Turkish film awarded in Egypt

Tyler Junior College offers excursion to Turkey | News for Dallas, Texas | Dallas Morning News | Travel | Dallas Morning News

"Tyler Junior College offers excursion to Turkey

12:00 AM CST on Sunday, November 30, 2008

TRIPS

Junior college offers excursion to Turkey

Tyler Junior College is offering an archaeological and biblical tour to Turkey March 6-15. Among stops will be Istanbul, Antalya, Ephesus, Izmir and Troy."

More:Tyler Junior College offers excursion to Turkey | News for Dallas, Texas | Dallas Morning News | Travel | Dallas Morning News

Ergenekon and the fake rabbi

"Ergenekon and the fake rabbi

Several news were published in a newspaper claiming that fake rabbi Tuncay Guney, who paved the way for the launching of 'Operation Ergenekon' with his statements, was a spy of the National Intelligence Organization (MIT). Releasing a statement upon such news, MIT confirmed the published document, however, said that Guney was not its 'employee'.

MIT said Guney was not a registered news source for the organization.

Source: Hurriyet (Turkey), November 29, 2008"

MEMRI Turkish Media Blog - Full Entry

Shunted aside by Istanbul’s rising prosperity sent for backread - The National Newspaper

"Shunted aside by Istanbul’s rising prosperity sent for backread

Thomas Seibert, Foreign Correspondent

In a small house on a street strewn with litter and lined by ruins of buildings whose inhabitants have already left, Goksel Gulkoperan was waiting for his own eviction this week. Mr Gulkoperan was given until today to leave the house near the ancient city walls of Turkey’s metropolis, Istanbul, or risk being thrown out."

More:Shunted aside by Istanbul’s rising prosperity sent for backread - The National Newspaper

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Godiva Acquisition Contributes to Shift in Turkish Consumer Culture

"Godiva Acquisition Contributes to Shift in Turkish Consumer Culture
November 29, 2008 11:59 AM
by Isabel Cowles
The acquisition of Godiva by a Turkish company a year ago illustrates what some see as an ongoing trend in Turkish society."

More:Godiva Acquisition Contributes to Shift in Turkish Consumer Culture

Turkish government plans tax cuts on industrial natural gas prices

"Turkish government plans tax cuts on industrial natural gas prices
Turkish government is planning to reduce the tax rates on the natural gas prices for industries by 15 percent, Referans business daily reported on Saturday."

More:Turkish government plans tax cuts on industrial natural gas prices

Turkish FM to attend NATO meeting in Brussels

"Turkish FM to attend NATO meeting in Brussels
North Atlantic Council, NATO-Georgia and NATO-Ukraine Commissions will also take place."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkish FM to attend NATO meeting in Brussels ]

Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan loses fans abroad

"Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan loses fans abroad
ISTANBUL - Foreign observers, media and organizations are becoming more critical of Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan after praising him since he took the power in 2002."

More:Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan loses fans abroad

Turkey: Police clash with union workers

"Turkey: Police clash with union workers

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkish police have clashed with stone-throwing union workers protesting rising unemployment and price hikes."

More:The Associated Press: Turkey: Police clash with union workers

A lightning rod for Turkey’s Alevi community

"A lightning rod for Turkey’s Alevi community
ISTANBUL - Modern times have called for a leader who would be courageous and willing to speak up and İzzettin Doğan is just such a person... [He] is a committed Alevi and leader in his community and has in fact the best known name among the Alevis today, nationally and internationally. The Alevis are facing problems that only a government can deal with and not just the present one but others in the past that have promised help just to gain Alevi votes"

More:A lightning rod for Turkey’s Alevi community

Turkey : Bridges of Fashion… in Istanbul - Fashion News Turkey

"Bridges of Fashion… in Istanbul
November 29, 2008 (Turkey)

Turkish Clothing Manufacturers’ Association (TGSD), aware and responsible of being the leading non governmental organization of the sector, will organize the second of “Fashion, Textile and Garment Conference and Exhibition” between the dates May 8-9, 2009 at Istanbul Lutfi Kirdar Congress and Exhibition Center, Rumeli Lounge of which it realized the first one with a major success."

More:Turkey : Bridges of Fashion… in Istanbul - Fashion News Turkey

New U.S. envoy to arrive in Ankara

"New U.S. envoy to arrive in Ankara
The newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Ankara James Jeffery will arrive in Ankara on Sunday Nov. 30, according to a statement released by the American Embassy on Friday."

More:New U.S. envoy to arrive in Ankara

A vintage blend of the Caucasus

"A vintage blend of the Caucasus
YEREVAN - After Caucasus cheese, an Armenian businessman and peace activist plans to blend grapes from across the region to produce a perfect Caucasus wine. He believes an appetite for good food goes a long way to create an appetite for peace"

More:A vintage blend of the Caucasus

Exclusive Interview: Turkish Hero Senol Gunes Settled In Seoul

"Exclusive Interview: Turkish Hero Senol Gunes Settled In Seoul
Senol Gunes took Turkey to the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup and took the reins of FC Seoul in January 2007. The Korean club finished second in 2008 and starts the championship play-off series on Sunday. He still found time to answer questions from the Turkish and Korean editions of Goal.com..."

More:Goal.com - Asia - Exclusive Interview: Turkish Hero Senol Gunes Settled In Seoul

Rejoicing in the rain in Istanbul

"Rejoicing in the rain in Istanbul

By Susan Elderkin

Published: November 29 2008 01:02 | Last updated: November 29 2008 01:02

It is raining in Istanbul. A layer of grey cloud is clamped over the city like a saucepan lid. From the drizzle-spattered windows of our airport express bus we get bleary glimpses of the city: shabby, worn-out buildings painted beige and taupe and faded, dusky pink. Ahead is the distinctive skyline of domes and minarets, reaching into the clouds. But instead of looking magnificent, glinting in the sunlight, the domes are dull and leaden. Even the minarets are fuzzy: I count half a dozen encased in scaffolding."

More:FT.com / Weekend / Travel - Rejoicing in the rain in Istanbul

Google’s Gatekeepers

"....In March of last year, Nicole Wong, the deputy general counsel of Google, was notified that there had been a precipitous drop in activity on YouTube in Turkey, and that the press was reporting that the Turkish government was blocking access to YouTube for virtually all Turkish Internet users."

More:Google’s Gatekeepers - NYTimes.com

Turkish Oscars in March

"Turkish Oscars in March
ISTANBUL - The Yeşilçam Awards, regarded as Turkey’s Oscars, will be presented March 3. All Turkish films on the big screen this year qualify as candidates for the awards."

More:Turkish Oscars in March

First animal hospital rebuilt in Bursa

"First animal hospital rebuilt in Bursa
BURSA - The first animal hospital in Turkey, built during the Ottoman Empire, was in Bursa, on the southeastern coast of the Marmara and the first Ottoman capital. The hospital was built in the 19th century and named 'Gurabahane-i Laklakan,' which means 'helpless stork house' in old Turkish. The hospital was first established to save the storks in need and then turned into an animal hospital."

More:First animal hospital rebuilt in Bursa

Fingers pointed at fish farms after turtle deaths

"Fingers pointed at fish farms after turtle deaths
AYDIN - As the environmentalists call local administrators to take more protective measures for the Caretta carettas, Mandalya Bay is shaken with the deaths of endangered sea turtles near the fish farms in the area."

More:Fingers pointed at fish farms after turtle deaths

Generation of ’natural ambassadors’ grows

"Generation of ’natural ambassadors’ grows
The increasing number of marriages between Turks and foreigners in recent years has created a generation that could be a 'bridge' between Turkey and other countries. Children born in the early 90’s are now young boys and girls. And in Turkey’s near future, the 'mixed' generation will be in different positions, jobs, or businesses, even at the high levels of the state."

More:Generation of ’natural ambassadors’ grows

London College of Music collaborates with Turkey

"London College of Music collaborates with Turkey
İZMİT - Marmara city’s İzmit Art Center, or İSM, which opened one and a half years ago, has become an official education center for the London College of Music, affiliated with one of the world’s best universities, Thames Valley University."

More:London College of Music collaborates with Turkey

EU advises Turkey to hit European standards

"EU advises Turkey to hit European standards
ANKARA - EU calls for improvements on freedom of expression, minority rights and civilian-military relations and encourages the government to pass labor and union rights based on EU standards. Brussels also monitors the country’s human rights record involving torture and cases of ill treatment"

More:EU advises Turkey to hit European standards

Pulling wool over dyes

"Pulling wool over dyes
ISTANBUL - This weekend in Galata, Dr. Harald and Renate Bohmer are hosting a show of natural-dye carpet weaving, a practice they have steered out of extinction and into the world market, creating Turkey’s first women’s cooperatives in the process."

More:Pulling wool over dyes

Exciting!: Showtime for Turkey

"Showtime for Turkey

In relation to my previous post I want to point out an important issue playing out in the shadow of that conflict.
Turkey is trying to gain membership to the EU using among other arguments the claim that, as a member, Turkey would be in a better position to act better as a mediator between the West and the Islamic countries."

More:Exciting!: Showtime for Turkey

Conference fuses links

"Conference fuses links
ISTANBUL - This Saturday and Sunday in the bustling center of Istanbul, Koç University is organizing a conference on gender studies in Turkey: ’Inequalities, Struggles and Advances’. Conference organizers have invited 37 experts working on women’s issues to raise awareness about gender inequalities and form a closer network among them."

More:Conference fuses links

Israel to bomb Iran through Turkey?

"Israel to bomb Iran through Turkey?
Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:29:18 GMT

Israel will be resolved to use Turkish air space to attack Tehran's nuclear facilities, says a prominent US political strategist."

More:Press TV - Israel to bomb Iran through Turkey?

Erdogan asks newspapers for new reporters - UPI.com

"Erdogan asks newspapers for new reporters
Published: Nov. 28, 2008 at 2:53 PM

ANKARA, Turkey, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan asked newspapers for new reporters following the cancellation of other reporters' accreditations.

Erdogan said the previous Prime Ministry reporters were reprimanded for offering 'false reports' and called on newspapers to offer up new reporters who would avoid questionable journalistic pursuits, Bianet reported Friday."

More:Erdogan asks newspapers for new reporters - UPI.com

Virginity testing at Turkish schools - UPI.com

"Virginity testing at Turkish schools
Published: Nov. 28, 2008 at 5:06 PM
Order reprints | Feedback
ISTANBUL, Turkey, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- A lawyer and the head of an education union in Turkey have objected to virginity testing incidents at two universities in the capital, Istanbul.

Lawyer Yasemin Oz and Zubeyde Kilic, president of the Education and Science Workers Union, said virginity testing at schools unfairly victimizes female students, Bianet reported Friday."

More:Virginity testing at Turkish schools - UPI.com

Cancer survival among children of Turkish descent in Germany 1980-2005: a registry-based analysis - 7thSpace Interactive

"Cancer survival among children of Turkish descent in Germany 1980-2005: a registry-based analysis

Little is known about the effect of migrant status on childhood cancer survival. We studied cancer survival among children of Turkish descent in the German Cancer Childhood Registry, one of the largest childhood cancer registries worldwide."

More:Cancer survival among children of Turkish descent in Germany 1980-2005: a registry-based analysis - 7thSpace Interactive

China signs 19 purchase contracts with Turkey_English_Xinhua

"China signs 19 purchase contracts with Turkey

ISTANBUL, Turkey, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese and Turkish business people signed 19 contracts here Friday on the purchase of Turkish commodities worth about 230 million U.S. dollars.

Visiting China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin attended the signing ceremony after the Sino-Turkish economic and trade cooperation forum which was attended by government officials and business people from the two countries. "

More:China signs 19 purchase contracts with Turkey_English_Xinhua

Friday, November 28, 2008

What Should Baykal Not Do?

"What Should Baykal Not Do?
Published: 11/28/2008

BY AVNI OZGUREL
RADIKAL- Last week I wrote about recent moves by main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Deniz Baykal. In terms of the CHP's history since Ataturk, Baykal's moves were very important. Baykal closed the door on an elitist approach which has dominated the party since 1938, one which falsely paints the views of Ataturk's successor Ismet Inonu as Kemalism."

More:What Should Baykal Not Do?

My Turkish Library

"My Turkish Library
By Orhan Pamuk, Translated from the Turkish by Maureen Freely

At the heart of my library is my father's library. When I was seventeen or eighteen and began to devote most of my time to reading, I devoured the volumes my father kept in our sitting room as well as the ones I found in Istanbul's bookshops. These were the days when, if I read a book from my father's library and liked it, I would take it into my room and place it among my own books. My father, who was pleased to see his son reading, was also glad to see some of his books migrating to my library, and whenever he saw one of his old books on my bookshelf, he would tease me by saying, 'Aha, I see this volume has been promoted to the upper echelons!'"

More:My Turkish Library - The New York Review of Books

Refusing the hand of friendship

"Refusing the hand of friendship

By Sarah Rainsford
BBC News, Kars, northeastern Turkey

High on a hill overlooking the city of Kars, there is a vast column of concrete obscured by wooden scaffolding.

Friendship statue, Kars
The hand of friendship has yet to be proffered, let alone accepted

What is inside was meant as a 32m (100ft) peace gesture from Turkey to Armenia."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Refusing the hand of friendship

European parliamentarians urge Turkey to remove YouTube ban

"European parliamentarians urge Turkey to remove YouTube ban
A delegation from the European Parliament urged Turkish officials to make the necessary legal arrangements to enhance freedom of expression and eventually lift the ban on access to YouTube."

More:European parliamentarians urge Turkey to remove YouTube ban

Yasar Kemal's disappearing world of stories | Books | guardian.co.uk

"Yasar Kemal's disappearing world of stories
Nicholas Birch is spellbound by an afternoon with Turkey's master novelist

"I've never a met a journalist who asks fewer questions," Ayse Baban says as she brings her husband more tea. "Let the boy speak, Yasar."

The man many Turks used to assume would be the country's first Nobel prize winner, Yasar Kemal is 85 this year, negotiating his cluttered sitting room with the cautious steps of someone getting used to physical frailty. "

More:Yasar Kemal's disappearing world of stories | Books | guardian.co.uk

Istanbul has a 'glorious heritage'

"Istanbul has a 'glorious heritage'

28 November 2008 12:26
Istanbul has a 'glorious heritage'

The Turkish city of Istanbul is a cultural beacon that draws in tourists from all over the globe because of its 'glorious heritage', it has been claimed."

More:Istanbul | Turkish City | 2010 | Travel Insurance

Turkey sole OECD country without measures against crisis- TUSIAD

"Turkey sole OECD country without measures against crisis- TUSIAD
Turkish business leaders said Friday that Turkey is seen as the only country among the 30 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) member countries that has not launched required measures against the global financial crisis."

More:Turkey sole OECD country without measures against crisis- TUSIAD

Turkey: Sacred symbols

"Turkey: Sacred symbols

By Elif Aydýn

Confidently and critically debating sacred symbols in religions is a difficult task. Much more so when you’re an ardent believer and passionate defender of the faith.
Two things that have recently occurred in Turkey shed some light and fascination on how sacred symbols are being challenged, changed and channeled."

More:The Muslim News - Turkey: Sacred symbols

Turkey Power Report Q3 2008

"Turkey Power Report Q3 2008

The new Turkey Power Report from BMI forecasts that the country will account for 9.95% of CEE regional power generation by 2012, and to remain a net exporter of electricity to neighbouring states."

More:Turkey Power Report Q3 2008 « Renewable Energy Information

DALOGLU: Islamic terror?

"DALOGLU: Islamic terror?
Mr. Obama's Mideast reminder
Tulin Daloglu

OP-ED:

President-elect Barack Obama denied rumors that circulated during the campaign that he is a Muslim, and emphatically noted that he is a Christian. In endorsing Mr. Obama, former Secretary of State Colin Powell forcefully challenged his party on this issue. "

More:Washington Times - DALOGLU: Islamic terror?

EU awards EUR 450.000 to Turkish Cypriots

"EU awards EUR 450.000 to Turkish Cypriots

The European Commission has awarded grants to 11 enterprises, career counselling and training institutions in the northern part of Cyprus to promote equal opportunities for access to the labour market for all, and to adapt the skills of workers, employees and the unemployed to labour market needs."

More:Welcome to the Financial Mirror. The Business and Financial news portal. News, Video and Audio on Business, Economy, Technology, Politics. -> EU awards EUR 450.000 to Turkish Cypriots

Trend News : Immunity of Turkish Diplomacy Against Armenian Policy Weakens: Trend News Commentator

"Immunity of Turkish Diplomacy Against Armenian Policy Weakens: Trend News Commentator
28.11.08 12:44

Rufiz Hafizoglu, Editor of the Middle East desk of Trend News.

Relations between Armenia and Turkey comparatively have improved after Serzh Sargsyan’s victory in the presidential elections. Unlike previous Armenian government, which held radical and irreconcilable position toward Turkey, the current government seeks to demonstrate more moderate position."

More:Trend News : Immunity of Turkish Diplomacy Against Armenian Policy Weakens: Trend News Commentator

Sharon Anderholm Wiener, US Consul General Turkey

"Sharon Anderholm Wiener, US Consul General Turkey

Turkey is tied to global economy

Wednesday, 26 November 2008

Sharon Anderholm Wiener, US Consul General Turkey has changed dramatically while transforming itself into the 17th-largest economy in the world and attaining much more real grassroots participation in democracy, observed a senior US diplomat when asked what has changed since the 1970s."

More:Mavi Boncuk Archives: Sharon Anderholm Wiener, US Consul General Turkey

Turkish timber firm 'committed to Romanian project'

"Turkish timber firm 'committed to Romanian project'

27.11.2008
Send to a friendSend to a friend Contact us
Turkish timber processing firm Kastamonu Entegre has no plans to scale back its investment and expansion plans, it has been revealed.

Speaking to Today's Zaman, Haluk Yilidiz, stated that the firm has not been daunted by the current slowdown in the world economy."

More:KMS

Turkey as global brand

"Turkey as global brand
ISTANBUL - Today’s globalized economy penetrates all aspects of daily life, it even turns countries into advertisement objects. The Marka 2008 conference provides a platform for business circles to discuss new trends of creating brands and keeping them alive."

More:Turkey as global brand

European Union urges DTP to choose either mountains or Parliament

"European Union urges DTP to choose either mountains or Parliament

Turkey's main pro-Kurdish party, the Democratic Society Party (DTP), has been told once again to cut its links with the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) or further risk its already battered credibility in Europe."

More:European Union urges DTP to choose either mountains or Parliament

PKK kills two officers on highway

"PKK kills two officers on highway
ANKARA - Two police officers were killed and six others, including three other officers, were injured when two members of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK opened fire on a roadblock on a major highway in the southern province of Hatay."

More:PKK kills two officers on highway

AFP: Denmark's 'Night Owls' keep youth violence in check

"Denmark's 'Night Owls' keep youth violence in check

22 hours ago

COPENHAGEN (AFP) — With violence on the rise in Denmark, a group of ethnically mixed volunteers calling themselves 'Night Owls' have taken to the streets in nightly patrols to prevent juvenile delinquency by promoting dialogue."

More:AFP: Denmark's 'Night Owls' keep youth violence in check

Movement restriction questioned

"Movement restriction questioned
ANKARA - Statements made by European Union Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn suggesting permanent restrictions on the free movement of workers from Turkey have drawn reaction from the Economic Development Foundation, or İKV, an organization that represents the business world."

More:Movement restriction questioned

Terror-weary world should listen to Turks

"Terror-weary world should listen to Turks
Our most immediate thoughts must be with the victims, their families and all touched by terror as we witness the still-unfolding story of Mumbai’s slaughter. We share in the world’s mourning and condolences.From the Bosphorus: Straight"

More:Terror-weary world should listen to Turks

Turkish firms take to Belarusian projects

"Turkish firms take to Belarusian projects
BELARUS - Turkish building companies show interest in the construction market of Belarus, Erdogan Gunduzpolat, director of Turkish consulting company Consultus, said during business negotiations at the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry on November 26."

More:Turkish firms take to Belarusian projects

Rainfall feeds Ankara dams

"Rainfall feeds Ankara dams
ANKARA - Recent rainfall has increased the water levels in Ankara’s dams. Rain during September, October and November has already surpassed all the rainfall from the last five years over dam basins in Ankara."

More:Rainfall feeds Ankara dams

MİT denies direct link to Ergenekon key figure

"MİT denies direct link to Ergenekon key figure
ANKARA - An unknown link between the Turkish intelligence agency and a key witness to the Ergenekon case, who is currently in Canada, sheds new light on to the investigation."

More:MİT denies direct link to Ergenekon key figure

Turkish couple let off by terrorists for being Muslims-India-The Times of India

"Turkish couple let off by terrorists for being Muslims
28 Nov 2008, 0237 hrs IST, Clara Lewis & Anahita Mukherji, TNN

MUMBAI: When faced with a volley of gunshots, while sipping coffee at the Oberoi Hotel on Wednesday night, Ali Arpaciouglu, a Turkish citizen on
a business trip to Mumbai, chose to escape through the hotel kitchen and down a flight of stairs that opened onto the road outside."

More:Turkish couple let off by terrorists for being Muslims-India-The Times of India

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Turkish speaker apologizes for official invitation to PKK member

"Turkish speaker apologizes for official invitation to PKK member
Turkish Parliament Speaker apologized to the nation Thursday for unintentionally inviting to a reception a pro-Kurdish DTP MP’s husband, who is known to have fought as a member of the terrorist organization PKK."

More:Turkish speaker apologizes for official invitation to PKK member

A Narrative Too Far

"A Narrative Too Far
Posted by Paul Gottfried on November 26, 2008

With all due respect to Derek Turner and the authors of A Bridge Too Far, Philip Claeys and Koen Dillen, and the Vlaams Belang, the organization to which these excellent young men belong, I must dissent from their brief against Turkish entry into the European Union. The last reason I could imagine for keeping Turkey out of that cesspool of political correctness headquartered in Brussels is that the Turks are not sufficiently “democratic.”"

More:Taki’s Magazine, edited by Taki Theodoracopulos

Turkish Cypriot film goes to Boston

"Turkish Cypriot film goes to Boston

A TURKISH Cypriot produced documentary is to be shown in America"

More:Turkish Cypriot film goes to Boston - Londra gazete www.londragazete.com

Anxious Times In Turkey As Iraq, U.S. Turn New Page | AHN | November 27, 2008

"Anxious Times In Turkey As Iraq, U.S. Turn New Page

ShareThis

November 27, 2008 8:53 a.m. EST

(TML) - Turkey is putting a brave face on the new U.S.-Iraqi security pact, but is seriously worried that the U.S. withdrawal will make it much more difficult to attack the Kurdish rebels based in northern Iraq."

More:Anxious Times In Turkey As Iraq, U.S. Turn New Page | AHN | November 27, 2008

Greek Cypriots accuse Turkey of "provocation" as talks continue

"Greek Cypriots accuse Turkey of 'provocation' as talks continue
Talks to reunify the island of Cyprus must proceed despite 'provocative actions' by Turkey, Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias said on Thursday."

More:Greek Cypriots accuse Turkey of "provocation" as talks continue

FACTBOX-Turkish government working on stimulus package - Forbes.com

"FACTBOX-Turkish government working on stimulus package
11.27.08, 11:33 AM EST

ANKARA, Nov 27 (Reuters) - Turkey's government has yet to agree loan terms with the IMF but remains hopeful of reaching a deal and is finalising an economic stimulus package to shore up a weakening economy, Turkish officials said on Thursday."

More:FACTBOX-Turkish government working on stimulus package - Forbes.com

Turkey in the Middle of the Enemies

"Turkey in the Middle of the Enemies

by Jaff Sassani

The Turks moved in to the Middle East after the Arab Islamic army destroyed the Sassanid Empire. The absence of the strong Iranian army to protect the borders did open the border gates wide for millions of Turks to move in to the region."

More:OpEdNews » Turkey in the Middle of the Enemies

Siemens invests in Turkey despite crisis | Turkey Financial News

"Siemens invests in Turkey despite crisis

Posted by meb at November 27th, 2008

Europe’s largest engineering conglomerate, the German firm Siemens, is making a new investment in Turkey, signaling their faith in the Turkish market. Siemens Turkey CEO Hüseyin Gelis said yesterday that the company was investing some 100 million euros in the Gebze district of Kocaeli. “We are establishing a new factory in Gebze because we attach importance to the Turkish market,” Gelis noted."

More:Siemens invests in Turkey despite crisis | Turkey Financial News

Top political advisor: China attaches importance to co-op with Turkey

"Top political advisor: China attaches importance to co-op with Turkey
www.chinaview.cn 2008-11-28 03:08:56
Special Report: Top Political Advisor Jia Qinglin Visits 4 Asian Nations

ANKARA, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- China attaches importance to its friendship and cooperation with Turkey, said China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin here Thursday."

More:Top political advisor: China attaches importance to co-op with Turkey_English_Xinhua

Fighting Hate In Berlin’s Turkish Quarter | EuropeNews

"Fighting Hate In Berlin’s Turkish Quarter

New York Jewish Week, USA November 27 2008
By Sharon Udasin

Berlin. On a December afternoon in 2006, in a predominantly Turkish section of this rapidly changing Berlin, a 14-year-old girl was walking home from the Lisa Morgenstern High School with her Muslim classmates, as they did most days."

More:Fighting Hate In Berlin’s Turkish Quarter | EuropeNews

A Monumental Struggle to Preserve Hagia Sophia | Travel | Smithsonian Magazine

"A Monumental Struggle to Preserve Hagia Sophia
In Istanbul, secularists and fundamentalists clash over restoring the nearly 1,500 year-old structure"

More:A Monumental Struggle to Preserve Hagia Sophia | Travel | Smithsonian Magazine

Turkish president meets China's top political advisor

"Turkish president meets China's top political advisor
www.chinaview.cn 2008-11-28 03:35:47

Special Report: Top Political Advisor Jia Qinglin Visits 4 Asian Nations

ANKARA, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Abdullah Gul met here Thursday with visiting China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin, and they exchanged views on furthering bilateral relations."

More:Turkish president meets China's top political advisor_English_Xinhua

AFP: Istanbul unveils European Capital of Culture 2010 plans

"Istanbul unveils European Capital of Culture 2010 plans

44 minutes ago

ISTANBUL (AFP) — Istanbul on Thursday unveiled its plans for celebrating its nomination as European Capital of Culture 2010.

The projects, ranging from street art to music festivals, are dedicated to the ancient philosophy of Aristotle who said everything is made up of the four elements: earth, air, fire, and water."

More:AFP: Istanbul unveils European Capital of Culture 2010 plans

Three Turks holed up in Mumbai hotel-Europe-World-The Times of India

"Three Turks holed up in Mumbai hotel
27 Nov 2008, 1622 hrs IST, AFP

ANKARA: Three Turks were holed up in their rooms in one of the luxury hotels in Mumbai attacked by suspected Islamist militants, the Anatolia
news agency reported on Thursday, quoting the Turkish ambassador to India."

More:Three Turks holed up in Mumbai hotel-Europe-World-The Times of India

Armenian diaspora piles pressure on Obama over 1915 incidents

"Armenian diaspora piles pressure on Obama over 1915 incidents
The Armenian diaspora is set to pile pressure on U.S. president-elect Barack Obama to recognize the 'genocide' claims over the 1915 incidents, as Turkish officials plan counter-measures."

More:Armenian diaspora piles pressure on Obama over 1915 incidents

Ethiopia - Seyoum Mesfin holds discussion with Turkish business delegation

"Ethiopia - Seyoum Mesfin holds discussion with Turkish business delegation

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia

Number of Turkish investors showing interest to engage in business in Ethiopia is increasing from time to time, Minister of Foreign Affairs Seyoum Mesfin said."

More:EthioBlog - Ethiopia - Seyoum Mesfin holds discussion with Turkish business delegation

Axel Springer to buy stake in Turkish publisher

"Axel Springer to buy stake in Turkish publisher
Thu. November 27, 2008; Posted: 02:54 AM

FRANKFURT, Nov 27, 2008 (Reuters via COMTEX) -- DYYHF | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- Axel Springer agreed on Thursday to buy almost 10 percent of Dogan Yayin Holding to gain greater access to Turkey's newspaper market as it seeks growth outside its German home market."

More:AXELF,DYYHF UPDATE 1-Axel Springer to buy stake in Turkish publisher

Turkey-EU commission discuss political reforms, minorities

"Turkey-EU commission discuss political reforms, minorities
The French ambassador in Ankara hosted a reception on the occasion of the current visit of a group of EU MPs to the Turkish capital."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey-EU commission discuss political reforms, minorities ]

France supports Cyprus reunification

"France supports Cyprus reunification

Members of the French National Assembly have expressed firm support for the reunification of Cyprus, on the basis of international law and European principles.

They have also described the Turkish occupation in Cyprus as 'unacceptable' and stressed the need for stronger involvement of the European Union in the process to resolve the Cyprus problem."

More: Famagusta Gazette

Child-Sex Case Grips Turkey Amid Religious Young-Brides Split

"Child-Sex Case Grips Turkey Amid Religious Young-Brides Split

By Ben Holland

Nov. 27 (Bloomberg) -- Huseyin Uzmez denies having sex with a 14-year-old girl. He just defends a man’s right to marry one.

Uzmez, 76, a columnist at Turkey’s Islamist Vakit newspaper, is pleading not guilty to charges of sexually abusing a minor in a case that has gripped the country of 70 million. Since his release on bail on Oct. 28, Uzmez has publicly defended Islamic rules that permit girls to wed below the legal age of 16."

More:Bloomberg.com: Germany

Sony continues investments in Turkey :: evertiq.com

"Sony continues investments in Turkey

The Japan based company announced in a press conference in Istanbul that it would continue to invest in Turkey. The company sees possibilities in the country."

More:Sony continues investments in Turkey :: evertiq.com

'Mustafa' a hit in Turkey

"'Mustafa' a hit in Turkey
Doc mixes original footage and re-enactments

LONDON A new film about Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern-day Turkey, has become a sensation in his native country.

"Mustafa," a docu written and directed by Can Dundar, which mixes original footage with re-enactments of the leader's life, is the fastest grossing Turkish pic of the year. It has garnered almost a million admissions since its debut Oct. 29, only days before the 70th anniversary of Ataturk's death Nov. 10."

More:'Mustafa' a hit in Turkey - Entertainment News, Film News, Media - Variety

Netherlands to ease visa process for Turkish businessmen

"Netherlands to ease visa process for Turkish businessmen
Dutch State Secretary for Foreign Trade Heemskerk said trade volume between the two countries has reached 4 billion euro and they planned to triple this figure by 2016."

More:World Bulletin [ Netherlands to ease visa process for Turkish businessmen ]

Feldkamp back in Galatasaray as adviser

"Feldkamp back in Galatasaray as adviser
Galatasaray said in a statement on Wednesday that Feldkamp was appointed as the adviser to the team."

More:World Bulletin [ Feldkamp back in Galatasaray as adviser ]

Turkey Offers Its Assistance in the Negotiations for the Release of Gilad Shalit

"Turkey Offers Its Assistance in the Negotiations for the Release of Gilad Shalit
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
The European Jewish Press

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan told a delegation of the European Jewish Congress (EJC) that his country would be happy to assist with the negotiations for the release of captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. The delegation,led by EJC President Moshe Kantor, hold two days of talks in Ankara with the Turkish leaders."

More:European Jewish Congress - Turkey Offers Its Assistance in the Negotiations for the Release of Gilad Shalit

Turkey plans to supply India with oil - UPI.com

"Turkey plans to supply India with oil
Published: Nov. 26, 2008 at 6:05 PM

ANKARA, Turkey, Nov. 26 (UPI) -- Turkish officials acknowledged Wednesday they could create an energy link to India through the Mediterranean Sea and the Israeli port of Ashkelon."

More:Turkey plans to supply India with oil - UPI.com

MEP urges turkey to end YouTube ban

"MEP urges turkey to end YouTube ban

Turkey has been condemned for cyber censorship and for being the only country in the world which bans YouTube.

The Google-owned site is among 1,000 websites which have been blocked by Turkey's Telecommunications Directorate since last year under the country's law against cyber crime, which includes outlawing anything deemed to insult the memory of Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic and the country's first president."

More:The Press Association: MEP urges turkey to end YouTube ban

Reform slows down in Turkey | The worrying Tayyip Erdogan

"The worrying Tayyip Erdogan

Nov 27th 2008 | ANKARA

Turkey’s prime minister once promised big reforms to bring his country closer to the European Union. He seems no longer to be pushing them"

More:Reform slows down in Turkey | The worrying Tayyip Erdogan | The Economist

Turkey and France, one long love story

"Turkey and France, one long love story
ISTANBUL - Despite many messages of friendship between Turkey and France ahead of a new cooperative project, one Turkish official also expressed bitterness at Turkey’s seemingly endless European Union candidacy."

More:Turkey and France, one long love story

Kurdish, Armenian to be taught at university

"Kurdish, Armenian to be taught at university
The lack of any Kurdish or Armenian language departments at universities does not mean it is not allowed, says the head of higher education watchdog, adding that if such a demand came from universities, the matter would be assessed."

More:Kurdish, Armenian to be taught at university

Turkey, Norway discuss cooperation on energy

"Turkey, Norway discuss cooperation on energy
ANKARA - Cooperation on energy is on the Norwegian crown prince’s agenda for his meetings with Turkish officials in Ankara. Turkey and Norway are preparing to launch joint projects for building hydroelectric plants, investing in solar energy and oil explorations in the Black Sea"

More:Turkey, Norway discuss cooperation on energy

Google reveals search for Turkish holidays is popular - Turkey Real Estate News and Turkish Property Market Reviews

"Google reveals search for Turkish holidays is popular
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Turkey is becoming a very popular area for holiday home seekers and overseas property investments, Statistics from search engine giant Google have revealed.

Worldbulletin.net has reported that Turkey's official tourism portal is currently ranked as one of Google's most-visited websites, receiving a rating of 8 out of 10 in terms of importance and international popularity. A Turkish Tourism official explained that the website was designed to reach international markets and appeals to the various tastes and expectations of people from across the world. The website can be viewed in four languages, with English, French and German available in addition to Turkish."

More:Google reveals search for Turkish holidays is popular - Turkey Real Estate News and Turkish Property Market Reviews

Potluck throws up Turkish delight

"Potluck throws up Turkish delight

Some of the participants with Turkish envoy Mithat Rende
By Noimot Olayiwola
TURKISH culture and tradition came alive yesterday at the International Ladies’ Potluck Group’s (ILPG) get-together at the Al Jazi Clubhouse.
The event jointly hosted by the ILPG Turkish members, the Turkish embassy and the Turkish Women Association was attended by ILPG members and guests."

More:Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Qatar

The Awakening of the Turks

"The Awakening of the Turks
November 26th, 2008 By: Michael van der Galien

In the last few decades a major change has taken place in what we Westerners often call “the Muslim world”: Turkic peoples have awoken.

For years, many Turkic peoples were dominated by the Soviet Union and / or by other foreign powers. One only has to refer to countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan to see that these peoples were dominated by communists for decades. These communists tried to destroy the Turkic peoples they controlled and their culture."

More:PoliGazette » The Awakening of the Turks

Tensions Flair Between Cyprus and Turkey

"Tensions Flair Between Cyprus and Turkey
By Nathan Morley
Nicosia
26 November 2008

Greek Cyprus has accused Turkey of harassing two Panamanian-flagged vessels in international waters over the past two weeks. Nathan Morley has more for VOA from Nicosia."

More:VOA News - Tensions Flair Between Cyprus and Turkey

Turkish students visit Sanibel, discuss environmental issues

"Turkish students visit Sanibel, discuss environmental issues

By TAMMY ZINK, sancapnews@breezenewspapers.com

A group of students from the Koc International School in Istanbul, Turkey crane their necks to see the live mollusks while visiting The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum last week in Sanibel.

There was a feeling of internationalism among the mollusks and bivalves at the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum in last Thursday when 10 students and their teachers from the prestigious Koc International School in Istanbul, Turkey began their visit to Sanibel with a visit to the unique museum."

More:The Island Reporter

Turkish markets gain on IMF hopes, debt auctions | Industries | Consumer Goods & Retail | Reuters

"Turkish markets gain on IMF hopes, debt auctions

ISTANBUL, Nov 25 (Reuters) - Turkey's markets gained on Tuesday on hopes of an imminent announcement on a new loan deal with the International Monetary Fund and successful Treasury borrowing auctions."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkish markets gain on IMF hopes, debt auctions | Industries | Consumer Goods & Retail | Reuters

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

In the Global Crisis, Coke CEO Muhtar Kent Sees Headwinds -- and Tailwinds - Knowledge@Wharton

"In the Global Crisis, Coke CEO Muhtar Kent Sees Headwinds -- and Tailwinds
Published: November 26, 2008 in Knowledge@Wharton

When Muhtar Kent looks over the international giant that is the Coca-Cola Co., where he was named president and CEO in July, he sees a soft-drink empire spanning 203 countries -- more than belong to the United Nations -- and offering up an astounding 1.5 billion beverage servings daily."

More:In the Global Crisis, Coke CEO Muhtar Kent Sees Headwinds -- and Tailwinds - Knowledge@Wharton

Fighting Hate In Berlin’s Turkish Quarter

"Fighting Hate In Berlin’s Turkish Quarter

by Sharon Udasin
Staff Writer
Berlin — On a December afternoon in 2006, in a predominantly Turkish section of this rapidly changing Berlin, a 14-year-old girl was walking home from the Lisa Morgenstern High School with her Muslim classmates, as they did most days. But the friendships ended when, one day, the girl casually mentioned that she was Jewish. In the next few weeks, those classmates and others hurled anti-Semitic insults at her and even attacked her physically, delivering blows to her back and head."

More:Fighting Hate In Berlin’s Turkish Quarter

Turkey's Offer to Mediate Iran/US Conflicts

"Turkey's Offer to Mediate Iran/US Conflicts

By Hande Atay-Alam

Could Turkey help mediate longstanding U.S./Iran conflicts over Israel and Iran's nuclear ambitions? Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan wants to try -- but the Obama administration may be less likely to give him a chance because of comments Erdogan made recently in Washington."

More:SAIS Next Europe: PostGlobal on washingtonpost.com

European Parliament hails steps for Turkish-Armenian reconciliation

"European Parliament hails steps for Turkish-Armenian reconciliation

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ European Parliament’s Foreign Relations Committee member and the accompanying delegation held a news conference in Ankara after the reception hosted in their honor.

MEP Hannes Swoboda said Tuesday that they observe a halt in the reform process in Turkey. Speaking at the news conference Swoboda said they have a very clear message for Turkey: 'Please, continue the reform process'."

More:Armenian News - PanARMENIAN.Net | Armenian News Agency - European Parliament hails steps for Turkish-Armenian reconciliation

Turkish Parliament to host EU commission meeting

"Turkish Parliament to host EU commission meeting
Co-presidents Yasar Yakis and Joost Lagendijk will make opening remarks of the meeting."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkish Parliament to host EU commission meeting ]

Turkey’s Gendarmerie: Reforming a Frontline Unit in the War on Terrorism - The Jamestown Foundation

"Turkey’s Gendarmerie: Reforming a Frontline Unit in the War on Terrorism
By: Andrew McGregor

Turkey’s paramilitary Gendarmerie, a frontline unit in the War on Terrorism, is about to undergo some of the greatest changes yet in its long history. The reforms call for a radical restructuring of the organization, designed to generate greater efficiency in counterterrorism efforts as well as assist Turkey in its efforts to join the European Union."

More:Turkey’s Gendarmerie: Reforming a Frontline Unit in the War on Terrorism - The Jamestown Foundation

Trade dispute erodes Turkish interest to join EU

"Trade dispute erodes Turkish interest to join EU

November 26th, 2008 @ 9:17am

By SELCAN HACAOGLU
Associated Press Writer

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - A trade dispute is eroding Turkey's already fading interest to join the European Union, as the debate over EU restrictions on exports of a little-known mineral takes on unexpected political significance."

More:Trade dispute erodes Turkish interest to join EU

Hella Acquires An Interest In The Turkish Trading Company Intermobil

"Hella Acquires An Interest In The Turkish Trading Company Intermobil
PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)

LIPPSTADT/ISTANBUL, November 26, 2008: On January 1, 2009, the automotive supplier Hella KGaA Hueck & Co., Lippstadt, will take over 49 percent of the shares in the Turkish vehicle-parts trading company Intermobil, which is based in Istanbul. As the company announced on the occasion of the signing of the contract on November 25, 2008 in Lippstadt, the cooperation is a strategic investment in the important Turkish market for service parts and accessories for passenger cars and commercial vehicles."

More:Hella Acquires An Interest In The Turkish Trading Company Intermobil

Turkey wants to utilize Norway's hydro technology

"Turkey wants to utilize Norway's hydro technology
Turkey's Premier Tayyip Erdogan said there was great potential for cooperation in the field of energy between Turkey and Norway."

More:Turkey wants to utilize Norway's hydro technology

Armenia Near to Refuse Condition of Turkey’s Recognition of Armenian “genocide”

"Armenia Near to Refuse Condition of Turkey’s Recognition of Armenian “genocide”
26.11.08 11:18

Azerbaijan, Baku, 25 November /corr. Trend News E.Tariverdiyeva / The improvement in the diplomatic relations between Ankara and Yerevan can bring unexpected results. It seems Armenia is prepared to soon refuse the condition of Turkey’s recognition of Armenian “genocide” in order to save its brittle economy. “The relations between Armenia and Turkey will inevitably improve also without Turkey’s recognition of the Armenian “genocide”, because the 1915 genocide is descriptive, but the hunger, which can be in Armenia, is completely real,” said the Russian expert on Caucasus, Vladimir Zharikhin."

More:Trend News : Armenia Near to Refuse Condition of Turkey’s Recognition of Armenian “genocide”

Talks dissolve into row

"Talks dissolve into row
By Jean Christou

CYPRUS talks began yesterday with a fierce 20-minute row after Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat unexpectedly read out a statement criticising President Demetris Christofias` trip to Russia.

According to sources close to the talks, it was a long letter and angered Christofias to the point where the two leaders engaged in a shouting match for between 20 minutes and half an hour before eventually getting down to business.

The Turkish Cypriot side has been complaining about the Moscow trip since Christofias visited Russia a week ago."

More: Cyprus-mail

Turkish delegation strengthens ties between India and Turkey

"Turkish delegation strengthens ties between India and Turkey
Invites interested parties to invest in Turkey
Wednesday, November 26, 2008, 16:00 Hrs [IST]
By P Krishna Kumar | New Delhi

The Turkish delegation that visited India last week, felt that the business community in both the countries have yet to explore the opportunities in different sectors in each other’s country more positively. The delegation also said that a few hotel groups has shown an interest to invest in Turkey, especially in boutique hotels. This opinion was put forth by Cefi J Kamhi, Chairman, Turkish-Indian Business Council, and Turkish Tourism Investors Association, who led the delegation to India to forge economic ties. The delegation had Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, make the first ever visit to India by a Turkish Prime Minister."

More:Hospitality Biz India :: Turkish delegation strengthens ties between India and Turkey

Ode to Istanbul

"Ode to Istanbul

Tue, Nov 25, 2008

Best of the Viator Blog, Europe, Suggested Itineraries

I have a crystal-clear memory of my very first morning in Istanbul. It was 1996. I was on assignment for Lonely Planet and Fodor’s to update their respective guidebooks to Turkey. My flight arrived late, 10pm or something."

More:Ode to Istanbul | Viator Travel Blog

Fading street melodies of future culture capital

"Fading street melodies of future culture capital
ISTANBUL - Istanbul’s most crowded streets, Taksim’s İstiklal, considered as the heart of culture life, hosts heaps of street musicians everyday. Although they make their livelihoods by singing and playing in the streets, they face difficulties from police and they are sometimes stopped."

More:Fading street melodies of future culture capital

Shopping mall investors form an association

"Shopping mall investors form an association
ISTANBUL - Shopping center investors launched an association yesterday to better represent and promote the interests of the industry.

Shopping mall investors form an association The Shopping Centers Investors Association, or AYD, currently has 15 founding members but more are expected to join in the future. There are currently more than 200 shopping centers in Turkey, which account for a total investment of nearly $30 billion."

More:Shopping mall investors form an association

Dam levels are rising

"Dam levels are rising
MUĞLA - The State Waterworks Authority, or DSI, has reported the water levels in dams and ponds that provide water for Muğla and its counties are higher than this time last year.

According to the information from the Anatolian News Agency, the Geyik dam, which provides water for Muğla, is currently 34 percent full, compared to only 17 percent during last November."

More:Dam levels are rising

Turkey and Armenia in tentative talks

"Turkey and Armenia in tentative talks

By Delphine Strauss in Ankara

Published: November 25 2008 03:14 | Last updated: November 25 2008 03:14

Turkey and Armenia’s foreign ministers met on Monday in Istanbul under growing pressure to resolve one of the most intractable disputes in the fraught politics of the Caucasus."

More:FT.com / Europe - Turkey and Armenia in tentative talks

’Turkey should avoid the Mideast initiative’

"’Turkey should avoid the Mideast initiative’
ISTANBUL - It would be to the benefit of Turkey not to participate in the United States’ plan for a Greater Middle East initiative, former CIA official Graham Fuller told BBC Turkish in an interview broadcasted yesterday."

More:’Turkey should avoid the Mideast initiative’

Turkey fights against int'l powers in struggle with terrorism-minister

"Turkey fights against int'l powers in struggle with terrorism-minister
Turkey's struggle with terror is not only a battle against a couple of terrorists in the mountains, but with the international powers behind them, Deputy Prime Minister Cemil Cicek said on Saturday."

More:Turkey fights against int'l powers in struggle with terrorism-minister

The return of the historic Turkish art

"The return of the historic Turkish art
BURSA - An exhibition featuring Turkish handicrafts forgotten by developments in technology has opened at the Bursa City Museum (Kent Müzesi)."

More:The return of the historic Turkish art

Fashion bridges the Netherlands, Turkey

"Fashion bridges the Netherlands, Turkey
ISTANBUL - Fashion designs from the Netherlands and Turkey came together on Nov. 24 on the catwalk at a fashion show organized by Axcess International and the Consulate-General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Istanbul."

More:Fashion bridges the Netherlands, Turkey

Euro MP notes concern

"Euro MP notes concern
ANKARA - The head of the Turkish-European Union Joint Parliamentary Committee, Joost Lagendijk, has met with opposition leaders in Parliament and notes the commision’s concern over the closure case filed against the pro-Kurdish DTP. MHP leader Devlet Bahçeli complains to Lagendijk the EU never speaks of the positive steps taken by Turkey"

More:Euro MP notes concern

Ban on YouTube proves virtual

"Ban on YouTube proves virtual
MUĞLA - Despite being banned, the video-sharing site YouTube remains as one of the most popular Web sites in Turkey, with many, including the prime minister, finding ways to get around the ban imposed by courts."

More:Ban on YouTube proves virtual

Code of manners coming to Turkey

"Code of manners coming to Turkey
ANKARA - Turkish buses will no longer stink of lahmucun and salesmen will no longer knock on doors at all hours if Parliament approves the new Turkish Trade Code. Not as glamorous as reforms on freedom of speech, human rights or democracy, but updates to the articles of law are just as fundamental to the country’s bid to eventually become an EU member"

More:Code of manners coming to Turkey

Analysis: PKK's oil attack requires new Turkish strategy - UPI.com

"Analysis: PKK's oil attack requires new Turkish strategy

The Kurdish separatist group PKK has claimed responsibility for bombing the Turkish side of the oil pipeline linking Iraq's northern oil fields to the Ceyhan, Turkey, export hub. It's not the first time the PKK has targeted Turkey's energy sector, but it is the first time the group has set ablaze Iraq's oil."

More:Analysis: PKK's oil attack requires new Turkish strategy - UPI.com

Turkey eyes energy cooperation with Norway

"Turkey eyes energy cooperation with Norway
www.chinaview.cn 2008-11-26 04:59:21

ANKARA, Nov. 25 (Xinhua) -- Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan Tuesday voiced the country's keenness to cooperate with Norway in the field of energy, saying there is great potential for energy cooperation between the two countries."

More:Turkey eyes energy cooperation with Norway_English_Xinhua

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Signs of thaw in Turkey-Armenia ties - The National Newspaper

"Signs of thaw in Turkey-Armenia ties

Thomas Seibert, Foreign Correspondent

ISTANBUL // Divided by a painful past and a long-running conflict in the Caucasus, Turkey and its neighbour Armenia, pushed by a unique combination of internal and external factors, may be on the verge of a historic rapprochement as high-level contacts between the two countries gather steam, analysts say."

More:Signs of thaw in Turkey-Armenia ties - The National Newspaper

'My Name Is Earl's' Jason Lee Reveals Secret Marriage - The NBC sitcom star has been wed since July

"My Name Is Earl's" Jason Lee Reveals Secret Marriage
The NBC sitcom star has been wed since July

Jason Lee can teach Heidi Montag a thing or two about keeping a wedding secret.

The "My Name Is Earl" star recently revealed that he has been married to his girlfriend Ceren Alkac for a while now without the press knowing, report celebrity news sites."

More:'My Name Is Earl's' Jason Lee Reveals Secret Marriage - The NBC sitcom star has been wed since July - Zap2it

Turkey to hear jail torture case

"Turkey to hear jail torture case
By Sarah Rainsford
BBC News, Istanbul

A court in Turkey has agreed to hear a case against 60 police and prison officials accused of the ill treatment and torture of people last month."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkey to hear jail torture case

YouTube censored yet again by another court order blocking access

"YouTube censored yet again by another court order blocking access

Reporters Without Borders condemns the obstinacy of the Turkish authorities in continuing to censor the Google-owned video-sharing website YouTube. On 20 November, the Telecommunications Council endorsed the fourth court order blocking access to the site, this one issued on 30 October by a magistrate’s court in Cubuk, in Ankara province."

More:Reporters sans frontières - Turkey

Turkish Central Bank Surprises Everyone with Interest Rate Decision - Seeking Alpha

"Turkish Central Bank Surprises Everyone with Interest Rate Decision
by: Suna Reyent November 25, 2008 | about stocks: TUR

Central Banks around the world have been aggressively cutting rates in order to deal with the liquidity crisis. They are likely to engage in more cuts given some deflationary signs."

More:Turkish Central Bank Surprises Everyone with Interest Rate Decision - Seeking Alpha

Armenian Foreign Min Says Wants Ties With Turkey - EasyBourse actualité

"Armenian Foreign Min Says Wants Ties With Turkey
Tuesday November 25th, 2008 / 16h25
YEREVAN, Armenia (AFP)--Resolving the dispute between Armenia and Turkey is in the interest of both countries, Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian said Tuesday following a rare meeting with his Turkish counterpart."

More:Armenian Foreign Min Says Wants Ties With Turkey - EasyBourse actualité

Qatar meetings important steps to end Turkish Cyprus isolation: Avci

"Qatar meetings important steps to end Turkish Cyprus isolation: Avci
Qatari Minister of Business and Commerce Al Thani said that opening a TRNC representation in Doha would help improve bilateral relations."

More:World Bulletin [ Qatar meetings important steps to end Turkish Cyprus isolation: Avci ]

Reporters on the Job

"Reporters on the Job

Holy Mayors, Batman! Batman (Turkey) mayor Huseyin Kalkan loves to talk to reporters, but his staff – probably aware of his reputation for saying outlandish things – apparently is trying to keep him away from the press. When correspondent Yigal Schleifer called in the morning to ask for an interview, the mayor's assistant said he would not be available that day. 'A few hours later, I saw an official-looking car by the side of a muddy construction site that was being inspected by men in suits. It turned out one was the mayor. I quickly ran over and introduced myself. I could see one of his staff wince, foiled by my serendipitous encounter.'"

More:Reporters on the Job | csmonitor.com

Turkish party leader in Bulgaria threatened with death, former aide says - News news

"Turkish party leader in Bulgaria threatened with death, former aide says
15:10 Tue 25 Nov 2008 - Nick Iliev

The leader of Bulgaria's ethnic Turk party, the Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF), Ahmed Dogan, has been the target of attempted assassination on several occasions in the past and his life is under threat more than ever, with the impending danger of a current contract on his head, a former top aide to Dogan, Mohamed Redjep, told private broadcaster bTV on November 25."

More:Turkish party leader in Bulgaria threatened with death, former aide says - News news

Turkish ship hijacked off Yemen close to deal with pirates

"Turkish ship hijacked off Yemen close to deal with pirates
A Turkish shipping company owner, whose vessel was hijacked by pirates for ransom off Yemen, is close to a deal, company's lawyer said on Tuesday."

More:Turkish ship hijacked off Yemen close to deal with pirates

Turkish women's shelter, Mor Cati, calls for government support

"Turkish women's shelter, Mor Cati, calls for government support
Istanbul-based Mor Cati, the first organization in Turkey established to fight violence against women, called on the government and related institutions to take responsibility and allocate the necessary resources, on Tuesday."

More:Turkish women's shelter, Mor Cati, calls for government support

3 kidnapped Turks in Afghanistan released -formin | Reuters

"3 kidnapped Turks in Afghanistan released -formin
Tue Nov 25, 2008 4:43pm IST

ANKARA, Nov 25 (Reuters) - Three Turkish citizens kidnapped in Afghanistan last month have been released and are due to return to Turkey this week, the Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday."

More:3 kidnapped Turks in Afghanistan released -formin | Reuters

Narrator: President-elect Obama, Is Turkey western and European?

"President-elect Obama, Is Turkey western and European?

Dear President-elect Obama,

Obamania in Turkey will help you change America's image, but I fear it will be insufficient to change Turkey's behavior. After spending three months in Turkey, I have some suggestions for your Turkey policy. Today, Turkey faces tough choices between Iran and the West and between European Union membership and the abysmal alternative. As a liberal, you are no doubt committed to Turkey's western and European inclinations. You can help prod the Turks in the right direction by confirming these identities. Washington has repeatedly said that it considers Turkey a western and European country, but it has not treated Turkey as one. Washington has not given Turkey western-level assistance against terrorism, nor has it assessed Turkey's domestic environment by European benchmarks.
"

More:Narrator: President-elect Obama, Is Turkey western and European?

EU-Digest - Largest ever Dutch Trade delegation visits Turkey - The Netherlands one of Turkey's most important investors


Largest ever Dutch Trade delegation visits Turkey - The Netherlands one of Turkey's most important investors

The Largest ever Dutch trade delegation is in Turkey this week - A truly Dutch economic invasion of Turkey. The delegation includes a total of 134 company representatives ranging from Personnel Management to Environmental Companies, and every other category in between. One newspaper reported that even some buses in Turkey are carrying banners with the slogan "Holland Pioneers in International Business".

The Dutch delegation is headed by his Excellency Frank Heemskerk, the Dutch State Secretary of Economic Affairs. Turkish PM his Excellency Recep Erdogan was so impressed by the size of the delegation that he changed his agenda to be able to receive the delegation later this week in Ankara.Yesterday the Dutch delegation cruised the Bosphorus.

The Netherlands is one of the most important investors in Turkey. Last year Dutch investments in Turkey amounted to approximately euro 8.45 billion (US$11b. Turkey is also the 4th most important non-EU member trading partner of the Netherlands after Russia, Switzerland and the US.

The Turkish-Dutch who are citizens of the Netherlands of Turkish ancestry numbered 357,900 people in 2006, according to the Dutch Census Bureau. They make up 2.2% of the total population. The majority of Dutch Turks live in the four major cities of the Netherlands (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague and Utrecht). The first Turks arrived in the 1960s and 1970s as workers to fill up the labor shortage during that time in the Netherlands, as well as in other Western European countries. The majority of Dutch Turks adhere to Sunni Islam, although there is also a considerable Alevi fragment. A number of Turkish-Dutch writers have come to prominence. Halil Gür was one of the earliest, writing short stories about Turkish immigrants. Sadik Yemni is well known for his Turkish-Dutch detective stories. Sevtap Baycili is a more intellectual novelist, who's writing is not limited to migrant themes. Nebahat Albayrak (born April 10, 1968 in Şarkışla) is a Turkish-Dutch politician in the Netherlands. She is the current State Secretary of Justice in the Netherlands.

Turkey, Armenia eager to totally normalize bilateral relations- FM

"Turkey, Armenia eager to totally normalize bilateral relations- FM
Turkey and Armenia aim to totally normalize bilateral relations, Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan told reporters Monday following his meeting with his Armenian counterpart Eduard Nalbandian."

More:Turkey, Armenia eager to totally normalize bilateral relations- FM

Turkey wins 2012 Olympiad bid; final round predictions

"Turkey wins 2012 Olympiad bid; final round predictions
Posted by Webmaster at Monday, 24th November 2008, 19:07 CET

Chess Olympiad Dresden 2008The votes have been tallied and Turkey won the 2012 bid to host the Chess Olympiad. The final count was 95 for Istanbul (Turkey), 40 for Budva (Montenegro), and 1 no vote."

More:OlimpBase :: the encyclopaedia of team chess

Istanbul Hosts International Turkey-Africa Congress

"Istanbul Hosts International Turkey-Africa Congress
ISTANBUL, Nov 25 Asia Pulse - The 4th International Turkey-Africa Congress will begin in Istanbul today.

High-level officials from 12 local organizations in Africa will be in attendance at the three-day congress hosted by Turkish-Asian Center for Strategic Studies (TASAM) at Istanbul's Cevahir Congress Center."

More:Istanbul Hosts International Turkey-Africa Congress

Memo From Istanbul - Reform Stalls, and Liberals Can No Longer Hold Their Fire - NYTimes.com

"Reform Stalls, and Liberals Can No Longer Hold Their Fire

By SABRINA TAVERNISE
Published: November 24, 2008

ISTANBUL — When Recep Tayyip Erdogan was first elected prime minister of Turkey six years ago, his policy moves were brave and new, and this country’s liberals quickly lent him their support. He started accession talks with the European Union, stopped aggressive rhetoric on age-old disputes like the island of Cyprus, and told Turkey’s oppressed Kurdish minority, in a groundbreaking speech, that it existed. "

More:Memo From Istanbul - Reform Stalls, and Liberals Can No Longer Hold Their Fire - NYTimes.com

‘Ottoman Republic’ a glimpse of what might have been

"‘Ottoman Republic’ a glimpse of what might have been
The recently released comedy film “Osmanlı Cumhuriyeti” (Ottoman Republic), recently released, seems to spark new debates as it tries to imagine a Turkey without Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, with the assumption that the republic’s founding father died while chasing crows."

More:‘Ottoman Republic’ a glimpse of what might have been

Report reveals horrors of violence against Turkish women

"Report reveals horrors of violence against Turkish women
As part of its activities to mark today’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the Konya-based Compassion Association (Şefkat-Der) has prepared a report titled “Excuses for Domestic Violence in Turkey and Recommendations from Women Victims on How to Avoid Violence.”"

More:Report reveals horrors of violence against Turkish women

Copying homework from Internet to end

"Copying homework from Internet to end
ANKARA - The Education Ministry will take legal action to shut down Web sites that are providing 'ready homework' to students."

More:Copying homework from Internet to end

Marmaris’ expats raise voice for local elections

"Marmaris’ expats raise voice for local elections
MARMARIS - They may not be eligible for voting but expats in the South of Turkey are taking a stand for the forthcoming local elections. Expats want their voices to be heard and their needs to be adressed by the local administrators."

More:Marmaris’ expats raise voice for local elections

’Turks fought in Georgia-Russia war’

"’Turks fought in Georgia-Russia war’
ST PETERSBURG - Russia has evidence that citizens from NATO member states, including the United States and Turkey, fought for Georgia in the five-day August war, Russia's top investigator said yesterday."

More:’Turks fought in Georgia-Russia war’

Women shelter left without funds

"Women shelter left without funds
ISTANBUL - A women’s shelter forming an example on protection of women exposed to violence and offering them a chance to start a new life has been left 'unfunded,' daily Radikal reported."

More:Women shelter left without funds

EU urges more reform, warns on election talk

"EU urges more reform, warns on election talk
ANKARA - Two European Union delegations from Brussels come to Ankara with severe warnings to the government to return to the European Union reform agenda, while Ankara is caught up in domestic issues dominated by pre-election debates. The Kurdish issue and the tension in southeastern Anatolia is debated as well, along with the reform agendav"

More:EU urges more reform, warns on election talk

Scribes to help prevent forced marriages of girls

"Scribes to help prevent forced marriages of girls
ISTANBUL - Forced underage marriage has many physical and psychological effects on young people. The developing bodies of young girls cannot cope with the strains and pressures married life imposes on them and therefore they have problems when giving birth and carrying out normal daily routines, says renowned psychologist Feride Yıldırım"

More:Scribes to help prevent forced marriages of girls

Cyprus accuses Turkey of interfering its oil exploration

"Cyprus accuses Turkey of interfering its oil exploration
www.chinaview.cn 2008-11-25 05:45:29

NICOSIA, Nov. 24 (Xinhua) -- Cyprus accused Monday its arch rival Turkey of 'violating international law' by forcibly turning back oil exploration vessels commissioned by the Cypriot government in the Mediterranean sea."

More:Cyprus accuses Turkey of interfering its oil exploration_English_Xinhua

Armenia Urges Turkey to Reopen Border

"Armenia Urges Turkey to Reopen Border
By Dorian Jones
Istanbul
24 November 2008

Efforts to normalize relations between Turkey and Armenia have taken another step forward with a visit to Istanbul by Armenia's foreign minister. The purpose of the visit is the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Committee, but the minister's trip also provided him an opportunity to meet with his Turkish counterpart. The two countries have no diplomatic relations, but in the past month there have been growing bilateral efforts to normalize ties. Dorian Jones reports from Istanbul."

More:VOA News - Armenia Urges Turkey to Reopen Border

Turkey Pushes For Closer Political Ties Within The Turkic-Speaking World - Eurasia Daily Monitor

"TURKEY PUSHES FOR CLOSER POLITICAL TIES WITHIN THE TURKIC-SPEAKING WORLD

By Saban Kardas

Monday, November 24, 2008

The speakers and delegates of the parliaments of the Turkish-speaking countries—Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Turkey—met in Istanbul on November 20 and 21 for a Conference of Turkic-Speaking Countries’ Parliamentary Speakers. Turkish Speaker of Parliament Koksal Toptan, Azerbaijani Speaker of Parliament Oktay Seidov, Kyrgyz Speaker of Parliament Aytibay Tagayev, and Vice-president of the Kazakh Senate Mukhammet Kopeyev signed a declaration for the establishment of a Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-Speaking Countries (TURKPA) (Anadolu Ajansi, November 21). The body is open to admitting other countries in the future."

More:Turkey Pushes For Closer Political Ties Within The Turkic-Speaking World - Eurasia Daily Monitor

Monday, November 24, 2008

FTN - Istanbul Welcomes 2nd Skal International Club

"Istanbul Welcomes 2nd Skal International Club PDF Print E-mail
Published by Ozgur Tore
Monday, 24 November 2008
Second Skål Club in Istanbul is founded under the name of ‘Skål International Marmara’. Skål International is an International Association of Travel and Tourism Professionals founded in 1954."

More:FTN - Istanbul Welcomes 2nd Skal International Club

The Turkish Question | EuropeNews

"The Turkish Question

Brussels Journal, Belgium November 24 2008
By Paul Belien

Geographically Turkey is not a European state, apart from the tiny northwestern edge of the country. Last October, however, Turkey was elected for a two-year term in the United Nations security council by winning one of the two non-permanent seats set aside for European countries."

More:The Turkish Question | EuropeNews

Batman vs. Batman

"Batman vs. Batman
The small-town mayor of Batman, Turkey, is threatening to sue filmmaker Warner Bros. for using his locale's name without permission.
By Yigal Schleifer | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor

Batman, Turkey - The comic-book superhero Batman may have finally found his match – and he happens to be a plain-spoken mayor from southeast Turkey."

More:Batman vs. Batman | csmonitor.com

Armenian foreign minister speaks at BSEC meeting in Istanbul

"Armenian foreign minister speaks at BSEC meeting in Istanbul
Here are some remarks from the speech of Armenian Foreign Minister Eduard Nalbandian at the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC) meeting in Istanbul."

More:Armenian foreign minister speaks at BSEC meeting in Istanbul

The Turkey Of 2025 Might Surprise Everybody

"The Turkey Of 2025 Might Surprise Everybody
Published: 11/24/2008

BY SEMIH IDIZ
MILLIYET- How Turkey will change over the next 20 years has started to attract intense world interest. Obviously, this springs from our geostrategic position and the potential for change with important regional impact. In short, people are inevitably looking towards us, because our economy is growing rapidly, we are developing socially develop numerous challenges, and we have a great dynamism at our disposal. Along these lines, the recent US National Intelligence Council's (NIC) report Global Trends 2025: A Transformed World also covers Turkey. Of course, no one knows for certain what will happen in future years and decades. We can only make educated guesses about the future in light of current trends. In his preface to the report, NIC Chairman Thomas Fingar stressed this point, saying that they weren't doing fortune telling."

More:The Turkey Of 2025 Might Surprise Everybody

Netherlands could be sales base for Turkish firms: Dutch minister

"Netherlands could be sales base for Turkish firms: Dutch minister
Dutch State Secretary for Foreign Trade said that a total of 525 Dutch companies invested 11 billion USD in Turkey only in 2006-2007 term."

More:World Bulletin [ Netherlands could be sales base for Turkish firms: Dutch minister ]

Turkey's Antalya to host 390 firms in int'l fair

"Turkey's Antalya to host 390 firms in int'l fair
Nearly 50,000 people are expected to visit the fair.
Monday, 24 November 2008 15:08

The 8th International Horticulture, Agriculture, Floriculture & Technologies Fair -Growtech Eurasia 2008- will take place in the southern province of Antalya between November 27 and 30."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey's Antalya to host 390 firms in int'l fair ]

IMF reportedly offers Turkey $19 billion credit - MarketWatch

"IMF reportedly offers Turkey $19 billion credit
By Michael Kitchen

NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- The International Monetary Fund has offered Turkey $19 billion in credit despite the government's push for a larger loan, Agence France-Presse reported Monday, citing the Zaman newspaper. Turkish officials declined to reveal how much the Turkish government was seeking, but the Zaman report said it had been aiming at a loan of between $20 billion and $40 billion to weather the global financial crisis, according to AFP."

More:IMF reportedly offers Turkey $19 billion credit - MarketWatch

EU warns Turkey DTP to make certain distinction from PKK

"EU warns Turkey DTP to make certain distinction from PKK
24.11.08 16:49

Hannes Swoboda, vice-chairman of the European Parliament Committee on Foreign Affairs, has said that they always warned representatives of the Democratic Society Party (DTP) that they should make a certain distinction between the Kurdish issue and terrorism, do something tangible for their own people and keep their distance with Abdullah Ocalan, head of the PKK."

More:Trend News : EU warns Turkey DTP to make certain distinction from PKK

Turkish lira up 4.5 pct on global market rebound - Forbes.com

"Turkish lira up 4.5 pct on global market rebound
11.24.08, 07:17 AM EST

ISTANBUL, Nov 24 (Reuters) - Turkey's lira firmed to 1.5960 against the dollar on Monday, more than 4.5 percent stronger than the currency's close on Friday, after foreign equity markets firmed from last week's lows."

More:Turkish lira up 4.5 pct on global market rebound - Forbes.com

Turkey to discuss Ceyhan-Red Sea oil pipeline with India, Israel

"Turkey to discuss Ceyhan-Red Sea oil pipeline with India, Israel
Energy minister Guler added that Indian oil company had been cooperating with the Turkish Petroleum Corporation in Libya."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey to discuss Ceyhan-Red Sea oil pipeline with India, Israel ]

Polls reveal no cause for celebration on Teacher's Day in Turkey

"Polls reveal no cause for celebration on Teacher's Day in Turkey
Teachers in Turkey make their living under very difficult circumstances, according to a poll published in Hurriyet daily on Monday, which marks Teacher's Day in the country."

More:Polls reveal no cause for celebration on Teacher's Day in Turkey

Turkish exporters see increase in orders from Europe

"Turkish exporters see increase in orders from Europe
www.chinaview.cn 2008-11-24 18:27:01
ANKARA, Nov. 24 (Xinhua) -- As European importers decided to give up large stocks and order goods in smaller quantities amid the global financial crisis, they are increasingly turning to Turkish exporters, local newspaper Turkish Daily News reported on Monday."

More:Turkish exporters see increase in orders from Europe _English_Xinhua

Journey into Nowhere

"'Chador' by Murathan Mungan
Journey into Nowhere

Murathan Mungan is almost as well-known and popular in Turkey as Orhan Pamuk. This is all the more noteworthy because Mungan is open about his homosexuality. His latest novel, Chador, is a bleak odyssey through a country ruled by religious fanatics. Volker Kaminski read the book"

More:Qantara.de - Journey into Nowhere

Nestle Plans to Invest More in Turkey

"Nestle Plans to Invest More in Turkey
: SWISS ECONMY MINISTER

ISTANBUL, Nov 24 Asia Pulse - Swiss Economy Minister Doris Leuthard, said Nestle planned to invest more in Turkey and Novartis might make investments in clinical researches.

Delivering a speech in 4th Turkey-Switzerland Economy Forum held in Istanbul, Leuthard signalled a boost in economic relations between the two countries."

More:Nestle Plans to Invest More in Turkey

Some interesting facts about Turkey (2)

"Some interesting facts about Turkey (2)
Problems With the E.U.

The nonexistence of Turkey is becoming an increasing problem in Europe, as several mysterious letters from some imaginary construct calling itself the Turkish Foreign Ministry have been showing up in Brussels. When Turkey won Eurovision the people of Turkey rejoiced thinking they had won EU assession, not so embarrassingly. Sertab the singer at Eurovision thought that she had been chosen as the Queen of Europe."

More:Internation Musing: Istanbul, Athens, Amsterdam, Patra, Utrecht, Thessaloniki and Cary, NC - USA: Some interesting facts about Turkey (2)

Turkish oil pipeline repaired after 3-day fire

"Turkish oil pipeline repaired after 3-day fire

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkey's state-run news agency says an oil pipeline has been repaired after a three-day fire and has resumed carrying oil from Iraq to the Mediterranean."

More:The Associated Press: Turkish oil pipeline repaired after 3-day fire

What do midwives in one region in Turkey know about cold chain?

"What do midwives in one region in Turkey know about cold chain?
Author: Efe E | Oncel S | Ozer ZC

Source: Midwifery. 2008 Sep;24(3):328-34.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: to discover what midwives in one region in Turkey know about cold-chain equipment. DESIGN: a descriptive interview study. SETTING: primary health-care units in Antalya, Turkey. PARTICIPANTS: 340 midwives working in 35 primary health-care units between March and April 2005. FINDINGS: all participants were women and their mean age was 34 years (standard deviation [SD]=5.24). Eighty (23.5%) of the midwives had worked for 10 years or less, 109 (32.1%) for 11-15 years, and 151 (44.4%) for 16 years or more."

More:One Source Record

Operation bringing back Jasmine

"Operation bringing back Jasmine

An Izmir native wrote a letter to the Prime Minister, stating; 'My granddaughter has been detained in England,' following which, Jasmine was brought back to Turkey as a result of intensive diplomatic efforts."

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - National - Operation bringing back Jasmine

Trend News : Armenian Foreign Minister Arrives in Turkey

"Armenian Foreign Minister Arrives in Turkey
24.11.08 12:53

The Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandyan arrived in Ataturk airport of Istanbul at 04:00a.m. Turkish time, Cihan reported.

Nalbandyan, who arrived in Istanbul to attend meeting of foreign ministers of member states of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC), is expected to meet with Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan today."

More:Trend News : Armenian Foreign Minister Arrives in Turkey

BRIEF-Istanbul share trade delayed for technical reason - Forbes.com

"BRIEF-Istanbul share trade delayed for technical reason
11.24.08, 02:56 AM EST
pic

ISTANBUL, Nov 24 (Reuters) - Istanbul Stock Exchange:

* Says beginning of first session trade to be delayed due to a technical reason."

More:BRIEF-Istanbul share trade delayed for technical reason - Forbes.com

How Istanbul is threatened by cataclysm

"How Istanbul is threatened by cataclysm
Bound by an outdated international convention, Turkey is forced to allow dangerous traffic on the Bosphorus, says Claire Berlinski
By Claire Berlinski
FIRST POSTED NOVEMBER 24, 2008

In the fog, the minarets of Istanbul's Ottoman skyline fade into the sky. The streets turn wet and slippery and the Bosphorus smells of fish and charcoal. It also smells of oil from the tankers. These massive ships are constantly passing to and fro under the city's huge concrete bridges and emphasise this famous waterway's critical geostrategic significance. For those who live in this mega-city, some of these vessels also constitute the ultimate nightmare - an accident involving a ship carrying liquid petroleum gas. Under the right conditions, it could explode like an atomic bomb, destroying the 3,000-year-old city and every living thing within a 50km radius."

More:How Istanbul is threatened by cataclysm | Features | The First Post

Turkey still in talks with IMF on loan volume-sources

"Turkey still in talks with IMF on loan volume-sources

* Reuters, Monday November 24 2008

By Hatice Aydogdu
ISTANBUL, Nov 24 (Reuters) - Turkey is still talking with the International Monetary Fund on a new loan accord and no agreement has been reached on the volume of the credit, government sources told Reuters on Monday."

More:Business Feed Article | Business | guardian.co.uk

Turkish exporters enjoy increase in orders from Europe

"Turkish exporters enjoy increase in orders from Europe
As European importers feel the effects of the global financial crisis, they have decided to give up large stocks and order goods in smaller quantities. To do this, they are increasingly turning to Turkish exporters."

More:Turkish exporters enjoy increase in orders from Europe

Kınıklıoğlu in running for EU chief negotiator post

"Kınıklıoğlu in running for EU chief negotiator post
Justice and Development Party (AK Party) deputy Suat Kınıklıoğlu has emerged as a top candidate for the role of Turkey's new chief negotiator in accession talks with the European Union, an appointment expected to bring new momentum to the country's stalled membership process."

More:Kınıklıoğlu in running for EU chief negotiator post

TRT in Greek

"TRT in Greek
It was long overdue. The launching of the TRT’s new Web site last week in 30 languages was a pleasant surprise. Its sleek, user-friendly Web design, its well selected photo gallery, its RSS and Podcast facilities, its video and audio options and its rich subject list, were a really impressive entrance of the Turkish Radio and Television body into the cyber world.Ariana Ferentinou"

More:TRT in Greek

A tale of two islands: İmralı and Cyprus

"A tale of two islands: İmralı and Cyprus
The government’s decision to end the isolation of a convicted terrorist on the island of İmralı was correct. It was also an example of the way relations with institutions of the European Union, in this case the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture, or ICT, should work. What the accumulation of accords Turkey has signed as part of the accession process add up to is the “sharing” of sovereignty"

More:A tale of two islands: İmralı and Cyprus

Faltering EU deal strengthens Islam

"Faltering EU deal strengthens Islam
WASHINGTON - Turkey's bid for eventual European Union membership is likely to fail and this will further boost Islamist and nationalist tendencies already strong in the society."

More:Faltering EU deal strengthens Islam

Sarafian: Focus on the diaspora

"Sarafian: Focus on the diaspora
ISTANBUL - Multilateral efforts to improve relations between Armenia and Turkey is the wrong way to resolve the Armenian issue, says respected historian Ara Sarafian, arguing that the solution lies in the huge and influential diaspora."

More:Sarafian: Focus on the diaspora

Better than lentil soup for the soul

"Better than lentil soup for the soul
ISTANBUL - Soul music has been pumping through the radio waves of İstanbul, İzmir and Ankara through the new radio show Soul Sendikası that is presented by Dirk Vermeiren & Ansel Mullins duo in Açık Radyo, and plays rates American soul music from the 60's and 70’s"

More:Better than lentil soup for the soul

Kurd leader decries U-turn on Southeast

"Kurd leader decries U-turn on Southeast
ANKARA - On the current quarrel between the DTP and the AKP, DTP leader put the blame on PM Erdoğan, who he criticized for adopting a chauvinist attitude toward the Kurdish issue."

More:Kurd leader decries U-turn on Southeast

Investment in Turkey is the best for Arab capital: trade minister

"Investment in Turkey is the best for Arab capital: trade minister
Investment in Turkey is the best for Arab capital: trade minister

Turkish Trade Minister Kursad Tuzmen said Sunday that the capital of the Gulf countries would be best used by investments in Turkey."

More:English News: Investment in Turkey is the best for Arab capital: trade minister

Turks go hungry as crisis deepens

"Turks go hungry as crisis deepens

Thomas Seibert, Foreign Correspondent

ISTANBUL // For people like Abdullah Kurt, the global financial crisis is not something that is happening far away on Wall Street, but a very real and present danger. It cost him his job in Turkey’s textile industry and makes him wonder how long he will be able to feed his children."

More:Turks go hungry as crisis deepens - The National Newspaper

Turkey Oil and Gas Report Q3 2008

"Turkey Oil and Gas Report Q3 2008

The latest Turkey Oil & Gas Report from BMI forecasts that the country will account for 6.53% of Middle Eastern (ME) regional oil demand
by 2012, while providing an insignificant contribution to supply. ME regional oil use of 8.24mn b/d in 2001 rose to an estimated 10.61mn b/d in 2007. It should average 10.86mn b/d in 2008
and then rise to around 11.84mn b/d by 2012. Regional oil production was 22.87mn b/d in 2001, and in 2007 averaged an estimated 25.56mn b/d."

More:Turkey Oil and Gas Report Q3 2008 - www.companiesandmarkets.com adds new report.

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Istanbul considers 2020 bid

"Istanbul considers 2020 bid

SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT/ Sports Features Communications

ISTANBUL, TURKEY, Nov 22: The European Olympic Committees' 37th General Assembly gets off to an exciting start with Turkish President Abdullah Gul telling the delegations that Istanbul once again is planning to throw their hat into the 2020 bid race."

More:Sports Features Communications® - Olympics Features

http://www.religiousintelligence.co.uk/news/?NewsID=3216

For the complete report from Religious Intelligence click on this link

Dutch take Islamic Ramadan festival as their own - by Paolo Gallini

According to a new poll, the Dutch have adopted the Sugar Feast, which marks the end of the Islamic fasting month Ramadan, as one of their favorite cultural traditions.The choice of the festival followed a poll by the Dutch Center for Folk Culture. It came 14th in the list of 100 top traditions. The center (Nederlands Centrum voor Volkscultuur, NCV) asked several thousand people to name traditions that they considered important for themselves or for the Netherlands as a whole. No shortlist of options was drawn up in advance. Queen Beatrix in Hilversum unveiled the top 100 at the opening of the Year of the Traditions. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the top choice in the poll was the feast of Sinterklaas. This Dutch precursor of Santa Claus, celebrated each year on December 5, is followed on the list by the decoration of a Christmas Tree. In third place is Queen's Day on April 30.