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Sunday, May 31, 2009

Most Turks back EU entry despite suspicions - study | World | Reuters

"Most Turks back EU entry despite suspicions - study
Sun May 31, 2009 6:37pm IST

By Ayla Jean Yackley

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - A majority of Turks support their government's bid to join the European Union, but most say the bloc views it with prejudice because Turkey is a Muslim nation, a new study showed."

More:Most Turks back EU entry despite suspicions - study | World | Reuters

Study: Most Turks don’t want Jewish neighbors - Israel News, Ynetnews

"Study: Most Turks don’t want Jewish neighbors

Istanbul university study suggests Turks have low tolerance for diverse lifestyles; 52% would not Christian neighbors"

More:Study: Most Turks don’t want Jewish neighbors - Israel News, Ynetnews

Turkey: A budget family holiday bought at Aldi - mirror.co.uk

"Turkey: A budget family holiday bought at Aldi

By Ingrid Laurence 31/05/2009

Now you can buy hols at the supermarket. We check an all-inclusive deal to see if it offers good value to families watching the pennies."

More:Turkey: A budget family holiday bought at Aldi - mirror.co.uk

Turkish PM’s address to the nation praises country's role in region

"Turkish PM’s address to the nation praises country's role in region
ANKARA – The Turkish prime minister said on Saturday that the nation’s importance and prestige in its region have been increasing gradually."

More:Turkish PM’s address to the nation praises country's role in region

Turkish delight?

"Turkish delight?

QUENTIN FOTTRELL danced with Seal and bonded with Tom Jones as $100 bills rained down at the launch of a Russian billionaire’s very own Shangri-La. How good would the world’s most lavish new hotel turn out to be?"

More:Turkish delight? - The Irish Times - Sat, May 30, 2009

A Middle East democracy

"A Middle East democracy
By Zvi Bar'el
Tags: Turkey, Israel News

It's hard to understand why the Israeli left fears the right wing's proposed legislation. Surely, these proposals are a grand step toward integrating Israel into the Middle East. The legislators must have been guided by Egypt, Turkey, Syria, Iran and Sudan, and perhaps some states as advanced as Malawi and Ukraine, and seem to have borrowed from their most enlightened laws."

More:A Middle East democracy - Haaretz - Israel News

Turkey confirms 2 more swine flu cases in citizens arriving from US

"Turkey confirms 2 more swine flu cases in citizens arriving from US
ISTANBUL - Turkey has confirmed its third and fourth cases of the deadly H1N1 virus, or swine flu, in two Turkish citizens who arrived from the United States, the Health Ministry said late on Saturday."

More:Turkey confirms 2 more swine flu cases in citizens arriving from US

Turkey, Armenia not what one would call US allies of a feather - The Boston Globe

"Turkey, Armenia not what one would call US allies of a feather
May 31, 2009

YOUR OP-ED 'Turkey, Armenia, and the Azerbaijan delay' is an interesting read, except for David Phillips's misleading assertion that both Turkey and Armenia are US allies."

More:Turkey, Armenia not what one would call US allies of a feather - The Boston Globe

Security Council renews mandate of UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus

"Security Council renews mandate of UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus

The Ledra Street crossing point in Cyprus gets checked for unexploded ordnance
29 May 2009 – The Security Council today extended the mandate of the United Nations peacekeeping force in Cyprus, known as UNFICYP, while urging the leaders of the Mediterranean island’s Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities to pick up the pace of their reunification talks."

More:Security Council renews mandate of UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus

Turkish blue beads exported to 30 countries

"Turkish blue beads exported to 30 countries

Blue glass beads, which are believed to protect one from the evil eye and jealous intentions and bring good luck and success, have played an important role in Turkish daily life and have now become an export product."

More:Turkish blue beads exported to 30 countries

Rebel Land: Among Turkey's Forgotten Peoples by Christopher de Bellaigue review | Non-fiction book reviews - Times Online

"Rebel Land: Among Turkey's Forgotten Peoples by Christopher de Bellaigue

The Sunday Times review by Jeremy Seal

With Istanbul nominated European Capital of Culture for 2010, here’s a book that certainly rains on the Turkish parade. At once a contemporary investigation and a historical analysis, Christopher de Bellaigue’s brave and informed account of eastern Turkey’s brutalised minorities deserves a wide readership, even among those sure to find its contents unpalatable. "

More:Rebel Land: Among Turkey's Forgotten Peoples by Christopher de Bellaigue review | Non-fiction book reviews - Times Online

Antisemitic, anti-Armenian banner sends Turkish man to jail

"Antisemitic, anti-Armenian banner sends Turkish man to jail

Gene, May 28th 2009, 7:04 pm

Despite worrying signs of antisemitism in Turkey after Israel’s Operation Cast Lead in Gaza (including Prime Minister Erdogan quoting Gilad Atzmon) and despite the all-too-familiar hostility to Armenians, a Turkish man has been sentenced to five months in prison for putting up a banner saying Jews and Armenians were not allowed to enter his business."

More:Harry’s Place » Antisemitic, anti-Armenian banner sends Turkish man to jail

US-Turkey: Overcoming challenges in an era of change

"US-Turkey: Overcoming challenges in an era of change
Published: 5/30/2009

The 28th Annual Conference on U.S.-Turkish Relations, jointly organized by the American-Turkish Council and the Turkish U.S. Business Council of DEIK, will bring together leaders from Turkey and the U.S. at the Gaylord Resort and Convention Center at the National Harbor, Washington, DC May 31- June 3, 2009."

More:US-Turkey: Overcoming challenges in an era of change

Besiktas add Turkish league title to Cup win

"Besiktas add Turkish league title to Cup win

ISTANBUL, May 30 (Reuters) - Besiktas clinched the Turkish league title for the 11th time on Saturday with a 2-1 win away to Denizlispor, adding to their Turkish Cup success."

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

Greece sets fresh conditions on Turkey's EU membership

"Greece sets fresh conditions on Turkey's EU membership
Saturday, 30 May 2009
Greece has asked the EU to exercise pressure on Turkey to meet undertaken obligations for prevention of illegal immigration, Greek info-website InNews reports.

Citing a Ministry of Foreign Affairs press release, InNews says Greece has asked European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso to set fight against illegal immigration as a fresh condition for Turkey's EU accession.

Athens believes that Turkey does not fight illegal immigration at its territory, but also does not prevent smuggling channels for Asian and African immigrants when reaching Greece."

More:MINA Breaking News - Greece sets fresh conditions on Turkey's EU membership

TOP CZECH DIPLOMAT SEES TURKEY'S GEOPOLITIC IMPORTANCE AS REASON FOR EU MEMBERSHIP - Turk.Net

"TOP CZECH DIPLOMAT SEES TURKEY'S GEOPOLITIC IMPORTANCE AS REASON FOR EU MEMBERSHIP

SANLIURFA (A.A) - 30.05.2009 - The senior Czech diplomat in Turkey saw on Saturday Turkey's geopolitic importance as a reason for European Union (EU) membership.

Eva Filipi, the ambassadress of the Czech Republic to Turkey, said that there were many reasons to make Turkey a full member of the EU."

More:(DIP) TOP CZECH DIPLOMAT SEES TURKEY'S GEOPOLITIC IMPORTANCE AS REASON FOR EU MEMBERSHIP - Turk.Net

Saturday, May 30, 2009

The Mardin massacre and the village guard system in Turkey

"The Mardin massacre and the village guard system in Turkey
Written by Veysel Essiz
The savagery of a massacre unparalleled even in the southeastern conflict zone where Kurdish separatist PKK members have fought government forces for more than thirty years has triggered a heated debate about a paramilitary organisation."

More:The Mardin massacre and the village guard system in Turkey

Armenia Presses Ahead with Nuclear Power Plant Construction - The Jamestown Foundation

"Armenia Presses Ahead with Nuclear Power Plant Construction
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 103
May 29, 2009 05:21 PM Age: 9 hrs
By: Emil Danielyan

Armenia is pressing ahead with its ambitious plans to build a new nuclear power station to replace the aging Soviet-era facility at Metsamor slated for decommissioning by 2017. The Armenian government has commissioned an Australian engineering company to manage the project. However, the key question of who will provide the funding needed for the plant's construction remains unanswered."

More:Armenia Presses Ahead with Nuclear Power Plant Construction - The Jamestown Foundation

Turkey echoes concerns on N. Korea nuke drive

"Turkey echoes concerns on N. Korea nuke drive
ANKARA - Located in a challenging region with a number of hotspots already on its agenda, Turkey is now channeling its energy as a temporary member of the UN Security Council into finding a solution to the row over N. Korea’s nuclear testing, which has drawn international condemnation"

More:Turkey echoes concerns on N. Korea nuke drive

Playing both sides

"Playing both sides
Lodged between the US and Russia, Turkey's management and enhancement of its strategic profile is an object lesson to the Arabs, writes Mustafa El-Labbad*

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Russia last week for talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin marked a qualitative shift in relations between the two countries. Topping the agenda of this visit were security arrangements Ankara hopes to conclude in Eurasia against the backdrop of the heated contest between Moscow and Washington over this region."

More:Al-Ahram Weekly | Opinion | Playing both sides

Economist praises Turkey for IMF stance

"Economist praises Turkey for IMF stance
ISTANBUL - Prof. Steve Hanke, an expert on the global economy and monetary policy, praises the Turkish government for holding out on striking a deal with the International Monetary Fund. Hanke says if the crisis ends as early as hoped, Turkey will emerge much stronger thanks to this policy"

More:Economist praises Turkey for IMF stance

Women raise voice for equal division of labor

"Women raise voice for equal division of labor
ISTANBUL - One of the areas where the difference between men and women in Turkey is strikingly apparent is the division of housework. Women from around the world gather in Istanbul this week to tell their experience of how more of them went to business from household activities"

More:Women raise voice for equal division of labor

New rules on road to Turkish citizenship

"New rules on road to Turkish citizenship
ANKARA - New conditions to obtain Turkish citizenship were passed in Parliament late Thursday. The condition requiring foreigners to reside in Turkey for five years has remained, while advantages have been given to those involved in science or investing."

More:New rules on road to Turkish citizenship

Turkey reacts to oil-exploration news in Cyprus

"Turkey reacts to oil-exploration news in Cyprus
ISTANBUL - Turkey yesterday reacted to the news that an American firm will start oil exploration in the southwest part of the island of Cyprus."

More:Turkey reacts to oil-exploration news in Cyprus

Azerbaijan seen as new front in Mideast conflict - Los Angeles Times

"Azerbaijan seen as new front in Mideast conflict
Mahmoud Zayat
Hezbollah fighters hold a ceremony in Lebanon for Imad Mughniyah after his assassination in 2008 in Syria. Hezbollah has blamed Israel for his killing and anti-terrorism officials say the alleged plot in Azerbaijan was in retaliation for Mughniyah's killing.
Officials say they foiled a plot by Hezbollah and Iran to bomb the Israeli Embassy in revenge for the 2008 slaying of Imad Mughniyah. Anti-terrorism officials fear a new militant hub."

More:Azerbaijan seen as new front in Mideast conflict - Los Angeles Times

The Terrace Mosaic Restaurant Opened at Eresin Crown Istanbul

"The Terrace Mosaic Restaurant Opened at Eresin Crown Istanbul PDF Print E-mail
Published by Ozgur Tore
Friday, 29 May 2009
The Terrace Mosaic Restaurant located at the Eresin Crown Hotel in Sultanahmet, Istanbul opened its doors for summer season with a launch of new menu."

More:Focus on Travel News: Daily Travel News website and Newsletter - The Terrace Mosaic Restaurant Opened at Eresin Crown Istanbul

UN extends Cyprus mandate

"The UN Security Council has voted to extend its peacekeeping mandate in Cyprus for another six months.

The council voted 14-1 on Friday to extend the mandate for the mission until 15 December. Turkey voted against the resolution."

More:Radio New Zealand News : Stories : 2009 : 05 : 30 : UN extends Cyprus mandate

Archinect : News : Urban Age Istanbul Conference

"Urban Age Istanbul Conference
In 4–6 November, 2009, the Urban Age focuses on Istanbul and extends its investigations into the links between the social characteristics and the physical form of global cities. Istanbul's strategic location makes it a vital reference for understanding urban trends in South East Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East."

More:Archinect : News : Urban Age Istanbul Conference

Friday, May 29, 2009

FIFA.com - What’s in a name?

"What’s in a name?
(FIFA.com) Friday 29 May 2009

Behind the name of every football club there is a story waiting to be told. And while the origins of the Uniteds, Olympiques and Athletics of this world might be straightforward enough, there are some venerable institutions with names worthy of investigation. FIFA.com takes a tour of the world's footballing outposts and tells the story of how the likes of Juventus, Arsenal, Independiente and Galatasaray came to be known as they are."

More:FIFA.com - What’s in a name?

Schmidt trip to Turkey irks foe | Cincinnati Enquirer | Cincinnati.Com

"Schmidt trip to Turkey irks foe

U.S. Rep. Jean Schmidt, R-Miami Township, has been in Turkey since Sunday night, touring the country and participating in a conference on relations between Turkey and the U.S.
Advertisement

The trip has one of Schmidt's political opponents - David Krikorian, an Armenian-American who is running for next year's Democratic nomination in the 2nd Congressional District - hopping mad."

More:Schmidt trip to Turkey irks foe | Cincinnati Enquirer | Cincinnati.Com

Hotel Hubris: Rich and famous turn out to opening of most expensive hotel in Europe | Mail Online

"Hotel Hubris: Rich and famous turn out to opening of most expensive hotel in Europe where champagne is a snip at £25 a glass

By Ashley Pearson

It takes half an hour to cross the pool (by gondola, naturally). The spa has a room full of real snow. The bathrooms have gold-plated mirrors on the FLOOR. As Sharon, Paris and Mariah open Europe's most shameless temple of excess, can anyone afford to stay there?"

More:Hotel Hubris: Rich and famous turn out to opening of most expensive hotel in Europe | Mail Online

Orhan Pamuk’s Istanbul: Cultural Identity through Collective Melancholy (part of a summer series of books relevant to the Arab World) » Arts & Entertainment | SpecBlogs.com

"Orhan Pamuk’s Istanbul: Cultural Identity through Collective Melancholy (part of a summer series of books relevant to the Arab World)

By: kquenzer at 12:41 pm

To Pamuk, Istanbul is a city of hüzün, or melancholy, and while its inhabitants can fight this mood, they will eventually succumb to it. What is most striking about Pamuk’s memoir Istanbul is his ability to define himself through his city. He poignantly writes with allegiance to his notion of hüzün, understanding it as an almost compulsory element of living in an ancient, fallen city. Not only is hüzün inevitable, to Pamuk it the force behind his own work as well as the work of all other Istanbullu (the people of Istanbul)."

More:Orhan Pamuk’s Istanbul: Cultural Identity through Collective Melancholy (part of a summer series of books relevant to the Arab World) » Arts & Entertainment | SpecBlogs.com

Construction begins on Iran-Turkey gas pipeline - WashingtonTV تلویزیون واشنگتن

"Construction begins on Iran-Turkey gas pipeline
Updated: Friday, May 29, 2009

11:30GMT—7:30AM/EST

Washington, 29 May (WashingtonTV)—An Iranian official said on Friday that construction has begun on a pipeline from Iran through Turkey, which would eventually carry Iranian gas to Europe."

More:Construction begins on Iran-Turkey gas pipeline - WashingtonTV

Peace steps falter on deadly attack

"Peace steps falter on deadly attack
ANKARA - A PKK landmine kills six soldiers, sending the Turkish military on a brief offensive and many leading politicians ducking for cover under the same comment: The PKK needs to lay down its arms before a consensus can be sought."

More:Peace steps falter on deadly attack

Think tank faults Turkish approach on Armenia ties | Reuters

"Think tank faults Turkish approach on Armenia ties

By Ayla Jean Yackley

ISTANBUL, May 29 (Reuters) - Turkey is making a mistake by linking an improvement in ties with Armenia, including reopening their shared border, to a settlement of Armenia's long-running conflict with Azerbaijan, a think tank report said on Friday."

More:Think tank faults Turkish approach on Armenia ties | Reuters

Turkey commemorates 556th anniversary of Istanbul's conquest ]

"Turkey commemorates 556th anniversary of Istanbul's conquest
Istanbul residents marked on Friday 556th anniversary of conquest of Istanbul with various events across the historic city, Turkish media said."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey commemorates 556th anniversary of Istanbul's conquest ]

Has Turkey turned eastward?

"Has Turkey turned eastward?
There are signs that Turkey, which has long straddled East and West, may be acceding to its Ottoman past and Arab neighbors."

More:Has Turkey turned eastward? | GlobalPost

Turkey, the Jews and the Holocaust

"Turkey, the Jews and the Holocaust

Turkologist Corry Guttstadt has published a comprehensive study of the behaviour of the Turkish government towards its Jewish citizens during the Holocaust. In doing so, she has investigated a chapter of twentieth-century history that has thus far been all but neglected by international Holocaust research. Sonja Galler spoke to her about her findings"
More:Qantara.de - Turkey, the Jews and the Holocaust

Turkey submits report to lift pro-Kurdish politician's immunity

"Turkey submits report to lift pro-Kurdish politician's immunity
ISTANBUL - A Turkish Public Prosecutor's Office submitted an investigation report to the Justice Ministry recommending removal of immunity for a pro-Kurdish party leader accused of disseminating terrorist propaganda, Turkish news channels reported on Friday"

More:Turkey submits report to lift pro-Kurdish politician's immunity

Struggling BMW to use new diffuser in Turkey

"Struggling BMW to use new diffuser in Turkey

By Alan Baldwin
LONDON, May 29 (Reuters) - BMW-Sauber hope to get back among the Formula One frontrunners in Turkey next week by using for the first time a new rear diffuser similar to one used by championship leaders Brawn GP."

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

Turkish Cypriot leader expects reunification deal by latest early 2010

"Turkish Cypriot leader expects reunification deal by latest early 2010
ISTANBUL- Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat said on Friday the chance of reaching a peace deal on the divided island by the end of 2009 or early 2010, is 'quite high.'"

More:Turkish Cypriot leader expects reunification deal by latest early 2010

Turkey has blocked normalisation

"Turkey has blocked normalisation
By Messenger Staff
Friday, May 29
Director of the Caucasus Project of the International Crisis Group (ICG) Sabina Freizer has stated that the Turkish PM has brought the normalization of relations between Turkey and Armenia to a dead end by making his recent statement in Baku. Freizer suggests that in the beginning it appeared that practical normalization could begin by the Autumn of this year but it now looks as if this process could be delayed for several years."

More:The Messenger - Turkey has blocked normalisation

Turkish-British Chamber of Commerce & Industry visit North Cyprus

"Turkish-British Chamber of Commerce & Industry visit North Cyprus
29.05.2009

A Committee from the Turkish-British Chamber of Commerce & Industry visited North Cyprus to strengthen ties and visited the Turkish Cypriot Investment Development Agency (YAGA) and the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Industry (KTTO). During the visit, a cooperation protocol was signed between the visiting group and the Turkish Cypriot Chamber of Industry."

More:Turkish-British Chamber of Commerce & Industry visit North Cyprus

Turkish gas demand not on table in Nabucco

"Turkish gas demand not on table in Nabucco ta

By Simon Webb and Jane Grieve
VIENNA, May 29 (Reuters) - A Turkish demand for 15 percent of the gas pumped through the Nabucco pipeline is not an issue in talks between governments for a deal to facilitate the project, the Nabucco consortium head said on Friday."

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

US bid for Cyprus oil irks Turks

"US bid for Cyprus oil irks Turks

The announcement by the US ambassador in Nicosia this week regarding the launch of oil and gas exploration off the coast of Cyprus by an American firm has sparked an angry response from Turkish officials and, in turn, stern words from authorities in Nicosia."

More:ekathimerini.com | US bid for Cyprus oil irks Turks

Sarkozy cancels Sweden visit over Turkey

"Sarkozy cancels Sweden visit over Turkey

ELITSA VUCHEVA

Today @ 09:12 CET

French President Nicolas Sarkozy has cancelled a visit to Sweden scheduled for next Tuesday (2 June) in order to avoid a clash on the question of Turkey's EU membership just days before the European elections and a month before Stockholm takes over the EU's rotating presidency."

More:EUobserver / Sarkozy cancels Sweden visit over Turkey

W.Bank says approves $600 mln loan to Turkey | Markets | Reuters

"W.Bank says approves $600 mln loan to Turkey
Fri May 29, 2009 12:20pm IST

ANKARA, May 29 (Reuters) - The World Bank's executive directors board approved $600 million to Turkey for a private sector renewable energy and energy efficiency project, the bank said in a statement sent to Reuters on Friday."

More:W.Bank says approves $600 mln loan to Turkey | Markets | Reuters

Trend Capital : Turkey to help push European pipeline ahead of rival

"Turkey to help push European pipeline ahead of rival
28.05.09 21:32

Turkey is likely to give up problematic claims on gas in a trans-continental pipeline project, the only way forward for the European Union-backed plan trying to push ahead of a rival Russian project, Reuters reported."

More:Trend Capital : Turkey to help push European pipeline ahead of rival

New building for EU Representation Office

"New building for EU Representation Office
BRUSSELS – A new building was bought for Turkey’s European Union Permanent Representation Office, which previously shared the same building as Turkey’s Consulate General in Brussels."

More:New building for EU Representation Office

High time to re-focus on Cyprus

"High time to re-focus on Cyprus
A well-informed source from Turkish Cyprus told the Daily News that after all it might not be such a bad development for Derviş Eroğlu’s right-wing National Unity Party, or UBP, to have won the elections on the island. The advent to the government of Eroğlu, who is known to have a more hawkish attitude, was perceived with pessimism as his party favors a two-state solution on Cyprus instead of a federation model that is now being discussed by the Cypriots."

More:High time to re-focus on Cyprus

Armenian party seeks end to talks

"Armenian party seeks end to talks
ISTANBUL - The Armenian Revolutionary Federation calls on Armenian President Serge Sarkisian to discontinue talks with Turkey. The federation claims Turkey’s policies are ’anti-Armenian’ and that the normalization process has helped benefit Turkey only while the Armenian agenda is being driven out of the international arena little by little."

More:Armenian party seeks end to talks

Anti-PKK sweep detains 50 in İzmir

"Anti-PKK sweep detains 50 in İzmir
ANKARA - Turkish security forces detained more than 30 people yesterday in simultaneous operations to crack down on suspected supporters of the terrorist Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK."

More:Anti-PKK sweep detains 50 in İzmir

Turkish opposition leader offers PKK amnesty for downing of arms

"Turkish opposition leader offers PKK amnesty for downing of arms
ISTANBUL - The leader of Turkey's main opposition party said an amnesty should be launched as soon as the terror organization PKK lays down arms, signaling an important opening in his party's approach to the issue."

More:Turkish opposition leader offers PKK amnesty for downing of arms

Thursday, May 28, 2009

How To Survive The Grand Bazaar and Spice Markets in Istanbul || Jaunted

"How To Survive The Grand Bazaar and Spice Markets in Istanbul

We've been through plenty of shuks, souks, ferias, and open-air markets in both developing and developed nations. The Turkish Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market take the pistachio or saffron-flavored cake in offering interpersonal adventures, thanks to the unbelievably high levels of persistence shop owners have in hopes of making a sale."

More:How To Survive The Grand Bazaar and Spice Markets in Istanbul || Jaunted

TURKEY - EFFORTS TO TIE MALATYA MURDERS TO ‘DEEP STATE’ FIZZLE

"TURKEY: EFFORTS TO TIE MALATYA MURDERS TO ‘DEEP STATE’ FIZZLE
Alleged ring-leader retracts testimony implicating suspected link to ‘masterminds.’

MALATYA, Turkey, May 28 (Compass Direct News) – Prosecution efforts to tie the murderers of three Christians here to state-linked masterminds were set back on Friday (May 22) when the alleged ring-leader unexpectedly contradicted his previous testimony implicating a suspected “middleman.”"

More:Compass Direct News : TURKEY - EFFORTS TO TIE MALATYA MURDERS TO ‘DEEP STATE’ FIZZLE

İstanbul: The Ever-Changing City that Still Remembers

"İstanbul: The Ever-Changing City that Still Remembers

Text by Melih Uslu | Photographs by Şemsi Güner

This is no time to sigh with regret about old Istanbul. Because it is still there, if you remember to pay attention to the places you’ve looked at but have not seen over the years. It is time to revisit the old, familiar sights as well. Pay no attention to the crowds that have penetrated everywhere. For it is a solitary city at heart. A city that lives and breathes around the clock. At the same time, a city that is trying to remember and remind us of its authentic values, more of which are being lost by the day. A city that craves the interest of those who stroll through it, a city dying to talk about its disappearing treasures. And now is the time to lend an ear."

More:Balkan Travellers - İstanbul: The Ever-Changing City that Still Remembers

Run-up to Swedish EU presidency: Turkey-EU blame game - the European magazine ~ Cafebabel

"Run-up to Swedish EU presidency: Turkey-EU blame game

Let me be clear: the United States strongly supports Turkey’s bid to become a member of the European Union.’ President Barack Obama, visiting Ankara in April, could not have been clearer – unlike his European counterparts. Since Obama’s speech, both German chancellor Angela Merkel and French president Nicolas Sarkozy have spoken out in preference of a privileged partnership with Turkey, rather than full EU membership. French foreign minister Bernard Kouchner, formerly a supporter, now opposes Turkey’s accession after the fuss they made over appointing Danish premier Anders Fogh Rasmussen as Nato chief in the same month. Indignation in Turkey at this shifting of goalposts then prompted hasty reassurances from the European commission of the EU’s commitments to Turkey."

More:Run-up to Swedish EU presidency: Turkey-EU blame game - the European magazine ~ Cafebabel

Turkey to help push European pipeline ahead of rival

"Turkey to help push European pipeline ahead of rival

By Thomas Grove and Orhan Coskun
ISTANBUL/ANKARA, May 28 (Reuters) - Turkey is likely to give up problematic claims on gas in a trans-continental pipeline project, the only way forward for the European Union-backed plan trying to push ahead of a rival Russian project."

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

Turkey Under Increasing Pressure to Reopen Greek Orthodox Church

"Turkey Under Increasing Pressure to Reopen Greek Orthodox Church
By Dorian Jones
Istanbul
27 May 2009
When U.S. President Barrack Obama visited Turkey last month, he raised the plight of a small religious school of the Greek Orthodox Church. The Halki seminary was closed by the government in 1971, and despite intense pressure by the church and diplomats the school has remained shut. But pressure is growing on Ankara to reopen the school."

More:VOA News - Turkey Under Increasing Pressure to Reopen Greek Orthodox Church

Turkey Targets PKK in Iraq After Deadly Mine Blast

"Turkey Targets PKK in Iraq After Deadly Mine Blast
By VOA News
28 May 2009

Turkey's military says its warplanes have attacked Kurdish rebel targets in northern Iraq, following a land mine explosion that killed six Turkish soldiers and wounded eight others."

More:VOA News - Turkey Targets PKK in Iraq After Deadly Mine Blast

Turkish opposition leader offers PKK amnesty for downing of arms

"Turkish opposition leader offers PKK amnesty for downing of arms
ISTANBUL - The leader of Turkey's main opposition party said an amnesty should be launched as soon as the terror organization PKK lays down arms, signaling an important opening in his party's approach to the issue."

More:Turkish opposition leader offers PKK amnesty for downing of arms

Turkey to try fifteen doctors over death of Ergenekon detainee

"Turkey to try fifteen doctors over death of Ergenekon detainee
ISTANBUL - A Turkish Public Prosecutor's Office has filed a claim to bring to trial 15 doctors in connection with the death in July of an Ergenekon suspect, Turkish broadcasters reported on Thursday."

More:Turkey to try fifteen doctors over death of Ergenekon detainee

Islands welcome Istanbul’s colors

"Islands welcome Istanbul’s colors
A museum of Istanbul’s Princes' Islands will be established on Büyükada (Big Island). The Adalar (Islands) Museum will highlight the islands' political and cultural past. There will be a special section in the museum for different ethnic cultures that lived on the islands"

More:Islands welcome Istanbul’s colors

Blast kills 6 Turkish soldiers, police arrest 35 | Reuters

"Blast kills 6 Turkish soldiers, police arrest 35
Thu May 28, 2009 4:55am EDT

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey, May 28 (Reuters) - A remote-controlled mine killed six Turkish soldiers and wounded 11 more in the mainly Kurdish southeast, security sources said on Thursday."

More:Blast kills 6 Turkish soldiers, police arrest 35 | Reuters

The Ministers of Energy of Turkey, Syria and Iran will discuss the project of Linking Electricity in Baghdad next Wednesday

"The Ministers of Energy of Turkey, Syria and Iran will discuss the project of Linking Electricity in Baghdad next Wednesday
The Ministers of Energy of Turkey, Syria and Iran will discuss the project of Linking Electricity in Baghdad next Wednesday
Translated by IRAQdirectory.com - [5/28/2009]
The Ministers of Electricity and Energy of Turkey, Syria and Iran will discuss with the Iraqi Minister of Electricity Karim Wahid next Wednesday in Baghdad, the ways to enhance cooperation in the field of generation and transmission of electric power and the possibility of the power link."

More:The Ministers of Energy of Turkey, Syria and Iran will discuss the project of Linking Electricity in Baghdad next Wednesday

Mine kills six soldiers in southeast Turkey | Reuters

"Mine kills six soldiers in southeast Turkey

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey, May 28 (Reuters) - Six Turkish soldiers were killed and six were wounded when a remotely controlled mine exploded in the mainly Kurdish Hakkari province near the Iraqi border, security sources said on Thursday."

More:Mine kills six soldiers in southeast Turkey | Reuters

Iraq seeks neighbours help on power and water

"Iraq seeks neighbours help on power and water

BAGHDAD (AFP) — Iraq is on Thursday to ask Iran and Turkey to help it fend off potentially deadly thirst and heat this summer by supplying the water and electricity it needs, an electricity ministry official said."

More:AFP: Iraq seeks neighbours help on power and water

Turkish Bonds Fall on Concern Government Won’t Sign IMF Accord - Bloomberg.com

"Turkish Bonds Fall on Concern Government Won’t Sign IMF Accord

By Seda Sezer

May 27 (Bloomberg) -- Turkish bonds fell to a six-week low on concern that ministers are divided over whether to sign up to International Monetary Fund loans that would reduce government borrowing needs."

More:Turkish Bonds Fall on Concern Government Won’t Sign IMF Accord - Bloomberg.com

Tasty Delights at an Istanbul Hotel

"Tasty Delights at an Istanbul Hotel
Treat Yourself to a Culinary Experience in the Shadow of the Aya Sofia
By CLARK BENTSON
ISTANBUL, May 27, 2009

The Ottoman Empire lasted 623 years and spanned three continents at its height. Its heart was Constantinople, modern day Istanbul, a beautiful Turkish city that bridges Europe with Asia, where the influences of East and West meet in art and architecture."

More:Tasty Delights at an Istanbul Hotel - ABC News

Living in limbo

"Living in limbo
The forgotten refugees of Northern Iraq

By Hermione Gee

27-05-2009

The Makhmur refugee camp in Northern Iraq is no tent city - it's a small, dusty village, with little stores, barbershops and a large meeting-house. Children kick a football around in the street and shopkeepers pass the time of day with people walking by. All that distinguishes it from the other villages in the area is the tall perimeter fence that stops residents leaving without permission."

More:Living in limbo - Radio Netherlands Worldwide - English

De-mining stalled by opposition

"De-mining stalled by opposition
Israeli link holding up Turkish bill to clear minefields along Turkey’s border with Syria

ANKARA (AFP) – Turkey’s plan to rid its border area with Syria of land mines faces stiff political opposition over fears that an Israeli company stands to lease the land for four decades after clearing it of mines."

More:ekathimerini.com | De-mining stalled by opposition

Design Ideas: Dragos Towers, Istanbul, Turkey | Superpool

"Dragos Towers, Istanbul, Turkey

Dragos Towers are planned on the Asian side of Istanbul, with views onto the Marmara Sea and the Princess Islands.

The two towers proposed are designed to allow all units above 5th floor to have maximum views through shaded glass facades. Leaving the big blind surfaces to the back with opportunities for vegetation and alternative energy fields."

More:Design Ideas: Dragos Towers, Istanbul, Turkey | Superpool

BMW to Debut Multi-Level Diffuser in Turkey - autoevolution

"BMW to Debut Multi-Level Diffuser in Turkey

When Brawn GP first presented to the world their double-diffuser concept – well, actually, when it was ruled as legal by the International Automobile Federation – the general idea was that all teams will try to copy it as soon as possible. And they weren't wrong, as most outfits have already debuted interim versions of the new diffuser from as early as China. "

More:BMW to Debut Multi-Level Diffuser in Turkey - autoevolution

'We talk about the unification of Cyprus, not Europe'

"'We talk about the unification of Cyprus, not Europe'
Published: 27 May 2009 16:51 | Changed: 27 May 2009 17:04
Myria Vassiliadou (39) leads the European Women’s Lobby. She is a sociologist who specialises in gender issues and has been published in several books and scientific journals."

More:nrc.nl - International - European elections 2009 - 'We talk about the unification of Cyprus, not Europe'

Kurdish rebels propose British-style devolution - Telegraph

"Kurdish rebels propose British-style devolution
Kurdish rebels that have waged a thirty year war on Turkey have offered to drop a demand for independence in return for British-style devolution."

More:Kurdish rebels propose British-style devolution - Telegraph

Senior Army Officer Arrested In Turkish Coup Plot - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

"Senior Army Officer Arrested In Turkish Coup Plot
May 27, 2009
ISTANBUL (Reuters) -- Turkish authorities have formally arrested a senior army officer over possible links to an alleged right-wing group accused of plotting to topple the government, state-run news agency Anatolian said.

Lieutenant Colonel Mustafa Turkan Ecevit was arrested in Istanbul in connection with the discovery of a cache of weapons in the city including antitank weaponry, hand grenades and explosives. He was detained earlier this week."

More:Senior Army Officer Arrested In Turkish Coup Plot - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

Netherlands: Islam contributing to delinquent behavior | EuropeNews

"Netherlands: Islam contributing to delinquent behavior

Islam in Europe 27 May 2009

The Dutch justice ministry is investigating which approach to youth criminality works. Using this information, the cabinet will deal with the problematics of Moroccan youth."

More:Netherlands: Islam contributing to delinquent behavior | EuropeNews

Polish Prime Minister: Ukraine, Croatia and Turkey should join EU

"Polish Prime Minister: Ukraine, Croatia and Turkey should join EU

Warsaw. May 27 (Interfax) - Poland wants Ukraine to join the European Union and considers Georgia a strategic partner of NATO and the EU, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on Wednesday."

More:Kyiv Post. Independence. Community. Trust. » Homepage » Nation » Polish Prime Minister: Ukraine, Croatia and Turkey should join EU

Musings of a Durotrigan: TUC Pushing for Turkish EU Accession

"TUC Pushing for Turkish EU Accession
An email arrived today from Unionlearn entitled 'Working Together Trade unions in Turkey and the European Union' (inconsistent capitalisation and dodgy grammar preserved from the original)."

More:Musings of a Durotrigan: TUC Pushing for Turkish EU Accession

177 films from around world to liven Mediterranean town in June

"177 films from around world to liven Mediterranean town in June
ISTANBUL - The Mediterranean town of Adana will be livened by the annual Golden Boll Film Festival from June 8-13. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the festival will bring 177 films from all around the world to the silver screen, and 12 Turkish films will compete for the festival's grand prize"

More:177 films from around world to liven Mediterranean town in June

Turkey joins EU information, communication program

"Turkey joins EU information, communication program
BRUSSELS – Turkey joined the European Union’s information and communication technologies policies support program, the second component of the compatibility and innovation frame program aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises, or SMEs."

More:Turkey joins EU information, communication program

Turning black trash bags into art

"Turning black trash bags into art
OSMANİYE - A repairman living in the Kadirli district of the Black Sea city of Osmaniye has been making sculptures using black plastic waste bags for the past 16 years."

More:Turning black trash bags into art

Istanbul Modern celebrates its 5th birthday

"Istanbul Modern celebrates its 5th birthday
ISTANBUL - The Istanbul Modern art museum is celebrating its fifth anniversary with a new exhibition, 'New Works, New Horizons,' which displays 200 works from 134 artists."

More:Istanbul Modern celebrates its 5th birthday

Turkish secular opposition softening on Islam - The Irish Times - Thu, May 28, 2009

"Turkish secular opposition softening on Islam

Marked out by distance from the Muslim beliefs of much of the electorate, the CHP now appears more people-friendly, writes NICHOLAS BIRCH in Istanbul

THE FOUNDER of Turkey’s secular republic and simultaneous standard-bearer of its authoritarian values, the Republican People’s Party, or CHP, has long appeared elitist, anti-religious and unelectable."

More:Turkish secular opposition softening on Islam - The Irish Times - Thu, May 28, 2009

Corruption fight being slowly won

"Corruption fight being slowly won
ANKARA - When it comes to the prevalence of corruption, the public has little confidence in public institutions, believing that it is common for public servants to receive gifts in exchange for providing services. However, improvements are visible"

More:Corruption fight being slowly won

Now or never for accord on Cyprus

"Now or never for accord on Cyprus
ANKARA - While declaring his country’s strong commitment to Turkey becoming a full member of the European Union, the U.K. foreign secretary said yesterday that this year was the year for a settlement to the Cyprus dispute."

More:Now or never for accord on Cyprus

Rotarians happily admit being wrong

"Rotarians happily admit being wrong
DİDİM - The Aegean town of Didim is hosting six American Rotarians under an extension of the International Rotary Exchange Program."

More:Rotarians happily admit being wrong

Turkish President Gul Urges Swift Resolution Of Kurdish Conflict

"Turkish President Gul Urges Swift Resolution Of Kurdish Conflict

ANKARA (AFP)--President Abdullah Gul Wednesday urged swift measures to end the 25-year Kurdish conflict in Turkey, stressing that losing time would worsen the problem, Anatolia news agency reported."

More:Turkish President Gul Urges Swift Resolution Of Kurdish Conflict

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Istanbul to offer strong loads for Crystal Cargo | Transportation | Supply Chain News | ArabianSupplyChain.com

"Istanbul to offer strong loads for Crystal Cargo

Etihad Crystal Cargo, the freight division of Etihad Airways, has high hopes for the Turkish market as a result of the airline’s decision to launch a four-times-a-week schedule to Istanbul."

More:Istanbul to offer strong loads for Crystal Cargo | Transportation | Supply Chain News | ArabianSupplyChain.com

British FM backs pact ‘by Cypriots’

"British FM backs pact ‘by Cypriots’

YIORGOS KARAHALIS/REUTERS

British Foreign Secretary David Miliband listens to questions during a news briefing after meeting his Greek counterpart Dora Bakoyannis in Athens yesterday. Miliband then flew to Ankara where he met Egemen Bagis, Turkey’s chief negotiator for EU membership. Miliband will also hold talks today with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu."

More:ekathimerini.com | British FM backs pact ‘by Cypriots’

’Children of Hope’ going on world stage

"’Children of Hope’ going on world stage
ANKARA - Children who live in Ankara’s Altındağ district, an area with a high crime rate, have started taking the stage instead of playing in the streets thanks to a project initiated by the Ankara Police Department."

More:’Children of Hope’ going on world stage

Slum turned into ’mega city’ awaits inhabitants

"Slum turned into ’mega city’ awaits inhabitants
ISTANBUL - It's hard to recognize the neighborhood of Esenyurt. Having become known as the most wrecked and impoverished areas of Istanbul, the district has been turned into a city. Mayor Necmi Kadıoğlu says there are many projects on the way but they have already achieved what seemed like an impossible task as recently as five years ago"

More:Slum turned into ’mega city’ awaits inhabitants

Minorities and communities reacted positively to the statements of PM Erdogan

"Minorities and communities reacted positively to the statements of PM Erdogan

Minorities and communities reacted positively to the statements of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan who said, 'people who had different ethnical identity were banished from the country (in the past). This was the result of a fascist approach.'"

More:MEMRI Turkish Media Blog - Full Entry

8 patients perish in hospital blaze

"8 patients perish in hospital blaze
ANKARA -A blaze that is believed to have started in the radiology department of a state hospital in Bursa kills eight people in the intensive care unit. More than a dozen children and other patients are transferred to other hospitals to be treated for smoke inhalation as the Health Ministry investigates whether the fire was caused by a technical glitch"

More:8 patients perish in hospital blaze

Hope floats for marine tourism

"Hope floats for marine tourism
ANTALYA - Despite thousands of vessels from all around the world visiting the bays of Bodrum, Fethiye, Marmaris and Antalya every year, bringing approximately $4 million a year to the Turkish economy, sea tourism is an often underrated part of the country’s assets. The industry authorities believe that the country can at least double that amount if it is supported with new and improved facilities as well as creating laws that will protect the bays from many dangers"

More:Hope floats for marine tourism

Ex-mayor sent to jail for 5 years

"Ex-mayor sent to jail for 5 years
ISTANBUL - Gürbüz Çapan, former mayor of Esenyurt and a suspect in the Ergenekon case, was sentenced in a different case for embezzlement, of which he had been awaiting trial for eight years."

More:Ex-mayor sent to jail for 5 years

Turkey and Brazil to Explore Oil in the Black Sea - The Jamestown Foundation

"Turkey and Brazil to Explore Oil in the Black Sea
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 100
May 26, 2009
By: Saban Kardas

On May 20-23 Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visited Turkey. Bilateral economic ties were an important element on da Silva's agenda, who was accompanied by government ministers and leading businessmen. The visit highlighted the prospects for improving cooperation between the two emerging economies, which complements Ankara's efforts to diversify its economic and political relations."

More:Turkey and Brazil to Explore Oil in the Black Sea - The Jamestown Foundation

Workshop tackles road map in Armenian issue

"Workshop tackles road map in Armenian issue
ISTANBUL - The Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research gathers opinion makers from Turkey and Armenia in a two-day workshop in Istanbul. Participants discuss the road ahead on bilateral relations as well as the resolution stalemate over the Nagorno-Karabakh issue"

More:Workshop tackles road map in Armenian issue

Gül asks deputies to aid mine effort

"Gül asks deputies to aid mine effort
ANKARA - President Abdullah Gül warns lawmakers not to turn the issue into a matter of treason, asking: ’Do you think any members of Parliament would approve legislation that is against national interests?’ He also requests parliamentarians work toward a solution for demining"

More:Gül asks deputies to aid mine effort

Get Some Exercise In-Flight With 'Airobics' on Turkish Air || Jaunted

"Get Some Exercise In-Flight With 'Airobics' on Turkish Air

Last week Shira Levine spent a few days getting her Turkish Delight on in Istanbul, Turkiye ("Turkey is a bird; Turkiye is the country".) But first, she had to fly there. Fortunately, Turkish Air cares about her in-flight health.

About an hour into the New York to Istanbul flight in our turquoise, upholstered 1980s vintage seats on Turkish Air, our private screening of "Confessions of a Shopaholic" was interrupted with an in-flight video exercise session dubbed "airobics." Seriously. "

More:Get Some Exercise In-Flight With 'Airobics' on Turkish Air || Jaunted

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Turkish Author, On Trial, Says Novel Is Not Blasphemous - ArtsBeat Blog - NYTimes.com

"Turkish Author, On Trial, Says Novel Is Not Blasphemous
By Sebnem Arsu

A Turkish author on trial after being charged with inciting religious hatred in a novel based on the birth of Islam said that his book was a work of fiction but the result of extensive research and consultation with religious leaders, and therefore could not be called blasphemous. An Istanbul court on Tuesday adjourned the trial of the author, Nedim Gursel, until June 25. He faces up to a year in jail if convicted."

More:Turkish Author, On Trial, Says Novel Is Not Blasphemous - ArtsBeat Blog - NYTimes.com

WE HAVE NO DOUBT TURKEY WILL COMPLETE EU PROCESS WITH PATIENCE, BAGIS - Turk.Net

"WE HAVE NO DOUBT TURKEY WILL COMPLETE EU PROCESS WITH PATIENCE, BAGIS

ANKARA (A.A) - 26.05.2009 - Turkish State Minister and Chief Negotiator for EU talks Egemen Bagis said Tuesday Turkey's EU process was not an easy one.

Speaking to reporters at a joint press conference with United Kingdom's Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs David Miliband in Ankara, Bagis said that they have no doubt that Turkey would complete the EU process with patience, determination and efforts."

More:(DIP) WE HAVE NO DOUBT TURKEY WILL COMPLETE EU PROCESS WITH PATIENCE, BAGIS - Turk.Net

Turkish markets fall amid worldwide decline - Forbes.com

"Turkish markets fall amid worldwide decline

ISTANBUL, May 26 (Reuters) - Turkish shares and the lira tracked global markets lower on Tuesday as tension about North Korean nuclear tests added to questions about the world's economic outlook."

More:Turkish markets fall amid worldwide decline - Forbes.com

Turkish Pop Star Battles Dam Project: 'Stop With This Insanity!' - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

"TURKISH POP STAR BATTLES DAM PROJECT
'Stop With This Insanity!'

Tarkan Tevetoglu, Turkey's biggest pop star, is using all his energy to battle the construction of the controversial Ilisu dam, which threatends to permanently submerge the 10,000-year-old city of Hasankeyf. Critics argue the ancient city on the Tigris River should be a UNESCO World Heritage site."

More:Turkish Pop Star Battles Dam Project: 'Stop With This Insanity!' - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

Turkey condemns nuclear test, North Korea fires two more missiles

"Turkey condemns nuclear test, North Korea fires two more missiles
ISTANBUL - Turkey has condemned North Korea's nuclear test and urged the country to take 'swift steps' for the promotion of peace and security. The hardline communist state Tuesday fired two more short-range missiles, a day after staging the nuclear test that sparked widespread anger globally."

More:Turkey condemns nuclear test, North Korea fires two more missiles

FM Davutoglu says Azerbaijan's stability highly important for Turkey

"FM Davutoglu says Azerbaijan's stability highly important for Turkey
BAKU - Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Tuesday Azerbaijan's stability, well-being, future and territorial integrity is highly important for Turkey."

More:FM Davutoglu says Azerbaijan's stability highly important for Turkey

KAGIDER EU Days, Istanbul, Turkey

"KAGIDER EU Days, Istanbul, Turkey

[Date: 2009-05-26]

The Women Entrepreneurs Association of Turkey (KAGIDER) will hold the KAGIDER EU Days on 18 and 19 June 2009 in Istanbul, Turkey.

The first day of the conference will focus on the European Commission's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7); EU policy and civil society support themes will be in the focus on the second day."

More:CORDIS : News

Pöttering: No Turkey

"Pöttering: No Turkey
The European Parliament President says he is against Turkish membership of the European Union.

The outgoing President of the European Parliament Hans-Gert Pöttering says in a live online chat with Danish, German and Dutch readers that Turkish membership of the European Union would be too much of a mouthful for the Union."

More:Pöttering: No Turkey - Politiken.dk

Erdemir secures $1.13 bln to refinance debt | Industries | Industrials, Materials & Utilities | Reuters

"Erdemir secures $1.13 bln to refinance debt
Tue May 26, 2009 6:03am EDT

ISTANBUL, May 26 (Reuters) - Erdemir (EREGL.IS), Turkey's biggest steelmaker, has secured $550 million and 900 million lira ($578 million) in loans to refinance its debt, the company said in a statement to the stock exchange on Tuesday."

More:UPDATE 1-Erdemir secures $1.13 bln to refinance debt | Industries | Industrials, Materials & Utilities | Reuters

AFP: Israeli link holding up Turkey landmine clean-up

"Israeli link holding up Turkey landmine clean-up

By Burak Akinci

ANKARA (AFP) — Turkey's plan to rid its border area with Syria of landmines faces stiff political opposition over fears that an Israeli company stands to lease the land for four decades after clearing it of mines."

More:AFP: Israeli link holding up Turkey landmine clean-up

Turkey may delay IMF accord

"Turkey may delay IMF accord
ISTANBUL - Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has not abandoned plans for a loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund, as talks with the IMF continue, Erdoğan told Turkey's top businessmen."

More:Turkey may delay IMF accord

’The Room Project’ on view at Istanbul Modern

"’The Room Project’ on view at Istanbul Modern
ISTANBUL - A series of photographs by Danish artist Annette Merrild depicting the ordinary side of life in different countries is on display at Istanbul Modern. The captions of rooms inhabited by ’ordinary’ representatives of nine European countries will remain on display until Aug. 30"

More:’The Room Project’ on view at Istanbul Modern

No money, no problem for local competitions

"No money, no problem for local competitions
ANTALYA - Fethiye will stage the first edition of the Lycian Challenge, Aegean sports enthusiasts’ answer to the Olympics, next month. Organizers have a hard time trying to find sponsors for the events, but they are determined not to be fazed by financial problems. A total of 30 teams are expected to participate to the games."

More:No money, no problem for local competitions

Austrian FM: Will not stop Turkey’s EU membership

"Austrian FM: Will not stop Turkey’s EU membership
VIENNA – Austrian Foreign Minister Michael Spindelegger said halting Turkey’s European Union accession process was not on their agenda."

More:Austrian FM: Will not stop Turkey’s EU membership

Armenian church in Malatya needs renovation, residents say

"Armenian church in Malatya needs renovation, residents say
MALATYA -The 18th century Toshoron Armenian church in the Çavuşoğlu neighborhood of Malatya is in ruins, in need of care and renovation. Çavuşoğlu is the birthplace of Hrant Dink, the former editor of daily Agos, who was assassinated in 2007."

More:Armenian church in Malatya needs renovation, residents say

New Kurdish ball for state TV broadcast pitch

"New Kurdish ball for state TV broadcast pitch
DİYARBAKIR -The chairman of Diyarbakır’s top football team said his club has applied to have their matches broadcast in Kurdish."

More:New Kurdish ball for state TV broadcast pitch

Monday, May 25, 2009

Galatasaray Reach A Deal To Sign Ruud Van Nistelrooy - Reports - Goal.com

"Galatasaray Reach A Deal To Sign Ruud Van Nistelrooy - Reports
The striker could be on his way out of Madrid this summer...
25 May 2009 16:18:30

Reports in Turkey claim that Galatasaray have reached an agreement to sign Ruud van Nistelrooy and now just need to negotiate a deal with Real Madrid."

More:Galatasaray Reach A Deal To Sign Ruud Van Nistelrooy - Reports - Goal.com

Turkish manufacturing morale jumps, latest improvement - Forbes.com

"Turkish manufacturing morale jumps, latest improvement
05.25.09, 12:14 PM EDT

ISTANBUL, May 25 (Reuters) - Turkey's manufacturing confidence index rose 11.8 points month-on-month in May to its highest level since June last year, the central bank said on Monday, adding to signs of an improving economic outlook."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkish manufacturing morale jumps, latest improvement - Forbes.com

Turkish markets mixed; fear IMF deal delay - Forbes.com

"Turkish markets mixed; fear IMF deal delay
05.25.09, 12:28 PM EDT

ISTANBUL, May 25 (Reuters) - Turkish shares rose and the lira pared losses on Monday after U.S. futures gained and on hopes the local economy may recover faster than was previously expected."

More:UPDATE 2-Turkish markets mixed; fear IMF deal delay - Forbes.com

Prime minister admits Turkey’s ‘fascist’ past - The National Newspaper

"Prime minister admits Turkey’s ‘fascist’ past

Thomas Seibert, Foreign Correspondent

* Last Updated: May 25. 2009 8:57PM UAE / May 25. 2009 4:57PM GMT

ISTANBUL // Turkey’s prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has become his country’s first head of government to acknowledge publicly that his country displayed a “fascist approach” in dealing with its minorities in the past, when Christians and Jews fled abroad after coming under pressure."

More:Prime minister admits Turkey’s ‘fascist’ past - The National Newspaper

PKK leader Murad Karayilan offers Turkey an olive branch to end war - Times Online

"PKK leader Murad Karayilan offers Turkey an olive branch to end war

The Kurdish leader proposing to end a 25-year-long conflict with Turkey that has cost 30,000 lives believes his peace offer is a once in a generation opportunity that must be grasped by both sides. "

More:PKK leader Murad Karayilan offers Turkey an olive branch to end war - Times Online

Turkey reminds Obama of collapse of three empires in Afghanistan

"Turkey reminds Obama of collapse of three empires in Afghanistan
ANKARA - Turkish President Abdullah Gul warned U.S. President Barack Obama on Afghanistan by citing the historic examples of three empires that collapsed in the Central Asian country, diplomatic sources said."

More:Turkey reminds Obama of collapse of three empires in Afghanistan

Turkey's former deputy PM establishes new political party

"Turkey's former deputy PM establishes new political party
ISTANBUL - Turkey's former deputy prime minister, Abdullatif Sener, announced the establishment of a new political party on Monday."

More:Turkey's former deputy PM establishes new political party

Turkey reminds Obama of collapse of three empires in Afghanistan

"Turkey reminds Obama of collapse of three empires in Afghanistan
ANKARA - Turkish President Abdullah Gul warned U.S. President Barack Obama on Afghanistan by citing the historic examples of three empires that collapsed in the Central Asian country, diplomatic sources said."

More:Turkey reminds Obama of collapse of three empires in Afghanistan

The FLORA European Project flies to Istanbul for its final meeting: New glimpses on how flavonoids will change our health

"The FLORA European Project flies to Istanbul for its final meeting: New glimpses on how flavonoids will change our health

Flora project, the European Union-funded study that aims at gaining further evidence on the dynamics triggered by flavonoids and phenolics, will held its final meeting in Istanbul at the ITU Foundation Building, Maçka, one of the international partners joining the study."

More:CORDIS Wire

TURKEY Erdogan attacks the past, labels Kemalist ethnic cleansing Fascist - Asia News

"Erdogan attacks the past, labels Kemalist ethnic cleansing Fascist
by NAT da Polis
In a clear reference to the Greek and Armenian minorities, the premier attacks blind nationalism that does not want to question the past. Appreciation for Erdogan’s words from the Greeks, Armenians and western diplomats. Now everyone wants facts to follow words."

More:TURKEY Erdogan attacks the past, labels Kemalist ethnic cleansing Fascist - Asia News

Downer meets Turkish Cypriot President

"Downer meets Turkish Cypriot President
22.05.2009

President Mehmet Ali Talat received a visit from UN Secretary-General’s Special Advisor to Cyprus Alexander Downer.
Members of the press were allowed to take photographs before the meeting, which started at 5.00pm in the Presidency on Friday 15 May, but no official announcement was made afterwards."

More:Downer meets Turkish Cypriot President

Marmaris craving for its art to be displayed

"Marmaris craving for its art to be displayed
MARMARİS - Closed for three years after it was burgled in 2001, the Marmaris Museum in the Muğla resort town has dissatisfied local residents over the lack of renovation."

More:Marmaris craving for its art to be displayed

Turkey responds to thirsting Iraq

"Turkey responds to thirsting Iraq
ANKARA - Turkey will release more water from its dams along the Euphrates in order to help its neighbor Iraq, which is facing drought. An Iraqi delegation appeals for help, drawing attention to the plight of local farmers. In response, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu says Turkey will allow as much water as possible to flow into neighboring Iraq and Syria"

More:Turkey responds to thirsting Iraq

Remaking women’s role on the front page

"Remaking women’s role on the front page
ISTANBUL - Women do not have enough authority in the media and therefore female stereotypes continue to be the norm. A panel comprised of five leading journalists in Turkey, aims to raise awareness about the issue of gender equality and break the female stereotype that is cast through media"

More:Remaking women’s role on the front page

Ahmet Türk vows not to testify in the courts

"Ahmet Türk vows not to testify in the courts
VAN - As long as there is immunity no depositions will be given, said the co-chairman of the Democratic Society Party, or DTP, at a rally in the southeastern city of Van. A court has sought the depositions of five lawmakers from the DTP on terrorism-related issues."

More:Ahmet Türk vows not to testify in the courts

Turk musical to be global success

"Turk musical to be global success
GAZİANTEP - Taner Demiralp, the composer and art director of 'Fatih' musical, which features the life of Istanbul conqueror, Fatih Sultan Mehmet, and the conquest of the city, asserts that his musical will be one of the most important ones in the world."

More:Turk musical to be global success

Little Shop of Horrors in Istanbul

"Little Shop of Horrors in Istanbul
ISTANBUL - The British Community Council together with Speech Bubbles is getting ready to bring the quasi-dark comic musical 'The Little Shop of Horrors' to Istanbul."

More:Little Shop of Horrors in Istanbul

Turkey’s leadership is more than ready for a solution

"Turkey’s leadership is more than ready for a solution
By Jasper Mortimer

Letter from Ankara

A NEW momentum seems to be developing. In the past four weeks, Turkey has sent a series of signals that it wants a settlement in Cyprus; that the negotiators haven’t got “all day”, they must move.

Cypriots have seen so many initiatives to resolve their division that they’ve grown sceptical. “We’ve been here before,” is the standard response. But the latest signals are interesting.

April 21: Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan tells reporters he wants to see a solution in Cyprus “by the end of 2009”."

More: Cyprus Mail

Washington committed to the reunification of Cyprus

"Washington committed to the reunification of Cyprus

US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton has sad Washington is committed to the reunification of Cyprus as a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation."

More:FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Turkey's pro Kurdish party holds rally in Istanbul

"Turkey's pro Kurdish party holds rally in Istanbul
Turkey's pro Kurdish party on Sunday called for army operations against PKK hideouts to end.
Sunday, 24 May 2009 16:33

World Bulletin / News Desk

Turkey's pro Kurdish party on Sunday held a rally, titled 'Silence guns, not DTP' in Caglayan square in Istanbul, calling for army operations against PKK hideouts to end."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey's pro Kurdish party holds rally in Istanbul ]

Renovating the Armenians spiritual home

"Renovating the Armenians spiritual home
By Simon Bahceli

IT MUST have been around ten years ago that I first wandered into the Arabahmet neighbourhood of Nicosia. Yalcin, a Turkish Cypriot writer and friend of mine, had recently opened a bar and restaurant in the Writer’s Association’s building in Tanzimat Street. Trade was slow and Yalcin soon tired of cooking, so we began taking our own meat to throw on the grill, and our own booze as well, seeing as he would always have to send his assistant out to buy some when ‘customers’ arrived."

More: Cyprus Mail

Ishak Alaton Speaks Out

"Ishak Alaton Speaks Out
Posted on May 24th, 2009 by Jenny White

Sunday’s Zaman interviewed Ishak Alaton, co-founder and chairman of the executive board of Alarko Holding — one of the largest conglomerates in Turkey, investing primarily in energy, housing, tourism and industry. He is a Jewish businessman born and raised in Turkey. I have known Mr. Alaton for a long time and admire him enormously. He has been a courageous public voice for many years in Turkey, well-informed, critical of Turkey as well as Israel, and supportive of human rights — he is a truth-sayer. He is also a man who loves his country and over many years has taken a role in developing it at home and supporting it abroad. I am including excerpts from the English version of the interview below. (Click here for the full interview.)"

More:Kamil Pasha » Ishak Alaton Speaks Out

Opening Iraq’s Gate International Exhibition in the Turkish city of Gaziantep

"Opening Iraq’s Gate International Exhibition in the Turkish city of Gaziantep

The Iraq’s Gate International Exhibition was opened in Gaziantep city with participation of 700 companies from 20 countries in the sectors of energy, health, agriculture and industry.
The Turkish State Minister Zafar Jaglayan said that Turkey aimed to establish a free trade zone with a special status at the Turkish-Iraqi border, noting that Turkey is willing to raise the volume of trade with Iraq to 20 billion dollars."

More:Opening Iraq’s Gate International Exhibition in the Turkish city of Gaziantep

Honorary Consul ’Go West, go West young man’

"Honorary Consul ’Go West, go West young man’
ISTANBUL - A 19th century American newspaper editor once advised a person, 'Go West, young man, go west' and that could apply to Aykut Eken as well. His West was not America but Latin America although he also looks elsewhere for business opportunities."

More:Honorary Consul ’Go West, go West young man’

UN chief Ban laments Cypriots’ ’lack of will’

"UN chief Ban laments Cypriots’ ’lack of will’
ISTANBUL - U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon urged the leaders of Cyprus to accelerate peace talks in a report released Thursday, as the newly elected Turkish Cypriot government expressed pessimism about the success of the negotiations."

More:UN chief Ban laments Cypriots’ ’lack of will’

Saturday, May 23, 2009

Istanbul face recog cameras scan 15000 faces/sec

"Istanbul face recog cameras scan 15000 faces/sec on Saturday May 23, @09:15AM

Istanbul's popular (and crowded) Istiklal shopping, cafe and restaurant street is being outfitted with 64 wirelessly controlled, tamperproof face recognition cameras attached to a computer system capable of scanning 15000 faces in a moving crowd per second for a positive match. The Samanyolu article (badly translated by Google) states that 3 cameras are in place so far and that if trials are successful, this will mark the first time such a system, previously used by Scottland Yard and normally reserved for indoor security use, is put to use in a public outdoor setting. It also notes that each camera controlled by the system is capable of "locking onto" the faces of known criminals and pickpockets detected in the crowd and "tracking" their movements for up to 300 metres before the next, closer placed camera takes over."

More:Slashdot Submission | Istanbul face recog cameras scan 15000 faces/sec

EXPERT SAYS TURKEY'S INFLUENCE WILL INCREASE IN CAUCASUS

"EXPERT SAYS TURKEY'S INFLUENCE WILL INCREASE IN CAUCASUS

Saturday, 23 May 2009
ImageTurkey's influence in the Caucasus will increase if Turkish-Armenian relations improve, but during the process of rapprochement, opposition forces increasingly come to the forefront

Turkey's influence in the Caucasus will increase if Turkish-Armenian relations improve, but during the process of rapprochement, opposition forces increasingly come to the forefront, Alexander Iskandaryan, director of the Yerevan-based Caucasus Institute, has said."

More:EXPERT SAYS TURKEY'S INFLUENCE WILL INCREASE IN CAUCASUS

Ankara raises issue of “Turkish minority” on islands of Rhodes and Kos

"Ankara raises issue of “Turkish minority” on islands of Rhodes and Kos
23 May 2009 | 19:22 | FOCUS News Agency
Athens. Ankara is raising the issue of “Turkish minority” on the islands of Rhodes and Kos, the Greek To Vima daily writes."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

What Does Davutoglu Think About E.U.?

"What Does Davutoglu Think About E.U.?
Published: 5/21/2009

BY MUSTAFA KARAALIOGLU
STAR- The appointment of Prof. Ahmet Davutoglu as foreign minister was found favorable. Even some people accepted this situation enthusiastically. The new foreign minister is the only expert in Turkey who is integrated in the field of foreign policy and who pursues consistent goals and perspectives."

More:What Does Davutoglu Think About E.U.?

Turkish warship photo a ‘sad oversight’ by Ministry

"Turkish warship photo a ‘sad oversight’ by Ministry

THE MINISTRIES of Education and Defence yesterday conflicted over the former’s decision to advertise Cyprus’ participation at an international contemporary arts event with a photograph depicting a Turkish warship.

Defence Minister Costas Papacostas said it was “truly a sad oversight which is unacceptable” that the Education Ministry had chosen to send out official invitations depicting the Turkish ship and flag.

The minister admitted he had not seen the invitations and did not know under what circumstances such a decision had been made."

More: Cyprus Mail

The last hookah in Istanbul | Travel | The Guardian

"The last hookah

With a smoking ban looming, Barbara Nadel seeks out Istanbul's water pipe salons and laments the end of a 400-year-old tradition"

More:The last hookah in Istanbul | Travel | The Guardian

AKP gov’t reviews EU to-do list

"AKP gov’t reviews EU to-do list
ANKARA - Reforming the judiciary, adopting new anti-corruption strategies and amending laws regarding political parties are among the government’s priorities to bolster ties with the European Union, Turkey’s chief EU negotiator said Friday."

More:AKP gov’t reviews EU to-do list

Sarkisian Hopeful that Turkey ‘May Yet Mend Ties With Armenia’ | Asbarez

"Sarkisian Hopeful that Turkey ‘May Yet Mend Ties With Armenia’

By Asbarez Staff on May 22nd, 2009 and filed under Armenia, News, Top Stories.

YEREVAN (RFE/RL)–President Serzh Sarkisian insisted on Friday that Turkey may still agree to unconditionally normalize relations with Armenia soon despite its leaders’ renewed linkage between Turkish-Armenian reconciliation and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict."

More:Sarkisian Hopeful that Turkey ‘May Yet Mend Ties With Armenia’ | Asbarez

Azerbaijan gives green light to gas

"Azerbaijan gives green light to gas
ISTANBUL - Turkey’s growing natural gas need is forcing the government to look for ways to receive more gas through international agreements. Although negotiations continue about Nabucco, Turkish officials say Azerbaijan agreed to feed Turkey 4 billion cubic meters of gas after 2013"

More:Azerbaijan gives green light to gas

Probing ’Vilnius way’ into the EU

"Probing ’Vilnius way’ into the EU
VILNIUS - Visiting Lithuania’s capital Vilnius, members of Turkey’s Young Executives and Businessmen’s Association strengthen links with their counterparts, hoping to raise support for Turkey’s European Union bid. But the country is so badly affected from the global crisis that it is hard to believe Vilnius is selected the ’European Capital of Culture’ this year"

More:Probing ’Vilnius way’ into the EU

World Agenda: EU prepares to welcome President Tony Blair - Times Online

"World Agenda: EU prepares to welcome President Tony Blair

...Berlin and Paris will liaise to make sure they get the president they want and one key policy difference is looming which could wreck Mr Blair’s chances. As Prime Minister he was instrumental in relaunching Turkey’s application for EU membership in 2005. Since then the French and Germans have become increasing hostile, with Mr Sarkozy openly talking about Europe’s natural borders stopping well before the Bosphorus.

Mr Blair could neutralise this issue — no one, not even Turkey’s most fervent supporters, envisages it joining in the next five years, the maximum possible length of the first EU president’s mandate... "

More:World Agenda: EU prepares to welcome President Tony Blair - Times Online

Four PKK rebels killed in SE Turkey: military

"Four PKK rebels killed in SE Turkey: military
www.chinaview.cn 2009-05-23 02:54:18

ANKARA, May 22 (Xinhua) -- Four militants of the outlawed Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) were killed in a clash with Turkish armed forces in southeastern Turkey, said the Turkish military on Friday."

More:Four PKK rebels killed in SE Turkey: military_English_Xinhua

Gürsel calm ahead of verdict

"Gürsel calm ahead of verdict

21/05 15:14 CET

He is not the first writer to live far from his homeland, but Nedim Gürsel, one of Turkey’s greatest authors, likes to think of himself as a bridge, not only between two nations, but between the west and the east."

More:Gürsel calm ahead of verdict - Society : news, interview | euronews

Gov’t’s rights plan comes under fire

"Gov’t’s rights plan comes under fire
ANKARA - Human rights organizations criticize the government for excluding them while drafting a law that would create a human rights institution outside of the government. They are not informed about the draft law, human rights organizations say in a joint statement"

More:Gov’t’s rights plan comes under fire

Friday, May 22, 2009

FIBA keeps faith in Turkey to host 2010 Worlds - USATODAY.com

"FIBA keeps faith in Turkey to host 2010 Worlds

GENEVA (AP) — Basketball's governing body is keeping faith in Turkey's ability to host the 2010 World Championship despite concerns over construction delays.

However, FIBA gave the city of Antalya on Friday until July 15 to finalize contracts to start building a new 10,000-capacity arena."

More:FIBA keeps faith in Turkey to host 2010 Worlds - USATODAY.com

Turkmenistan: New Economic Protocol Signed with Turkey

"TURKMENISTAN: NEW ECONOMIC PROTOCOL SIGNED WITH TURKEY
5/22/09

Ashgabat and Ankara have pledged to increase economic cooperation. The announcement came at the end of a visit by Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yildiz to Ashgabat during which he met President Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov and a series of ministers, news agencies report on May 22."

More:EurasiaNet News Briefs - Turkmenistan: New Economic Protocol Signed with Turkey

Turkey’s EU path adds spark to French vote

"Turkey’s EU path adds spark to French vote

By Ben Hall in Paris

Published: May 22 2009 20:00 | Last updated: May 22 2009 20:00

France’s political parties clashed this week over the question of Turkish membership of the European Union, providing a polemical spark to an otherwise lacklustre European parliament election campaign."

More:FT.com / Brussels - Turkey’s EU path adds spark to French vote

Turkish Cypriots question reunification

"Turkish Cypriots question reunification

The new nationalist leaders in the Turkish-administered part of Cyprus say they see little hope of peace talks leading to the reunification of the island. The government, which came to power at the end of last month, is even talking about a two-state solution."

More:International news - Radio Netherlands Worldwide - English

Turkish stocks rebound, Sekerbank up on sale hopes - Forbes.com

"Turkish stocks rebound, Sekerbank up on sale hopes
05.22.09, 10:12 AM EDT

ISTANBUL, May 22 (Reuters) - The lira held firm and Turkish stocks rebounded on Friday, buoyed by gains in global markets, and a rally in lender Sekerbank on speculation a major shareholder may sell its 34 percent stake."

More:Turkish stocks rebound, Sekerbank up on sale hopes - Forbes.com

At East-West Crossroads, Turkey Presses Ambitious Agenda « Weekly Middle East analysis from Helena Cobban

"At East-West Crossroads, Turkey Presses Ambitious Agenda

ISTANBUL, May 21 (IPS) – Two soaring bridges link Asia and Europe in this historic city, which straddles the two continents.

For the past few years Turkey has likewise acted as a crucial bridge between the western and Muslim worlds. Turkey is a member of both the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC). The current secretary-general of the OIC is a Turkish historian."

More:At East-West Crossroads, Turkey Presses Ambitious Agenda « Weekly Middle East analysis from Helena Cobban

STA: NSi Opposes Turkey's EU Membership

"NSi Opposes Turkey's EU Membership

Ljubljana, 22 May (STA) - MEP and head of non-parliamentary New Slovenia (NSi) Ljudmila Novak said on Friday that the party was very reserved about Turkey joining the EU. She believes that Turkey does not meet EU standards in terms of human rights, respect for minorities and gender equality."

More:STA: NSi Opposes Turkey's EU Membership

SYRIA-TURKEY: ANKARA ASKS NATO AID TO CLEAR MINES ON BORDER

"SYRIA-TURKEY: ANKARA ASKS NATO AID TO CLEAR MINES ON BORDER
(ANSAmed) - ANKARA - NATO must help Ankara to clear the minefields which still exist along the border between Turkey and Syria. The mines date back to the years of tension between the two countries. General Metin Gurak, spokesman for the Turkish Defence chief of staff, was speaking during the customary Friday press conference."

More:ANSAmed

Rival Cypriot leaders continue talks on reunification_English_Xinhua

"Rival Cypriot leaders continue talks on reunification
www.chinaview.cn 2009-05-21 19:00:04
NICOSIA, May 21 (Xinhua) -- Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders on Thursday continued negotiations aimed at reunifying the Mediterranean island.

Greek Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat have met weekly since last September when they restarted peace talks."

More:Rival Cypriot leaders continue talks on reunification_English_Xinhua

Lighthouse ready for judicial process

"Lighthouse ready for judicial process
ANKARA - An Ankara prosecutor announced yesterday that the translation of the Lighthouse e.V. case file was completed and ready for judicial process, following the opposition’s criticism of the delay."

More:Lighthouse ready for judicial process

Istanbul welcomes a music talent

"Istanbul welcomes a music talent
ISTANBUL - The Grammy Award-winning African musician Toumani Diabat will perform in Turkey for the first time tonight at the Cemal Reşit Rey Concert Hall."

More:Istanbul welcomes a music talent

Turks to NATO: Let’s get it right

"Turks to NATO: Let’s get it right
ISTANBUL - Turkey says the problems in Afghanistan and Pakistan, referred to collectively as Afpak, should be considered separate cases with separate solutions. 'Analysis made for Afghanistan cannot be applicable to Pakistan,' a senior official says. Turkey has expressed this view to NATO, the EU and the US and will work to influence policy in the region"

More:Turks to NATO: Let’s get it right

State TV ordered to compensate the CHP

"State TV ordered to compensate the CHP
ANKARA - An Ankara court yesterday sentenced state-owned Turkish Radio and Television, or TRT, to pay 20,000 Turkish Liras to the Republican People’s Party, or CHP, and its leader, Deniz Baykal, on the grounds that the party’s legal entity and Baykal’s individual rights were attacked on a television show."

More:State TV ordered to compensate the CHP

POLITICS: At East-West Crossroads, Turkey Presses Ambitious Agenda

"POLITICS: At East-West Crossroads, Turkey Presses Ambitious Agenda
Analysis by Helena Cobban*

ISTANBUL, May 21 (IPS) - Two soaring bridges link Asia and Europe in this historic city, which straddles the two continents.

For the past few years Turkey has likewise acted as a crucial bridge between the western and Muslim worlds. Turkey is a member of both the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC). The current secretary-general of the OIC is a Turkish historian."

More:POLITICS: At East-West Crossroads, Turkey Presses Ambitious Agenda

Education minister’s remark draws reaction

"Education minister’s remark draws reaction
ANKARA - Education experts weighed in on the new education minister’s remark suggesting the possible removal of the student oath, which concludes with the phrase 'How happy is he who can say I am a Turk,' with some speaking of the phrase's negative effects on minorities and others."

More:Education minister’s remark draws reaction

Turkish side draws bold red lines for Cyprus

"Turkish side draws bold red lines for Cyprus
ISTANBUL - Basic parameters of a solution to the decades-old Cyprus dispute such as political equality and Turkey’s guarantorship cannot be watered down, said the new foreign minister of northern Cyprus, where the National Unity Party government received the parliament’s vote of confidence."

More:Turkish side draws bold red lines for Cyprus

Caucasian triangles

"Caucasian triangles
The Arabs could learn much from watching Iran, Turkey and Russia play their cards in the struggle for influence and power in the Caucasus, writes Mustafa El-Labbad*"

More:Al-Ahram Weekly | Opinion | Caucasian triangles

At Turkish Border, Armenians Are Wary of a Thaw - NYTimes.com

"At Turkish Border, Armenians Are Wary of a Thaw

By CLIFFORD J. LEVY
Published: May 21, 2009

LUSARAT, Armenia — Vazgen Shmavonyan keeps a flock of doves at an Armenian Orthodox pilgrimage site here, and they readily venture across the border into Turkey, less than a mile away. But Mr. Shmavonyan cannot follow, as if he is the caged one. Off they go, symbols of something that this region has not had a whole lot of."

More:Lusarat Journal - At Turkish Border, Armenians Are Wary of a Thaw - NYTimes.com

US slams eviction of old Roma settlement

"US slams eviction of old Roma settlement
WASHINGTON -The leaders of a human-rights commission created by the U.S. Congress have condemned Turkish authorities’ demolition of houses in Istanbul’s ancient Sulukule district, home for centuries to the city’s Roma population."

More:US slams eviction of old Roma settlement

Şimşek throws the ball on IMF deal

"Şimşek throws the ball on IMF deal
ANKARA - Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Şimşek said he expects his successor as economy minister to say where the country stands in talks on a new loan accord from the International Monetary Fund, or IMF."

More:Şimşek throws the ball on IMF deal

Forum Istanbul to focus on global crisis

"Forum Istanbul to focus on global crisis
ISTANBUL - Forum Istanbul, which aims to urge society and specifically academic, business and bureaucratic circles to consider Turkey's situation and generate solutions for the country's problems, will take place May 28-29 at Swissotel the Bosphorus, with the global crisis as its focus."

More:Forum Istanbul to focus on global crisis

FM: Turkey determined to be in EU

"FM: Turkey determined to be in EU
BRUSSELS – Debate over Turkey’s accession process to the European Union should end, said Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu."

More:FM: Turkey determined to be in EU

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Turkey, Brazil look to boost trade, partnerships

"Turkey, Brazil look to boost trade, partnerships

* Turkey-Brazil trade can grow 300-400 pct
* Trade over $1 billion in 2008
* Petrobras to invest $300 mln by end 2010
By Thomas Grove
ISTANBUL, May 21 (Reuters) - Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and business leaders visited Istanbul on Thursday to secure a stronger foothold in Turkey's domestic market and make good on its regional ties."

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

In Love with Arab Islamists

"In Love with Arab Islamists
By Soner Cagaptay

For so long, I have argued that the AKP's foreign policy is Islamist. Well, I stand corrected: the AKP's foreign policy does not have a generic Islamist tinge; rather the party is infatuated with Arab Islamist causes."

More:Article or Op-Ed

Does Turkey have an answer to the Kurdish question?

"Does Turkey have an answer to the Kurdish question?

Simon Tisdall: President Gul has spoken of a 'historic opportunity' and a 'new consensus', but elsewhere in the country, scepticism remains
Thursday, 21 May 2009

Speculation is rife in Turkey that a settlement of the Kurdish question may finally be within reach after 25 years of violence and confrontation that has claimed 40,000 lives. But while politicians and commentators in Ankara and Istanbul focus on a new beginning, Kurds in the south-east of the country complain old-style, dead-end repression is only getting worse."

More:UTV News - Does Turkey have an answer to the Kurdish question?

Turkey wins support for EU membership - UPI.com

"Turkey wins support for EU membership

BRUSSELS, May 20 (UPI) -- Ankara received pledges of support for its accession to the European Union from the EU presidency and the European Commission despite modest opposition."

More:Turkey wins support for EU membership - UPI.com

Turkey's rebellious Kurds: Stone-throwers in glass houses | The Economist

"Stone-throwers in glass houses

May 21st 2009 | ADANA
From The Economist print edition
Turkish promises to improve the treatment of Kurds ring hollow

AFP

INSIDE a concrete shack in the predominantly Kurdish slum of Daglioglu, in south-east Turkey, 17-year-old “Mehmet” (he cannot give his real name) rolls up his trousers and points to a deep scar. “They beat me, kicked me repeatedly, called me a ‘dirty Kurd’, forced me to do push-ups and demanded I become an informant.” In another neighbourhood a 16-year-old girl suffered worse horrors. “Confess or I’ll fuck you and your mother,” she was told as she was driven to police headquarters. She and other female detainees were, she says, clubbed and dragged by the hair. In jail they were stripped naked and forced to kneel as wardens “searched our crevices”."

More:Turkey's rebellious Kurds: Stone-throwers in glass houses | The Economist

Turkey enters the PV arena with €0.28 feed-in tariff « Energy Consulting

"Turkey enters the PV arena with €0.28 feed-in tariff
By Daniel Gallego

An announcement by Sharp Solar outlining the potential boom in the Turkish PV market has referred to the country’s government’s recent introduction of a €0.28 feed-in tariff for the first 10 years, with a rate of €0.22 thereafter for another 10-year period. Turkey receives an average of seven hours of sunshine per day, with a radiation intensity of 1,300 kilowatt-hours per square metre."

More:Turkey enters the PV arena with €0.28 feed-in tariff « Energy Consulting

Turkey downplays Iraqi energy ties - UPI.com

"Turkey downplays Iraqi energy ties

ANKARA, Turkey, May 21 (UPI) -- Turkish energy officials downplayed meetings scheduled for June with Iraq to discuss gas exports from the Akkas field near the Iraqi border with Syria."

More:Turkey downplays Iraqi energy ties - UPI.com

Turkey criticizes assimilation ambition by Greek Cyprus

"Turkey criticizes assimilation ambition by Greek Cyprus
Turkish FM criticized the recent words of Greek Cypriot leader on the assimilation of Turkish population 'step by step'."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey criticizes assimilation ambition by Greek Cyprus ]

Turkey urges speeding up Cyprus talks, rejects EU link — EUbusiness.com - business, legal and economic news and information from the European Union

"Turkey urges speeding up Cyprus talks, rejects EU link
21 May 2009, 16:17 CET

(ANKARA) - Turkey on Thursday called for speeding up UN-sponsored peace talks to reunite Cyprus and rejected European Union pressure linking the conflict to its membership bid."

More:Turkey urges speeding up Cyprus talks, rejects EU link — EUbusiness.com - business, legal and economic news and information from the European Union

EU voters don't have Turkey on their minds - Radio Netherlands Worldwide - English

"EU voters don't have Turkey on their minds

By Perro de Jong*

21-05-2009

To one voter, the forthcoming European Union elections are a veiled referendum on Brussels as Big Brother. To another, a veiled referendum on Turkish EU membership. Or on immigration. Who's right?"

More:EU voters don't have Turkey on their minds - Radio Netherlands Worldwide - English

Northern Cyprus Travel Ban Challenged

"Northern Cyprus travel ban challenged

Direct air access from the UK to northern Cyprus could be resumed if a court challenge to the current ban on such travel is upheld.

The ban, which has lasted since Turkey's invasion of the island in 1974, is being challenged by Cyprus Turkish Airlines, which flies 100,000 Britons to the unofficial republic each year but cannot do so directly from Britain."

More:Northern Cyprus Travel Ban Challenged

Loan support to boost wind energy

"Loan support to boost wind energy
ISTANBUL - As its first project in Turkey, the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development, or EBRD, has granted a 45 million euro loan to construct the country’s largest wind farm."

More:Loan support to boost wind energy

Turkish hospital releases two recovered swine flu patients

"Turkish hospital releases two recovered swine flu patients
ISTANBUL - A Turkish hospital has discharged two Iraqi-born U.S. nationals who have recovered from swine flu, the Health Ministry said, broadcaster CNNTurk reported Thursday."

More:Turkish hospital releases two recovered swine flu patients

Armenians voice dismay to Obama

"Armenians voice dismay to Obama
WASHINGTON - The Armenian National Committee of America sends a letter to US President Barack Obama. The committee is upset over his decision not to use the word genocide in a recent statement out of concern for potentially derailing the Turkey-Armenia reconciliation process."

More:Armenians voice dismay to Obama

Başbuğ questions media perception

"Başbuğ questions media perception
ANKARA - Chief of General Staff Gen. İlker Başbuğ poses questions to well-known foreign scholars of history on the perception of Turkey in the West. ’Today, we see very strong prejudice against Turks is still there,’ replies historian Justin McCarthy"

More:Başbuğ questions media perception