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Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Turkey Wants UN Discussion on Gaza Report - News Briefs - Israel National News

"Turkey Wants UN Discussion on Gaza Report

Reported: 08:58 AM - Sep/30/09
Follow Israel news briefs on Twitter and Facebook.

(IsraelNN.com) Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan will urge the UN Security Council to discuss the controversial Goldstone report claiming to detail Israeli “war crimes” during its Cast Lead operation in Gaza. Turkey joined the 15-nation Security Council as a temporary member in January and will have a seat until the end of 2010."

More:Turkey Wants UN Discussion on Gaza Report - News Briefs - Israel National News

Well covered-up

"Well covered-up
Published on: Wednesday 30 Sep 2009, 10:25 by Fréderike Geerdink in Hoofdartikel
Published in: Amnesty's monthly Wordt Vervolgd

The fight between Kurdish seperatist movement PKK and the Turkish army was at its dirtiest in the nineteen-nineties. Hundreds of (alleged) PKK sympathisers were killed or disappeared without a trace. Who was responsible? It was thought “Jitem”, a secret anti-terrorism unit of the military police. The bodies were dumped in wells, fields and rivers. Now that Turkey is democratizing, the search for the bodies has begun."

More:Well covered-up | Journalist in Turkey, background articles, news and weblog about Turkey and Istanbul

Free media will save Turkish democracy

"Free media will save Turkish democracy

Wednesday, September 30, 2009
SONER ÇAĞAPTAY

Turkey’s experiment with Islamists-turned-democrats might be coming to a tragic end. When the Justice and Development Party, or AKP, rooted in Turkey’s Islamist opposition came to power in Turkey in 2002 and declared itself a democratic movement, nearly everyone gave it the benefit of the doubt. At that time, the party pushed for European Union accession and followed a liberal reform agenda. The party also reached out to non-Islamist constituencies, suggesting a pluralist understanding of democracy and alleviating concerns about its Islamist pedigree."

Free media will save Turkish democracy - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

High court to review parts of anti-terrorism law

"High court to review parts of anti-terrorism law

(AP) – 39 minutes ago

WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court will consider whether portions of a law that makes it a crime to provide 'material support or resources' to designated terrorist groups are unconstitutional.

The justices said Wednesday they will hear the Obama administration's appeal of an appeals court ruling that declared parts of the law unconstitutionally vague.

The law , frequently used by federal prosecutors since Sept. 11, bars financial and other aid to any group designated a terrorist organization. The individuals and groups that challenged the law argued that it prohibits aid to lawful, nonviolent activities of designated organizations. In this case, the groups work with the Kurdish Workers Party in Turkey and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in Sri Lanka."

More:The Associated Press: High court to review parts of anti-terrorism law

Where is Turkish media heading?

"Where is Turkish media heading?

Tuesday, September 29, 2009
MURAT YETKİN

Şamil Tayyar of daily Star wrote about the pressure on him and the lawsuits filed against him for the articles he wrote about the Ergenekon crime-gang case.

Tayyar is a columnist who has penned so many pieces on the case. Now he faces numerous legal suits. Tayyar has even been sentenced for writing about a wiretapping record on two individuals involved in the Ergenekon case. If you ask why the minutes on a dialogue between the two was included in the case file, I would write a separate piece and title it “Where is the judiciary heading?”"

More:Where is Turkish media heading? - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish Industry Min: "No Extension On Tax Cuts" - IHA

"Turkish Industry Min: 'No Extension On Tax Cuts' - IHA

ANKARA -(Dow Jones)- Turkish Industry Minister Nihat Ergun said Wednesday there will be no extension to tax cuts that the government implemented for some sectors in order to revive the economy, the Ihlas News Agency, or IHA, reports."

More:Turkish Industry Min: "No Extension On Tax Cuts" - IHA

Turkey's Yildiz to attend energy forum in Romania

"Turkey's Yildiz to attend energy forum in Romania
Yildiz will take part in the 'Black Sea Energy and Economic Forum' in Bucharest, his office said on Tuesday."

More:WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS [ Turkey's Yildiz to attend energy forum in Romania ]

ARMENIAN DIASPORA WARNS SERZH SARKSYAN

"ARMENIAN DIASPORA WARNS SERZH SARKSYAN
Wednesday, 30 September 2009

A group of Armenian Diaspora representatives (the majority of them Russian Armenians) called on Armenian authorities not to sign the protocols initialed with Turkey, APA reported quoting Novosti-Armenia agency."

More:Historyoftruth.com - Armenian Allegations - ARMENIAN DIASPORA WARNS SERZH SARKSYAN

Turkey: Armenian no-show won't harm ties - Taiwan News Online

"Turkey: Armenian no-show won't harm ties
Associated Press

Turkey's foreign minister says he hopes Armenia's president will visit this month for a World Cup soccer qualifier between Turkey and Armenia.

But Ahmet Davutoglu says a no-show by Armenian leader Serge Sarkisian would not affect the process of establishing diplomatic ties."

More:Turkey: Armenian no-show won't harm ties - Taiwan News Online

G7 may not issue communique in Istanbul - sources | Currencies | Reuters

"G7 may not issue communique in Istanbul - sources
Wed Sep 30, 2009 9:33am EDT

Sept 30 (Reuters) - Finance ministers and central bank governors of the Group of Seven (G7) nations may not issue a communique at the end of their meeting in Istanbul this weekend, two G7 sources said on Wednesday."

More:G7 may not issue communique in Istanbul - sources | Currencies | Reuters

Turk regulator probes 19 auto firms on price fixing | Markets | Markets News | Reuters

"Turk regulator probes 19 auto firms on price fixing
Wed Sep 30, 2009 6:30am EDT

By Thomas Grove and Orhan Coskun

ISTANBUL/ANKARA, Sept 30 (Reuters) - Turkey's Competition Board said on Wednesday it had opened an investigation into 19 of the country's largest auto companies, including foreign firms operating in Turkey, for alleged price-fixing since 2006."

More:UPDATE 2-Turk regulator probes 19 auto firms on price fixing | Markets | Markets News | Reuters

Ignorance breeds prejudice in Turkey, study shows

"Ignorance breeds prejudice in Turkey, study shows

Wednesday, September 30, 2009
ISTANBUL - Radikal

A lack of knowledge and prejudices rather than fact are the main influences of Turks' perceptions of minorities in Turkey, according to a survey carried out earlier this year.

The Frekans Research Field and Data Processing Co. conducted the survey as part of a project to promote the Turkish Jewish community and culture with the sponsorship of the European Commission and the Beyoğlu Rabbi’s Office Foundation. A total of 1,108 people around the country were questioned between May 18 and June 18."

More:Ignorance breeds prejudice in Turkey, study shows - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey plans to make Istanbul world finance hub

"Turkey plans to make Istanbul world finance hub
www.chinaview.cn 2009-09-30 19:48:50

ISTANBUL, Sept. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Turkish government plans to make its largest city of Istanbul one of the prominent finance centers in the world, local Daily News reported Wednesday."

More:Turkey plans to make Istanbul world finance hub_English_Xinhua

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Turkish Delights: Istanbul's Places & Prices from Condé Nast Traveler on Concierge.com

"Turkish Delights: Istanbul's Places & Prices
by Joan Juliet Buck and Esin Göknar | Published May 2009 | See more Condé Nast Traveler articles ›

Joan Juliet Buck and Esin Göknar pick and choose among Istanbul's cornucopia of treasures

Istanbul is a sprawling city of 18 million, with a patchwork of neighborhoods bisected by the Bosphorus into the European and Asian sides. The up-and-coming Golden Horn, an inlet of the Bosphorus on the European side, was settled by Jews, Armenians, and Greek Orthodox during tolerant Ottoman times. This revitalized area and the luxurious waterfront of the Bosphorus—plus the rising star of the Asian region—have added to Istanbul's charms in recent years."

More:Turkish Delights: Istanbul's Places & Prices from Condé Nast Traveler on Concierge.com

Germany's election doesn't bode will for Turkey's EU hopes | The Call

"Germany's election doesn't bode will for Turkey's EU hopes
Tue, 09/29/2009 - 4:05pm

By Eurasia Group analysts Irmak Bademli and Wolfango Piccoli

Turkey's ailing bid for EU membership will face greater difficulties following the win of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Free Democratic Party (FDP) in Germany's recent elections. The FDP's replacement of the pro-Turkey Social Democratic Party (SPD) will allow Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has long favored a 'privileged partnership' rather than full membership for Turkey, to become more vocal in her opposition to Ankara's EU entry. Meanwhile, Cyprus remains a major obstacle in Turkey's path to EU membership."

More:Germany's election doesn't bode will for Turkey's EU hopes | The Call

G-7 finance chiefs to meet in Istanbul to give shape to G-20 pledges

"G-7 finance chiefs to meet in Istanbul to give shape to G-20 pledges
TOKYO, Sept. 30 KYODO
Finance chiefs from the Group of Seven industrial powers will gather in Istanbul, Turkey, on Saturday to reaffirm their determination to nurture budding signs of economic recovery and achieve sustainable growth."

More:Kyodo News - Story

Ankara faces tough domestic fight on Armenia, Kurds AFP , ANKARA

"Ankara faces tough domestic fight on Armenia, Kurds

AFP , ANKARA
Wednesday, Sep 30, 2009, Page 6

Turkey’s government has won international praise for efforts to end a bitter dispute with Armenia and expand rights for Kurds, but a fierce battle is brewing at home over the highly charged issues."

More:Taipei Times - archives

Turkey seeks to extend mandate to fight rebels in Iraq | Reuters

"Turkey seeks to extend mandate to fight rebels in Iraq
Tue Sep 29, 2009 12:58pm EDT

ISTANBUL, Sept 29 (Reuters) - Turkey's government said on Tuesday it would ask parliament to extend for one year a mandate that allows its military to attack Kurdish rebels in north Iraq."

More:Turkey seeks to extend mandate to fight rebels in Iraq | Reuters

Angela Merkel win ends Turkey's EU hopes - Telegraph

"Angela Merkel win ends Turkey's EU hopes
Turkish hopes of joining the EU appeared to be all but over after Germany gave warning it was ready to join France and Italy in outright opposition to the country's membership."

More:Angela Merkel win ends Turkey's EU hopes - Telegraph

Zoellick: currencies to be discussed in Istanbul - News Wires - CNBC.com

"Zoellick: currencies to be discussed in Istanbul
By: The Associated Press | 29 Sep 2009 | 12:42 PM ET

LONDON - Currency issues will likely be discussed at this week's annual meeting of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, the bank's president said Tuesday."

More:Zoellick: currencies to be discussed in Istanbul - News Wires - CNBC.com

Istanbul Calling: Patriot (missile) Games, Pt. II | Turkey

"Istanbul Calling: Patriot (missile) Games, Pt. II
Yigal Schleifer
September 29, 2009 Yigal Schleifer

A bit more to follow up my previous post about Turkey’s plans to purchase it’s first missile defense system (possibly American-made Patriots), a story which I think is going to develop in interesting ways, particularly in light of Iran’s recent missile tests and Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s upcoming visit to Tehran."

More:Istanbul Calling: Patriot (missile) Games, Pt. II | Turkey

A Sultan's Farewell

"A Sultan's Farewell
Asli Aydintasbas, 09.29.09, 11:19 AM EDT
Ertugrul Osman, the would-be Ottoman sultan, died in Istanbul at the age of 97.

ISTANBUL -- Had Ertugrul Osman, the exiled heir to the Ottoman throne, attended his own funeral this week, he would have been amused at the incongruity of the crowd."

More:A Sultan's Farewell - Forbes.com

Turkey's FM meets Clinton, steps to normalize Armenia ties hailed

"Turkey's FM meets Clinton, steps to normalize Armenia ties hailed
Clinton hailed steps taken by Turkey and Armenia to normalize their ties as she met here with the foreign ministers of both countries."

More:WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS [ Turkey's FM meets Clinton, steps to normalize Armenia ties hailed ]

Feature: War veterans in Cyprus gather for Day of Peace _English_Xinhua

"Feature: War veterans in Cyprus gather for Day of Peace
www.chinaview.cn 2009-09-29 20:14:58

By Petros Petrides

NICOSIA, Sept. 29 (Xinhua) -- Some 20,000 Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cypriots fought side by side during the Second World War against Nazism and Fascism. These days, only a few dozens of them are still living, all in their late eighties or early nineties."

More:Feature: War veterans in Cyprus gather for Day of Peace _English_Xinhua

Two DTP MPs to be brought to testify by force, court rules

"Two DTP MPs to be brought to testify by force, court rules

As the country discusses the government-led Kurdish move to end the decades-old problem, an Ankara court has ruled that two pro-Kurdish deputies must be forcibly brought to testify at a hearing in December."

More:Two DTP MPs to be brought to testify by force, court rules - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turks must play significant role in Karabakh conflict: Armenian ex-minister

"Turks must play significant role in Karabakh conflict: Armenian ex-minister
29 September 2009 [12:27] - Today.Az
Armenian Ex-Education Minister and Associate to Armenian Ex-President Levon ter-Petrosyan Ashot Bleyan spoke to Day.Az in an interview."

More:Today.Az - Turks must play significant role in Karabakh conflict: Armenian ex-minister

No fixed timetable to open new office in Istanbul: MOFA - Taiwan News Online

"No fixed timetable to open new office in Istanbul: MOFA

Taipei, Sept. 29 (CNA) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Tuesday that it is working on a plan to set up a new representative office in Istanbul, Turkey, but its timetable is 'flexible.' 'The Foreign Ministry has maintained close contact with its Turkish counterpart and is working on the matter, but it takes time and patience, as further discussion of the details is needed, ' said Lin Jinn-jong, director-general of the MOFA's Department of West Asian Affairs, at a regular press briefing."

More:No fixed timetable to open new office in Istanbul: MOFA - Taiwan News Online

Turkish parliament not to ratify Ankara-Yerevan protocol: former Turkish minister

"Turkish parliament not to ratify Ankara-Yerevan protocol: former Turkish minister
29 September 2009 [09:36] - Today.Az
The Turkish parliament will not approve the Ankara-Yerevan protocol, Turkish MP said.

The Turkish parliament will not approve the Ankara-Yerevan protocol signed with the mediation of Switzerland,' former Turkish state minister, MP from the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), Rashad Dogru said."

More:Today.Az - Turkish parliament not to ratify Ankara-Yerevan protocol: former Turkish minister

Monday, September 28, 2009

Turkish govt faces fierce debate over Armenia, Kurds

"Turkish govt faces fierce debate over Armenia, Kurds
This constitution is an obstacle to all democratic rights. ‘If you do not change it, you cannot achieve anything’

Tuesday, September 29, 2009
ANKARA: Turkey’s government has won international praise for efforts to end a bitter dispute with Armenia and expand rights for Kurds, but a fierce battle is brewing at home over the highly charged issues.

According to parliamentary sources, the government will put the two issues before lawmakers soon after they resume legislative work on Oct 6 — five days after parliament re-opens."

More:Turkish govt faces fierce debate over Armenia, Kurds

Turkey's Dogan says fine increased to $3.2 bl | Markets | Reuters

"Turkey's Dogan says fine increased to $3.2 bl
Mon Sep 28, 2009 10:14pm IST

ISTANBUL, Sept 28 (Reuters) - Turkey's largest media group Dogan Yayin said on Monday it was officially notified of an increase in a tax fine to 4.8 billion lira ($3.22 billion), as penalties mount in a case that has cast doubts on the European Union candidate country's commitment to press freedom."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkey's Dogan says fine increased to $3.2 bl | Markets | Reuters

Istanbul and Athens form joint index

"Istanbul and Athens form joint index

By Delphine Strauss in Ankara

Published: September 28 2009 18:54 | Last updated: September 28 2009 18:54

The Athens and Istanbul stock exchanges on Monday launched a joint equities index designed to make cross-border trading easier and encourage portfolio investment."

More:FT.com / Markets / European equities - Istanbul and Athens form joint index

Turkey tightens security in Istanbul for IMF/World Bank meetings_English_Xinhua

"Turkey tightens security in Istanbul for IMF/World Bank meetings
www.chinaview.cn 2009-09-29 03:34:51

ISTANBUL, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Turkey authorities have imposed tight security measures in its largest city of Istanbul as the date approaches to hold the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, scheduled to take place on Oct.6 to 7."

More:Turkey tightens security in Istanbul for IMF/World Bank meetings_English_Xinhua

Remarks With Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu Before Their Meeting

"Remarks With Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu Before Their Meeting

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Waldorf-Astoria
New York City
September 28, 2009

SECRETARY CLINTON: (In progress) we’ve developed (inaudible) openness in what is often very difficult circumstances with the many challenges that we face. Good morning. Good morning. Well, this is a special privilege and pleasure.

FOREIGN MINISTER DAVUTOGLU: Same.

SECRETARY CLINTON: It represents the importance of the U.S.-Turkish partnership. And the foreign minister and I speak on a regular basis on a range of issues that are important, including energy and Turkey’s EU accession process and the normalization efforts with Armenia and the situation in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, the Middle East. There’s hardly an issue that we do not discuss."

More:Remarks With Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu Before Their Meeting

EU shows political partiality in negotiation process with Turkey: PM

"EU shows political partiality in negotiation process with Turkey: PM
28 September 2009 | 21:11 | FOCUS News Agency
Istanbul. The European Union has showed political partiality in the negotiation process with Turkey and has taken political decisions as often not observing requirements of the Union, said Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Yeni Safak newspaper informed."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

Turks see no block on EU bid by new German gov't | International | Reuters

"Turks see no block on EU bid by new German gov't
Mon Sep 28, 2009 11:59am EDT

By Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA (Reuters) - After forming a new coalition with a more pro-Ankara ally, German Chancellor Angela Merkel is unlikely to try to block the progress of Ankara's EU bid despite opposing full Turkish membership, Turkish analysts say."

More:Turks see no block on EU bid by new German gov't | International | Reuters

Turks see no block on EU bid by new German gov't | International | Reuters

"Turks see no block on EU bid by new German gov't
Mon Sep 28, 2009 11:59am EDT

By Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA (Reuters) - After forming a new coalition with a more pro-Ankara ally, German Chancellor Angela Merkel is unlikely to try to block the progress of Ankara's EU bid despite opposing full Turkish membership, Turkish analysts say."

More:Turks see no block on EU bid by new German gov't | International | Reuters

One dead after bees swarm in southern Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

"One dead after bees swarm in southern Turkey

Muğla Governor Ahmet Altıparmak said Monday a van stacked with beehives crashed into a truck, killing one person and causing the bees to swarm and attack five injured crash victims and their rescuers."

More:One dead after bees swarm in southern Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Gov’t to construct new airports in Istanbul

"Gov’t to construct new airports in Istanbul

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Monday his government is planning to construct several new airports in Istanbul."

More:Gov’t to construct new airports in Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Muğla governor denies British tabloid's story

"Muğla governor denies British tabloid's story

State officials have strongly rejected the allegations of a British tabloid magazine suggesting a rapist was set loose in the popular resort town of Marmaris."

More:Muğla governor denies British tabloid's story - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

BNR • Minister Tsvetkov participates in a forum in Istanbul

"Minister Tsvetkov participates in a forum in Istanbul

From today till September 29th Bulgarian Minister of transport, informational technologies and communications Alexander Tsvetkov is in Istanbul, Turkey to participate in the 10th Turkish International Transport Forum."

More:BNR • Minister Tsvetkov participates in a forum in Istanbul

Feature: Ancient Grand Bazaar in Istanbul hit hard by economic crisis _English_Xinhua

"Feature: Ancient Grand Bazaar in Istanbul hit hard by economic crisis
www.chinaview.cn 2009-09-28 16:10:08

by Xinhua writer Chen Ming

ISTANBUL, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The domed-capped Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, was ravaged by numerous fires and earthquakes in the past and now is hit hard by the ongoing economic crisis."

More:Feature: Ancient Grand Bazaar in Istanbul hit hard by economic crisis _English_Xinhua

TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS [ Iraqi FM on Turkey's Kurdish opening: Interview ]

"Iraqi FM on Turkey's Kurdish opening: Interview
Iraq Minister of Foreign Affairs Zebari evaluated Turkey-Iraq relations and regional problems for the World Bulletin."

More:WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS [ Iraqi FM on Turkey's Kurdish opening: Interview ]

USTDA: News & Events: Turkey Energy Efficiency Orientation Visit

"Turkey Energy Efficiency Orientation Visit

Dates: December 7-18, 2009

Location: Washington, DC; Harrisburg, PA; and San Francisco, CA

USTDA will host a delegation of 10 Government of Turkey officials responsible for the oversight and promotion of energy service company (ESCO) energy efficiency projects in public buildings. During the visit, participants will visit Washington, DC; Harrisburg, PA and San Francisco CA to examine policies, regulations, laws and incentives at the state and federal level that enable ESCOS to implement energy efficiency improvements in public buildings."

More:USTDA: News & Events: Turkey Energy Efficiency Orientation Visit

(Spo) IceHockey Iihf Continental Cup In Ankara< - Turk.Net

"Ice-Hockey - Iihf Continental Cup In Ankara

ANKARA (A.A) - 28.09.2009 - FC Barcelona of Spain qualified to the second round after the opening round games of the International Ice Hockey Federation's (IIHF) Continental Cup at Ankara's Ice Palace on September 25 and 27."

More:(Spo) IceHockey Iihf Continental Cup In Ankara< - Turk.Net

Today.Az - Azerbaijan-Israel-Turkey multilateral cooperation to be debated in New York

"Azerbaijan-Israel-Turkey multilateral cooperation to be debated in New York
28 September 2009 [14:07] - Today.Az
The importance of multilateral cooperation of Azerbaijan, Israel and Turkey as an important strategic alliance will be discussed in New-York."

More:Today.Az - Azerbaijan-Israel-Turkey multilateral cooperation to be debated in New York

FT.com / Brussels - Berlin set to harden stance on Turkey

"Berlin set to harden stance on Turkey

By Tony Barber in Brussels

Published: September 28 2009 10:43 | Last updated: September 28 2009 11:03

Germany’s lukewarm attitude to Turkish membership of the European Union is likely to be reinforced after the election victory of Angela Merkel, the Christian Democrat chancellor, and the liberal Free Democrats, EU diplomats said on Monday."

More:FT.com / Brussels - Berlin set to harden stance on Turkey

Turkey, Syria To Cooperate

"Turkey, Syria To Cooperate

By DAVID BEDEIN, Middle East Correspondent
Monday, September 28, 2009
After decades of enmity, Syria and Turkey have launched a strategic cooperation agreement. This month, the two neighbors signed an agreement meant that included cooperation in the defense and military sectors. The accord also saw the removal of restrictions along the border between Syria and Turkey."

More:Turkey, Syria To Cooperate - The Philadelphia Bulletin

Information day and brokerage event, Istanbul, Turkey

"Information day and brokerage event, Istanbul, Turkey

[Date: 2009-09-28]

An information and brokerage event on information and communication technologies (ICT) and the EU's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) is being organised by the Ideal-ist Network, in collaboration with eChallenges2009 and the European Commission's Directorate-General for Information Society and Media (DG INFSO), on 20 October in Istanbul, Turkey."

More:CORDIS : News

Talat to discuss Cyprus talks with Ban today

"Talat to discuss Cyprus talks with Ban today

FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE -- 9/28/2009
Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat will meet the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at the United Nations later today.

Before his meeting with Ban, Mr Talat came together with the UN chief at a reception given by the Secretary-General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference."

More: FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE

Armenians protest protocols

"Armenians protest protocols

By Melanie Hicken
Published: Last Updated Sunday, September 27, 2009 9:29 PM PDT
GLENDALE — Chanting and signs filled Pelanconi Park and its surrounding streets Sunday as thousands of people gathered to rally against the protocols for new talks between Armenia and Turkey."

More:Glendale News Press > Archives > News > Armenians protest protocols

Armenia, Turkey look to economic, diplomatic gains | Reuters

"Armenia, Turkey look to economic, diplomatic gains

By Matt Robinson - Analysis

TBILISI (Reuters) - Armenia stands to make huge economic gains from an open border with Turkey while Ankara can claim a diplomatic triumph if the neighbors see through a promise to restore ties after 100 years of hostility."

More:Armenia, Turkey look to economic, diplomatic gains | Reuters

PACE president comments on plans to sign Armenia-Turkey protocols

"PACE president comments on plans to sign Armenia-Turkey protocols
28 September 2009 [16:22] - Today.Az
The Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) began its autumn session on Monday.

Following the plenary meeting, PACE President Luis Maria de Puig held a traditional news conference."

More:Today.Az - PACE president comments on plans to sign Armenia-Turkey protocols

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Would you like to Dine at a Police Station in Istanbul?

"Would you like to Dine at a Police Station in Istanbul?
Published by Ozgur Tore
Sunday, 27 September 2009
If you are going to visit Istanbul soon, now you can dine at a Police Station and feel the Ottoman atmosphere.

On 26 September 2009, Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mr. Ertugrul Gunay opened the renovated Ottoman Police Station at the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul, Turkey."

More:Focus on Travel News: Daily Travel News website and Newsletter - Would you like to Dine at a Police Station in Istanbul?

100 NGO’s meet in Istanbul

"100 NGO’s meet in Istanbul

Up to 100 NGO’s met in Istanbul’s Maçka Küçükçiftlik park over the weekend in an attempt to raise awareness about pressing issues regarding the environment, violation of women’s and other human rights."

More:100 NGO’s meet in Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Strategies to grow Turkish energy industry

"Strategies to grow Turkish energy industry

Turkey’s dedication to establishing nuclear power plants in the country has not lessened, according to Energy Minister Taner Yıldız. “We are trying to do so in a healthy manner,” he said."

More:Strategies to grow Turkish energy industry - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Opposition leader blasts Hollywood actor’s support to Kurd move

"Opposition leader blasts Hollywood actor’s support to Kurd move

CHP leader Deniz Baykal responds to American actor and director Kevin Costner’s support of the government’s Kurdish opening. ‘Why are you interfering in Turkey’s domestic affairs? Do your job as actor,’ says Baykal"

More:Opposition leader blasts Hollywood actor’s support to Kurd move - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish films compete at Ghent Int’l Film Festival

"Turkish films compete at Ghent Int’l Film Festival

Sunday, September 27, 2009
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
Turkish films compete at Ghent Int’l Film Festival

Turkish, German and Israeli cinema will screen at the 36th Ghent International Film Festival from Oct. 6-17, with films from the three countries accounting for half of the titles in competition."

More:Turkish films compete at Ghent Int’l Film Festival - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey major partner whichever government in power: German envoy

"Turkey major partner whichever government in power: German envoy

FULYA ÖZERKAN
ANKARA – Hürriyet Daily News
The policies to be pursued by a new German government toward immigrants and Turkey’s EU prospects will be a source of concern. Ambassador Eckart Cuntz tells Daily News integration question is decisive for Germany’s future that cannot be neglected by any of the political parties. On Ankara’s EU bid, he says Germany has always stuck to its commitments "

More:Turkey major partner whichever government in power: German envoy - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Going abroad for help

"Going abroad for help
Foreign labor supplements some local business
BY JUSTIN GERARD
Published:
Sunday, September 27, 2009 10:05 AM CDT
Larry Storo, the franchise owner of the Buffalo and Sheridan McDonald’s restaurants, is stimulating the local economy not by hiring local workers but by bringing foreign laborers to Buffalo.

Murat Mucur and Tylan Bozkurt, both 20 and from Ankara, Turkey, have been working for the past few months at McDonald’s in Buffalo while experiencing American culture through their encounters here.

It’s an immense change of pace, being that Ankara, the capital, is the second largest city in Turkey with a population of more than 4.7 million, but they have adjusted well.

They came to Buffalo to work and travel, and although they were not sure what was in Buffalo, or what they were getting themselves into, they were happy to have the opportunity from McDonald’s.

“Americans are very hospitable and happy here,” Mucur said.

Mucur and Bozkurt will be leaving in a few weeks to return to Turkey and go back to college to study engineering where they will work as waiters and bar men.

“Development is very different here from Turkey,” said Bozkurt.

Bozkurt is fascinated in the capitalistic system here in America.

“Many people spend their money at McDonald’s instead of making their own food, and it is all about selling and making money,” he said."

More:The Buffalo Bulletin > News > Local News > Going abroad for help

Key issues in Germany's election

"Key issues in Germany's election

By The Associated Press (AP) – 8 hours ago

A glance at key issues in Germany's parliamentary election Sunday:

FOREIGN POLICY:

_ All except the Left Party broadly support Germany's military mission in Afghanistan, but want to see enough progress in training Afghan police and soldiers in the next few years that an exit strategy becomes possible. Steinmeier has advocated laying the foundations by 2013 for a withdrawal, but has not said when he thinks a pullout might begin; Merkel's stance is similar, and she says it makes sense to exert pressure for progress on Kabul. The Left Party advocates an immediate withdrawal."

More:The Associated Press: Key issues in Germany's election

Archaeologists find 5,000-year-old Venus figure in Turkey

"Archaeologists find 5,000-year-old Venus figure in Turkey
Ani
September 27th, 2009

ANKARA - A team of archaeologists has found a 5,000-year-old Venus figure as part of an excavation being carried out in Canakkale’s Ezine district in Turkey."

More:Archaeologists find 5,000-year-old Venus figure in Turkey

Cyprus replies to the positions expressed by the Turkish Prime Minister at the U.N. General Assembly

"Cyprus replies to the positions expressed by the Turkish Prime Minister at the U.N. General Assembly

The Permanent Representative of Cyprus to the United Nations, Ambassador Minas Hadjimichael, yesterday sent to the President of the General Assembly a written reply to the positions on Cyprus expressed by the Prime Minister of Turkey, Mr Erdogan during his speech last Thursday at the UN General Assembly. The reply will be circulated as a U.N. document. The text is as follows:"

More:Cyprus replies to the positions expressed by the Turkish Prime Minister at the U.N. General Assembly

AFP: Turkey wants to extend Iraq bombing mandate: report

"Turkey wants to extend Iraq bombing mandate: report

(AFP) – 5 hours ago

ANKARA — The Turkish government will ask parliament to extend a mandate for military strikes on Kurdish rebel bases in neighbouring Iraq, a report quoted Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan as saying Sunday."

More:AFP: Turkey wants to extend Iraq bombing mandate: report

AFP: Turkish PM to visit Iran over nuclear dispute

"Turkish PM to visit Iran over nuclear dispute

(AFP) – 5 hours ago

ANKARA — Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he plans to visit Iran next month to help resolve the dispute over Tehran's nuclear programme, Anatolia news agency reported Sunday."

More:AFP: Turkish PM to visit Iran over nuclear dispute

Where they went: Turkey

"Where they went: Turkey

WHO: Cindy, 57, and Rob Walsh, 63, of Wales, Mass.
Discuss
COMMENTS (0)

WHERE: Turkey.

WHEN: Six days in March.

WHY: “We started traveling together out of the country about 12 years ago,’’ Cindy Walsh said. “We first went to London, then France, and Rob thought Istanbul sounded really interesting.’’"

More:Where they went: Turkey - The Boston Globe

Saturday, September 26, 2009

FEATURE-Steam rises anew in Turkey's historic bath houses | Currencies | Reuters

"Steam rises anew in Turkey's historic bath houses

By Alexandra Hudson

ISTANBUL, Sept 27 (Reuters) - Old Istanbul's bath houses hosted scheming Pashas and shapely concubines before modern bathrooms sent them into decline, but their appeal to tourists and the growth of the spa industry promise a revival."

More:FEATURE-Steam rises anew in Turkey's historic bath houses | Currencies | Reuters

Fergie calls in lawyers to halt child abuse row - Times Online

"Fergie calls in lawyers to halt child abuse row

The Queen’s lawyers have intervened to block the publication of a book about the Duchess of York’s exposé of child mistreatment in Turkey’s state-run orphanages."

More:Fergie calls in lawyers to halt child abuse row - Times Online

Now or never to settle the Cyprus conflict | The Japan Times Online

"Now or never to settle the Cyprus conflict

By SUAT KINIKLIOGLU

ANKARA — Cyprus is back on the international agenda, with leaders of the island's rival Greek and Turkish communities engaged in intense negotiations to resolve the divided country's status. But, although new talks are under way, the international community is, not surprisingly, tired of dealing with the issue."

More:Now or never to settle the Cyprus conflict | The Japan Times Online

Turks mourn relative of Ottoman sultan

"Turks mourn relative of Ottoman sultanBy Ivan Watson and Yesim Comert
CNN

ISTANBUL, Turkey (CNN) -- More than 80 years after his family was ordered from the country, the grandson of one of the last Ottoman sultans was buried Saturday as hundreds of admirers looked on.

Ertugrul Osman, grandson of Sultan Abdulhamid II and heir to the Ottoman throne, died this week in Istanbul of kidney failure at the age of 97, after having lived most of his life in exile in a humble third-floor walk-up apartment on Manhattan's Upper East Side."

More:Turks mourn relative of Ottoman sultan - CNN.com

Turks pay final respects to Last Ottoman | International | Reuters

"Turks pay final respects to 'Last Ottoman'
Sat Sep 26, 2009 9:40am EDT

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turks paid their final respects on Saturday to the most senior member of the former Ottoman dynasty at his funeral in Istanbul, which ministers attended in a sign of official recognition for the former exile."

More:Turks pay final respects to Last Ottoman | International | Reuters

Turkey's Circassians change old village names before Kurds

"Turkey's Circassians change old village names before Kurds
While Kurds continue to debate the names of some place names under democratic opening, Circassians changed the old names of their village already."

More:WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS [ Turkey's Circassians change old village names before Kurds ]

EU supports Armenia-Turkey talks

"EU supports Armenia-Turkey talks

26.09.2009 12:24

President Serzh Sargsyan received the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus, Peter Semneby.

The interlocutors discussed the expanding Armenia-EU agenda. They agreed that the Eastern Partnership Program included a great potential of cooperation and would give new significance to the relations."

More:Public Radio of Armenia

Turkish Cypriots Call On Britain To Display An Attitude Against Isolations and Embargoes, Fm Ozgurgun

"Turkish Cypriots Call On Britain To Display An Attitude Against Isolations and Embargoes, Fm Ozgurgun

LONDON (A.A) - 25.09.2009 - Foreign Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Huseyin Ozgurgun, held a press conference Friday regarding his first official trip to Britain."

More:(Dip) Turkish Cypriots Call On Britain To Display An Attitude Against Isolations and Embargoes, Fm Ozgurgun - Turk.Net

Armenia-Turkey football match to take place on Oct 14 | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

"Armenia-Turkey football match to take place on Oct 14
10:45 / 09/26/2009

The Turkish Football Federation announced the time of the match between the Armenian and Turkish football teams. The Hurriyet newspaper reports that the match is to start at 9:00 p.m., Ankara time (11:00 p.m. Yerevan time)."

More:Armenia-Turkey football match to take place on Oct 14 | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

Today.Az - Turkey will not take steps contrary to interests of Azerbaijani people: speaker of Turkish parliament

"Turkey will not take steps contrary to interests of Azerbaijani people: speaker of Turkish parliament
26 September 2009 [09:57] - Today.Az
The Azerbaijani people should be confident that Turkey will not take any steps harming Azerbaijan, Chairman of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey Mehmet Ali Sahin told reporters in Baku."

More:Today.Az - Turkey will not take steps contrary to interests of Azerbaijani people: speaker of Turkish parliament

TREND: Is Turkey new light ray in darkness of Middle East? : Trend News Commentator

"Is Turkey new light ray in darkness of Middle East? : Trend News Commentator

Trend News Middle East Desk Commentator, Ulviyya Sadikhova

Perhaps, after the end of the Israel - Hamas war in the Gaza Strip in January, 2009, Turkey did not seek to solve the acute problems in the Middle East with such zeal, as it has shown in the last two months."

More:TREND: Is Turkey new light ray in darkness of Middle East? : Trend News Commentator

Speech by EU Commissioner Olli Rehn on Europe's Role in the World | The Gov Monitor

"Speech by EU Commissioner Olli Rehn on Europe’s Role in the World

Olli Rehn EU Commissioner for Enlargement The EU Enlargement Process and Europe’s Role in the World Princeton University Princeton, 24 September 2009

...For example, we have always been clear with Turkey that freedom of thought, speech and the press are fundamental values in any open and democratic society. They are a necessary condition for EU membership. The same goes for religious freedoms, women’s rights, and minority rights.

This should sound familiar to an American audience. For Turkey to join, we simply ask that it lives up to the same values and principles that are set out in the United States “Bill of Rights.”

I know Prime Minister Erdogan spoke here at Princeton yesterday. As he told you, and as I always tell my colleagues, the EU foreign ministers: Europe and Turkey share paramount strategic interests."

More:Speech by EU Commissioner Olli Rehn on Europe's Role in the World | The Gov Monitor

Friday, September 25, 2009

Government steps timely but not risk-free, analysts say

"Government steps timely but not risk-free, analysts say

FULYA ÖZERKAN - İZGİ GÜNGÖR
ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News
Despite opposition, Ankara has taken consecutive steps toward resolving the Kurdish, Armenian and Cyprus issues. Political analysts say leaving the three problems unresolved would result in more serious consequences rather than any kind of advantage"

More:Government steps timely but not risk-free, analysts say - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Education in Kurdish

"Education in Kurdish

RIZA TÜRMEN

Nobody knows what’s inside the Kurdish initiative. But one of the most basic elements of this package with solid measures should be education in Kurdish.

The frame of education in Kurdish is defined by the Constitution and by international provisions. The Constitution brings liability to the state for teaching Turkish. The irrevocable third article in the Constitution states that the official language of the state is Turkish. The last paragraph of Article 42 reads, “No language other than Turkish shall be taught as a mother tongue to Turkish citizens at any institutions of training or education.” Article 42 results in two things:"

More:Education in Kurdish - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

U.N. envoy to Cyprus has no business interests in Turkey: statement_English_Xinhua

"U.N. envoy to Cyprus has no business interests in Turkey: statement
www.chinaview.cn 2009-09-25 22:43:03

NICOSIA, Sept. 25 (Xinhua) -- The U.N. office in Nicosia on Friday strongly denied Greek Cypriot reports that its top envoy to Cyprus has business interests in Turkey, undermining his role as a neutral mediator."

More:U.N. envoy to Cyprus has no business interests in Turkey: statement_English_Xinhua

Istanbul giants look to extend perfect runs - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

"Istanbul giants look to extend perfect runs

Winning all six of their games so far, Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe prove that they are the strongest contenders for the Turkcell Super League title. This week, Galatasaray welcomes third-spot Eskişehirspor in a difficult game, while Fenerbahçe seeks to match a club-record start with a victory at mid-table team Antalyaspor"

More:Istanbul giants look to extend perfect runs - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Iran-Turkey investment summit in Istanbul

"Iran-Turkey investment summit in Istanbul
Tehran Times Economic Desk

TABRIZ – Istanbul is scheduled to hold a conference on Iran-Turkey investment opportunities on the 5th and 6th of October.

The director of East Azarbaijan province's Economic and Financial Affairs Department, Reza Hosseini told the Mehr News Agency that the conference will be held to acquaint Iranian and Turkish investors with the economic, political, social, and cultural atmosphere of the other country as well as potentials for bilateral investment."

More:tehran times : Iran-Turkey investment summit in Istanbul

Erdoğan expects the support of the Jews - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

"Erdoğan expects the support of the Jews

On arriving to the USA the PM of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had a meeting with the heads of the Jewish organizations in the USA. As the periodical Nouvelle d’Armenie informs, the main issue of the discussion has been the present state of Armenian – Turkish relations and the possibility of recognizing the Armenian Genocide by the USA."

More:Erdoğan expects the support of the Jews - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

Armenia-Turkey cargo traffic increases: SCR | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

"Armenia-Turkey cargo traffic increases: SCR
15:06 / 09/25/2009

South Caucasus Railways (SCR) has no forecast on the increase of investments in railway infrastructure with Armenian-Turkish border opening, Marat Khakov, Deputy General Director of South Caucasus Railways CJSC stated at the press-conference in Yerevan."

More:Armenia-Turkey cargo traffic increases: SCR | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

More Than Just Mor Gabriel

"Turkey's Aramaean Minority
More Than Just Mor Gabriel

Driven out by economic hardship and discrimination at local and state level in the 1960s and by forced evacuations in the 1990s, Southeastern Turkey's Aramaeans are starting to return home, only to find that their ancestral lands no longer belong to them. Ayse Karabat reports"

More:Qantara.de - More Than Just Mor Gabriel

Turkey demands $3 bln for media group to appeal fine | Deals | Regulatory News | Reuters

"Turkey demands $3 bln for media group to appeal fine
Fri Sep 25, 2009 11:11am EDT

By Thomas Grove

ISTANBUL, Sept 25 (Reuters) - Tax authorities have demanded Turkey's largest media group Dogan Yayin raise a $3.24 billion guarantee in 15 days to appeal a fine that has prompted concerns about press freedom and could affect the country's EU entry bid."

More:UPDATE 4-Turkey demands $3 bln for media group to appeal fine | Deals | Regulatory News | Reuters

Renowned Armenian artist to perform in Turkey

"Renowned Armenian artist to perform in Turkey

25.09.2009 17:45

Worldwide known Armenian lute virtuoso Ara Dinkjian, whose family migrated to America in the beginning of 19th century, will appear on stage in Istanbul’s Hagia Irene as part of a hospital project to be built for the disabled."

More:Public Radio of Armenia

'Last Ottoman' to be buried in Istanbul

"'Last Ottoman' to be buried in Istanbul

Prince Osman Ertugrul, the head of the Ottoman dynasty and the last pretender to the abolished imperial throne, has died at age 97 following a long illness, local officials said Friday.

Ertugrul was the senior member of the last descendents of the Ottoman sultans who were chased out of Turkey in 1924, the year after the secular republic was declared on what was left of the once mighty empire."

More:'Last Ottoman' to be buried in Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Gov’t asks Doğan for $3.2 billion in collateral

"Gov’t asks Doğan for $3.2 billion in collateral

ISTANBUL – Bloomberg
Turkey’s tax office ordered Doğan Media Group to make a pay 4.8 billion Turkish Liras ($3.2 billion) in collateral against a much criticized $2.5 billion fine, over alleged failure to pay value-added tax on the transfer of shares between companies. The company, which has 15 days to make the payment, is planning to take legal action, according to a company statement filed with the Istanbul bourse"

More:Gov’t asks Doğan for $3.2 billion in collateral - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Erdoğan chides world over Gaza

"Erdoğan chides world over Gaza

UNITED NATIONS - Anatolia News Agency

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has criticized the world leaders for turning a blind eye to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, saying promises made in regard to the situation in the Palestinian territory have not been kept."

More:Erdoğan chides world over Gaza - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey strives to get rid of Azerbaijan’s influence - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

"Turkey strives to get rid of Azerbaijan’s influence

Armenian-Turkish initialed protocols do not contain any preconditions, shared his opinion at today’s press-conference head of Armenian Political Scientists Union Amayak Hovhannisyan underlining that these documents’ signing reflects Armenia’s interests more than Turkey’s."

More:Turkey strives to get rid of Azerbaijan’s influence - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

Will Turkey's EU membership dream come true? - Telegraph

"Will Turkey's EU membership dream come true?
Bringing Turkey into the fold raises profound questions about the very nature of European identity, reports David Blair in Istanbul.

Burying the grievances bequeathed by history lies at the heart of the European ideal. The enmities of living memory, particularly the fratricidal struggle between France and Germany, no longer haunt the European Union, yet one far older and deeper fear still lurks behind a vital question about its future. "

More:Will Turkey's EU membership dream come true? - Telegraph

Kevin Costner Entering Turkish Politics? | Turkey

"Kevin Costner Entering Turkish Politics?
Yigal Schleifer
September 25, 2009 Yigal Schleifer

Costner Entering Turkish Politics?Just what is it about Turkey and Kevin Costner? He may be remembered in the United States for “Dances With Wolves” and several other hit films (as well as for “Waterworld” and “The Postman,” two of the most spectacular cinematic duds ever), but he’s certainly no longer the star he once was."

More:Istanbul Calling:Kevin Costner Entering Turkish Politics? | Turkey

Dogan shares drop after tax statement - Forbes.com

"Dogan shares drop after tax statement
09.25.09, 04:36 AM EDT

ISTANBUL, Sept 25 (Reuters) - Shares in Turkey's Dogan Holding fell 8.6 percent on Friday after the tax office said companies within its Dogan Yayin media group had been asked to put up a 4.8 billion lira ($3.24 billion) guarantee on fines."

More:Dogan shares drop after tax statement - Forbes.com

Flash Floods in Turkey Signals Global Warming Is Rearing Head In Middle East Region | Green Prophet

"Flash Floods in Turkey Signals Global Warming Is Rearing Head In Middle East Region

World climate change issues are being felt closer to home with recent disastrous flash flooding occurring in parts of Greece and Western Turkey.

Some of these floods have been so bad that many are saying that they are the worst in years, with the heaviest rains in more than eight decades falling in and near Turkey’s largest city, Istanbul."

More:Flash Floods in Turkey Signals Global Warming Is Rearing Head In Middle East Region | Green Prophet

Turkey's EU bid top priority, says Spanish FM

"Turkey's EU bid top priority, says Spanish FM

NEW YORK - Anatolia News Agency

Turkey's European Union membership bid will be a top priority under Spain's upcoming rotating presidency, diplomatic sources quoted Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos as telling his Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoğlu."

More:Turkey's EU bid top priority, says Spanish FM - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Erdogan Hopes Sarkisian Will Visit Turkey - «Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան © 2009

"Erdogan Hopes Sarkisian Will Visit Turkey

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed hope that President Serzh Sarkisian will pay a landmark visit to Turkey next month and said Ankara’s fence-mending agreements with Yerevan could be submitted to the Turkish parliament for ratification before that."

More:Erdogan Hopes Sarkisian Will Visit Turkey - «Ազատ Եվրոպա/Ազատություն» ռադիոկայան © 2009

If Turkey continues dialogue with Armenia without movement on Karabakh, Azerbaijan will have to act: research fellow at European Policy Center

"If Turkey continues dialogue with Armenia without movement on Karabakh, Azerbaijan will have to act: research fellow at European Policy Center
25 September 2009 [15:35] - Today.Az
Senior research fellow at the European Policy Center and an expert on Southern Caucasus Amanda Akcakoca spoke to Day.Az in an interview.

Day.Az: The new U.S. missile defense system might reportedly be deployed somewhere in the Caucasus. Some experts claim that the U.S. sees Turkey, Balkans and Israel as potential counties to do so. Could the Gabala radar station in Azerbaijan be one of the possible options?"

More:Today.Az - If Turkey continues dialogue with Armenia without movement on Karabakh, Azerbaijan will have to act: research fellow at European Policy Center

Thursday, September 24, 2009

U.S. $2.1bln worth Transcaucasia-Turkey railway projects | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

"U.S. $2.1bln worth Transcaucasia-Turkey railway projects
20:45 / 09/24/2009

RA Transport and Communication Ministry confirmed that CJSC South Caucasus Railways (SCR) will extend investment package to U.S. $603m if Armenia-Turkey border opens. CJSC SCR is a subsidiary to OJSC Russian Railway (RR)."

More:U.S. $2.1bln worth Transcaucasia-Turkey railway projects | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

A visual masterpiece awaits in Turkey

"A visual masterpiece awaits in Turkey

By Natalia Van Stralen, Staff Writer

Turkey boasts a number of artistic and theatrical venues, perfect for students with a passion for the arts.
Turkey 2, 9-24

MCT Campus

Graphic design and art students can channel Turkey’s vibrant culture to fuel their own artistic abilities.

Surrounded by opera houses, local markets, the Turkish Parliament and universities, San Diego State art and graphic design majors will thrive in the “city of learning and science.”
Located in Ankara, Turkey, Bilkent University was created in 1984 and has worked closely with SDSU to provide numerous programs for the department of arts, design and art history."

More:The Daily Aztec - A visual masterpiece awaits in Turkey

Coach from Fethiye to Ankara Crashes Injuring 40

"Coach from Fethiye to Ankara Crashes Injuring 40

Thursday, 24 September 2009

A Kamil Koc coach that left Fethiye yesterday evening crashed just outside Ankara early this morning.

A Kamil Koc Coach Entering Fethiye Otogar

According to news reports the coach suffered a tyre 'blow out' some 26 km before Ankara and careered off the road ending up in a field.

Rescue services freed passengers and many were taken to hospital in the state capital Ankara.

Some of the passengers injured were local students going to university for the new semester.

The security services are investigating the reason for the accident."

Fethiye Times.com | Coach from Fethiye to Ankara Crashes Injuring 40

Istanbul, Turkey: Call for solidarity action with the migrants - Infoshop News

"Istanbul, Turkey: Call for solidarity action with the migrants

Thursday, September 24 2009 @ 11:30 AM CDT

Using fight against illegal migration as a pretext, Turkish government carries out policies based on repression and deprivation of liberty toward refugees and migrants. Locked in the so called Yabancılar Misafirhanesi, migrants can be held for more than one year in inhumane conditions waiting for their expulsion of Turkey.

On the 20th of September, prisoners of Kumkapı Misafir Hanesi rebelled themselves against their detention conditions and the mistreatments they suffer from the police.

We have to be in the front of Kumkapı Yabancı Misafir Hanesi to show the detainees solidarity and to give them support in their struggle against the deprivation of their basic rights."

More:Istanbul, Turkey: Call for solidarity action with the migrants - Infoshop News

Talat calls on US to push for a solution

"Talat calls on US to push for a solution
By Simon Bahceli

A HIGH-LEVEL special US representative should be appointed to help mediate a Cyprus settlement, Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat told his audience at the Council on Foreign Relations CFR), a Washington-based think-tank yesterday.

He added that Cyprus reunification talks would go nowhere without a clear timeframe and the intervention of the international community, including the US.

“By saying he will not allow timeframes, mediation, or the participation of the international community, [President Demetris] Christofias might as well be saying he doesn’t want a solution to the Cyprus problem.

“He might as well end it here,” Talat said at the think-tank that boasts congressmen, global leaders and prominent thinkers among its participants."

More: Cyprus Mail

Turkey among issues in Greek elections - South Eastern Europe - The Sofia Echo

"Turkey among issues in Greek elections

Confirmed as the race leader in opinion polls ahead of Greece’s October 4 2009 snap general elections, opposition socialist party Pasok is seeking to add the handling of relations with Turkey to its list of the failures of the Costas Karamanlis government.

Karamanlis’s conservative New Democracy government had been "lax" in dealing with Ankara, Pasok leader George Papandreou has charged."

More:Turkey among issues in Greek elections - South Eastern Europe - The Sofia Echo

Floods in northeastern Turkey kill five - media | International | Reuters

"Floods in northeastern Turkey kill five - media
Thu Sep 24, 2009 4:04am EDT

ISTANBUL, Sept 24 (Reuters) - Floods triggered by torrential rains killed five people in northeastern Turkey on Thursday, Turkish broadcaster NTV said.

State-run Anatolian news agency put the number of dead in the province of Artvin at two, including an 80-year-old woman whose house was flooded in the district of Borcka."

More:Floods in northeastern Turkey kill five - media | International | Reuters

Key issues in Germany's election

Key issues in Germany's election - Taiwan News Online: "Key issues in Germany's election

...Merkel's conservatives say Turkey should have a vaguely defined "privileged partnership" with the European Union rather than full membership _ a longstanding position that has played no role in this campaign. The Free Democrats say there is no prospect of a final decision on Turkey's membership in the next few years, and that it depends on Ankara implementing reforms and on the EU's capacity to absorb new members. The Social Democrats and Greens are clearly supportive of Turkish membership."

Ghent focus on Germany, Turkey, Israel

"Ghent focus on Germany, Turkey, Israel
36th Ghent International Film Festival runs Oct. 6-17

By Scott Roxborough

Sept 24, 2009, 06:43 AM ET
BERLIN -- German, Turkish and Israeli cinema will have pride of place at the 36th Ghent International Film Festival (Oct. 6 -17), with films from the three countries accounting for half of the titles in competition."

More:Ghent focus on Germany, Turkey, Israel

Pro-Turkish US lawmakers endorse Turkey-Armenia deall

"Pro-Turkish US lawmakers endorse Turkey-Armenia deal

ÜMİT ENGINSOY
ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News

The three leaders of a group of pro-Turkish lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives late Wednesday voiced full support for a protocol recently signed by Armenia and Turkey aimed at normalization of relations between the two neighbors."

More:Pro-Turkish US lawmakers endorse Turkey-Armenia deal - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Armenia deal to be sent to Parliament, says PM

"Armenia deal to be sent to Parliament, says PM

The normalization talks between Turkey and Armenia have entered a sensitive phase, Turkish Prime Minister Erdoğan said, adding the protocols inked between two nations will be sent to the parliament next month."

More:Armenia deal to be sent to Parliament, says PM - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Gazprom plans to invest in Turkish market - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

"Gazprom plans to invest in Turkish market

Russian natural gas giant Gazprom is eyeing the growing Turkish market, deputy chief executive Alexander Medvedev told business daily Referans, adding that the firm might invest in the natural gas distribution and electricity production markets."

More:Gazprom plans to invest in Turkish market - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

U2 in Istanbul in Sept 2010

"U2 in Istanbul in Sept 2010

Following the success of the 2009 tour, U2 have confirmed that their acclaimed 360 degrees Tour will continue in 2010. According to the official Web site, the legendary rock band will be on stage at the Istanbul Atatürk Stadium on Sept. 6, 2010."

More:U2 in Istanbul in Sept 2010 - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Turkey to push ahead with Armenia ties-Erdogan - Forbes.com

"TURKEY-ERDOGAN/ARMENIA:Turkey to push ahead with Armenia ties-Erdogan

By Daniel Bases

PRINCETON, Sept. 23 (Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday he expects to present Parliament with documents to establish diplomatic ties with Armenia by early October, just before a critical meeting between the nations' two leaders."

More:Turkey to push ahead with Armenia ties-Erdogan - Forbes.com

For the first time Turkey solves problems by itself

"For the first time Turkey solves problems by itself

MEHMET ALİ BİRAND

If we take a look at our recent past we’ll notice that we always encounter the same scenario. I’m sure you’ll remember this addiction that started in the 1950s and continued until the 1980s."

More:For the first time Turkey solves problems by itself - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Nobel Prize winner Martti Ahtisaari on Turkey's EU bid | The Cable

"Nobel Prize winner Martti Ahtisaari on Turkey's EU bid
Wed, 09/23/2009 - 2:08pm

Former Finnish president and Nobel Peace Prize winner Martti Oiva Kalevi Ahtisaari has been hugely influential on a number of international issues during his storied, multi-decade diplomatic career. He helped secure independence for Namibia, inspected weapons of the Irish Republican Army, led peace negotiations between the Free Aceh Movement and the government of Indonesia, helped to secure an end to the Bosnian war, and served as U.N. Special Envoy for the Kosovo status process."

More:Nobel Prize winner Martti Ahtisaari on Turkey's EU bid | The Cable

Turkey tells PKK to lay down its arms

"Turkey tells PKK to lay down its arms

ANKARA, Turkey, Sept. 23 (UPI) -- Turkish military leaders called on Kurdish guerrillas to lay down their arms in an effort to find a settlement to the so-called Kurdish question."

More:Turkey tells PKK to lay down its arms - UPI.com

Nearly 100 dead in holiday traffic accidents

"Nearly 100 dead in holiday traffic accidents

Nearly 100 people were reported dead and 441 injured from traffic collisions during this year’s four-day Ramadan bayram, according to the Anatolia news agency.

The holiday, which started Sunday and ended Tuesday, provided a long weekend and the opportunity for many to escape from the cities."

More:Nearly 100 dead in holiday traffic accidents - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Don’t take everything seriously, says top Turkish general

"Don’t take everything seriously, says top Turkish general

Aware of society’s fear over possible division and its manifestation in television broadcasts, Turkey’s top commander warned the public not to take everything that is aired, or said, seriously."

More:Don’t take everything seriously, says top Turkish general - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Prime minister wraps up US visit

"Prime minister wraps up US visit

NEW YORK - Daily News with wires

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a speech on “The Alliance of Civilizations” at the Levin Institute in New York on Tuesday as part of his visit to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly meeting."

More:Prime minister wraps up US visit - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

"Turkey - A savvy foreign policy player («Turkey, like Russia, opposes a large-scale US presence in the Black Sea; Ankara has never been overly outsp

"Turkey - A savvy foreign policy player

(«Turkey, like Russia, opposes a large-scale US presence in the Black Sea; Ankara has never been overly outspoken on Georgia and Ukraine's NATO ambitions; Turkey only moderately criticized Russia's invasion of Georgia and its subsequent recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia»)"

More:The Georgian Times on the Web: Comprehensive news site, daily international, national and local news coverage , breaking news updates, sports, reviews.

Turkey and Qatar mull LNG pipeline via Saudi Arabia - energy-pedia

"Turkey and Qatar mull LNG pipeline via Saudi Arabia

22 Sep 2009

Turkey and Qatar have formed teams to start work on a possible LNG pipeline across Saudi Arabia that would ship Qatari gas to Turkey, Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yildiz has said."

More:Turkey and Qatar mull LNG pipeline via Saudi Arabia - energy-pedia

Gulfnews: Istanbul lures young romantics

"Istanbul lures young romantics

By Habib Toumi, Bureau Chief
Published: September 22, 2009, 23:06

Tunis: Eman flashed a smile as her husband of three days Nizar took her picture while she was standing among the pigeons of Beyazit Meydani in Istanbul."

More:Gulfnews: Istanbul lures young romantics

Turkey urges PKK to lay down its weapons (SETimes.com)

"Turkey urges PKK to lay down its weapons

22/09/2009

ANKARA, Turkey -- The chief of the General Staff, General Ilker Basbug, on Monday (September 21st) urged members of the terrorist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to lay down their weapons and help efforts to extend the rights of Turkey's Kurdish minority. 'We cannot reach a solution with guns and blood,' Basbug said."

More:Turkey urges PKK to lay down its weapons (SETimes.com)

TREND: Turkish PM meets Jewish lobby in U.S.

"Turkish PM meets Jewish lobby in U.S.
23.09.2009 12:03

Turkish PM meets Jewish lobby in U.S.

During the visit to the U.S. to attend the UN General Assembly session, the Turkish Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with representatives of the Israeli lobby in the United States, the Turkish TimeTurk news agency reported with reference to the Anadolu news agency."

More:TREND: Turkish PM meets Jewish lobby in U.S.

Ankara State Theater to perform in Italy

"Ankara State Theater to perform in Italy

The Ankara State Theater, or AST, will stage a play this week in Florence, Italy.

Turkish State Theaters said the AST will perform "Don Giovanni and His Servant Pulcinella" in Florence on Friday and Saturday."

More:Ankara State Theater to perform in Italy - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

UTV News - Cyprus's 'last chance'?

"Cyprus's 'last chance'?

Simon Tisdall: An elusive deal to end the stalemate in Cyprus may be overwhelmed by adverse external factors just when it seems within reach"

More:UTV News - Cyprus's 'last chance'?

AKP scares and amazes

"AKP scares and amazes

MEHMET ALİ BİRAND

Since the day it came to power, the AKP has always split my thought. And those who thought just like me were sometimes scared-amazed and sometime full of hatred-admiration by the AKP.

Who do I mean by “us”?"

More:AKP scares and amazes - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Why the AKP's leadership may be wrong for today's Turkey

"Why the AKP's leadership may be wrong for today's Turkey

İLHAN TANIR

The title of the column may sound irksome especially while discussing the current talks of Kurdish opening. It is hard not to agree with those folks actually, for Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is the only prime minister since Turgut Özal who seems to understand the urgency of the Kurdish problem, the problem that has been bleeding too long. One must be ignorant at best not to see it."

More:Why the AKP's leadership may be wrong for today's Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Ankara eyes Iraqi oil export routes

"Ankara eyes Iraqi oil export routes

ANKARA, Turkey, Sept. 22 (UPI) -- Ankara approached Baghdad on the possibilities of extending agreements on the Kirkuk-Ceyhan oil pipeline for the next 20 years, officials said.

Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yildiz announced he would travel to Iraq in October to discuss the terms of extending agreements for the export line, ArabianBusiness.com reports."

More:Ankara eyes Iraqi oil export routes - UPI.com

Turkey's Erdogan urges progress on Nagorno-Karabakh | World | Reuters

"Turkey's Erdogan urges progress on Nagorno-Karabakh
Tue Sep 22, 2009 6:50pm IST

ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan urged international mediators on Tuesday to speed up efforts to resolve a dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave as Ankara aims to normalise ties with long-time foe Armenia."

More:Turkey's Erdogan urges progress on Nagorno-Karabakh | World | Reuters

Aegean Air rebuts Olympic Istanbul route concerns - Forbes.com

"Aegean Air rebuts Olympic Istanbul route concerns
09.22.09, 12:06 PM EDT

ATHENS, Sept 22 (Reuters) - Aegean Airlines, Greece's largest carrier by passengers, on Tuesday rejected concerns from rival Olympic Air that an expansion of Aegean's route network to Istanbul was handled incorrectly by the domestic aviation authority."

More:Aegean Air rebuts Olympic Istanbul route concerns - Forbes.com

NPD sends offensive letter to candidates with Turkish background | Election | Deutsche Welle | 22.09.2009

"NPD sends offensive letter to candidates with Turkish background

The far-right NPD has sent letters to the private addresses of parliamentary candidates of immigrant heritage, telling them to go home. Prosecutors are exploring possible legal action."

More:NPD sends offensive letter to candidates with Turkish background | Election | Deutsche Welle | 22.09.2009

ERDOGAN TO DEBATE ANKARA-YEREVAN TIES IN G-20 SUMMIT

"ERDOGAN TO DEBATE ANKARA-YEREVAN TIES IN G-20 SUMMIT Print E-mail
Tuesday, 22 September 2009
Image

The Turkish Prime Minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, will discuss the relations between Ankara and Yerevan at the G-20 summit, the Turkish CNN Turk TV channel reported with the reference to Hurriyet newspaper.

The G-20 summit will take place in the US city of Pittsburgh on Sept. 24—25.

On Aug. 31, Turkey and Armenia in the talks mediated by Switzerland reached an agreement to launch “internal political consultations” to sign the Protocol on Establishment of Diplomatic Relations and Protocol on Development of Bilateral Relations, the Turkish Foreign Ministry reported."

More:Historyoftruth.com - Armenian Allegations - ERDOGAN TO DEBATE ANKARA-YEREVAN TIES IN G-20 SUMMIT

Victor Nadein-Raevsky: Turkey’s steps to normalize relations with Armenia not window-dressing | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

"Victor Nadein-Raevsky: Turkey’s steps to normalize relations with Armenia not window-dressing
15:04 / 09/21/2009

Below is an interview with Victor Nadein-Raevsky, Senior Research Fellow, PhD, the Institute of World Economy and International Relations, RF Academy of Sciences.

Question: Mr. Raevsky, Armenia and Turkey have made a historic attempt of rapprochement, which is supposed to result in the normalization of bilateral relations. How sincere is Turkey in this process? How much is it interested in success?

Answer: Turkey is implementing a multi-pronged policy, which is not so transparent as they would like to show it. On the other hand, it is a multi-pronged blow. It is a blow on the traditional stereotypes of the Turkish state and society. It is a rather complicated process, which has to be “played back” from time to time because of Azerbaijan’s position and various approaches displayed by the Turkish Establishment. There is not a complete accord. However, the most important question is: what is the aim of the struggle? First of all, it is Europe — a desire to carve out a niche for negotiations and eventually be admitted to the European Union (EU). Turkey never pushes this priority to the background, which is most important."

More:Victor Nadein-Raevsky: Turkey’s steps to normalize relations with Armenia not window-dressing | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

Monday, September 21, 2009

Tallest man in the world - 8-foot-1 Sultan Kosen - visits New York City

"Tallest man in the world - 8-foot-1 Sultan Kosen - visits New York City

BY Christina Boyle
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER

Monday, September 21st 2009, 4:00 AM

Here's a guy you can't help but look up to.

The newly-crowned tallest man in the world took a short stroll through the Big Apple on Sunday, making even jaded New Yorkers stop in their tracks."

More:Tallest man in the world - 8-foot-1 Sultan Kosen - visits New York City

Turkey Pursues Economic Integration with Iraq

"Turkey Pursues Economic Integration with Iraq
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 172
September 21, 2009 03:45 PM Age: 2 hrs

By: Saban Kardas

Turkey and Iraq held the first ministerial meeting of the High Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC) in Istanbul on September 17-18. To give substance to the HLSCC (EDM, August 12), eight Turkish and ten Iraqi ministers with responsibility for various portfolios gathered at a joint cabinet meeting. The ministers then held face-to-face meetings with their counterparts to elaborate joint projects in their respective fields. The parties agreed to sign agreements or memorandums of understanding in over 40 areas. The detailed technical work on these projects will continue, before final approval at the Turkish-Iraqi inter-governmental meeting during Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Baghdad in October (Dunya, September 19)."

More:Turkey Pursues Economic Integration with Iraq - The Jamestown Foundation

Visiting cemeteries, a long bayram tradition

"Visiting cemeteries, a long bayram tradition

SEVİM SONGÜN
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
Many people in Turkey start their cemetery visits on the eve or the first day of the Ramadan bayram. Theologians say there is no obligation in Islam, saying that cemeteries should be visited but that many people, including both pious and non-practicing Muslims, do so to visit their loved ones"

More:Visiting cemeteries, a long bayram tradition - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Gulfnews: Turkey's 'Henry Kissinger'

"Turkey's 'Henry Kissinger'

By Sami Moubayed, Special to Gulf News
Published: September 21, 2009, 22:34

The historian inside me sometimes muscles down the analyst, and I tend to view political players as how history will judge them 10, 20 and 50 years from today."

More:Gulfnews: Turkey's 'Henry Kissinger'

Turkey's top commander urges PKK to lay down arms | World | Reuters

"Turkey's top commander urges PKK to lay down arms
Mon Sep 21, 2009 8:02pm IST

By Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey's top military commander on Monday called on Kurdish rebels to lay down their arms in a speech in the country's mainly Kurdish southeast that coincides with government efforts to broaden rights of minority Kurds."

More:Turkey's top commander urges PKK to lay down arms | World | Reuters

“Art Bridge from Istanbul to Tehran” coming to Saba institute

"“Art Bridge from Istanbul to Tehran” coming to Saba institute
Tehran Times Art Desk

TEHRAN -- The Saba Art and Cultural Institute has gathered the works of Iranian and Turkish masters of calligraphy and illustration for an exhibit called “Art Bridge from Istanbul to Tehran”."

More:tehran times : “Art Bridge from Istanbul to Tehran” coming to Saba institute

Istanbul Ups Taxi Rates

"Istanbul Ups Taxi Rates
By Susanne Fowler

ISTANBUL | Zam. That’s the word used in Turkey for an increase in the price of a service, like electricity, natural gas, or most recently, taxi fares.

The city of Istanbul last week raised the starting rate for a cab ride from 2 Turkish lira to 2.5 lira, or about $1.35 to $1.69. The distance rate also rose, to 1.4 lira per kilometer. The fare for a shared minivan called a dolmus, a common mode of transport between the Asian and European sides of the city, rose 10 percent (those prices vary according to destination)."

More:Istanbul Ups Taxi Rates - Globespotters Blog - NYTimes.com

The mother of all adventures: Stricken by stomach pains in Istanbul - Telegraph

"The mother of all adventures: Stricken by stomach pains in Istanbul
Jo Thompson, a mother of five who is spending a gap year on the Oz-Bus, explains the art of sleeping on a coach – and feels the first stabs of a worrying stomach pain.

We spend more long hours on the bus as we head into Bulgaria – our first real border crossing, which is a lengthy and frankly dull experience. "

More:The mother of all adventures: Stricken by stomach pains in Istanbul - Telegraph

Abandoning Ataturk

"Abandoning Ataturk
By Soner Cagaptay
Newsweek, September 19, 2009

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the Ottoman Empire, having suffered military defeats at the hands of Europe, realized it could match its rivals only by becoming a European society itself. So it embarked on a program of intense reforms. In 1863, Sultan Abdulaziz established Darussafaka, the empire's first high school with a secular Western curriculum in Turkish. In the early 20th century, Kemal Ataturk followed through on the sultan's dreams, making Turkey a staunchly secular state. Institutions such as Darussafaka, my alma mater, thrived."

More:Article or Op-Ed

Tunnel links continents, uncovers ancient history - CNN.com

"Tunnel links continents, uncovers ancient history

By Ivan Watson
CNN
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ISTANBUL, Turkey (CNN) -- It's a common sight in the traffic-clogged streets of Istanbul, a city that straddles two continents.
Workers next to the spot where subway trains will one day emerge from the tunnel. Opening of the tunnel has been delayed by at least four years by the discovery.

Workers next to the spot where subway trains will one day emerge from the tunnel. Opening of the tunnel has been delayed by at least four years by the discovery.
more photos »

A taxi driver, enraged by perpetually gridlocked traffic, stepping out of his car and yelling 'Maniac!' at the man driving the public bus behind him."

More:Tunnel links continents, uncovers ancient history - CNN.com

Yerevan Warns Ankara Over Fresh Karabakh Linkage - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

"Yerevan Warns Ankara Over Fresh Karabakh Linkage

September 21, 2009
YEREVAN -- Armenia has criticized Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan for saying again that the normalization of Turkish-Armenian relations is conditional on an acceptable resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict with Azerbaijan, RFE/RL's Armenian Service reports."

More:Yerevan Warns Ankara Over Fresh Karabakh Linkage - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

Xtract Energy JV in Turkey makes progress at Alasehir-1 well

"Xtract Energy JV in Turkey makes progress at Alasehir-1 well

21 September 2009

Energy investor Xtract Energy today said that its Turkish joint venture Extrem Energy was making progress in its efforts to re-enter and complete the Alasehir-1 well on the Alasehir licence area."

More:SmallCapNews | Xtract Energy JV in Turkey makes progress at Alasehir-1 well

Istanbul Fair at Turkish Border

"Istanbul Fair at Turkish Border

A new shopping mall called Istanbul Fair at the Georgia-Turkish border will open its doors to Georgian merchants in October. Located 2kms from Sarpi customs on the road to Artvini, the mall will make shopping and trading more pleasant for all concerned."

More:The Georgian Times on the Web: Comprehensive news site, daily international, national and local news coverage , breaking news updates, sports, reviews.

Patriot (missile) Games

"Turkey
Istanbul Calling: Patriot (missile) Games
Yigal Schleifer
September 21, 2009 Yigal Schleifer

There’s a certain feeling of Cold War déjà vu in Turkey these days. Back then, NATO ally Turkey was seen as a front line state in the standoff against a dangerous nuclear power and was even home to American missiles (the intermediate range Jupiters, quietly removed as part of the deal made to end the Cuban missile crisis). Cut to 2009, when western ally Turkey is again being viewed by some as a front-line defense against a (potential) nuclear power — this time around Iran — and might soon be home to an American-made long-range missile defense system."

More:Istanbul Calling: Patriot (missile) Games | Turkey

Turkey and Syria: BFFs? | Lebanon and Syria

"Turkey and Syria: BFFs?
Joshua Hersh
September 21, 2009 Joshua Hersh

Joshua Landis has, as is quite often the case, the best wrap on the new Turkey-Syria free-trade-and-general-shared-community-and-openness agreement that was signed late last week. I don’t have much to add, but I think it’s of enough importance to merit a drop-in on the right side of the page."

More:Turkey and Syria: BFFs? | Lebanon and Syria

Turkey to stage play in Kurdish for first time

"Turkey to stage play in Kurdish for first time
21 Sep 2009 11:08:38 GMT
Source: Reuters
* First performance in Diyarbakir, biggest city in southeast

* Government hopes better Kurdish rights will end conflict

* Kurdish still banned in some sectors despite EU pressure

ANKARA, Sept 21 (Reuters) - A state theatre in Turkey will stage a play partly in the once-banned Kurdish language for the first time, state media said on Monday, part of government steps to improve minority rights and meet EU accession criteria."

More:Reuters AlertNet - Turkey to stage play in Kurdish for first time

Cyprus leaders accelerate UN-backed process of talks to unify island

"Cyprus leaders accelerate UN-backed process of talks to unify island
Written by Administrator on Monday, 21 September 2009 10:00
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Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders held further discussions today on the presidency and vice presidency of a bi-communal republic in ongoing United Nations-backed talks to unify the Mediterranean island, but have not yet reached any decision."

More:Cyprus leaders accelerate UN-backed process of talks to unify island

Turkish agenda for New York: 4 points | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

"Turkish agenda for New York: 4 points
12:53 / 09/21/2009

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu will speak on four basic points of Armenia-Turkey normalization process in the course of the UN General Assembly Session in New York, Turkish Hurriyet daily reports, specifying:"

More:Turkish agenda for New York: 4 points | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

Sargsyan, Clinton discuss Armenia-Turkey relations

"Sargsyan, Clinton discuss Armenia-Turkey relations

21.09.2009 11:44

The President of Armenia, Serzh Sargsyan, had a phone conversation with US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, President’s Press Office reported."

More:Public Radio of Armenia

Turkey’s economic expansion biggest threat to Armenia

"Turkey’s economic expansion biggest threat to Armenia
Despite the sluggish protests of the opposition and some pro-governmental parties, the Foreign Minister will sign the Armenian-Turkish agreement.
17.09.2009 GMT+04:00 Print version Send to mail
Little time is left for consideration till October 14, when Turkish and Armenian national football teams meet in the frames of a World Cup qualifying match. The question is whether to sign or not sign the Protocols on the normalization of Armenian-Turkish relations. Discussions are held not only in Armenia, where the entire population seems to be engaged in the process, but also in Turkey."

More:Armenian News - PanARMENIAN.Net | Armenian News Agency - Turkey’s economic expansion biggest threat to Armenia

Christofias: Ankara

"Christofias: Ankara

Cyprus President Demetris Christofias has insisted once again that the key factor in efforts to find a negotiated settlement in Cyprus is Ankara which, despite public pronouncements, is not helpful towards this direction, reports the Cyprus News Agency.

Pointing out that his most pressing priority is to establish peace and reconciliation in Cyprus, he warned that the continuation of the island’s division, as a result of the continuing Turkish occupation of its northern part, is a certain recipe leading to permanent division, a prospect he described as “certain catastrophe for the people of Cyprus.”"

More: Famagusta Gazette

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Solana says Iran talks likely to be held in Turkey - NEW EUROPE - The European News Source

"Solana says Iran talks likely to be held in Turkey
20 September 2009 - Issue : 852

ANA/EPA/OLIVIER HOSLET
October 1 talks between Iran and the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany, with Iran’s burgeoning nuclear program center stage, may be scheduled for Turkey, the European Union’s top diplomat said."

More:Solana says Iran talks likely to be held in Turkey - NEW EUROPE - The European News Source

First Kurdish sermon in Turkey during Eid Al-Fitr prayer

"First Kurdish sermon in Turkey during Eid Al-Fitr prayer
The people hailed the first Kurdish sermon and khutba and demanded that they be repeated from time to time.
Sunday, 20 September 2009 15:58

World Bulletin / News Desk

Turkish state TV on Sunday broadcast live Kurdish sermon during Eid Al-Fitr prayer in a mosque in the mainly Kurdish city of Turkey in another move within Kurdish opening."

More:WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS [ First Kurdish sermon in Turkey during Eid Al-Fitr prayer ]

Women rise in seafaring ranks

"Women rise in seafaring ranks
AP

FILE - Aysun Akbay, a third officer of the Turkish cargo vessel MV Horizon-1, AP – FILE - Aysun Akbay, a third officer of the Turkish cargo vessel MV Horizon-1, seen with her dog in this …
By CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA, Associated Press Writer Christopher Torchia, Associated Press Writer – Wed Sep 16, 5:22 am ET

ISTANBUL – Somali pirates who seize ships for ransom hold more than 100 captive mariners, including a rarity in the male-dominated shipping industry — a woman officer."

More:Women rise in seafaring ranks - Yahoo! News

Istanbul listing drought ends

"Istanbul listing drought ends

By Delphine Strauss in Istanbul

Published: September 20 2009 16:57 | Last updated: September 20 2009 16:57

Several medium-to-large sized companies have applied for listings on Istanbul’s stock exchange, signalling an end to a drought in initial public offerings since the start of the global crisis."

More:FT.com / Financials - Istanbul listing drought ends

Turkey, Qatar mull LNG pipeline via Saudi Arabia

"Sunday, September 20, 2009
Turkey, Qatar mull LNG pipeline via Saudi Arabia

ANKARA, Sept 18 (Reuters) - Turkey and Qatar have formed teams to start work on a possible LNG pipeline across Saudi Arabia that would ship Qatari gas to Turkey, Turkish Energy Minister Taner Yildiz said on Saturday."

More:Asian Energy: Turkey, Qatar mull LNG pipeline via Saudi Arabia

Papandreou wants to improve ties with Turkey - Politics : news, world | euronews

"Papandreou wants to improve ties with Turkey
Greek opposition socialist leader George Papandreou has said he will try to improve relations with Turkey, if he wins the snap election being held on October 4th.

Instrumental in rebuilding relations with Ankara during the 1990’s, Panpandreou’s PASOK party leads opinion polls by a wide margin. "

More:Papandreou wants to improve ties with Turkey - Politics : news, world | euronews

Letter from Ankara

"Letter from Ankara
By Jasper Mortimer

THE EXPERTS said they were the heaviest rains for 80 years. They burst an earth-wall dam north of Istanbul, overwhelmed the city’s canals and culverts, carried away huge trucks as if they were boats, and flooded hundreds of homes, factories and warehouses.

Politically, they may have been the best downpour for 80 years. Never before has nature so punished the government and city council for allowing construction on the banks of rivers and streams – the river basins that are supposed to absorb excessive rain."

More: Cyprus Mail

IMF chief sees no need to help Turkey - papers | Markets | Markets News | Reuters

"IMF chief sees no need to help Turkey - papers
Sun Sep 20, 2009 5:10am EDT

ANKARA, Sept 20 (Reuters) - International Monetary Fund chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn was quoted as saying by Turkish newspapers on Sunday that he saw "no need for now" for Turkey to agree on a loan deal with the international lender."

More:UPDATE 1-IMF chief sees no need to help Turkey - papers | Markets | Markets News | Reuters

Happy Bayram

We wish a Happy Bayram to all our Muslim readers.

Editor,
Turkish Digest

Import business launched for solar water heater | tallahassee.com | Tallahassee Democrat

"Import business launched for solar water heater

By Dave Hodges
DEMOCRAT BUSINESS EDITOR

After a year of meetings, correspondence and relationship building overseas, two Tallahassee businessmen have secured an exclusive agreement to import a Turkish company's solar water-heating device to the United States for the first time."

More:Import business launched for solar water heater | tallahassee.com | Tallahassee Democrat

Armenia-Turkey: Will economic dividends be able to spur the protocol ratification? - ArmeniaNow.com

"Armenia-Turkey: Will economic dividends be able to spur the protocol ratification?
Analysis by Aris Ghazinyan

The second half of 2009 promises to become one of the most tense periods of modern Armenian history, following the publication on August 31st of the Armenian-Turkish Protocols providing for normalization of bilateral ties."

More:Armenia-Turkey: Will economic dividends be able to spur the protocol ratification? - ArmeniaNow.com

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Turkey imposes restrictions in 4 Kurdish provinces

"Turkey imposes restrictions in 4 Kurdish provinces
Sat, 19 Sep 2009 09:27:59 GMT

The Turkish military has declared four Kurdish provinces as 'security zones', imposing severe restrictions on entry into the areas.

Turkey's Chief of the General Staff, General Ilker Basbug, announced that the entry restrictions in the southeastern provinces of Siirt, Diyarbakir, Sirnak and Elazig will be in place for three months.
It was not immediately clear why the tight restrictions were imposed."

More:Turkey imposes restrictions in 4 Kurdish provinces