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Thursday, April 30, 2009

Turk-Armenian reconciliation key

"Turk-Armenian reconciliation key
WASHINGTON -The recent initiation of a reconciliation process between Turkey and Armenia is one of the Obama administration’s foreign-policy achievements, a spokesman for the United States National Security Council announced while appraising the president’s first 100 days in office"

More:Turk-Armenian reconciliation key

Top general hints at military service reform

"Top general hints at military service reform
ANKARA - With more than nearly 700,000 privates and 200,000 officers, the Turkish Armed Forces, or TSK, is one of the largest armies in the world. In NATO, it ranks second after the United States. The paying of money to be exempted from conscription needs Parliament’s approval"

More:Top general hints at military service reform

Rival Islamist Groups Vie for the Support of Southeast Turkey’s Conservative Kurdish Population - The Jamestown Foundation

"Rival Islamist Groups Vie for the Support of Southeast Turkey’s Conservative Kurdish Population

By: Wladimir van Wilgenburg

The enigmatic figure of Fethullah Gulen, a Turkish-born U.S. resident who runs an extensive Islamic movement in Turkey, has been warned by the Kurdish Hezbollah (Hezbollahi Kurdi - HK) against making further statements critical of Hezbollah. [1] Gulen recently argued that the Kurdistan Workers Party (Partiya Karkeren Kurdistan - PKK) and other terrorist organizations were formed by the Turkish “deep state,” but went out of control. The Turkish “deep state” (derin devlet) is a clandestine ultra-nationalist alliance alleged to include notable members of the Turkish media, armed forces, judiciary, organized crime and security services."

More:Rival Islamist Groups Vie for the Support of Southeast Turkey’s Conservative Kurdish Population - The Jamestown Foundation

TRAVEL Istanbul: Where Continents Collide

"TRAVEL Istanbul: Where Continents Collide

by Roy Heale
2009-04-29

I must admit my knowledge of Turkey was limited to my online research before I departed for Istanbul plus a few faded memories from the —80s cult movie Midnight Express. But at least I knew that Istanbul was at the crossroads of two continents—a globally unique occurrence— as the city is divided into Europe and Asia by the Bosphorus Strait. With over 11 million people residing in this metropolis, I felt confident that my trip would unveil the mystique of Turkey and, possibly in a city so populous, there might even be a sizable gay community."

More:Windy City Times - TRAVEL Istanbul: Where Continents Collide

Turkey's two directions

"Turkey's two directions
Turkey's efforts towards EU accession continue to be stymied, in turn pushing Ankara to engage its southern sphere, writes Mustafa El-Labbad*

Turkey's EU candidacy has once again topped the agenda of the EU executive branch. On 21 April in Prague, Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan met with his Czech counterpart, Karel Schwarzenberg, in his capacity as serving EU president to discuss progress on Turkey's accession. But apart from handshakes and smiles and commemorative photographs, the gap between the two sides appears as difficult to bridge as ever, 22 years since Turkey first applied for EU membership. Naturally, Ankara will keep trying and will probably continue to check its anger against European stubbornness; however, in the meantime it will probably set its sights on closer involvement in the Middle East and the Caucasus."

More:Al-Ahram Weekly | Opinion | Turkey's two directions

Turkey says mandates US banks for 2019 eurobond - Forbes.com

"Turkey says mandates US banks for 2019 eurobond
04.30.09, 01:03 PM EDT

ISTANBUL/LONDON, April 30 (Reuters) - Turkey's Treasury confirmed on Thurday it has mandated Merrill Lynch, a unit of Bank of America, and JP Morgan for the issue of a 2019 dollar-denominated eurobond."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkey says mandates US banks for 2019 eurobond - Forbes.com

Ankara wins the 2009 Europe Prize

"Ankara wins the 2009 Europe Prize

The 2009 Europe Prize has been awarded to the Turkish town of Ankara. The decision was taken unanimously by the Committee on the Environment, Agriculture and Local and Regional Affairs of the Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly (PACE) meeting today in Strasbourg.

Through its forty twinnings in the world, Ankara has developed a very dense network of international contacts and attaches great importance to the development of cultural relations by organising every year Cultural Days. And thanks to its international conferences (such as the 5th Glocal Forum) it has contributed to strengthening friendship and understanding among people."

More:AB Haber

Mountain chess

"Mountain chess

Apr 30th 2009 | ANKARA AND YEREVAN

Recent moves towards a peace deal may come unstuck

A HIGH-STAKES chess game is being played out in the south Caucasus. It involves America, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia and Turkey. Unlike chess-players, though, all the participants can win in this game, it is hoped, if they agree on a common aim: peace between Turkey and Armenia, which would help to thaw the frozen conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the (mainly Armenian) territory of Nagorno-Karabakh."

More:Can Turkey and Armenia ever make up? | Mountain chess | The Economist

Turkish-Armenian Relations: 'There Is Hope Once Again' - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

"'There Is Hope Once Again'

Turkey wants reconciliation with its neighbor Armenia, 94 years after the Armenian genocide. In an interview with SPIEGEL ONLINE, Armenian Orthodox Archbishop Aram Atesyan says he is confident, but warns against overly high expectations that relations could normalize quickly."

More:Turkish-Armenian Relations: 'There Is Hope Once Again' - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

Turkey cbank sees below target inflation, rate cuts

"Turkey cbank sees below target inflation, rate cuts

*2009 inflation seen in 4.8 and 7.2 percent range *Differences with IMF for loan deal sorted out *Expects double-digit GDP contraction in Q1 *Turkey financing need falling below $30 bln

By Hatice Aydogdu
ANKARA, April 30 (Reuters) - Turkish central bank Governor Durmus Yilmaz said on Thursday the bank expected inflation to undershoot its 2009 target, paving the way for more interest rate cuts this year.
The central bank is aiming for 7.5 percent inflation in 2009, but a steep global economic downturn and weak domestic demand will push the rate below the target after the bank failed to meet its aim for three consecutive years."

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

Turkey hits Kurdish bases in Iraq

"Turkey hits Kurdish bases in Iraq
A Turkish soldier patrols on a road near the Turkey-Iraq border
Turkish forces have been fighting Kurdish rebels in a 25-year conflict

Turkish warplanes bombed Kurdish rebel positions in northern Iraq on Wednesday and Thursday, Turkish officials say."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkey hits Kurdish bases in Iraq

Turkey Armenia set for agreed road map

"Turkey Armenia set for agreed road map
ANKARA - Following the announcement of a road map for the normalization of Turkish-Armenian relations, the political consultation process between the two countries will start in one or two weeks, Foreign Minister Ali Babacan said yesterday."

More:Turkey Armenia set for agreed road map

88 illegal migrants arrested

"88 illegal migrants arrested
MUGLA/IZMIR/CANAKKALE – Turkish security forces have announced that they arrested 88 illegal immigrants in separate operations conducted in Turkey’s western provinces of Muğla, İzmir and Çanakkale late Tuesday."

More:88 illegal migrants arrested

Istanbul slips down life quality rankings

"Istanbul slips down life quality rankings
ISTANBUL - Istanbul has fallen back seven points and is now the 121st city in the world in terms of quality of life, according to research by human resources consulting firm Mercer."

More:Istanbul slips down life quality rankings

Turkey drops probe into Israel's Gaza operation

"Turkey drops probe into Israel's Gaza operation
ANKARA - A Turkish prosecutor has dropped a probe into whether Israel committed genocide and crimes against humanity in its offensive in Gaza, the Anatolia news agency reported Thursday."

More:Turkey drops probe into Israel's Gaza operation

Pilots partly at fault, says report

"Pilots partly at fault, says report
ISTANBUL - The pilots of the ill-fated Turkish Airlines, or THY, flight 1951 from Istanbul to Amsterdam were partly responsible for the crash, an interim report released by Dutch authorities has said."

More:Pilots partly at fault, says report

Turkish general denies coup plot

"Turkish general denies coup plot

ISTANBUL, Turkey, April 30 (UPI) -- Top Turkish Gen. Ilker Basbug Wednesday denied the military has plotted a coup d'etat. "

More:Turkish general denies coup plot - UPI.com

The Lesson from Turkey & Armenia

";The Lesson from Turkey & Armenia
HASSAN MASIKY
Let’s hope politicians in Morocco and Algeria were following the news coming out of Ankara and Yerevan: Muslim Turkey and Christian Armenia have agreed to normalize their bilateral ties, putting decades of animosity behind them."

More:The Lesson from Turkey & Armenia - Morocco Board News Service

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Europe, Islam and Turkey

"Europe, Islam and Turkey
Written by www.daily.pk
Thursday, 30 April 2009 01:01

A few months before his death in October 2004, the famous French philosopher Jacques Derrida called for 'deconstructing the European intellectual construction of Islam.'"

More:Europe, Islam and Turkey | Pakistan Daily

Police on bombers alert

"Police on bombers alert
ISTANBUL - The outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, has sent three suicide bombers to undertake bombing missions in major Turkish cities, private broadcaster CNN-Türk reported yesterday, citing police officials."

More:Police on bombers alert

Robert Ellis: Tackling the Turkish taboo | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk

"Tackling the Turkish taboo

Public discussion of the Armenian genocide is still risky, but signs that Ankara is softening its stance are encouraging"

More:Robert Ellis: Tackling the Turkish taboo | Comment is free | guardian.co.uk

Turkish Stocks, Lira Climb on Bank Regulator’s Profit Forecast - Bloomberg.com

"Turkish Stocks, Lira Climb on Bank Regulator’s Profit Forecast

By Mark Bentley and Ali Berat Meric

April 29 (Bloomberg) -- Turkish stocks surged to a six-month high and the lira rose after the chief banking regulator said profits at banks will increase and their balance sheets passed a stress test."

More:Turkish Stocks, Lira Climb on Bank Regulator’s Profit Forecast - Bloomberg.com

Significance of attacks in Turkey | Reuters

"Significance of attacks in Turkey
Wed Apr 29, 2009 7:39am EDT

ISTANBUL, April 29 (Reuters) - Nine Turkish soldiers were killed in a bomb explosion on Wednesday in the mainly Kurdish southeast in the deadliest attack on security forces in months."

More:Q&A-Significance of attacks in Turkey | Reuters

Istanbul Calling: A Roadmap for Turkey and Armenia, but Hazards Ahead

"A Roadmap for Turkey and Armenia, but Hazards Ahead

I have an article up on the Eurasianet website looking at some of the challenges facing Turkey and Armenia in their bid to restore diplomatic relations and reopen their border. From the article:

Turkey and Armenia have announced they are close to reaching an agreement to restore ties and reopen their borders. But observers caution that getting to a final deal will require both Turkey and Armenia to navigate through difficult domestic and external challenges."

More:Istanbul Calling: A Roadmap for Turkey and Armenia, but Hazards Ahead

AFP: Turkish army chief rejects Israeli criticism

"Turkish army chief rejects Israeli criticism

2 hours ago

ANKARA (AFP) — Turkey's army chief Ilker Basbug on Wednesday brushed aside Israel's criticism of his country's first ever joint military exercises with neighbouring Syria.

'Israel's reaction does not interest us. We do not have to explain to a third country any military exercise that we undertake with another country,' General Basbug told a news conference here."

More:AFP: Turkish army chief rejects Israeli criticism

OMV denies report it is in talks with Dogan | Deals | Reuters

"OMV denies report it is in talks with Dogan
Wed Apr 29, 2009 10:28am EDT

By Eva Komarek

VIENNA (Reuters) - Austrian oil and gas group OMV (OMVV.VI) denied a report it is currently in talks with Turkish partner Dogan Holding (DOHOL.IS) about a stake in Petrol Ofisi (PTOFS.IS), OMV's chief executive said on Wednesday."

More:OMV denies report it is in talks with Dogan | Deals | Reuters

Author pens new historical novel that traces European and Ottoman-Turkish Jewish history

"Author pens new historical novel that traces European and Ottoman-Turkish Jewish history

Farewell Homeland by Fuat Andic is a reflective novel about a family forced to flee their home due to faith differences

WASHINGTON, D.C (MMD Newswire) April 29, 2009 -- Farewell Homeland by Fuat Andic is the tale of a Jewish family exiled from Spain and that family's settlement in Turkey.

Andic tells the story of Dr. Ben Naum, who, in 1492, was expelled from Granada, Spain, and took refuge in the seaport city of Salonika, Turkey. The author gives an account of Naum's family and its descendants over centuries and their extermination with the German occupation of Salonika during World War II. Although fictional, the novel's main character is similar to many Jews who have been forced to leave their homes because of their faith, states Andic."

More:Author pens new historical novel that traces European and Ottoman-Turkish Jewish history

Talks on military-economic cooperation in Istanbul

"Talks on military-economic cooperation in Istanbul

ISTANBUL/BELGRADE, April 29. (Tanjug). Serbian Defence Minister Dragan Sutanovac has discussed a bilateral military cooperation with the officials from Turkey, Egypt, Czech Republic, Pakistan, Algeria and Kenya in Istanbul, the Defence Ministry stated Tuesday."

More:BSANNA News - BSANNA NEWS

Media workers survive only by chance in Turkey

"Media workers survive only by chance in Turkey
ANKARA - Experts say the competitive Turkish media environment and an unorganized governmental system make members of the press put themselves in danger by rushing into news stories"

More:Media workers survive only by chance in Turkey

Turkish top general says unearthed weapons do not belong to military

"Turkish top general says unearthed weapons do not belong to military
ISTANBUL - Turkish army chief Gen. Ilker Basbug said Wednesday the unearthed weapons and ammunitions discovered in the ongoing controversial Ergenekon probe do not belong to the military."

More:Turkish top general says unearthed weapons do not belong to military

Letter From Europe - Stakes High in Armenia-Turkey Talks - NYTimes.com

"Stakes High in Armenia-Turkey Talks

By JUDY DEMPSEY
Published: April 29, 2009

BERLIN — For several months, the leaders of Turkey and Armenia have defied the nationalists of both countries by holding secret talks in Switzerland in a bid to end a conflict in a highly volatile region on the fringes of Europe."

More:Letter From Europe - Stakes High in Armenia-Turkey Talks - NYTimes.com

Turkey - Factors to Watch on April 29 - Forbes.com

"Turkey - Factors to Watch on April 29
04.29.09, 03:42 AM EDT

ISTANBUL, April 29 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events that could affect Turkish financial markets on Wednesday."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkey - Factors to Watch on April 29 - Forbes.com

Nine soldiers killed in SE Turkey bomb | International | Reuters

"Nine soldiers killed in SE Turkey bomb

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey (Reuters) - Nine Turkish soldiers were killed in a bomb explosion on Wednesday in the mainly Kurkish southeast, the military said, in the deadliest attack on security forces in months."

More:Nine soldiers killed in SE Turkey bomb | International | Reuters

Armenia Earthquake in Turkey

"Armenia Earthquake in Turkey

The most important agenda in the last day of Turkey-Armenia, Turkey-Azerbaijan relations. Azerbaijan relations are in tension with Turkey, Armenia in the normalization of relations appeared to be so large in discussions

In Armenia, the Armenian government in the extreme nationalist Dashnak Party, the normalization of relations with Turkey to protest efforts, the government announced withdrawal. Dashnak Party supporters of the extreme nationalists, the Armenian Remembrance Day in April'24 and had burnt the Turkish flag. "

More:GAZIANTEP,Gaziantep Haberler, olay,Gaziantep, Haberleri Gaziantep/Turkey [ Armenia Earthquake in Turkey ]

Expatriates threatened by northern Cyprus ruling - Property Week

"Expatriates threatened by northern Cyprus ruling

07:55 | 29.04.09

Thousands of expatriates who have property in northern Cyprus could be affected by a European Court of Justice ruling that the European Union’s courts should enforce Greek Cypriot legal verdicts."

More:Expatriates threatened by northern Cyprus ruling - Property Week

Turkey urges objective evaluation of joint history with Armenia

"Turkey urges objective evaluation of joint history with Armenia
ANKARA - Turkey and Armenia's joint history should be evaluated with 'an objective and scientific approach,' the Turkish National Security Council, or MGK, said after a meeting held Tuesday."

More:Turkey urges objective evaluation of joint history with Armenia

China View: Thermal camera placed at Istanbul airport to prevent swine flu

For the complete report from Xinhua click on this link

Thermal camera placed at Istanbul airport to prevent swine flu

A thermal camera was placed at Ataturk international airport Turkish largest city of Istanbul to measure the body heat of passengers entering Turkey, local press reported Wednesday. The move in Istanbul came late Tuesday in order to prevent swine flu's spread into Turkey, according to the report. With the help of a computer, authorities at the airport will detect those passengers whose body temperature is over 38.5 degrees, who will be subject to further tests in order to detect the swine flu, said the report.

Niqash: Kirkuk petition stokes tensions

For the complete report from Niqash click on this link

Kirkuk petition stokes tensions

A petition campaign collecting signatures supporting a Kurdish Kirkuk has provoked Arab and Turkmen anger. In April 2009 a number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), close to Kurdish groups, launched for a campaign to demonstrate that the majority of Kirkuk's residents want the city to be annexed to the autonomous Kurdish Region. The petition’s first sentence read: “We, the people of Kirkuk, the undersigned, demand the annexation of Kirkuk to the Kurdish Region." Arabs and Turkmen say that a solution to the Kirkuk’s crisis is the responsibility of the committee and not of NGOs. Ali Mahdi, a Turkmen member of the provincial council, told Niqash that the petition lacks both credibility and constitutional basis. He added that "members of the two parties [KDP and PUK] went to peoples’ houses and to government departments and used different methods to pressure people to sign the petition.”

BBC NEWS: Turkey blast kills nine soldiers

For the complete report from the BBC NEWS click on this link

Turkey blast kills nine soldiers

At least nine soldiers have been killed in a landmine explosion in south-eastern Turkey, officials say. Military sources blamed Kurdish rebels for the attack on a road linking the predominantly Kurdish cities of Diyarbakir and Bingol. Correspondents say it is the deadliest attack on security forces for months.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Turkey goes cold on EU

"Turkey goes cold on EU
29 April 2009, 04:17 CET

(ANKARA) - Many Turks wonder whether their country will ever get a chance to join the European Union and experts say they are increasingly disappointed at the slow pace of talks with the EU.

Five years after the EU took in 10 extra members on May 1, 2004, Turkey's own accession talks, which started in 2005, hinge on resolving a trade row with Cyprus and overcoming deep reservations in France, Germany and other members about letting in the mainly Muslim nation."

More:Turkey goes cold on EU — EUbusiness.com - business, legal and economic news and information from the European Union

Schools ink exchange protocol

"Schools ink exchange protocol
MAASTRICHT - TOBB University of Economics and Technology and the Maastricht School of Management signed a protocol on student exchange program and collaboration in Maastricht on Sunday.

The signing of a protocol was the fruit of the 'Third a Maastrict Economic Summit for the Turkish businessmen in Europe' organized by Dutch-Turkish Businessmen Association, or HOTİAD."

More:Schools ink exchange protocol

Fashion show enlivens Istanbul atmosphere

"Fashion show enlivens Istanbul atmosphere
ISTANBUL - The Istanbul performance center garajistanbul was home to a spirited and elegant fashion show Monday evening that drew the interest of many designers, textile-sector leaders and members of high society."

More:Fashion show enlivens Istanbul atmosphere

Talking Turkey: A visit to Istanbul is an exotic departure from the everyday | Web in France Magazine

"Talking Turkey : A visit to Istanbul is an exotic departure from the everyday

April 28, 2009
Explore the bazaars and palaces of mysterious Istanbul, a world and several centuries away.

Want a trip that combines European sophistication and Eastern exoticism? Istanbul has always straddled East and West, part European and part Asian, and was the fabled destination for the famous Orient-Express train. You can still get to Istanbul from Paris aboard the luxurious Orient-Express, now meticulously restored, though this once-in-a-lifetime six-day journey will set you back over $9000 per couple. For the more budget-conscious, flights are available from Paris to Istanbul from as low as $89. And hotels in central Istanbul can be found in all price ranges."

More:Talking Turkey: A visit to Istanbul is an exotic departure from the everyday | Web in France Magazine

Million-dollar Istanbul site visited by millions

"Million-dollar Istanbul site visited by millions
ISTANBUL - When surfing the Web for information on one of the most fascinating cities in the world, istanbul.com is near the top of the list for search results. Launched first in English and then in Turkish, the site has almost 500,000 members, gets more than 10 million hits per day and has been offered millions of dollars for its purchase"

More:Million-dollar Istanbul site visited by millions

Activists angry at Istanbul’s top cop

"Activists angry at Istanbul’s top cop
ISTANBUL - Istanbul Police Chief Celalettin Cerrah’s response in a newspaper interview that the the murdered 17-year-old Münnever Karabulut’s family should have paid more attention to the timing of the comings and goings of their daughter enrages the family and many social activists"

More:Activists angry at Istanbul’s top cop

Turkish police swoop for suspected conspirators « CFD.net.au - CFDs Trader network

"Turkish police swoop for suspected conspirators

April 28, 2009 by cfdmarket

(CFD.net.au - Police raided the homes and offices of at least a half dozen prominent Turkish academics across Turkey Monday against what was reported to be a plot to overthrow the government."

More:Turkish police swoop for suspected conspirators « CFD.net.au - CFDs Trader network

Interim report blames pilots for Schiphol crash

"Interim report blames pilots for Schiphol crash
Published: Tuesday 28 April 2009 19:03 UTC
Last updated: Tuesday 28 April 2009 19:03 UTC
The Dutch Safety Board has produced an interim report on the crash near Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport on 25 February in which nine people died. It concludes the pilots of the Turkish Airlines Boeing 737-800 failed to respond correctly to signals indicating there were problems with the altimeter."

More:Dutch news - Radio Netherlands Worldwide - English

Turkey Uneasy Over Obama's Statement on Armenia - The Jamestown Foundation

"Turkey Uneasy Over Obama's Statement on Armenia
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 81
April 28, 2009 01:27 PM Age: 4 hrs

By: Saban Kardas

President Barack Obama's long awaited statement on the Armenian Remembrance Day caused mixed reactions on both sides of the dispute. Although Obama refrained from referring to the killing of Armenians as 'genocide,' which reflected well on Turkish diplomacy, his clear expression of support for the Armenian position caused anger in Turkey. In his statement, Obama said:"

More:Turkey Uneasy Over Obama's Statement on Armenia - The Jamestown Foundation

PKK 'ready for peace' with Turkey

"PKK 'ready for peace' with Turkey

A Kurdish group that has led an armed struggle against the Turkish government for more than two decades has told Al Jazeera it is ready for a peaceful resolution to the conflict."

More:Al Jazeera English - Europe - PKK 'ready for peace' with Turkey

The Trouble With the 'Genocide' Label

"The Trouble With the 'Genocide' Label

The Current Discussion: Today is 'Genocide Remembrance Day 'in the Armenian community, a particularly strained time of year for Turkey and Armenia. What's a realistic first step forward toward reconciliation for each of these countries?"

More:Need to Know: PostGlobal on washingtonpost.com

Roj TV known for its closeness to PKK stops broadcasting from Denmark

"Roj TV known for its closeness to PKK stops broadcasting from Denmark
28 April 2009 | 17:16 | FOCUS News Agency
Copenhagen. Roj TV known for its closeness to Kurdistan Workers’ Party /PKK/ has stopped broadcasting, Turkish Hurriyet daily writes on its Internet site."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

Turkish markets ease on global fears, IMF worries - Forbes.com

"Turkish markets ease on global fears, IMF worries
04.28.09, 10:45 AM EDT

ISTANBUL, April 28 (Reuters) - The Turkish lira and shares weakened on Tuesday, tracking foreign markets and hit by worries surrounding swine flu and U.S. banks, dealers said."

More:Turkish markets ease on global fears, IMF worries - Forbes.com

DEPECHE MODE TO GIVE A CONCERT IN ISTANBUL IN MAY - Turk.Net

"DEPECHE MODE TO GIVE A CONCERT IN ISTANBUL IN MAY

ISTANBUL (A.A) - 28.04.2009 - British electronic music band Depeche Mode will give a concert in Istanbul on May 14.

Depeche Mode will perform at Santral Istanbul within the scope its world tour titled 'Tour of the Universe'. The band earlier gave two concerts in Istanbul."
More:(CUL) DEPECHE MODE TO GIVE A CONCERT IN ISTANBUL IN MAY - Turk.Net

Turkish police launches dig for "burnt documents"

"Turkish police launches dig for 'burnt documents'
Turkish police launched another excavation in the villa of former MP in relation to the Ergenekon coup probe."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkish police launches dig for "burnt documents" ]

The AKP's Foreign Policy: The Misnomer of 'Neo-Ottomanism'

"The AKP's Foreign Policy: The Misnomer of 'Neo-Ottomanism'
By Soner Cagaptay
The Central Asia-Caucasus Institute, April 24, 2009

Under the rule of the Justice and Development Party (AKP), Turkey has cultivated close ties with Iran, Syria, Sudan, the Gulf Countries, as well as with Russia. In the West, the reorientation of Turkish foreign policy had until recently generally been interpreted as neo-Ottomanist, i.e., a benevolent attempt by Turkey to assert itself in the Ottoman realm, which was assumed to be to the benefit of the Euro-Atlantic community as well. However, a closer look reveals that Turkey is asserting itself exclusively in the Muslim Middle East, while ignoring other areas of the Ottoman realm. What is more, under the AKP, Turkish foreign policy empathizes increasingly not with the West, but with Russia and Iran, and especially with Arab Islamist causes."

More:Article or Op-Ed

Evren vs Haberal

"Evren vs Haberal

This photo was taken two weeks ago. President Abdullah Gul, left, hosted the former president Kenan Evren, right, in his official residence. With this reception, Abdullah Gul showed once again that the AKP government has nothing to do with the democratization in Turkey. Kenan Evren was the leader of the last military coup in Turkey."

More:The Istanbulian: Evren vs Haberal

Nabucco Project Faces Turkish Hurdles at Critical Turn - The Jamestown Foundation

"Nabucco Project Faces Turkish Hurdles at Critical Turn
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 80
April 27, 2009 01:52 PM Age: 19 hrs

By: Vladimir Socor

Capitalizing on the European Commission's November 2008 initiative to promote the Corridor and to create a Caspian Development Corporation, the Budapest meeting set the goal of signing the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) and at least clear the way for signing the Project Support Agreements (PSA's) during the first half of 2009. In March the EU allocated 200 million Euros to the Nabucco project as seed capital for the first time ever, with more expected after the IGA and PSA's are signed. Drawing on that seed funding, the Nabucco project company has already begun contracting work from some engineering firms in the transit countries."

More:Nabucco Project Faces Turkish Hurdles at Critical Turn - The Jamestown Foundation

Armenian Revolutionary Federation Quits Government - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

"Armenian Revolutionary Federation Quits Government

April 28, 2009
YEREVAN -- The Armenian Revolutionary Federation--Dashnaktsutiun party said on April 27 that it is leaving the ruling coalition, after meeting with Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian, RFE/RL's Armenian Service reports.

Dashnaktsutiun leader Armen Rustamian said 'the president's explanations [on the 'road map' for normalizing Turkish-Armenian relations] did not satisfy us.'"

More:Armenian Revolutionary Federation Quits Government - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

Turkey to host international energy fair in Istanbul

"Turkey to host international energy fair in Istanbul
The 15th International Energy & Environment Fair and Conference will be held in Istanbul on May 13-15."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey to host international energy fair in Istanbul ]

Two bombs explode in Istanbul, little damage-TV

"Two bombs explode in Istanbul, little damage-TV
28 Apr 2009 09:40:28 GMT
Source: Reuters
ISTANBUL, April 28 (Reuters) - Two percussion bombs exploded in central Istanbul on Tuesday causing little damage, broadcaster CNN Turk said.

One bomb exploded in a car park near a military base in Turkey's largest city, while the second blast was outside a six-storey student dormitory on the Asian side of the city, CNN Turk said."

More:Reuters AlertNet - Two bombs explode in Istanbul, little damage-TV

Ex-Turkish army chief testifies in coup plot | Reuters

"Turkish army chief testifies in coup plot
Mon Apr 27, 2009 9:18am EDT

ANKARA, April 27 (Reuters) - A former chief of Turkey's armed forces said on Monday he had testified in the investigation of an alleged plot to topple the government of Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan."

More:Ex-Turkish army chief testifies in coup plot | Reuters

U.K. Couple Must Demolish Cyprus Home, EU Court Says (Update1) - Bloomberg.com

"U.K. Couple Must Demolish Cyprus Home, EU Court Says (Update1)

By Stephanie Bodoni and Simon Packard

April 28 (Bloomberg) -- Thousands of property investors may be in danger of losing vacation homes in the northern part of Cyprus after the European Union’s top court ruled that a Greek Cypriot can reclaim land once owned by his family."

More:U.K. Couple Must Demolish Cyprus Home, EU Court Says (Update1) - Bloomberg.com

Iran, Turkey explore ways to boost trade ties

"Iran, Turkey explore ways to boost trade ties
Tehran Times Economic Desk

TEHRAN – Iranian Commerce Minister Masoud Mirkazemi, heading a 170—member delegation, set off on a two-day visit to Ankara on Monday to discuss ways to bolster trade ties with Turkey."

More:tehran times : Iran, Turkey explore ways to boost trade ties

Israel concerned by Turkish-Syrian military drill - WashingtonTV تلویزیون واشنگتن

"Israel concerned by Turkish-Syrian military drill
Updated: Monday, April 27, 2009

11:30GMT—7:30AM/EST

Washington, 27 April (WashingtonTV)—Israel’s Defense Minister Ehud Barak on Monday described as “disturbing” an unprecedented military exercise between its ally, Turkey, and arch-foe Syria."

More:Israel concerned by Turkish-Syrian military drill - WashingtonTV

Erotic Intellectual

"Erotic Intellectual
Melik Kaylan, 04.28.09, 12:01 AM EDT
Christopher Hitchens turns us on--even when he's wrong.

... In the category of just wrongheaded, I would cite his relentlessly hostile posture toward Turkey. Most recently on April 20, in Slate, he bashes away again at Turkey. You'd hope that Hitch would by instinct unsheathe his sword to fend off all insults directed at the world's oldest Muslim democracy with a Western secular constitution. But no, from the earliest time, indeed from the time of his first marriage to a Greek Cypriot heiress, he has managed to find nothing but execrable flaws in Turkey's conduct."

More:Erotic Intellectual - Forbes.com

Monday, April 27, 2009

Avuncular American: Europe & Turkey: Let It Fly On Its Own

"Europe & Turkey: Let It Fly On Its Own

EU_Turkey_flag As we approach the 100 day mark for the Obama Administration, the desire of European political parties, public interest groups, think tanks and media to analyze its impact on Europe continues unabated. On the whole, the verdict is that the election of Barack Obama was a good thing for the United States, but also for Europe."

More:Avuncular American: Europe & Turkey: Let It Fly On Its Own

Nabucco Project Faces Turkish Hurdles at Critical Turn - The Jamestown Foundation

"Nabucco Project Faces Turkish Hurdles at Critical Turn
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 80
April 27, 2009 01:52 PM Age: 7 hrs

By: Vladimir Socor

Capitalizing on the European Commission's November 2008 initiative to promote the Corridor and to create a Caspian Development Corporation, the Budapest meeting set the goal of signing the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) and at least clear the way for signing the Project Support Agreements (PSA's) during the first half of 2009. In March the EU allocated 200 million Euros to the Nabucco project as seed capital for the first time ever, with more expected after the IGA and PSA's are signed. Drawing on that seed funding, the Nabucco project company has already begun contracting work from some engineering firms in the transit countries."

More:Nabucco Project Faces Turkish Hurdles at Critical Turn - The Jamestown Foundation

Turkish Police Target al-Qaeda Network in Turkey - The Jamestown Foundation

"Turkish Police Target al-Qaeda Network in Turkey
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 80
April 27, 2009 04:00 PM Age: 5 hrs
Category: Eurasia Daily Monitor, Home Page, Terrorism, Turkey
By: Emrullah Uslu

The counterterrorism units of the Gaziantep, Konya, Adana, Kahramanmaras and Sanliurfa provincial police departments staged simultaneous raids on a number of addresses in their respective cities. As a result 37 suspected al-Qaeda members were detained. It was reported that one of the suspects in Gaziantep was appointed as the leader of al-Qaeda in Turkey after Mehemet Polat was killed in a shootout in Gaziantep province on January 24 2008 (Star, April 21). Another suspect in Gaziantep was found to have spent time in al-Qaeda training camps in Afghanistan, along with six other detainees. They were allegedly forming a new organization affiliated with al-Qaeda (Today's Zaman, April 25). It was the second such police raid carried out during April. On April 9 police in Eskisehir province arrested 28 suspected al-Qaeda members, seven of whom were imprisoned (www.ntvmsnbc.com, April 11)."

More:Turkish Police Target al-Qaeda Network in Turkey - The Jamestown Foundation

Obama backs Turkey's strategic energy role | EU - European Information on Energy Supply

"Obama backs Turkey's strategic energy role[fr]
Published: Tuesday 7 April 2009

Speaking before the Turkish parliament yesterday (6 April), US President Barack Obama said America would continue to support Turkey's central role as an East-West oil and gas corridor, and highlighted new economic opportunities offered by clean energies. EurActiv Turkey reports"

More:EurActiv.com - Obama backs Turkey's strategic energy role | EU - European Information on Energy Supply

Armenian coalition hit over Turkey moves

"Armenian coalition hit over Turkey moves

Reuters/Yerevan
A nationalist junior partner in Armenia’s ruling coalition left the government yesterday over moves to establish diplomatic ties with Turkey after a century of hostility."

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

Turkey-Armenia Rapprochement

"Monday, April 27, 2009
WINEP OP-ED: Turkey-Armenia Rapprochement

POST GLOBAL: The Caucasian Energy Circle

...The thaw in Turkish-Armenian relations should not come at the expense of the East-West energy corridor, i.e. cooperation over pipelines running from Azerbaijan to Turkey, a crucial strategic tool for Washington to decrease the West's dependence on Middle East oil and gas...

...In the 1990s, the United States joined the Caucasian circle, supporting construction of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline that extends from Azerbaijan to Turkey, successfully bypassing Russia. The BTC is anathema to Russia. Built when Russia was weak and ruled by politically impotent Yeltsin, the BTC is one of only two pipelines that run from the Caspian basin to the West without going through Russia..."

More:MEMG: WINEP OP-ED: Turkey-Armenia Rapprochement

Hit movie faced no censorship

"Hit movie faced no censorship
ISTANBUL - Murat Tokat, the producer of the movie 'Güneşi Gördüm' (I saw the sun) about the Kurdish issue, refuted Friday a media report about the film that a different copy of the movie would be sent to film festivals abroad, this time including the scenes that were founded as 'inconvenient' by the General Staff."

More:Hit movie faced no censorship

’Kurdistan’ leads to court confusion

"’Kurdistan’ leads to court confusion
ISTANBUL-The use of the word 'Kurdistan' by a lawyer during a panel discussion was not deemed a crime by a court even though previously another court had convicted the same lawyer for the use of the word."

More:’Kurdistan’ leads to court confusion

Cabinet change to be announced after MGK

"Cabinet change to be announced after MGK
ANKARA - With today’s National Security Council, or MGK, meeting out of the way, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is expected to go ahead this week with plans to change nearly half of his Cabinet, including his foreign and economic ministers."

More:Cabinet change to be announced after MGK

’Defense industry survives the crisis’

"’Defense industry survives the crisis’
ISTANBUL - Regardless of good economic times or bad, Turkey’s defense and security sector stands strong and at the region’s largest defense industry fair in Istanbul, the technology and attendees have proved it is an industry moving aggressively ahead."

More:’Defense industry survives the crisis’

Turkish lira, stocks outperform peers on flu fears - Forbes.com

"Turkish lira, stocks outperform peers on flu fears
04.27.09, 10:57 AM EDT

ISTANBUL, April 27 (Reuters) - The Turkish currency and stocks softened on Monday but fared better than other emerging market assets' hit by concerns the spread of swine flu would hit the already weak global economy."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkish lira, stocks outperform peers on flu fears - Forbes.com

Turkey hopes to buy S-400 air defense systems from Russia

"Turkey hopes to buy S-400 air defense systems from Russia
16:13 | 27/ 04/ 2009

ISTANBUL, April 27 (RIA Novosti) - Turkey, a NATO member, has expressed interest in buying S-400 Triumf air defense systems from Russia, a Russian defense industry official said on Monday."

More:RIA Novosti - Russia - Turkey hopes to buy S-400 air defense systems from Russia

The Caucasian Energy Circle

"The Caucasian Energy Circle
By Soner Cagaptay
Post Global, April 27, 2009

Turkey and Armenia are getting closer, and that's great news. Washington has long wanted the two countries to get over their differences, open their closed border, and establish diplomatic ties. If all that happened, it would be wonderful news. But euphoria over Turkish-Armenian rapprochement should not, however, obfuscate the big, strategic picture in the Caucasian energy circle. The thaw in Turkish-Armenian relations should not come at the expense of the East-West energy corridor, i.e. cooperation over pipelines running from Azerbaijan to Turkey, a crucial strategic tool for Washington to decrease the West's dependence on Middle East oil and gas."

More:Article or Op-Ed

Turkish President Congratulates Turkish Cypriot Party Leader

"Turkish President Congratulates Turkish Cypriot Party Leader
Published: 4/27/2009

ANKARA - Turkish President Abdullah Gul congratulated National Unity Party (UBP) leader Dervis Eroglu for his success in the general elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and expressed his appreciation to the TRNC authorities for holding the elections in a democratic atmosphere."

More:Turkish President Congratulates Turkish Cypriot Party Leader

Turkish President Congratulates Turkish Cypriot Party Leader

"Turkish President Congratulates Turkish Cypriot Party Leader
Published: 4/27/2009

ANKARA - Turkish President Abdullah Gul congratulated National Unity Party (UBP) leader Dervis Eroglu for his success in the general elections in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and expressed his appreciation to the TRNC authorities for holding the elections in a democratic atmosphere."

More:Turkish President Congratulates Turkish Cypriot Party Leader

'Genocide' And The Armenian Reaction

"'Genocide' And The Armenian Reaction
Published: 4/27/2009

BY TAHA AKYOL
MILLIYET- US President Barack Obama`s statement was the harshest yet since Ronald Reagan
. No, he never said `genocide,` but his statement was harsh, unilateral and accusatory. More and more academic journals call the incidents of 1915 a genocide, and 17 countries have done the same. Obama also contributed to this rising tide of academic and political pressure on Turkey. He said everything but that one word! This isn`t just about our moral and historical stature. There are also Armenian nationalists` political calculations behind the allegations! Even if certain intellectuals and politicians think they`re acting out of `humanitarian` feelings, in the end they become a tool for such spiteful calculations."

More:'Genocide' And The Armenian Reaction

Report: Prisoners riot in southeastern Turkey

"Report: Prisoners riot in southeastern Turkey

2009-04-27 13:55:04 -

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - A Turkish television says inmates at a prison in southeastern Turkey set a fire during a riot."

Mre:Report: Prisoners riot in southeastern Turkey

Name of first Turkish ambassador to Armenia known

"Name of first Turkish ambassador to Armenia known
[ 27 Apr 2009 14:45 ]
Istanbul. Ibrahim Nabioglu – APA. The name of the first Turkish ambassador, who will be accredited in Yerevan, is known, APA’s Turkey bureau reports quoting Gazeteport news portal.

According to the roadmap agreed by Turkey and Armenia, Turkey’s ambassador to Georgia Ertan Tezgor will also be accredited in Yerevan after diplomatic relations are established between the two countries. Ertan Tezgor will be the first Turkish diplomat accredited in Armenia."

More:APA - Name of first Turkish ambassador to Armenia known

TURKEY'S CHIEF EU NEGOTIATOR CALLS FOR DOMESTIC SUPPORT FOR MEMBERSHIP BID - Turk.Net

"TURKEY'S CHIEF EU NEGOTIATOR CALLS FOR DOMESTIC SUPPORT FOR MEMBERSHIP BID

ISTANBUL (A.A) - 27.04.2009 - Turkey's chief negotiator for European Union accession talks urged Monday country's opposition parties and civil society organizations to show their support for Turkish membership in the Union."

More:(GEN) TURKEY'S CHIEF EU NEGOTIATOR CALLS FOR DOMESTIC SUPPORT FOR MEMBERSHIP BID - Turk.Net

GOVERNOR GENERAL OF NEW ZEALAND IN ANKARA - Turk.Net

"GOVERNOR GENERAL OF NEW ZEALAND IN ANKARA

ANKARA (A.A) - 27.04.2009 - An official welcoming ceremony took place at the Cankaya Presidential Office in honor of Governor General of Sir Anand Satyanand of New Zealand, who is currently paying a state visit to Ankara.

Following the ceremony, Turkish President Abdullah Gul and his guest proceeded to the meeting hall for a tete-a-tete meeting."

More:(DIP) GOVERNOR GENERAL OF NEW ZEALAND IN ANKARA - Turk.Net

Ihsan Dagi: The Armenian question, Turkey and the US

"The Armenian question, Turkey and the US
US President Barack Obama spoke but did not use the word 'genocide,' though he meant it, while describing the events of 1915 as a 'great atrocity.' He had given the signal that he would do so while on his visit to Turkey a few weeks earlier. So another April has passed without major trouble for Turkish diplomacy. Let's see what happens next year."

More:Ihsan Dagi: The Armenian question, Turkey and the US

Istanbul siege 'leaves two dead'

"Istanbul siege 'leaves two dead'
Advertisement

Smoke rising from outside the building

A Turkish policeman and a civilian have been killed during a raid on a flat in Istanbul, where left-wing militants are believed to be holed up, reports say."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Istanbul siege 'leaves two dead'

France welcomes Armenia-Turkey roadmap

"France welcomes Armenia-Turkey roadmap

27.04.2009 12:42

The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of France welcomes the joint statement of Armenia, Turkey and Switzerland. The Spokesman for the Ministry issued the following statement:"

More:Public Radio of Armenia

A FOUR-STORY BUILDING COLLAPSES IN CENTRAL ISTANBUL - AGENCY

"A FOUR-STORY BUILDING COLLAPSES IN CENTRAL ISTANBUL - AGENCY
ISTANBUL - A four-story building collapsed in the central district of Kagithane in Istanbul, leaving people trapped under the debris, the private Dogan News Agency reported Monday."

More:A FOUR-STORY BUILDING COLLAPSES IN CENTRAL ISTANBUL - AGENCY

Police kill leftist militant in Istanbul gunbattle | International | Reuters

"Police kill leftist militant in Istanbul gunbattle
Mon Apr 27, 2009 7:45am EDT

By Thomas Grove

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkish police killed one of the leaders of a left-wing armed group on Monday after laying siege to its hideaway in central Istanbul, authorities said. One police officer and one civilian also died in the shooting."

More:Police kill leftist militant in Istanbul gunbattle | International | Reuters

Turkish Foreign Trade Deficit Probably Narrowed: Week Ahead - Bloomberg.com

"Turkish Foreign Trade Deficit Probably Narrowed: Week Ahead

By Steve Bryant

April 27 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey’s trade deficit probably narrowed in March from a year earlier, the seventh consecutive contraction, as weaker demand at home and cheaper oil and gas reduced the import bill."

More:Turkish Foreign Trade Deficit Probably Narrowed: Week Ahead - Bloomberg.com

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Turks taking lots more interest in ANZAC Day

"Turks taking lots more interest in ANZAC Day
GALLIPOLI-Many of the approximately 8,000 foreign visitors from all over the world began arriving at the commemoration site near ANZAC Cove on Friday night, some as early as 9 p.m., to take part in the traditional dawn service, which started at 5:30 a.m. Saturday, drawing fewer people than before"

More:Turks taking lots more interest in ANZAC Day

Plenty of dismay for all to share

"Plenty of dismay for all to share
ANKARA - Turkish political leaders are displeased by US President Barack Obama’s decision to use ’Meds Yeghern’ during his April 24 statement to commemorate the 1915 events. Even though he did not say ’genocide,’ his usage of the Armenian term, which can be translated as ’Great Catastrophe,’ is still too close for comfort"

More:Plenty of dismay for all to share

Armenians in US turn attention to Congress

"Armenians in US turn attention to Congress
WASHINGTON - Unhappy with President Barack Obama's declining to describe the World War I-era killings of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire as 'genocide,' U.S. Armenians will focus on passing a 'genocide resolution' already pending in Congress."

More:Armenians in US turn attention to Congress

Turkey in transition: reality and image

"Turkey in transition: reality and image

Written by Gunes Murat Tezcur
The very clash of interests dividing Turkey may be the route to its democratic deepening, says Günes Murat Tezcür.

The visit of Barack Obama to Turkey on 6-7 April 2009 at the end of his week-long European tour - the United States president's first to a Muslim-majority country - is just one of many current signals of the considerable global interest in Turkish domestic politics and foreign-policy choices. Indeed, Turkey is often regarded by many as one or other kind of 'model': on account of the way this Muslim-majority nation conducts its democratic governance, maintains its secular regime, manages its prospects for membership in the European Union, pursues its mediating role in the middle-east and Caucasus conflicts, and (most ambitiously) represents a standing rebuke to the 'clash of civilisations' paradigm."

More:Turkey in transition: reality and image

Istanbul’s cabs hit by liquidity crunch

"Istanbul’s cabs hit by liquidity crunch
ISTANBUL - Cabs working in Istanbul’s business districts such as Maslak and Mecidiyeköy have begun to provide services on credit."

More:Istanbul’s cabs hit by liquidity crunch

The Hillary Clinton Impact on Turkish-American Relations

"The Hillary Clinton Impact on Turkish-American Relations
ABSTRACT - There is a new environment that Washington and Ankara may base their relations on dynamic, common interests rather than reified common values and norms."

More:The Hillary Clinton Impact on Turkish-American Relations

Speech by H.E. Abdullah Gül, President of the Republic of Turkey :: emportal :: SEE news

"Speech by H.E. Abdullah Gül, President of the Republic of Turkey

26. April 2009. | 16:53

Source: EMportal

The main objectives of Turkey’s energy policy are to strengthen national supply security, and ultimately, help diversify our own and Europe’s routes and resources."

More:Speech by H.E. Abdullah Gül, President of the Republic of Turkey :: emportal :: SEE news

Hoping to tip the scales of US, Turkey trade

"Hoping to tip the scales of US, Turkey trade
ANKARA - The United States President Barack Obama’s visit to Turkey is expected to help improve trade relations as well as political and cultural ties between the two countries. Although the trade volume between the two countries reached $16 billion in 2008, the flow is in US favor as Turkey’s imports from the US are more than double the volume of its exports to the country"

More:Hoping to tip the scales of US, Turkey trade

Turkish minister denies reports of gas price hike by Azerbaijan

"Turkish minister denies reports of gas price hike by Azerbaijan
ANKARA - The Turkish energy minister denied on Sunday the news that Azerbaijan had raised the price of natural gas it was selling to Turkey.

Turkish minister denies reports of gas price hike by Azerbaijan

Hilmi Guler said that the stories that Azerbaijan had raised the price of natural gas it was selling to Turkey were not accurate."

More:Turkish minister denies reports of gas price hike by Azerbaijan

Istanbul The world's junction

"Istanbul The world's junction

By WAITITU ERNEST (email the author)
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Posted Sunday, April 26 2009 at 12:08

It is dark.

Our massive excursion boat moves slowly and majestically down the Bosporus Strait, a narrow neck of the sea that cuts Turkey into two, marking the end of Europe on one side and the beginning of Asia on the other.

The buildings on either side of the channel are magnificent, their lights reflecting in the black water, a beautiful sight."

More:The East African - Istanbul The world's junction

Turkey, Syria to stage joint military exercise for first time

"Turkey, Syria to stage joint military exercise for first time
This is the first time the two land forces will stage such an exercise.
Sunday, 26 April 2009 10:34
Turkey and Syria will stage a joint military exercise, the Turkish General Staff said on Sunday."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey, Syria to stage joint military exercise for first time ]

U.S. DEFENSE INDUSTRY FIRM TO INVEST IN TURKEY

"U.S. DEFENSE INDUSTRY FIRM TO INVEST IN TURKEY

ANKARA (A.A) - 26.04.2009 - A U.S. defense industry firm will invest in Turkey, a Turkish company said on Sunday.

U.S. military combat and information system company 'Harris Corporation' had agreed with Atel Telekomunikasyon, a Turkish communication and defense system producer company, to manufacture some products to be sold in Turkey and Middle East, Atel Telekomunikasyon's manager said."

More:(MIL) U.S. DEFENSE INDUSTRY FIRM TO INVEST IN TURKEY - Turk.Net

Turkish army says to sign cooperation deal with Kuwait

"Turkish army says to sign cooperation deal with Kuwait
Turkey and Kuwait would sign a memorandum of understanding on military cooperation, a General Staff information note said."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkish army says to sign cooperation deal with Kuwait ]

Israel raps US over Turkey, Lebanon arms deal

"Israel raps US over Turkey, Lebanon arms deal
Sat, 25 Apr 2009 07:43:32 GMT

Obama had 'not bothered' to inform Israel of the weapons deal.
Washington's reported green light to Turkey to proceed with a large-scale weapons sale to the Lebanese army has irked Israeli echelons."

More:Israel raps US over Turkey, Lebanon arms deal

Turkey, Armenia ink historic accord

"Turkey, Armenia ink historic accord

Atul Aneja

DUBAI: Turkey and Armenia have adopted a roadmap to normalise ties after years of hostility which saw the two countries closing their borders in 1993.

The two nations, which share a bitter history since the killings of Armenians by Ottoman forces in 1915, took the step following intensive mediation by Switzerland."

More:The Hindu : International : Turkey, Armenia ink historic accord

Istanbul: Exotic city of a thousand enchantments - Travel - Kentucky.com

"Istanbul: Exotic city of a thousand enchantments
By Patti Nickell - Contributing Travel Writer

ISTANBUL, Turkey — If I hadn't been there, I wouldn't have believed it. Over the course of an evening, I watched a woman catch her hair on fire (it was quickly doused), a group of angels abandoning any angelic traits to get down and dirty with a group of devils (they turned out to be members of a bachelorette party), and a transvestite belly dancer cavorting on a revolving stage."

More:Istanbul: Exotic city of a thousand enchantments - Travel - Kentucky.com

AFP: Crisis warms Turks to opening Armenia border

"Crisis warms Turks to opening Armenia border

8 hours ago

KARS, Turkey (AFP) — Hit by a bruising economic crisis, residents of Kars, in eastern Turkey, are increasingly warming to the idea of opening the border with Armenia, hoping that revived trade links would provide a lifeline to the impoverished region.

The border's closure in 1993 -- ordered by Turkey to back Azerbaijan in a territorial conflict with Armenia -- has had heavy economic consequences not only for Armenia but also this Turkish city of 80,000."

More:AFP: Crisis warms Turks to opening Armenia border

Turkey criticises Obama comments

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkey criticises Obama comments

Thaw between Turkey and Armenia shifts alliances in South Caucasus

"Thaw between Turkey and Armenia shifts alliances in South Caucasus

By Isabel Gorst in Moscow

Published: April 25 2009 03:00 | Last updated: April 25 2009 03:00

A rapprochement between Turkey and Armenia this week provided further evidence of a shift in the balance of power in the South Caucasus that is propelling gas-rich Azerbaijan closer to Russia, analysts said."

More:FT.com / UK - Thaw between Turkey and Armenia shifts alliances in South Caucasus

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Three charged in Turkey coup probe

"Three charged in Turkey coup probe

ISTANBUL, April 25, 2009 (AFP) - An Istanbul court on Saturday charged one former and two serving navy officers in connection with a cache of weapons thought to be linked to an alleged plot to overthrow Turkey's Islamist-rooted government, the Anatolia news agency reported."

More:SGGP English Edition- Three charged in Turkey coup probe

Istanbul Peace Platform kicks off

"Istanbul Peace Platform kicks off
author Saturday April 25, 2009 12:05author by Saed Bannoura - IMEMC & Agencies Report this post to the editors

Hundreds of writers, historians, and intellectuals are gathering in Istanbul in Turkey to participate in the Istanbul Peace Platform, in cooperation with civil society institutions. The conference aims to “protect the Al Aqsa Mosque and draw attention to Israeli plans to demolish it”."

More:Istanbul Peace Platform kicks off - International Middle East Media Center

Pak-Turkey judicial bodies to cooperate, MoU signed

"Pak-Turkey judicial bodies to cooperate, MoU signed
ISLAMABAD, Apr 25 (APP): The Chief Justice of Pakistan and the President of the Constitutional Court of Turkey signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral cooperation between the judicial bodies of the two countries. Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Chief Justice of Pakistan Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry expressed the hope that the MoU between the two countries would expand the cooperation between the Constitutional Court of Turkey and Supreme Court of Pakistan.

The Chief Justice, who is on a three-day visit to Turkey at the invitation of the President of the Constitutional Court of Turkey Hashim KILIC attended the ceremonies marking the 47th anniversary of the establishment of the Turkish Constitutional Court and inauguration ceremony of the new Constitutional Court building in Oran District of Ankara on Friday, says a press release received here from Ankara."

More:Associated Press Of Pakistan ( Pakistan's Premier NEWS Agency )
"Bildt: unique window to solve island’s division
By Jacqueline Theodoulou

THERE IS now a unique window of opportunity for settling the Cyprus issue, Swedish Foreign Minister Carl Bildt said yesterday. The visiting politician added that Turkey’s failure to meet certain criteria will be taken into consideration during its EU assessment at the end of the year.

Bildt arrived on the island yesterday for a series of meetings and was speaking to the media after his meeting with Foreign Minister Marcos Kyprianou."

More: Cyprus Mail

Country profile: Turkey

"Country profile: Turkey

Facts and statistics on Turkey including history, population, politics, geography, economy, religion and climate"

More:Country profile: Turkey | The Guardian

Friday, April 24, 2009

Discovering a culture to dissipate prejudices

"Discovering a culture to dissipate prejudices
ANKARA - In a survey carried out to determine the attitudes of university students toward Armenians, it is found that for 44 percent of 3,095 students surveyed the word ’Armenian’ has negative connotations. However, the majority would prefer opportunities to interact more with them"

More:Discovering a culture to dissipate prejudices

Istanbul’s ferries: A gateway to heaven

"Istanbul’s ferries: A gateway to heaven
ISTANBUL - There are few better ways to unwind than being aboard a ferry crossing between two continents sipping on tea and nibbling at a simit while the gentle breeze of the Bosphurus wafts across one’s face. This mode of transport in Istanbul can be used to commute to work or as it is for many just to get away from all the crowds"

More:Istanbul’s ferries: A gateway to heaven

Fox News: Obama Statement on Armenian Remembrance Day

For the complete report from FOXNews.com click on this link

Obama Statement on Armenian Remembrance Day

President Barack Obama on Friday refrained from branding the massacre of an estimated 1.5 million Armenians in Turkey a "genocide," breaking a campaign promise while contending his views about the 20th century slaughter had not changed.Marking the grim anniversary of the start of the killings, the president referred to them as "one of the great atrocities of the 20th century."

EU Welcomes Normalization of Ties between Turkey and Armenia

"EU Welcomes Normalization of Ties between Turkey and Armenia

The European Union (EU) on Thursday welcomed the announcement by Turkey and Armenia that they have agreed on a roadmap to normalize relations.

'I warmly welcome the statement yesterday evening setting out the framework for the normalization of relations between Turkey and Armenia,' said EU foreign and security policy chief Javier Solana in a statement on Thursday."

More:EU Welcomes Normalization of Ties between Turkey and Armenia

Turkish Government Stalling on Nabucco Project Ahead of Critical Deadlines - The Jamestown Foundation

"Turkish Government Stalling on Nabucco Project Ahead of Critical Deadlines
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 79
April 24, 2009 02:49 PM Age: 3 hrs
By: Vladimir Socor

The high-level conference on energy in Sofia on April 25 and the European Union's summit in Prague on May 7 are survival opportunities for the Nabucco gas pipeline project. This project, which is the centerpiece of the EU-planned Southern Energy Corridor, finally began moving forward with the Nabucco Summit in Budapest in January 2009, after years of stagnation."

More:Turkish Government Stalling on Nabucco Project Ahead of Critical Deadlines - The Jamestown Foundation

Obama won’t use ‘genocide’ in statement on 1915 Armeninan killings - Los Angeles Times

"Obama avoids using 'genocide' in statement on massacre of Armenians

The move backs away from a campaign promise; it comes as Armenia and Turkey announce movement in talks to ease strained relations. U.S. relations with Turkey, a key ally in region, also are at stake."

More:Obama won’t use ‘genocide’ in statement on 1915 Armeninan killings - Los Angeles Times

France warmly welcomes the joint announcement by Turkey, Armenia and Switzerland of the development of a “roadmap”

"France warmly welcomes the joint announcement by Turkey, Armenia and Switzerland of the development of a “roadmap”

France warmly welcomes the joint announcement by Turkey, Armenia and Switzerland of the development of a “roadmap” aimed at normalizing relations between Akara and Yerevan.

It hopes that this new stage in the work undertaken by Armenia and Turkey, States that are both friends of France, will make it possible to show to the world that reconciliation can be achieved through openness and dialogue."

More:France warmly welcomes the joint announcement by Turkey, Armenia and Switzerland of the development of a “roadmap”

Turkey opens probe into police beating of child protester / VIDEO

"Turkey opens probe into police beating of child protester / VIDEO
Turkey has launched on Friday probe into police officer after video footage showed police was beating 14-year-old boy in a protest."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey opens probe into police beating of child protester / VIDEO ]

Turkey's Sivasspor fixed on historic title win

"Turkey's Sivasspor fixed on historic title win

* Reuters, Friday April 24 2009

By Alexandra Hudson
ISTANBUL, April 24 (Reuters) - Five weeks separate surprise Turkish league leaders Sivasspor from wresting the title from an Istanbul club for the first time in 25 years, a feat the team says would boost the league's status and delight most of Turkey."

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

Turkey's top judge blasts gov't, media over judiciary independence

"Turkey's top judge blasts gov't, media over judiciary independence
ANKARA – Head of the Constitutional Court Hasim Kilic yesterday harshly criticized the intervention of media and politics in the judiciary process, in a clear reference to the ongoing Ergenekon case."

More:Turkey's top judge blasts gov't, media over judiciary independence

Squaring the Circle

"Islam and Democracy in Turkey
Squaring the Circle

Ioannis N. Grigoriadis takes a closer look at the AKP and its drive to democratise the Turkish Republic and bring it into the European Union. He concludes that the Turkish Constitutional Court’s decision not to disband the ruling party prevented serious damage being caused to efforts to reconcile democracy and Islam"

More:Qantara.de - Squaring the Circle

"London Islamist Hani Sibai: 'The Armenian Genocide by the Ottomans… The Big Lie

"London Islamist Hani Sibai: 'The Armenian Genocide by the Ottomans… The Big Lie'

The following is an article by Dr. Hani Sibai, [1] an Islamist activist residing in London who is the founder and director of a private institution called 'The Almaqreze Centre for Historical Studies.' [2]

A 'Reply to the Alleged Claim of the Armenian Genocide by the Ottomans'

'This is an article in reply to the alleged claim of the Armenian genocide by the Ottomans:

'First: Introduction

'Second: Crucial points to understand the conflict

'Third: [A] Few Examples of the Loyalty of the Armenians to Russia and their Mutiny against the Othman State

['Fourth: A statement buried in the U.S. archives]

'Fifth: Conclusion.'"

More:MEMRI: Special Dispatch - No. 2325

Turkish PM's top advisor likely to be appointed as foreign minister

"Turkish PM's top advisor likely to be appointed as foreign minister
ANKARA – The much-expected reshuffling of the Cabinet will likely be concluded within days with the surprising appointment to the Foreign Ministry of prime ministerial adviser, Prof. Ahmet Davutoglu.

Turkish PM's top advisor likely to be appointed as foreign minister

Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan is planning to appoint Davutoglu, his chief foreign policy adviser and architect of the current pro-active foreign policy, as foreign minister, according to reliable sources."

More:Turkish PM's top advisor likely to be appointed as foreign minister

Heart of Istanbul: Beyoğlu

"Heart of Istanbul: Beyoğlu
ISTANBUL - From hunting lodges to five-star hotels, Beyoğlu has changed over the centuries into Istanbul’s most exciting district. While it reflects the modern face of the country, it is also home to many of old traditions that are kept alive despite the onslaught of modernization. One needs to get lost in Beyoğlu to truly learn the district"

More:Heart of Istanbul: Beyoğlu

Obama faces dilemma on Armenian killings

"Obama faces dilemma on Armenian killings

By DESMOND BUTLER – 5 hours ago

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama faces a dilemma as he prepares to issue an annual presidential statement on the World War I-era killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turks.

Referring to the killings as genocide could upend recent pledges of a closer partnership with Turkey, a vital ally in a critical region. Steering around the word would break his unequivocal campaign pledges to recognize the killings as genocide."

More:The Associated Press: Obama faces dilemma on Armenian killings

Turkish Cypriot President Talat comments on outcome of election

"Turkish Cypriot President Talat comments on outcome of election
24.04.2009

Speaking to journalists from TAK and BRTK about the election result and the effect that it may have on his efforts to resolve the Cyprus Problem, President Ali Talat said “As long as the UBP carries the people’s vision for a solution there will be no problem.”"

More:Turkish Cypriot President Talat comments on outcome of election

Turkey-EU consultation committee to convene in Istanbul

"Turkey-EU consultation committee to convene in Istanbul
Turkey-European Union joint consultation committee is set to convene on April 27-28 in Istanbul."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey-EU consultation committee to convene in Istanbul ]

Turkey, Armenia road map based on five points: Report

"Turkey, Armenia road map based on five points: Report
The agreement between Turkey and Armenia depends on Karabakh even it's not mentioned in the road map."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey, Armenia road map based on five points: Report ]

Trend News : "Road Map" is great, irreparable mistake by Turkish officials: Turkish MP

"'Road Map' is great, irreparable mistake by Turkish officials: Turkish MP
24.04.09 16:54

Azerbaijan, Baku, April 24 /Trend News, R. Hafizoglu/

Member of the Turkish parliament says the 'Road Map' signed between Turkey and Armenia on April 23 will benefit neither Azerbaijan nor Turkey.

'By signing this document Turkish officials made great and irreparable mistake,' member of parliament from the Republican People's Party Canan Aritman told Trend News over telephone from Ankara on April 24."

More:Trend News : "Road Map" is great, irreparable mistake by Turkish officials: Turkish MP

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Russia Dupes Azerbaijan?

"Russia Dupes Azerbaijan?

Friday, 24 April 2009

* Sedat Laciner

It was obvious that nothing would be the same in the Caucasus, after the war in the region between Russia and Georgia in August of last year. During the war, the Georgian leader acted frantically with the backing of the US. Without asking anyone, including its neighbor Turkey, Georgia threw itself into Russia's line of fire. As a result, Georgia was divided into three separate regions, whilst Azerbaijan and Armenia were almost left gasping for breath. When the pipeline flow was cut off, Azerbaijan felt Russia breathing down its neck, like some unseen monster in a nightmare. More importantly, Azerbaijan took note of the US and Turkey's inaction. In other words, the US and Turkey could not protect Georgia from Russian invasion; thereby a strong message was sent to Baku."

More:Russia Dupes Azerbaijan?

Turkey and Armenia agree on reconciliation roadmap | Europe | Deutsche Welle | 23.04.2009

"Turkey and Armenia agree on reconciliation roadmap

Turkey and Armenia have reached an agreement on a comprehensive framework to normalize relations. Deutsche Welle correspondent Dorian Jones reports that the process carries some risk for the Turkish government."

More:Turkey and Armenia agree on reconciliation roadmap | Europe | Deutsche Welle | 23.04.2009

Pegasus Airlines Brand Campaign Breaks Frontiers

"Pegasus Airlines Brand Campaign Breaks Frontiers
Published by Ozgur Tore
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Pegasus Airlines launched its first ever UK commercial radio campaign on 20th April 2009 covering radio advertising on Kiss100 FM and a joint holiday give-away promotion and advertising campaign on Smooth 102.2FM, featuring much loved Fay Ripley, star of classic TV series Cold Feet.

The campaign will run for one month and reach over 2,000,000 listeners nationwide. Pegasus Airlines will also continue to advertise on local London Turkish Radio."

More:Focus on Travel News: Daily Travel News website and Newsletter - Pegasus Airlines Brand Campaign Breaks Frontiers

Turkey defends its pro-Iran stance in Geneva

"Turkey defends its pro-Iran stance in Geneva
Thu, 23 Apr 2009 22:29:51 GMT

Turkish Minister for EU Affairs Egemen Bagis
Turkey has defended its delegation's decision not to leave the Geneva conference during a speech by Iran's President, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad."

More:Turkey defends its pro-Iran stance in Geneva

Ergenekon dominates special Parliament meet

"Ergenekon dominates special Parliament meet
ANKARA- Parliament’s special session to mark the occasion of National Sovereignty and Children’s Day is dominated by opposing views on the controversial Ergenekon investigation.Presedent Abdullah Gül and foreign heads of mission attend the extraordinary session while military officials and Chief of General Staff Gen. İlker Başbuğ are absent"

More:Ergenekon dominates special Parliament meet

Turkey Working to Improve Relations with Armenia

"Turkey Working to Improve Relations with Armenia
By Dorian Jones
Istanbul
23 April 2009

Turkey says it has agreed on a plan to improve long-strained relations with its neighbor Armenia. The announcement is further fueling hopes that nearly a century of bilateral tensions and hostility could be coming to an end."

Mopre:VOA News - Turkey Working to Improve Relations with Armenia

IMF forecasts drop of 5.1% in Turkey in 2009 due to global crisis

"IMF forecasts drop of 5.1% in Turkey in 2009 due to global crisis
23 April 2009 | 19:28 | FOCUS News Agency
Ankara. In its World Economic Outlook released every six months International Monetary Fund /IMF/ forecasts a drop of 5.1% in Turkey in 2009 because of the global crisis, Anatolian Agency informs."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

Turkey and Armenia Take Step Toward Easing Tensions - NYTimes.com

"Turkey and Armenia Take Step Toward Easing Tensions

By SABRINA TAVERNISE and SEBNEM ARSU
Published: April 23, 2009

ISTANBUL, Turkey — Turkey and Armenia have agreed to a framework for improving their strained relations, the two countries said in a statement this week, the first apparent break-through in diplomacy in more than a decade."

More:Turkey and Armenia Take Step Toward Easing Tensions - NYTimes.com

How Much Will the U.S. Change under Obama?

"How Much Will the U.S. Change under Obama?
By Soner Cagaptay
Hurriyet, April 23, 2009

U.S. President Barack Obama's pre-election promise for change has galvanized public opinion around the world, including in Turkey. To what extent will he transform the United States domestically and revolutionize American foreign policy? And, what does Obama's promise of change hold for Turkey?"

More:Article or Op-Ed

Dutch say greatest threat is from far-left

"Dutch say greatest threat is from far-left
Thursday, 23rd April 2009. 5:24pm

By: Judy West.

T...In the Turkish community as well, "the number of individuals that (...) radicalise to Jihadism is growing." But "the resistance within the Turkish community to radical Islamic ideologies in general remains great." All in all, "no danger exists in the short and medium term of large-scale susceptibility to radical religious ideas" within the Turkish community, partly due to "a number of traditional resistance factors (such as Turkish nationalism)" and because of "a lack of a coherent ideology, inadequate organisational capacity and a shortage of leadership" among Turkish Muslim radicals."

More:Religious Intelligence - News - Dutch say greatest threat is from far-left

Chief Justice of Pakistan’s to visit Turkey

"Chief Justice of Pakistan’s to visit Turkey

ISLAMABAD, Apr 22 (APP): Chief of Pakistan Mr. Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry will undertake a visit to Turkey and participate in Symposium on 47th Anniversary of the Constitutional Court of Turkey on 24-25 April, in Ankara and Istanbul."

More:Associated Press Of Pakistan ( Pakistan's Premier NEWS Agency ) - Chief Justice of Pakistan’s to visit Turkey

Challenge to direct flights ban

"Challenge to direct flights ban
By Stefanos Evripidou

A TURKISH Cypriot airline is challenging the ban on direct flights to the north of Cyprus in a UK court next month.

Cyprus Turkish Airlines (CTA) and its UK tour operator, CTA Holidays Limited, have launched a legal challenge to the UK government’s refusal to operate direct flights between the two countries. The case will be heard in the Administrative Court, a division of the High Court, in the week beginning May 18, 2009."

More: Cyprus Mail

Istanbul is the target on Paul's odyssey - Portsmouth Today

"Istanbul is the target on Paul's odyssey

23 April 2009
By David Hurley
A diabetic will cycle 2,000 miles across Europe to show other people with the condition that anything is possible."

ore:Istanbul is the target on Paul's odyssey - Portsmouth Today

Nigerian kidnappers release Turkish hostages

"Nigerian kidnappers release Turkish hostages

LAGOS (AFP) — Nigerian kidnappers have released the Turkish captain and the chief engineer of a vessel delivering equipment to French oil group Total, a customs official said Thursday.

'The men were released last (Wednesday) night. They were not hurt and no ransom was paid,' Eyo Inuekim of Nigerian Customs Service told AFP."

More:AFP: Nigerian kidnappers release Turkish hostages

Europe - US hails Turkey-Armenia deal

"US hails Turkey-Armenia deal

By Dan Dombey in Washington, Delphine Strauss in Ankara and Isabel Gorst in Moscow

Published: April 23 2009 12:39 | Last updated: April 23 2009 12:39

The US has hailed a deal between Turkey and Armenia that diplomats hope will resolve one of the disputes left over from the collapse of the Soviet Union – and greatly diminish the risk of a clash between Washington and Ankara."

More:FT.com / Europe - US hails Turkey-Armenia deal

Czech FM urges Ankara to help solve Cyprus problem

"Czech FM urges Ankara to help solve Cyprus problem

Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg has called on Ankara to exert its pressure on the Turkish Cypriot community with a view to achieving progress in negotiations for a Cyprus settlement, reports the Cyprus News Agency."

More: Famagusta Gazette

Canada's stance for 'genocide' no indictment for Turkey-official

"Canada's stance for 'genocide' no indictment for Turkey-official
ISTANBUL - Canada said Wednesday its recognition of Armenians claims regarding the 1915 incidents is not an indictment of modern Turkey, after Ankara recalled its ambassador in protest."

More:Canada's stance for 'genocide' no indictment for Turkey-official

Turkey tells EU not to block bid with irrelevant political issues

"Turkey tells EU not to block bid with irrelevant political issues
ISTANBUL – Turkey delivered a message to European Union officials demanding entry negotiations not be blocked by political issues that are irrelevant to the negotiations process, during the Turkey-EU Troika foreign ministers' meeting in the Czech Republic's capital of Prague on Tuesday."

More:Turkey tells EU not to block bid with irrelevant political issues

LATimes: EU passes new rules on opening up gas and electricity markets after nearly 3 years - by Aoife White

For the complete report from the Los Angeles Times click on this link

EU passes new rules on opening up gas and electricity markets after nearly 3 years - by Aoife White

The European Union on Wednesday approved new rules for opening up gas pipelines and electricity grids to competition — a move that regulators claim could help bring down energy prices and improve energy security. But consumers and some lawmakers said nearly three years' of negotiations on the rules had watered them down so much that they could not challenge the grip large energy firms' have over the European market.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Turkey's PKK-DTP Operations Further Complicate Kurdish Solution - The Jamestown Foundation

"Turkey's PKK-DTP Operations Further Complicate Kurdish Solution
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 77
April 22, 2009 06:32 PM Age: 4 hrs
Category: Eurasia Daily Monitor, Home Page, Military/Security, Turkey
By: Lale Sariibrahimoglu

Simultaneous operations recently conducted in twelve Turkish cities against what police sources described as urban networks of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in which 120 people were detained, including senior members of the pro-Kurdish Kurdistan Society Party (DTP) represented in the Parliament, was widely seen as jeopardizing attempts to find a peaceful solution to the Kurdish question. 'They [the Kurds] have given a message following the local elections that nobody should fear from the Kurds. But they [the political authorities] could not stand this. They have launched an operation against our party [DTP] following the elections,' Ahmet Turk, DTP Chairman and Deputy stated in London (Sabah, April 21)."

More:Turkey's PKK-DTP Operations Further Complicate Kurdish Solution - The Jamestown Foundation

Amnesty calls EU to assist Turkey

"Amnesty calls EU to assist Turkey
ISTANBUL - Turkey should abandon its policy of geographic limitations on the admission of persons of non-European origin, who according to Turkish law, cannot be recognized as refugees, according to a report released yesterday by Amnesty International."

More:Amnesty calls EU to assist Turkey

Ancient Istanbul to get new facelift

"Ancient Istanbul to get new facelift
ISTANBUL - The region known as ’Sur-i Sultani’ that encloses historical buildings such as Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sofia Museum and Aya Irini would no longer be used for simple exhibitions or concerts, Culture Minister says"

More:Ancient Istanbul to get new facelift

Turkey says agreement reached with Armenia over roadmap to normalize strained ties

"Turkey says agreement reached with Armenia over roadmap to normalize strained ties
Selcan Hacaoglu
April 22nd, 2009

Turkey says accord reached with Armenia on roadmap

ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey and Armenia have agreed on a roadmap for normalizing relations and reaching reconciliation, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said Wednesday, but it wasn’t immediately clear how they would tackle their bitter dispute over Ottoman-era killings of ethnic Armenians."

More:Turkey says agreement reached with Armenia over roadmap to normalize strained ties

Turkey and Armenia: Normalization of Relations

"Turkey and Armenia: Normalization of Relations

Robert Wood
Acting Department Spokesman, Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
April 22, 2009

The United States welcomes the statement made by Armenia and Turkey on normalization of their bilateral relations. It has long been and remains the position of the United States that normalization should take place without preconditions and within a reasonable timeframe. We urge Armenia and Turkey to proceed according to the agreed framework and roadmap. We look forward to working with both governments in support of normalization, and thus promote peace, security and stability in the whole region."

More:Turkey and Armenia: Normalization of Relations

AFP: Turkey, Armenia agree 'roadmap' on normalising ties

"Turkey, Armenia agree 'roadmap' on normalising ties

ANKARA (AFP) — Turkey and Armenia, troubled neighbours with no diplomatic ties, have agreed a 'roadmap' on normalising relations in ongoing reconciliation talks, the Turkish foreign ministry said Wednesday.

The announcement came just ahead of April 24, the day on which Armenians remember the mass killings of their kin by Ottoman Turks -- and two weeks after US President Barack Obama urged both countries to move ahead with fence-meding efforts during a visit to Turkey."

More:AFP: Turkey, Armenia agree 'roadmap' on normalising ties

Clinton praises Turkey and Armenia for talks - Taiwan News Online

"Clinton praises Turkey and Armenia for talks

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is praising what she describes as bold reconciliation efforts between Turkey and Armenia.

She told lawmakers that the United States was supporting the Turkish and Armenian talks.

Armenia and Turkey have said they are close to restoring full relations after years of disagreements."

More:Clinton praises Turkey and Armenia for talks - Taiwan News Online

Act! for America - Fethullah Gulen: Infiltrating the U.S. Through Our Charter Schools?

"Fethullah Gulen: Infiltrating the U.S. Through Our Charter Schools?

An ACT! for America Exclusive
by Guy Rodgers

www.actforamerica.org


For some time we have been researching a Turkish-based Islamist movement that has a significant network here in the United States. Given Turkey’s history of secular, democratic government, and some of the remarks made by President Obama in his recent speech there, many of our members and other readers will likely be surprised by what we have found."

More:Act! for America - Fethulla Gulen: Infiltrating the U.S. Through Our Charter Schools?

Bulgaria: Greece, Cyprus Unconditionally Back Turkey for EU - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

"Greece, Cyprus Unconditionally Back Turkey for EU
World | April 22, 2009, Wednesday

Greece and Cyprus have announced that they supported unconditionally Turkey's EU accession as long as their Balkan neighbor met all the necessary criteria."

More:Bulgaria: Greece, Cyprus Unconditionally Back Turkey for EU - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

Arms cache found outside Istanbul in connection to coup plot - Monsters and Critics

"Arms cache found outside Istanbul in connection to coup plot
Europe News

Apr 22, 2009, 15:37 GMT

Ankara - Ten people, including four military officers were taken into custody Wednesday after investigators found a buried cache of weapons thought to be connected to a plot to overthrow Turkey's moderate Islamist government, Turkish media reported.

Grenades, anti-tank rockets, hand guns and ammunition were amongst the armaments found during the search in a forested area of Poyrazkoy, NTV said. No official statement had been released as of Wednesday evening."

More:Arms cache found outside Istanbul in connection to coup plot - Monsters and Critics

Petrol Ofisi built a fuel base at the Petroleum İstanbul 2009 Fair

"Petrol Ofisi built a fuel base at the Petroleum İstanbul 2009 Fair
22/04/2009 13:24 (05:35 minutes ago)

petroleum.jpgThe FINANCIAL -- Turkey’s one of the leading fuel distribution companies Petrol Ofisi attended Petroleum Istanbul Fair which is characterized as the most important energy-related meeting of Europe and Asia and introduced Petrol Ofisi’s product and service range to visitors and dealers coming from all corners of Turkey."

More:The FINANCIAL - Petrol Ofisi built a fuel base at the Petroleum İstanbul 2009 Fair

Turkish Schoolchildren in Ankara and Beynam Experience 21st-Century Learning Environment

"Turkish Schoolchildren in Ankara and Beynam Experience 21st-Century Learning Environment
ANKARA, TURKEY -- 04/22/09 -- Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) -- Eighty Turkish schoolchildren aged 11 and 12 from the Turkish capital Ankara and the village of Beynam participated in Turkey's first virtual classroom, sharing a lesson on the theme "Earth, Sun and Moon" as part of their science and technology curriculum. The two schools, located 45 kilometers away from each other, were connected via broadband to harness the power of one-to-one e-learning as well as virtual collaboration. They were also able to take advantage of various communication and collaborative tools, including wireless access, Internet Protocol (IP) phones, ClassMate PCs, smart boards and video, as well as online and community-generated learning content. "

More:Turkish Schoolchildren in Ankara and Beynam Experience 21st-Century Learning Environment

Turkey detains 10, including 4 army staff, over unearthed weapons

"Turkey detains 10, including 4 army staff, over unearthed weapons
ISTANBUL -Ten people were detained Wednesday in connection with a cache of unearthed weapons in an ongoing dig in Istanbul as part of the controversial Ergenekon investigation."

More:Turkey detains 10, including 4 army staff, over unearthed weapons

Turkey tells EU not to block bid with irrelevant political issues

"Turkey tells EU not to block bid with irrelevant political issues
ISTANBUL – Turkey delivered a message to European Union officials demanding entry negotiations not be blocked by political issues that are irrelevant to the negotiations process, during the Turkey-EU Troika foreign ministers' meeting in the Czech Republic's capital of Prague on Tuesday."

More:Turkey tells EU not to block bid with irrelevant political issues

Why Europe Doesn’t Want Turkey’s Islamic Millions

"Why Europe Doesn’t Want Turkey’s Islamic Millions

By Peter C. Glover Wednesday, April 22, 2009

President Obama has been banging the drum for Turkey’s accession to the European Union. Not that there’s anything new in his policy. Obama sees a ‘European Turkey’ as a win-win situation both for Europe and the United States. He believes, as does the Turkish PM Recep Erdogan, that it is the natural quid pro quo for Turkey’s development as Europe’s east-west energy bridge."

More:Why Europe Doesn’t Want Turkey’s Islamic Millions

Dreams from My President: Obama Sails to Byzantium

"Dreams from My President: Obama Sails to Byzantium

And therefore I have sailed the seas and come
To the holy city of Byzantium.
W.B. Yeats
“Sailing to Byzantium”

So how did President Barack Obama do on his visit to Turkey? For those who love the idea of living in a democratic, secular, social state governed by the rule of law, bearing in mind the concepts of public peace, national solidarity and justice, respecting human rights, and loyal to the nationalism of Atatürk, indeed Obama said all the right words."

More:FOR REASONS UNKNOWN: Dreams from My President: Obama Sails to Byzantium

Lebanese President Visits Ankara

"Lebanese President Visits Ankara
Wednesday, April 22, 2009 09:03 GMT
Lebanese President Michel Suleiman arrived on Tuesday to Ankara in an official visit. The Lebanese President held talks with his Turkish Counterpart Abdullah Gul with who he tackled bilateral relations and the situation in the Middle East region."

More:Lebanese President Visits Ankara | World News | Alsumaria Iraqi Satellite TV Network

FEATURE-History overshadows hope on Turkey's Armenian border | Reuters

"FEATURE-History overshadows hope on Turkey's Armenian border
Wed Apr 22, 2009 4:22am EDT

By Daren Butler

IGDIR, Turkey, April 22 (Reuters) - Far below Mount Ararat's snow-covered peak, history weighs heavy on the shoulders of Turks and Armenians seeking to overcome animosity generated by genocide claims and territorial disputes."

More:FEATURE-History overshadows hope on Turkey's Armenian border | Reuters

UBP win casts shadow over Greek Cypriot side

"UBP win casts shadow over Greek Cypriot side
By Elias Hazou

NICOSIA yesterday tried to stay poker-faced after nationalists in the north swept the ‘legislative elections’ over the weekend, a result regarded as casting a long shadow on the fate of reunification talks.

Dervis Eroglu’s rightwing National Unity Party (UBP) garnered 44 per cent of the vote, holding the majority in the 50-seat ‘parliament’ with 26 deputies and paving the way for a one-party ‘government’."

More: Cyprus-mail

Georgians - victims of trafficking to be delivered to Istanbul from Libya

"Georgians - victims of trafficking to be delivered to Istanbul from Libya
22.04.09 12:09

Georgia, Tbilisi, April 22 /Trend News, N.Kirtskhalia/

Twenty-five Georgians, who escaped from Libya, will be delivered to Istanbul through the Georgian Consulate in Turkey. Five other victims of trafficking have already delivered to Turkey."

More:Trend News : Georgians - victims of trafficking to be delivered to Istanbul from Libya