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Sunday, January 31, 2010

Turkish FM speaks of Armenian-Turkish relations in London

"Turkish FM speaks of Armenian-Turkish relations in London
15:11 / 01/30/2010

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu delivered a speech at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London. He addressed the Armenia-Turkey, Israel-Palestine and Turkey-Israel relations. Speaking of the Armenian-Turkish relations, minister Davutoglu made another statement denying the Armenian Genocide."

More:Turkish FM speaks of Armenian-Turkish relations in London | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

Antalya flower sector aims at $60 mln in exports

"Antalya flower sector aims at $60 mln in exports

BETÜL ÇAL
ANTALYA - Hürriyet Daily News
The Antalya Flowers Exporters Union is aiming for an increase of 20 percent in flower exports this year as the negative effects of the global economic crisis begin to wane. The union's export volume reached almost $50 million in 2009 and its next target is $60 million, according to the union's head"

More:Antalya flower sector aims at $60 mln in exports - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish girl, 15, jailed for eight years over 'terror' crimes at Kurdish rally | World news | The Guardian

"Turkish girl, 15, jailed for eight years over 'terror' crimes at Kurdish rally

A 15-year-old Turkish girl who was arrested at a demonstration in support of a banned Kurdish group has been jailed for nearly eight years after being convicted of 'terrorist' offences, including allegedly throwing stones at police."

More:Turkish girl, 15, jailed for eight years over 'terror' crimes at Kurdish rally | World news | The Guardian

Three suspects released in Ergenekon case

"Three suspects released in Ergenekon case

Three suspects were released pending trial in the latest stage of the ongoing case about the alleged Ergenekon gang.

Hearings lasted until 4 p.m. on Saturday as the number of total prisoners released reached 22, daily Milliyet reported Sunday."

More:Three suspects released in Ergenekon case - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Bulgaria and Turkey agree on natural gas projects | Markets | Reuters

"Bulgaria and Turkey agree on natural gas projects
Sun Jan 31, 2010 3:29pm GMT

SOFIA, Jan 31 (Reuters) - Bulgaria and Turkey have agreed to improve gas links, Bulgarian energy minister Traicho Traikov said on Sunday, as Sofia aims to reduce its reliance on Russian gas."

More:Bulgaria and Turkey agree on natural gas projects | Markets | Reuters

Art by foreigners living, working in Istanbul on display

"Art by foreigners living, working in Istanbul on display

“In Between-Arada-Tra,” the second exhibition of the “Lives and Works in Istanbul” project, opened last week at Tophane-i Amire, where it will present the work of Antoni Muntadas and his students until Feb. 14."

More:Art by foreigners living, working in Istanbul on display - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey: Xtract Energy updates operations in the Alasehir licence area - energy-pedia

"Turkey: Xtract Energy updates operations in the Alasehir licence area

20 Jan 2010

Further to its announcement dated 11 January 2010, Xtract Energy has provided the following update on production operations in the Alasehir licence area at its Turkish associate company Extrem Energy.

Production began on Wednesday 13 January 2010. The average daily natural flow rate has been approx. 60 barrels (bbl) per day net oil. This is consistent with management expectations and consistent with the previously projected pumped flow-rate of 350 bbl/day, once the down-hole pump has been installed."

More:Turkey: Xtract Energy updates operations in the Alasehir licence area - energy-pedia

Turkish PM criticises French president — EU Business News - EUbusiness.com

"Turkish PM criticises French president
30 January 2010, 22:27 CET
— filed under: Turkey, France, media

(ISTANBUL) - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan rebuked French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Saturday over his opposition to Turkey joining the European Union.

EU membership has been 'a dream for our country for half a century,' Erdogan said in an interview to mark the launch of the Euronews television channel's new Turkish language service."

More:Turkish PM criticises French president — EU Business News - EUbusiness.com

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Bulgaria PM Presents Istanbul with Copy of Thracian Treasure: Bulgaria PM Presents Istanbul with Copy of Thracian Treasure - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

"Bulgaria PM Presents Istanbul with Copy of Thracian Treasure

Bulgaria’s Prime Minister, Boyko Borisov, gave to the Mayor of Istanbul, Kadir Topbaş, as gift a copy of the Gold Thracian Treasure.

The official ceremony took place Saturday. Borisov was accompanied by the Mayor of Sofia, Yordanka Fandakova, who presented her Turkish counterpart with the official symbol of Sofia. Topbaş returned the honor by offering a copy of a Turkish treasure."

More:Bulgaria PM Presents Istanbul with Copy of Thracian Treasure: Bulgaria PM Presents Istanbul with Copy of Thracian Treasure - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

SEEMO: Turkish IPI Board Member calls for abolishment of repressive laws :: EMportal EMplus

"SEEMO: Turkish IPI Board Member calls for abolishment of repressive laws

30. January 2010. | 18:04

Source: EMportal

City: Istanbul

Author: Barbara Trionfi

The European Court of Human Rights has ordered Turkey to pay a total of over 40,000 Euros to 20 Turkish journalists as compensation for having violated their rights.

The European Court of Human Rights has ordered Turkey to pay a total of over 40,000 Euros to 20 Turkish journalists as compensation for having violated their rights."

More:SEEMO: Turkish IPI Board Member calls for abolishment of repressive laws :: EMportal EMplus

Why Istanbul is not the best city in 2010

"Why Istanbul is not the best city in 2010

Marzena Romanowska

Every year in January, all those who appreciate beauty, imaginative designs and sophisticated taste, or at least want to be considered as such, reach for Wallpaper magazine, which shows them the directions and names to follow for the next 365 days. This year’s edition of the Wallpaper Awards was especially exciting for the Istanbul residents, who could see the name of their city, alongside Berlin, Seoul, New York and Rotterdam, on the list of places nominated as “Best city” in 2010. And, what a relief, it all happened without mentioning the European Capital of Culture title even once!"

More:Why Istanbul is not the best city in 2010 - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

A massive earthquake would destroy Istanbul, experts warn | World | Deutsche Welle | 30.01.2010

"A massive earthquake would destroy Istanbul, experts warn

Turkey's largest city rests on a fault between two massive plates of the earth's crust. Scientists say this could cause an earthquake even more destructive than the one which shocked Haiti three weeks ago."

More:A massive earthquake would destroy Istanbul, experts warn | World | Deutsche Welle | 30.01.2010

Friday, January 29, 2010

Pressure mounts for Cyprus peace deal

"Pressure mounts for Cyprus peace deal

Progress is slow at talks aimed at reuniting Cyprus, so UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is arriving on the island on Sunday to inject some momentum.

Mr Ban will meet leaders of both communities, but time may be running out to find a solution, the BBC's Europe correspondent Jonny Dymond reports."

More:BBC News - Pressure mounts for Cyprus peace deal

Turkey Has Patience for EU Membership: PM

"Turkey Has Patience for EU Membership: PM
2010-01-30 06:13:58

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday his government is determined and patient enough to achieve full membership to the European Union (EU) in spite of the attempts to block its accession process, Turkish media reported.

'Turkey has been waiting for the result of its application to the EU for 50 years, but we have patience,' the semi-official Anatolia news agency quoted Erdogan as telling a joint press conference with his Bulgarian counterpart Boyko Borissov, who is on a visit to Ankara.

More:Turkey Has Patience for EU Membership: PM

Turkey Becomes Refuge for Fleeing Iranians | Middle East | English

"Turkey Becomes Refuge for Fleeing Iranians

Iranians fleeing the Tehran government's crackdown on its opponents are increasingly seeking refuge in Turkey. Months of continuing political instability in Iran and the lack of visa requirements in Turkey are turning the country into a sanctuary for those trying to escape Iran's political crisis."

More:Turkey Becomes Refuge for Fleeing Iranians | Middle East | English

Turkish Airlines is adding Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture stickers to its fleet

"Turkish Airlines is adding Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture stickers to its fleet

Turkish Airlines (Istanbul) is adding 'Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture' stickers to its fleet."

More:Turkish Airlines is adding Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture stickers to its fleet

"Western Powers Don't Know Afghanistan"

"Interview with Hikmet Çetin
'Western Powers Don't Know Afghanistan'

What are the main problems concerning the rebuilding of Afghanistan, what are the West's mistakes? And why are Afghan-Turkish relations so special? Hikmet Çetin, NATO Senior Civilian Representative in Afghanistan from 2004 to 2006 and former Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs, speaks to Ayşe Karabat"

More:Qantara.de - "Western Powers Don't Know Afghanistan"

Aliyev Says Armenia Should ‘Liberate’ First | Asbarez Armenian News

"Aliyev Says Armenia Should ‘Liberate’ First

By Asbarez Staff on Jan 27th, 2010 and filed under Armenia, Azerbaijan, International, News, Top Stories, Turkey-Armenia Relations.
Print ThisPrint This | ShareThis

DAVOS, Switzerland—Azeri President Ilham Aliyev told the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday that he was confident that Turkey would not ratify the Armenia-Turkey protocols until Armenia “returned” the liberated territories around Karabakh and the Nagorno-Karabakh Republic itself to Azerbaijan’s control."

More:Aliyev Says Armenia Should ‘Liberate’ First | Asbarez Armenian News

Turkish twins with different fathers 'trigger divorce'

"Turkish twins with different fathers 'trigger divorce'

(AFP) – 3 hours ago

ANKARA — A Turkish man decided to divorce his wife after DNA tests showed he was the father of only one of their twin boys, the mass-circulation Sabah newspaper reported Friday.

Suspicious that his wife had been unfaithful the security guard from Istanbul identified only as A.K., had DNA tests performed on the three-year-olds."

More:AFP: Turkish twins with different fathers 'trigger divorce'

Postmodernity and the Arc of Turkish Identity

"Postmodernity and the Arc of Turkish Identity
Ferhat Kentel, Professor at Istanbul Sehir University / PHOTO from the Balkans Project

The Balkans Project recently featured a fascinating interview with Ferhat Kentel, a sociologist at Istanbul Sehir University. Working on the construction of Turkish national identity, Kentel is examining one of the most controversial and heuristic themes in Turkish politics -- in many ways, a theme that defines, and most certainly pervades, every aspect of political discourse, be it Turkey's efforts to come to terms with its minorities (Muslim and non-Muslim), its attempts to reconcile Islam and the Turkish naton-state, its ongoing EU accession process, its confrontration with ultra-nationalist elements like Ergenekon, its international relations, etc. I have provided excerpts in this post, though I most definitely recommend reading though the whole interview."

More:Turkish Politics in Action: Postmodernity and the Arc of Turkish Identity

New actors of the foreign policy get together in Istanbul

"New actors of the foreign policy get together in Istanbul

29. January 2010. | 11:05

Source: EMportal

City: Istanbul

The think tanks of the member states of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) get together in Turkey within the concept of “Civilization of Peace and Cooperation”. Turkish Asian Center for Strategic Studies (TASAM) brings together the think tanks of the member states of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference between the dates of 28-30 January 2010 in Istanbul for the “Think Tanks Forum of the Islamic Countries”."

More:New actors of the foreign policy get together in Istanbul :: EMportal EMplus

RubinReports: Governing Neo-Islamist Leaders Freak Out Over My Critiquing Their Oppression of Women

"Governing Neo-Islamist Leaders Freak Out Over My Critiquing Their Oppression of Women
Please subscribe to the blog that drives the Turkish Islamists crazy--literally

By Barry Rubin

Recently, it has been reported that the AKP has been forcing women out of senior jobs in Turkey. A while ago I wrote an article publishing and describing four photos sent to me by Turkish friends showing graphically how oppressed and miserable Ermine Erdogan, wife of Turkey's prime minister, looked on visiting the Obamas in Washington."

More:RubinReports: Governing Neo-Islamist Leaders Freak Out Over My Critiquing Their Oppression of Women

Yang Jiechi Holds Talks with His Turkish Counterpart Davutoglu

"Yang Jiechi Holds Talks with His Turkish Counterpart Davutoglu

2010/01/27

On January 27, 2010, visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held talks with his Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu in Istanbul. Both sides reached important consensus in advancing friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries."

More:Yang Jiechi Holds Talks with His Turkish Counterpart Davutoglu

‘Headless Armenian Community is profitable to Turkey’

"‘Headless Armenian Community is profitable to Turkey’

Headless Armenian Community is profitable to Turkey’s government, said deputy dean of Department for Oriental Studies Ruben Melkonian, a turkologist.

“Voting for co-head of the Constantinople Patriarchate has not only religious but national significance, as Armenian community applies to Patriarchate on different issues.”"

More:‘Headless Armenian Community is profitable to Turkey’ - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

Florida and Spain bear brunt of citrus challenges

"Florida and Spain bear brunt of citrus challenges

...The Turkish citrus sector, for example, is enjoying increased sendings and more interest from the UK market.

Evren Hüner from exporter Aksun claims the last three months have been “very pleasing to say the least”, especially on lemons and satsumas, which finished with a 30 per cent increase on last season. "

More:Freshinfo | News | Florida and Spain bear brunt of citrus challenges

India protests to Turkey for not getting Istanbul meet invite - dnaindia.com

"India protests to Turkey for not getting Istanbul meet invite

New Delhi: India has lodged a protest with Turkey for not being invited to a conference of Afghanistan's immediate neighbours held in Istanbul this week and that country was 'apologetic' over the action."

More:India protests to Turkey for not getting Istanbul meet invite - dnaindia.com

European Capitals of Culture: Essen, Istanbul and Pécs 

"European Capitals of Culture: Essen, Istanbul and Pécs
Culture - 29-01-2010 - 12:56
Download the article in PDF format

A capital idea

Essen in Germany, Istanbul in Turkey and Pécs in Hungary are the three European capitals of culture for 2010. A variety of cultural events will be held throughout the year with the aim of showcasing the attractions the cities offer. The choice of Istanbul has a particular significance as it is a country that is a candidate for future EU membership."

More:European Capitals of Culture: Essen, Istanbul and Pécs 

PM Borissov on Official Visit to Turkey

"PM Borissov on Official Visit to Turkey

SOFIA/ANKARA, January 29. (BTA). Prime Minister Boyko Borissov departs Friday on a two-day official visit to Turkey at the invitation of his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the government's information service said.

Shortly after his arrival in Turkey Borissov is scheduled to confer with Turkish President Abdullah Gul. The meeting will be followed by the official welcome of the Bulgarian delegation after which the two prime ministers will hold talks, while the government will hold a plenary session."

More:BSANNA News - BSANNA NEWS

Galatasaray Release Shabani Nonda On A Free Transfer

"Galatasaray Release Shabani Nonda On A Free Transfer
The Turkish giants have decided to let go of Nonda...
By Stefan Coerts

Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray have decided to release Congolese striker Shabani Nonda on a free transfer with immediate effect. The Europa League hopefuls have confirmed Nonda's departure on their official website."

More:Galatasaray Release Shabani Nonda On A Free Transfer - Goal.com

EU’s information center opens in Ankara

"EU’s information center opens in Ankara

The Ankara office of the European Union Information Center was opened Thursday with the participation of top Turkish and EU officials.

“We are adding a largely effective instrument to our information activities. Similar centers have already been conducting activities in various Anatolian provinces through our chambers as well. We seek to answer demands for information about the EU not only from firms but also from the public,” Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu, president of the Union of Chambers of Commodity Exchanges in Turkey, or TOBB, said in a speech at the opening ceremony."

More:EU’s information center opens in Ankara - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Situation in Karabakh may be beyond control

"Situation in Karabakh may be beyond control

Thu 28 January 2010 | 13:19 GMT Text size:

Today Nagorno Karabakh is a very important issue because Azerbaijan and Armenia are surrounded with three growing regional superpowers including Russia on the north, Turkey on the west and Iran on the southeast."

More:News.Az - Situation in Karabakh may be beyond control

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Apollinaire case in Turkey causes worry in EU

"Apollinaire case in Turkey causes worry in EU

The European Commission is concerned about a case in Turkey in which a book by renowned 20th century French poet Guillaume Apollinaire was found to be with “no literary value and obscene,” daily Milliyet reported Thursday."

More:Apollinaire case in Turkey causes worry in EU - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish EU Accession Wheel Keeps on Turning

"Turkish EU Accession Wheel Keeps on Turning

This week more news has emerged, that will add to the feeling that Turkey could indeed eventually become a full member of the EU, boosting the economies of both Turkey and the Bloc immensely."

More:Turkish EU Accession Wheel Keeps on Turning

Amazing video: Truck takes down bridge - WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS:

"Amazing video: Truck takes down bridge
Posted: Jan 28, 2010 10:11 AM EST Updated: Jan 28, 2010 10:19 AM EST

ISTANBUL, TURKEY (NBC) - A dump truck driver in Turkey caused quite a mess earlier this week when he forgot to check his bed."

More:Amazing video: Truck takes down bridge - WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS:

Independent films coming to !f in Istanbul and Ankara

"Independent films coming to !f in Istanbul and Ankara

The ninth !f Istanbul AFM International Independent Film Festival is coming to Istanbul and Ankara in February.

The event, organized with contributions from the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency, will be held from Feb. 11 to 21 in Istanbul and from Feb. 25 to 28 in Ankara."

More:Independent films coming to !f in Istanbul and Ankara - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Israel says Turkish leader fueling anti-Semitism

"Israel says Turkish leader fueling anti-Semitism
Email this Story

Jan 26, 2:09 PM (ET)

By JOSEF FEDERMAN

JERUSALEM (AP) - An internal Israeli Foreign Ministry document accuses Turkey's prime minister of fueling anti-Semitism with his criticism of Israel, an official said Tuesday, threatening to spark a new diplomatic row with one of its few Muslim allies."

More:My Way News - Israel says Turkish leader fueling anti-Semitism

Turkey pledges euro1 billion for Euro 2016 stadiums

"Turkey pledges euro1 billion for Euro 2016 stadiums

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkey's bid to host the 2016 European Championship has been helped by the government pledging about euro1 billion ($1.4 billion) to build and redevelop football stadiums.

New stadiums will be built in Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, Konya, Eskiehir and Antalya. There will be a major redevelopment of the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, while the Turk Telekom Arena and the Kadir Has Stadium will undergo improvements."

More:Turkey pledges euro1 billion for Euro 2016 stadiums - USATODAY.com

Galatasaray Give Harry 48 Hours

"Galatasaray Give Harry 48 Hours

Jan 28 2010 11:13

EXCLUSIVE: Harry Kewell's fate at Galatasaray will be known in the next 48 hours, manager Frank Rikjaard revealed this morning."

More:Galatasaray Give Harry 48 Hours - Australian FourFourTwo - The Ultimate football Website

European Rights court condemns Turkey over media sanctions

"European Rights court condemns Turkey over media sanctions 27.1.2010
January 27, 2010

STRASBOURG, — Europe's top rights court on Tuesday ruled Turkey violated free speech laws when it suspended five newspapers and sentenced a magazine editor to prison over an article criticizing prison brutality.

Judges at the European Court of Human Rights, or ECHR, said the closure of the five newspapers for three months by a Turkish court amounted to censorship."

More:European Rights court condemns Turkey over media sanctions

Galatasaray Confirm Loan Deal For Giovani Dos Santos

"Galatasaray Confirm Loan Deal For Giovani Dos Santos
Spurs misfit heading east.
By Zack Wilson

Galatasaray revealed on Wednesday that they have concluded a deal with Tottenham Hotspur to bring Mexican international forward Giovani Dos Santos to Turkey on loan."

More:Galatasaray Confirm Loan Deal For Giovani Dos Santos - Goal.com

New Turkic music channel, Turkvision song competition planned

"New Turkic music channel, Turkvision song competition planned

Thu 28 January 2010 | 13:54

The Turk Music Box channel has been broadcasting in Turkey for a month.

The TV channel's general director, Naim Burak, told a press conference in Baku today that the channel would broadcast songs and music from all Turkic-speaking states."

More:News.Az - New Turkic music channel, Turkvision song competition planned

European Parliament to debate Turkish troop withdrawal from Cyprus

"European Parliament to debate Turkish troop withdrawal from Cyprus

Thu 28 January 2010 | 06:20

The European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee has adopted a motion for a resolution calling on Turkey to withdraw its troops from Cyprus."

More:News.Az - European Parliament to debate Turkish troop withdrawal from Cyprus

Turkey: Forever Friends?

"Turkey: Forever Friends?

By Elif Aydýn

It’s been a tumultuous twelve months in Turkish–Israeli relations. A year on from Turkish Prime Minister, Recep Erdogan’s walking off the stage at Davos in protest of the assault on Gaza, relations remain as tense and fraught as ever."

More:The Muslim News - Turkey: Forever Friends?

Zardari books fast train to Turkey

"Zardari books fast train to Turkey
By Syed Fazl-e-Haider

KARACHI, Pakistan - Turkey and Pakistan agreed this week to undertake a US$20 billion project to upgrade a railway link from Islamabad to Istanbul, basically to transport cargo more efficiently between the two countries and ultimately on to Europe."

More:Asia Times Online :: South Asia news, business and economy from India and Pakistan

EU fund to guarantee loans for small enterprises

"EU fund to guarantee loans for small enterprises

DÖNDÜ SARIIŞIK
ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News

The European Investment Fund and the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund of Turkey are set to sign an agreement that will guarantee loans of up to 90 million euros for the country’s small- and medium-sized enterprises, or SMEs."

More:EU fund to guarantee loans for small enterprises - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Swedish FM: Turkey's foreign policy facilitates EU bid

"Swedish FM: Turkey's foreign policy facilitates EU bid

Turkey’s emergence as a strong foreign policy player in its region is making some people nervous, but Sweden’s foreign minister says the country’s step forward is good for everyone and calls for more dialogue with Ankara. ‘Very little would have happened in the last 50 years without political leadership. We need to overcome the burden of the past,’ he says"

More:Swedish FM: Turkey's foreign policy facilitates EU bid - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

FRIENDS DON'T DEMONIZE FRIENDS...

"FRIENDS DON'T DEMONIZE FRIENDS...
Thursday, 28 January 2010 14:15

Turkish-Americans are dismayed by the unfortunate attempts by a Jewish Temple to promote the much disputed and long discredited claims of Armenian genocide to its unsuspecting congregants."

More:FRIENDS DON'T DEMONIZE FRIENDS...

Camel wrestling an alternative to bullfights

"Camel wrestling an alternative to bullfights

Kenan Gürbüz
MUĞLA - Anatolia News Agency

The traditional camel-wrestling competitions held in Turkey’s Aegean, Mediterranean and Marmara regions are a more humane alternative to the bullfights in Spain, organizers say."

More:Camel wrestling an alternative to bullfights - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey asks for guarantee from Bern, Washington on behalf of Armenia

"Turkey asks for guarantee from Bern, Washington on behalf of Armenia

BARÇIN YİNANÇ
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
Turkey asks United States and Switzerland, the official mediator between Ankara and Yerevan, to give written clarification that the recent decision of Armenian Constitutional court will not legally close the door to challenge the claims of genocide. “We will try to find a solution on the legal ground,” says a Turkish official "

More:Turkey asks for guarantee from Bern, Washington on behalf of Armenia - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey-Armenia Deal Threatened

"Turkey-Armenia Pact Hits Snags
Azeri president says he's confident Ankara won't sign pact until occupied territory is returned to Azerbaijan

A deal between Turkey and Armenia to open their border and establish diplomatic relations after generations of dispute over genocide allegations and territory is under growing threat of collapse.

Armenia is pushing for rapid ratification of the deal, signed in October, while Turkey has a longer time frame. On Wednesday, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev added to concerns for the deal when he said he was confident Turkey wouldn't ratify the agreement until Armenia has returned Azeri territory that it occupies, including the mainly ethnic Armenian region of Nagorno Karabakh."

More:Turkey-Armenia Deal Threatened - WSJ.com

Turkish-Armenian Deal Threatens To Unravel

"Turkish-Armenian Deal Threatens To Unravel
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 7 Issue: 18
January 27, 2010 03:03 PM Age: 17 hrs

By: Emil Danielyan

Armenia and Turkey have moved to the brink of reversing a universally welcomed thaw in their relations, with differing interpretations of a landmark fence-mending agreement signed in October 2009. Yerevan is threatening to annul the two “protocols” over Ankara’s continuing linkage between their implementation and the resolution of the Karabakh conflict. The Turkish government has responded by denouncing the interpretation of their implications made by Armenia’s constitutional court this month."

More:Turkish-Armenian Deal Threatens To Unravel - The Jamestown Foundation

Istanbul Fashion Show gala-opening in Baku- PHOTOSESSION

"Istanbul Fashion Show gala-opening in Baku- PHOTOSESSION
slideshow

Baku. Ulkar Gasimova – APA. Istanbul Fashion Show has been opened in gala ceremony at the Heydar Aliyev Sport-Concert Complex in Baku on January 28. According to APA, president of the Meridian EXPO, one of the organizers of the project, Oguz Yalcin said that more than 40 fashion companies of Turkey were exhibited there. “The exhibition shows women, men and children clothes, as well as classic and sport style dresses. It is important that the show was organized in Azerbaijan and I believe in its success. We hope that Azerbaijani business people will attach great importance to this exhibition. We are looking forward to organize annual exhibitions and the next show will be held in the summer”."

More:APA - Istanbul Fashion Show gala-opening in Baku- <font color=red>PHOTOSESSION</font>

Turkey plans oil refinery in northern Iraq

"Turkey plans oil refinery in northern Iraq
ANKARA — A leading Turkish company intends to construct a refinery northeast of Kirkuk, Iraq.

Turkey's Genel Enerji plans to build a refinery with a capacity for 60,000 barrels in Iraq in 2010."

More:Turkey plans oil refinery in northern Iraq

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Artist fined for art mocking Turkey's prime minister

"Artist fined for art mocking Turkey's prime minister

An English artist has been convicted of mocking Turkey's prime minister by portraying him as a dog in an artwork."

More:BBC News - Artist fined for art mocking Turkey's prime minister

European Parliament recalls on Protocols’ ratification necessity

"European Parliament recalls on Protocols’ ratification necessity
18:30 / 01/27/2010

European Parliament rapporteur for Turkey Ria Oomen-Ruijten introduced the report on Turkey to the EP Committee on Foreign Affairs which was approved, Turkish Firatnews website infomrs.

The report criticizes dissolution of the only pro-Kurdish Democratic Society Party (DTP) and demands that Turkish authorities make concrete reforms."

More:European Parliament recalls on Protocols’ ratification necessity | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

Turkey can assume bridging role, says British foreign secretary

"Turkey can assume bridging role, says British foreign secretary

The British foreign secretary said on Tuesday that Turkey could assume a role a bridging role in the regional diplomacy.

British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs David Miliband said that Turkey, bringing many countries together in Istanbul, indicated that it could assume a role as a bridge for problem solving."

More:Turkey can assume bridging role, says British foreign secretary - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Auschwitz survivor and Turkish rapper team up to fight racism

"Auschwitz survivor and Turkish rapper team up to fight racism
By The Associated Press

Esther Bejarano credits music with keeping her alive and is now using it to fight racism in Germany.

Now, 65 years after the liberation of the Nazi death camp, the 85-year-old has teamed up with a hip-hop band to spread her anti-racism message to German youth."

More:Auschwitz survivor and Turkish rapper team up to fight racism - Haaretz - Israel News

Dutch minister compares Turkey's EU accession to end of Cold War

"Dutch minister compares Turkey's EU accession to end of Cold War

Wed 27 January 2010 | 13:38 GMT Text size:

Dutch State Secretary for EU Affairs Frans Timmermans thinks that Turkey will become an EU member.

He said Turkey's accession to the EU would be as important as the end of the cold war, or the French-German conflict."

More:News.Az - Dutch minister compares Turkey's EU accession to end of Cold War

Europeans confused about Turkey accession | EU - European Information on Enlargement

"Europeans confused about Turkey accession
Published: Wednesday 27 January 2010

A new survey reveals that 47% of Europeans back Turkey's EU accession and 47% are opposed to it. But when the same respondents were asked how would they vote in a referendum on Turkey's membership, 52% say that they would vote against it and only 41% in favour."

More:EurActiv.com - Europeans confused about Turkey accession | EU - European Information on Enlargement

Turkey can assume bridging role, says British foreign secretary

"Turkey can assume bridging role, says British foreign secretary

The British foreign secretary said on Tuesday that Turkey could assume a role a bridging role in the regional diplomacy.

British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs David Miliband said that Turkey, bringing many countries together in Istanbul, indicated that it could assume a role as a bridge for problem solving."

More:Turkey can assume bridging role, says British foreign secretary - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Countdown for Ankara Int'l Jazz Festival

"Countdown for Ankara Int'l Jazz Festival

The capital is set to host well-known national and international jazz artists during the Ankara International Jazz Festival from Feb. 4 to 20. Celebrating its 13th year, the festival's director Özlem Oktar Varoğlu says regardless of sponsorship problems the festival has a mission to promote Turkish jazz around the world. 'The biggest supporter of our festival is the audience and the Ankara press,' she says"

More:Countdown for Ankara Int'l Jazz Festival - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Britain welcomes intensification of negotiations for Cyprus settlement

"Britain welcomes intensification of negotiations for Cyprus settlement

January 27, 2010

The United Kingdom ''welcomes the intensification of negotiations in search of an agreed settlement for the benefit of all Cypriots'' and ''urges all parties to approach the negotiations in a spirit of compromise,'' British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Chris Bryant has said."

More:Financialmirror.com News - Britain welcomes intensification of negotiations for Cyprus settlement

Anti-torture group visits Öcalan's prison in Turkey

"Anti-torture group visits Öcalan's prison in Turkey

A European anti-torture delegation visited Kurdish rebel leader Abdullah Öcalan in prison after he complained about living conditions."

More:Anti-torture group visits Öcalan's prison in Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish MP: U.S. State Department's aspiration to expedite ratification of Ankara-Yerevan protocols is groundless

"Turkish MP: U.S. State Department's aspiration to expedite ratification of Ankara-Yerevan protocols is groundless
27.01.2010 15:18

Turkish MP: U.S. State Department's aspiration to expedite ratification of Ankara-Yerevan protocols is groundless

Turkey, Istanbul, Jan.27 / Trend News H.Altinalan /

The U.S. State Department's desire to expedite ratification of the Ankara-Yerevan protocols is groundless, Halil Unlutepe, Turkish MP from the opposition Republican People's Party, said."

More:Trend News: Turkish MP: U.S. State Department's aspiration to expedite ratification of Ankara-Yerevan protocols is groundless

Bulgaria: Bulgaria Should Sue Ali Agca

"Bulgaria Should Sue Ali Agca
Author: Milena Hristova
Editorial | January 27, 2010, Wednesday

Bulgaria: Bulgaria Should Sue Ali Agca

Calls for taking Turkish gunman Mehmet Ali Agca to court has been given a new boost in Bulgaria after his release from prison in a bid to dismiss any suspicion of the country's involvement in the pope assassination attempt."

More:Bulgaria: Bulgaria Should Sue Ali Agca - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

Dutch minister: 'Don’t confuse integration with assimilation'

"Dutch minister: 'Don’t confuse integration with assimilation'

DÖNDÜ SARIIŞIK
Ankara – Hürriyet Daily News

Integration should not be confused with assimilation, the Netherlands’ European affairs minister said. “You can ask people to change their attitude according to social requirements, but you cannot ask them to change who they are,” Frans Timmermans said Wednesday, speaking with press at a roundtable meeting in Ankara."

More:Dutch minister: 'Don’t confuse integration with assimilation' - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish Armenians concerned over co-patriarch’s elections

"Turkish Armenians concerned over co-patriarch’s elections
14:59 / 01/27/2010

Negative coloring of the obstacles in Co-Patriarch’s elections spread by Turkish media, aroused indignation of Armenian Diaspora in Turkey. A co-patriarch should be elected because of Constantinople Patriarch Mesrob II Mutafyan’s illness, yet remaining a patriarch."

More:Turkish Armenians concerned over co-patriarch’s elections | News from Armenia - NEWS.am

‘Turkey is interested in Karabakh’s involvement’ - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

"‘Turkey is interested in Karabakh’s involvement’

Parliamentarian, a member of Republican Party of Armenia Mkrtich Minasian said it’s too early to speak of the fast solution to the Karabakh conflict. However, bilateral and trilateral meetings between presidents and ongoing negotiations are marking a certain progress, according to him."

More:‘Turkey is interested in Karabakh’s involvement’ - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Turkish Cypriot appetite for united island dwindles as hostility grows

"Turkish Cypriot appetite for united island dwindles as hostility grows

Separatist sentiments gain ground in north of Cyprus despite new round of reunification talks

Mustafa Iusufoglu was only a small child when Turkish troops overran his village a few miles outside Nicosia in the summer of 1974. But he remembers clearly the elation with which his father and the local Turkish Cypriot community greeted their arrival after years of often bloody, island-wide confrontation with the Greek Cypriot majority."

More:Turkish Cypriot appetite for united island dwindles as hostility grows | World news | The Guardian

Davudoglu: “Turkey must be ready to every kind of surprise”

"Davudoglu: “Turkey must be ready to every kind of surprise”
[ 27 Jan 2010 04:01 ]

Baku - APA. It will not be a fair position to accuse the Turkish people in the Congress or at other places, for the reason that survived through history despite all the efforts and was sorrowful for both sides, said Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmed Davudoglu commenting possibility of US Congress to recognize claims of “Armenian genocide” ahead of 24 April."

More:APA - Davudoglu: “Turkey must be ready to every kind of surprise”

Turkey's EU Membership May Solve the Mid-East Crisis

"Turkey’s EU Membership May Solve the Mid-East Crisis

Oddly enough, Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos implied that granting Turkey membership to the European Union would somehow assist the Israeli-Palestinian peace process."

More:Heeb: HQ : Turkey's EU Membership May Solve the Mid-East Crisis

'Sledgehammer' plan dominates Turkish Parliament

"'Sledgehammer' plan dominates Turkish Parliament

PM Erdoğan warns against dark plans and racism as he criticizes the opposition for not supporting investigations into extra judicial killings and not engaging in government-led reforms. Main opposition leader Baykal responds, saying the ruling party has exploited coup allegations while Turkey’s nationalist opposition leader Bahçeli stays cautious, saying the military should be trusted though its statements haven’t been satisfactory"

More:'Sledgehammer' plan dominates Turkish Parliament - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Pro-Kurdish groups plan Turkish uprising - UPI.com

"Pro-Kurdish groups plan Turkish uprising

ANKARA, Turkey, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- The Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, plans to launch an uprising to mark the anniversary of the capture of their leader, affiliate statements suggest."

More:Pro-Kurdish groups plan Turkish uprising - UPI.com

Turkey general dismisses coup plot allegations

"Turkey general dismisses coup plot allegations
Turkey's Chief of Staff Gen. Ilker Basbug
Gen Basbug has ordered investigations into the allegedly leaked documents

The head of Turkey's armed forces has responded angrily to a newspaper report accusing the military of plotting to overthrow the government."

More:BBC News - Turkey general dismisses coup plot allegations

Turkish and Azerbaijani lands presented as Armenian (UPDATED)

"Turkish and Azerbaijani lands presented as Armenian (UPDATED)
26.01.2010 13:51

Eastern Turkey and Azerbaijan were presented as Armenian in a map displayed at a seminar in one of Washington's universities, CNN's Web site in Turkish reported."

More:Trend News: Turkish and Azerbaijani lands presented as Armenian (UPDATED)

Turkey's Chief EU Negotiator Holds Talks in Strasbourg

"Turkey's Chief EU Negotiator Holds Talks in Strasbourg

Tuesday, 26 January 2010

Turkish State Minister and Chief EU Negotiator Egemen Bagis met Monday Council of Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights Thomas Hammarberg."

More:Turkey's Chief EU Negotiator Holds Talks in Strasbourg

Turkish Airlines crash pilots 'not to blame'

"Turkish Airlines crash pilots 'not to blame'

Tuesday 26 January 2010

The pilots of a Turkish Airlines plane, which crashed shortly before landing at Schiphol airport last February killing nine people, were largely not to blame for the accident, the Telegraaf reports on Tuesday."

More:DutchNews.nl - Turkish Airlines crash pilots 'not to blame'

Kurds and Azerbaijanis clash in Igdir, dozens arrested

"Kurds and Azerbaijanis clash in Igdir, dozens arrested

Igdir – APA. Arrest of the municipality chairman of the Turkey’s province of Igdir Mehmet Nuri Gunesh and seven members of Peace and Democracy Party (BDP) caused tensions in Igdir. A group of parliamentarians and municipality officials from BDP issued statement for media at first and then they broke windows of shops owned by Azerbaijanis. Police used tear gas to prevent unrests. There were disputes between the rioters and police. BDP parliamentarian threatened police that they would continue the protest action. Police asked for additional forces."

More:APA - Kurds and Azerbaijanis clash in Igdir, dozens arrested

Netherlands - Timmermans visiting Turkey

"Netherlands - Timmermans visiting Turkey

European affairs minister Frans Timmermans set off yesterday on a two-day visit to Turkey. His main subjects for discussion will be Turkey's EU accession negotiations and cultural cooperation between Turkey and the Netherlands.

He will speak with foreign minister Ahmet Davutoğlu about preparations for the 400th anniversary of Dutch-Turkish relations in 2010 as well as current issues such as Turkey's reform agenda, Cyprus, and the Kurdish question."

More:Netherlands - Timmermans visiting Turkey

One death due to cold in Istanbul

"One death due to cold in Istanbul

Sub-zero temperatures brought in with the latest cold front claimed their first reported death in Istanbul on Monday when a 65-year-old fisherman living on his boat died."

More:One death due to cold in Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish Businessman Eczacibasi Laid To Rest in Istanbul

"Turkish Businessman Eczacibasi Laid To Rest in Istanbul

Tuesday, 26 January 2010

Sakir Eczacibasi, a leading Turkish businessman who passed away on January 24, was laid to rest in Istanbul on Tuesday.

Eczacibasi was also the chairman of the Board of Directors of the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Art which has been hosting five different international festivals since 1983."

More:Turkish Businessman Eczacibasi Laid To Rest in Istanbul

Israel: Turkish leader fuels anti-Semitism - washingtonpost.com

"Israel: Turkish leader fuels anti-Semitism

By JOSEF FEDERMAN
The Associated Press
Tuesday, January 26, 2010; 10:41 AM

JERUSALEM -- The Israeli Foreign Ministry accused Turkey's prime minister of fueling anti-Semitism with his criticism of Israel, officials said Tuesday, threatening to spark a new diplomatic row with one its few Muslim allies."

More:Israel: Turkish leader fuels anti-Semitism - washingtonpost.com

More than 50 in custody after clashes in eastern Turkey

"More than 50 in custody after clashes in eastern Turkey

Conflict erupted in the eastern province of Iğdır between pro-Kurdish demonstrators and police on Monday. Shops mostly belonging to ethnic Azeris were stoned during clashes, news wires reported."

More:More than 50 in custody after clashes in eastern Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Washington calls Turkey, Armenia to fulfill their commitments

"Washington calls Turkey, Armenia to fulfill their commitments
Tuesday, 26 January 2010 09:03

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Crowley said that United States supports the decision of Armenian Constitutional Court on Turkey-Armenia protocols.

While Turkey evaluates the detailed ruling of Armenian Constitutional Court on Turkey-Armenia protocols as a blow to the rapprochement process, Washington made a statement differing from the Turkish opinion. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, Philip J. Crowley said that the decision of Armenian Constituional Court on Turkey-Armenia protocols is another step further in the process of normalization of relations between two countries."

More:Washington calls Turkey, Armenia to fulfill their commitments

Monday, January 25, 2010

Robert Wexler's Ankara visit

"Robert Wexler's Ankara visit

İLHAN TANIR

Former U.S. congressman Robert Wexler, who recently resigned from his congressional seat, made a visit to Ankara last week. Known as both a friend of Turkey and a staunch supporter of Israel’s foreign policies, Wexler’s trip to Ankara and meeting with Turkish president Abdullah Gül was too important to overlook, according to Washington sources who followed the visit closely."

mORE:Robert Wexler's Ankara visit - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Caucasus to bridge between Turkey, Russia

"Caucasus to bridge between Turkey, Russia

Dr. Burcu Gültekin Punsmann

Turks and Russians have never had such amicable contacts, never intermingled and cooperated so closely. The historical reconciliation process between Turkey and Russia should generate the same degree of enthusiasm as the French-German reconciliation process."

More:Caucasus to bridge between Turkey, Russia - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Afghan exit strategy takes shape ahead of London talks | Reuters

"Afghan exit strategy takes shape ahead of London talks
William Maclean
LONDON
Mon Jan 25, 2010 4:30pm EST
Related News

General Stanley McChrystal, commander of the International Security Assistance Force and commander of United States Forces Afghanistan, delivers a speech to the Conference of Defence Associations in Ottawa in this December 16, 2009 file photo. REUTERS/Chris Wattie

LONDON (Reuters) - Politicians and Western army chiefs mapped out the contours of an Afghanistan exit strategy on Monday, with three generals holding out the possibility of an eventual peace deal with the Taliban."

More:Afghan exit strategy takes shape ahead of London talks | Reuters

Cold snap leaves 40 dead

"Cold snap leaves 40 dead
2010-01-25 21:06

Bucharest - A cold snap in eastern and south east Europe has left more than 40 people dead as temperatures plunged to minus 35°C, authorities said on Monday.

Snow has blanketed swathes of western Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania, while Poland has again gripped by a deep freeze that has killed more than 200 people since November."

More:Cold snap leaves 40 dead: News24: World: News

Kurdish concern over Turkish PACE president

"Kurdish concern over Turkish PACE president

The Council of Europe’s Parliamentary Assembly has a new, Turkish president. The organisation with 47 member countries promotes human rights, democratic development, the rule of law and cultural co-operation. Mevlut Cavusoglu, a member of Turkey’s ruling AK party, was elected unanimously."

More:Kurdish concern over Turkish PACE president - EU Council : europa, europe | euronews

Istanbul Modern To Become Venue of Photography Exhibition "Time Within Us"

"Istanbul Modern To Become Venue of Photography Exhibition 'Time Within Us'
Published by Ozgur Tore
Monday, 25 January 2010
AddThis Social Bookmark Button
A photography exhibition 'Time Within Us' will be opened at the Istanbul Modern Photography Gallery on January 27.

The exhibition consists of 151 photographs taken by 15 Turkish, Russian and Greek photographers.

The photographs were selected by three curators, Engin Ozendes from the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art, Olga Sviblova from the Moscow House of Photography, and Vangelis Ioakimidis from the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography."

More:Focus on Travel News - Istanbul Modern To Become Venue of Photography Exhibition "Time Within Us"

Afghan, Pakistani leaders to meet in Istanbul

"Afghan, Pakistani leaders to meet in Istanbul
Posted: 1/25/2010

ISTANBUL (AP) — The president of Afghanistan is set to meet with Turkish and Pakistani leaders in Istanbul today, as part of a tour seeking financial and other support for his government."

More:9&10 News: Afghan, Pakistani leaders to meet in Istanbul

It’s Shiny and Green in Turkey’s Real Estate Picture

"It’s Shiny and Green in Turkey’s Real Estate Picture

With the real estate and financial problems in the U. S. , and similar troublesome economic news around the world, it’s a refreshing change of pace to read upbeat news from Turkey. Particularly now, with the residential market problems beginning to rear their heads in the U. S. Commercial real estate picture, Turkey’s commercial news is stunning, with a green tint. Gordon Shopping Center – On Thursday, September 17th, Gordon Shopping Center opened its doors in Ankara."

More:It’s Shiny and Green in Turkey’s Real Estate Picture

Turkish energy giant to establish refinery in northern Iraq

"Turkish energy giant to establish refinery in northern Iraq

A Turkish oil exploration and production company active in northern Iraq plans to establish a refinery with a capacity of 60,000 barrels this year in the city of Koya, near the Taq Taq oilfield."

More:Turkish energy giant to establish refinery in northern Iraq - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey's Mevlut Çavuşoğlu elected PACE President - Politics - Panorama | Armenian news

"Turkey's Mevlut Çavuşoğlu elected PACE President
1st part of the 2010 Ordinary Session is due 25-29 January 2010. Electing a new PACE President is to be one of the Session priorities. The only candidate proposed Mevlut Çavuşoğlu, a member of Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), has been elected PACE President on 2-year term, taking over the President-in-Office Lluis Maria de Puig."

More:Turkey's Mevlut Çavuşoğlu elected PACE President - Politics - Panorama | Armenian news

Questions on Turkeys orientation

"Questions on Turkeys orientation

Turkey was incensed over Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon’s public dressing down of its ambassador over a Turkish television series, and threatened to withdraw the envoy unless it received a formal apology.
Bowing to the ultimatum, Ayalon sent a letter of apology and Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu expressed hope the two allies would now put the crisis behind them ahead of a visit by Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak to Ankara."

More:Questions on Turkeys orientation

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Turkey detains 2 journalists, others in PKK raids | Reuters

"Turkey detains 2 journalists, others in PKK raids
ISTANBUL
Sat Jan 23, 2010 3:18pm EST
Related News

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkish police detained 60 people on Saturday, including two journalists suspected of belonging to or aiding the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), the state-run Anatolian news agency reported."

More:Turkey detains 2 journalists, others in PKK raids | Reuters

Istanbul and London conferences not inter-linked

"Istanbul and London conferences not inter-linked
ISTANBUL, JAN. 24 (APP)The back-to-back summit conferences, beginning here on Monday with President Asif Ali Zardari representing Pakistan, and the forthcoming international conference in London on the Afghan issue are not inter-linked, Pakistani Ambassador to Turkey, Tariq Azizuddin said on Sunday. President Zardari, his Afghan counterpart Hamid Karzai and Turkish host, President Abdullah Gul, with their aides also present, will hold the 4th Trilateral Summit Monday aimed at strengthening political, economic and security ties among the three countries."

More:Associated Press Of Pakistan ( Pakistan's Premier NEWS Agency ) - Istanbul and London conferences not inter-linked

Turkey's Chief EU Negotiator Attends Traditional Ball in Vienna

"Turkey's Chief EU Negotiator Attends Traditional Ball in Vienna

Sunday, 24 January 2010

Turkish State Minister and Chief EU Negotiator Egemen Bagis attended the traditional ball of Austrian businessmen in Vienna on Saturday."

More:Turkey's Chief EU Negotiator Attends Traditional Ball in Vienna

Turkey Red Crescent sends aid to flood-hit Turkish Cyprus

"Turkey Red Crescent sends aid to flood-hit Turkish Cyprus
Turkish Red Crescent sent its emergency aid to Turkish Cyprus that was hit by floods last week, the aid organization said in a statement"

More:Turkey Red Crescent sends aid to flood-hit Turkish Cyprus [ WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS ]

Armenia accuses Turkey of trying to block plans to open border (SETimes.com)

"Armenia accuses Turkey of trying to block plans to open border

24/01/2010

YEREVAN, Armenia -- Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian accused Turkey on Friday (January 22nd) of trying to block the development of diplomatic ties and the opening of the common border between the two countries."

More:Armenia accuses Turkey of trying to block plans to open border (SETimes.com)

Cyprus could split like Czechoslovakia, Turkish Cypriots say | World news | guardian.co.uk

"Cyprus could split like Czechoslovakia, Turkish Cypriots say

Warning comes as reunification talks, feared to be on brink of failure, are due to restart

Cyprus could become another Czechoslovakia, splitting in to two separate states unless Britain and its international partners move to prevent the collapse of crucial reunification talks, officials in Turkish northern Cyprus have warned."

More:Cyprus could split like Czechoslovakia, Turkish Cypriots say | World news | guardian.co.uk

Accident: Turkish Airlines A343 at Istanbul on Jan 24th 2010, de-icer killed

"Accident: Turkish Airlines A343 at Istanbul on Jan 24th 2010, de-icer killed
By Simon Hradecky, created Sunday, Jan 24th 2010 17:27Z, last updated Sunday, Jan 24th 2010 17:27Z

A Turkish Airlines Airbus A340-300, flight TK-60 (scheduled departure Jan 23rd) from Istanbul Ataturk (Turkey) to Bangkok (Thailand) with 237 passengers, was preparing for departure in heavy snowfall with about 2.5 hours delay at about 02:00L (00:00Z)."

More:Accident: Turkish Airlines A343 at Istanbul on Jan 24th 2010, de-icer killed

Turkey belongs in Europe - EU president Spain | World | Reuters

"Turkey belongs in Europe - EU president Spain
Sun Jan 24, 2010 5:30pm GMT

BERLIN (Reuters) - European Union president Spain feels that Turkey belongs in the 27-country bloc, Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos said in an interview published Sunday."

More:Turkey belongs in Europe - EU president Spain | World | Reuters

Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" program featured Istanbul

Chef Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" program on Travel Channel featured Istanbul on January 18, 2010. If you missed this program you can watch it now on You Tube. This is fantastic propaganda for Turkish food and Turkey, in particular Istanbul which happens to be the European Capital of Culture 2010, more reason to visit! Also, now you'll understand why it's so difficult to resist food when in Turkiye!



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Saturday, January 23, 2010

British banks hired to help list Turkish gold firm in Istanbul - Business News, Business - The Independent

"British banks hired to help list Turkish gold firm in Istanbul

By Mark Leftly

The company, which owns the Ovacik mine near Turkey's Aegean coast, has shunned a London listing in favour of Istanbul stock exchange. But JP Morgan Cazenove has been hired to attract potential investors
in London and internationally. The company had intended to list in London, until the plans were pulled in the wake of the credit crisis. Merrill Lynch and UBS were advising until management decided against the move in 2008."

More:British banks hired to help list Turkish gold firm in Istanbul - Business News, Business - The Independent

Turkey detains 2 journalists, others in PKK raids | Reuters

"Turkey detains 2 journalists, others in PKK raids
ISTANBUL
Sat Jan 23, 2010 3:18pm EST

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkish police detained 60 people on Saturday, including two journalists suspected of belonging to or aiding the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), the state-run Anatolian news agency reported."

More:Turkey detains 2 journalists, others in PKK raids | Reuters

Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Chief visits Dubai Airport Freezone | DAFZA | AMEinfo.com

"Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Chief visits Dubai Airport Freezone

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarouni, Director General of Dubai Airport Freezone, called on Turkish businessmen to open up the Turkish market and take advantage of investment opportunities in the Middle East."

More:Istanbul Chamber of Commerce Chief visits Dubai Airport Freezone | DAFZA | AMEinfo.com

Turkish minister: Turkey has already entered EU

"Turkish minister: Turkey has already entered EU
23.01.2010 13:12

Turkey has already entered EU, Turkish State Minister and Chief Negotiator for the EU talks Egemen Bakish was quoted as saying by the Anadolu news agency."

More:Trend News: Turkish minister: Turkey has already entered EU

U.S. tries to add wings to Armenia-Turkey reconciliation

"U.S. tries to add wings to Armenia-Turkey reconciliation

“Turkey is in everyway trying to fasten down the process [of ratification] using Armenian Constitutional Court’s decision on protocols as a reason to blame Armenian side. The U.S. wishes for speeding-up the process of reconciliation between Armenia and Turkey as they are interested in this,” told Aysor’s correspondent Artak Shakarian, a turkologist."

More:U.S. tries to add wings to Armenia-Turkey reconciliation - aysor.am - Hot news from Armenia

Oil Spill in Istanbul as Cargo Ship Runs Aground : TreeHugger

"Oil Spill in Istanbul as Cargo Ship Runs Aground
by Jennifer Hattam, Istanbul, Turkey on 01.23.10

From my window, I can inevitably see -- at least when it's not snowing out -- a flotilla of cargo ships waiting their turn to pass through the Bosphorus Strait as they make their way from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea. This week, one of the approximately 10,000 such vessels that traverse the famous continent-splitting waterway each year ran aground in bad weather and broke in half, spilling 96 tons of fuel oil and 25 tons of diesel oil into the area's bays and out to sea."

More:Oil Spill in Istanbul as Cargo Ship Runs Aground : TreeHugger

Turkish book on Istanbul "1422-1922" maps to join international fairs

"Turkish book on Istanbul '1422-1922' maps to join international fairs

Saturday, 23 January 2010 12:47
The book 'Maps of Istanbul 1422-1922' will take part in the Miami International Map Fair on January 31 as special guest."

More:Turkish book on Istanbul "1422-1922" maps to join international fairs [ WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS ]

Heavy snow paralyzes Western Istanbul

"Heavy snow paralyzes Western Istanbul
23 January 2010 | 16:55 | FOCUS News Agency
Istanbul. Heavy snow has paralyzed the western regions of Istanbul, the Anatolian Agency reports.
It started snowing on Friday evening, causing many road accidents in Istanbul and other western provinces, such as Edirne and Balikesir. Weather forecasters warn that the snowfall and strong wind will continue."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

"WILL DIE" - Plane turns around because of "threatening message" inside toilet | Fromtheold

"'WILL DIE' - Plane turns around because of 'threatening message' inside toilet

Saturday, January 23, 2010 - 18:15

A airplane flying from Germany to Turkey was diverted to Greece after someone found a 'threatening' message written in one of the toilets. The Turkish jet was carrying 68 people at the time and was evacuated when it touched down in Thessaloniki. According to officials the words written on the inside of the airplane was 'will die today'."

More:"WILL DIE" - Plane turns around because of "threatening message" inside toilet | Fromtheold

Turkish citizens hold demonstration outside Phanar in support of the Ecumenical Patriarchate | OBL News

"Turkish citizens hold demonstration outside Phanar in support of the Ecumenical Patriarchate

1/14/2010
Istanbul, Turkey

A demonstration in support of minorities was organized on Saturday, January 9, outside the compound of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul. The event was organized by a coalition of liberal and peacemaker organizations named ‘70 Million Steps Against Coups’."

More:Turkish citizens hold demonstration outside Phanar in support of the Ecumenical Patriarchate | OBL News

The Future of Turkey-Russia Relations

"The Future of Turkey-Russia Relations

Saturday, 23 January 2010

USAK Eurasia Expert Hasan Selim Ozertem commented on the recent Erdogan-Putin meeting."

More:[JTW Interview] The Future of Turkey-Russia Relations

Turkey could give Russia a contract for the construction of nuclear power without tender – Business – News

"Turkey could give Russia a contract for the construction of nuclear power without tender – Business – News
January 23, 2010 – 2:00 am

Turkey can give a contract to build a nuclear power plant Russia without an open tender procedure, if Moscow and Ankara will be able to agree on the technical aspects of the agreement, reported Reuters citing the Turkish government sources."

More:Turkey could give Russia a contract for the construction of nuclear power without tender – Business – News

Friday, January 22, 2010

Istanbul: culture club

"Istanbul: culture club

Why no city deserves the title Capital of Culture more

'Culture' is a flexible conception, but if one interprets it to mean the whole range of human experience and achievement, then nowhere is better qualified to be the Cultural Capital of Europe than Istanbul, née Constantinople."

More:Istanbul: culture club | Travel | The Guardian

Insiders' guide to Istanbul

"Insiders' guide to Istanbul

There's more to the city than its many iconic monuments. Our experts reveal their favourite places"

More:Insiders' guide to Istanbul | Travel | The Guardian

Turkey kicks off international meetings on Afghanistan | Reuters

"Turkey kicks off international meetings on Afghanistan
Simon Cameron-Moore
ISTANBUL
Fri Jan 22, 2010 1:58pm EST

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey hosts a meeting of Afghanistan's neighbors next week to seek a common approach to the conflict that could center on gathering international support for negotiating some kind of peace with the Taliban."

More:Turkey kicks off international meetings on Afghanistan | Reuters

Snow is coming to Istanbul to stay

"Snow is coming to Istanbul to stay

According to weather forecasts, the snowfall expected to affect the Edirne, Çanakkale, Tekirdağ and Kırklareli provinces of Thrace on Friday evening will reach Istanbul on Saturday morning.

The snowfall will get heavier Saturday evening on the European side of the city and extend to the Anatolian side in the late hours, covering all of Istanbul in snow. The snowfall is expected to continue Sunday and Monday as well."

More:Snow is coming to Istanbul to stay - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Experience two continents at once on an Istanbul cruise

"Experience two continents at once on an Istanbul cruise
Friday, 22 Jan 2010 00:00
Holidaymakers looking for a unique cultural experience might want to look into Mediterranean cruises that stop in Istanbul.

The city offers a mesmerising blend of western and eastern culture thanks to the fact that Turkey is situated on the cusp of Europe and Asia."

More:Experience two continents at once on an Istanbul cruise

Istanbul hosts a top US Travel Channel program

"Istanbul hosts a top US Travel Channel program

Istanbul hosted the U.S. Travel Channel’s popular program “Anthony Bourdain: No Resevations” in 2009 and the show is now being broadcast.

Gourmet chef, writer and producer Bourdain is known as the channel’s most famous hosts. In his program, Bourdain spontaneously discovers cities and promotes local cuisine culture. “Turkey was a mysterious place for me. I did not know what I would face in the country. But when I came to Istanbul, I saw a modern and sophisticated city as well as a historic one. It was a big surprise for me to know the richness and variety of Turkish cuisine,” he said."

More:Istanbul hosts a top US Travel Channel program - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey to forego nuclear tender if Russia deal reached

"Turkey to forego nuclear tender if Russia deal reached
Fri Jan 22, 2010 5:45pm IST

By Orhan Coskun

ISTANBUL, Jan 22 (Reuters) - Turkey will forego a public tender to build a planned nuclear power plant if Ankara can agree with energy partner Russia on the technical aspects of a deal, government sources said on Friday."

More:Turkey to forego nuclear tender if Russia deal reached | Markets | Reuters

Top German court halts extradition to Turkey of PKK man - Monsters and Critics

"Top German court halts extradition to Turkey of PKK man

Jan 22, 2010, 13:56 GMT

Karlsruhe, Germany - Germany's top court has stopped the extradition of an alleged Kurdish rebel to Turkey, ruling that life imprisonment without parole was a cruel and inhumane punishment, according to a verdict published Friday.

The 38-year-old man, who is in German pre-extradition custody, is accused of being a regional chief in Turkey of the underground Kurdish Workers Party PKK and ordering a bomb attack in 1999 that killed two and wounded 14 people."

More:Top German court halts extradition to Turkey of PKK man - Monsters and Critics

Turk military says no evidence of assassination plot

"Turk military says no evidence of assassination plot
22 Jan 2010 13:27:21 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Zerin Elci

ANKARA, Jan 22 (Reuters) - Turkey's military denied on Friday a special forces unit had plotted to kill a conservative deputy prime minister and said a police search at the unit's headquarters had produced no evidence of such a plan.

Civilian investigators looking into the alleged plot last month conducted a search of a military facility once off-limits to them in the capital Ankara and detained eight soldiers, then released them within days."

More:Reuters AlertNet - Turk military says no evidence of assassination plot

Turkish team rescues Haiti woman after 8 days [ WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS ]

"Turkish team rescues Haiti woman after 8 days
Turkish search and rescue team AKUT pulled a woman alive under the rubble of a supermarket eight days after the Haiti earthquake.

AKUT, working in cooperation with French rescue teams, pulled out the 24-year-old Haitian women from the rubble, raising number of people it rescued to 6."

More:Turkish team rescues Haiti woman after 8 days [ WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS ]

No new renewable energies law for Turkey until 2013

"No new renewable energies law for Turkey until 2013

22/1/2010

The Turkish government has decided to extend its current Renewable Energies Law to 2013. The news has disappointed the sector, which had seen expectations rise after it was revealed that the Turkish government had prepared a draft of the new law, which included a 60% increase in the feed-in tariff for wind power."

More:Renewable Energy Magazine: Latest news - your source for renewable energy news– solar, wind, biomass, biofuel, hydro, CO2, solar thermal, hydro power, climate change, carbon trading..

120 al-Qaida suspects detained in Turkey - washingtonpost.com

"120 al-Qaida suspects detained in Turkey

By SUZAN FRASER
The Associated Press
Friday, January 22, 2010; 8:29 AM

ANKARA, Turkey -- Turkish police on Friday rounded up 120 people suspected of links to the al-Qaida terror network in simultaneous pre-dawn raids in 16 provinces, the state-run Anatolia news agency reported."

More:120 al-Qaida suspects detained in Turkey - washingtonpost.com

Turkey’s Constitutional Court rules against civil trials for military

"Turkey’s Constitutional Court rules against civil trials for military

Turkey’s Constitutional Court canceled legislation allowing military personnel to be tried by civil courts."

More:Turkey’s Constitutional Court rules against civil trials for military - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Immigration must be 'priority' issue in EU-Turkey ties

"Immigration must be 'priority' issue in EU-Turkey ties

The fight against illegal immigration must become a "priority issue" in the European Union's ties with Turkey, an EU candidate country, French Immigration Minister Eric Besson said."

More:Immigration must be 'priority' issue in EU-Turkey ties - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey 'to receive 4 Israeli Heron drones'

"Turkey 'to receive 4 Israeli Heron drones'
Fri, 22 Jan 2010 06:00:27 GMT

A controversial multi-million-dollar drone contract between Turkey and Israel will go ahead by March, a Turkish newspaper has said."

More:Turkey 'to receive 4 Israeli Heron drones'

Kurds challenge Turkey in European court - UPI.com

"Kurds challenge Turkey in European court
Published: Jan. 21, 2010 at 4:27 PM

ANKARA, Turkey, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Members of a former pro-Kurdish political party in Turkey filed a case with the European Court of Human Rights, saying the party was shut down illegally."

More:Kurds challenge Turkey in European court - UPI.com

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Turkish President expected to visit India in Feb

"Turkish President expected to visit India in Feb
Sahin said Turkey and India could participate in joint energy projects.
Thursday, 21 January 2010 14:05
Turkish Parliament Speaker Mehmet Ali Sahin said Thursday Turkey and India could participate in joint energy projects and steps taken in this direction should continue."

More:Turkish President expected to visit India in Feb [ WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS ]

Half of Turkey Would Vote Yes to Joining EU

"Half of Turkey Would Vote Yes to Joining EU

A new survey by the Angus Reid Monitor has found that some 49.7% of Turkey residents would vote in favour of joining the EU, while just 34.9% would vote no in a referendum on the issue."

More:Half of Turkey Would Vote Yes to Joining EU

A journey into the heart of Istanbul

"A journey into the heart of Istanbul
Yesterday at 23:17 | Alexandra Matoshko
There are two main reasons why Ukrainians would go to Turkey – to vacation on its numerous seaside resorts or to shop, or both. However, as I set out for Istanbul in the last days of 2009, my goal was neither a lazy rest in an all-inclusive hotel, nor shopping, but a fun (though short) holiday and New Year’s celebration in one of the most interesting cities of the world."

More:Kyiv Post. Independence. Community. Trust - Entertainment - General - A journey into the heart of Istanbul

Sailing to Byzantium, Part II

"Sailing to Byzantium, Part II
By Benny Ziffer

ISTANBUL (end of December 2009) - Most of my plans of things to do and see here evaporated into thin air upon arrival, so I let myself be carried away with the flow of the new, strange things I encountered while wandering the city's streets. For example, the music blaring from a record shop on the popular Istiklal Avenue pedestrian mall was enough to draw me inside and plunge me into a flurry of names of singers and bands, as well as rare recordings. This is how I became acquainted, for the first time, with Wojciech Bobowski's music. He was one of the great European composers of the generation that preceded Bach - if you consider Istanbul a part of the Continent, which to my regret, is not usually the case."

More:Sailing to Byzantium, Part II - Haaretz - Israel News

Abraham H. Foxman: The Imperative of Strong Turkish-Israel Relations

"The Imperative of Strong Turkish-Israel Relations
What's Your Reaction:

The recent lightning sequence of events between Israel and Turkey highlights the complexity of the relationship between the two countries."

More:Abraham H. Foxman: The Imperative of Strong Turkish-Israel Relations

Kurds call for Turkish military reform

"Kurds call for Turkish military reform
Published: Jan. 20, 2010 at 3:59 PM

ANKARA, Turkey, Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Pro-Kurdish lawmakers in Turkey called on the government in Ankara to rescind a protocol that allows unilateral military intervention to quell internal threats."

More:Kurds call for Turkish military reform - UPI.com

Israel, Turkey close to drones deal

"Israel, Turkey close to drones deal
Published: Jan. 21, 2010 at 12:17 PM

TEL AVIV, Israel, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Despite damaged ties, Turkey and Israel say that a controversial drones contract will go ahead by March."

More:Israel, Turkey close to drones deal - UPI.com

Turkey arrests pro-Kurdish mayor

"Turkey arrests pro-Kurdish mayor
Published: Jan. 21, 2010 at 12:00 PM

IGDIR, Turkey, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Authorities in the southeastern Turkish province of Igdir arrested nine members of the pro-Kurdish Peace and Democratic Party on Thursday, including a mayor."

More:Turkey arrests pro-Kurdish mayor - UPI.com

SRS receives enriched uranium from Turkey | Aiken Standard | Aiken, SC

"SRS receives enriched uranium from Turkey
1/21/2010 12:51 AM
By MIKE GELLATLY
Staff writer

The Savannah River Site is now the home of even more nuclear waste. Waste that does not currently seem to have a specified path to its disposal.

The National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA) announced recently that it had secured spent reactor fuel from Turkey and was returning it to the United States. On Wednesday, the Aiken Standard learned that these fuel rods, along with other highly enriched uranium (HEU), had arrived at SRS."

More:SRS receives enriched uranium from Turkey | Aiken Standard | Aiken, SC

Giant waves expected to hit Istanbul

"Giant waves expected to hit Istanbul

Meteorology officials said tsunami-like giant waves of up to 7 meters are expected to hit the western Black Sea shores of Istanbul near the northern Bosphorus entrance at Kilyos and Demirciköy."

More:Giant waves expected to hit Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish army denies plot to clash with Greece

"Turkish army denies plot to clash with Greece
21 Jan 2010 13:39:53 GMT
Source: Reuters
* Plan targeted mosques and museums, newspaper says

* Markets indifferent to report

* Possible military-government tensions worry investors

By Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA, Jan 21 (Reuters) - Turkey's military denied on Thursday the army had plotted to provoke Greek fighter jets into shooting down a Turkish military jet and said a newspaper report of such a plan had only served to heighten anxieties."

More:Reuters AlertNet - Turkish army denies plot to clash with Greece

Istanbul Calling: An Unsettling Blast From the Past

"An Unsettling Blast From the Past

I have a story up on the Eurasianet website about the release from prison of Mehmet Ali Agca, Pope John Paul II's failed assassin, and the dark memories his release is stirring up in Turkey. From my article:"

More:Istanbul Calling: An Unsettling Blast From the Past

Turkey rounds up 60 over links to Kurdish terrorists

"Turkey rounds up 60 over links to Kurdish terrorists

Police have detained around 60 people in operations in four provinces targeting separatists, a local official said.

Police raided the homes and offices of suspects in Istanbul, the southeastern provinces of Batman and Diyarbakır as well as the eastern province of Van and the eastern city of Iğdır, the governor's office in Batman said in a statement."

More:Turkey rounds up 60 over links to Kurdish terrorists - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

EU Term President Spain's Ambassador in Ankara Hosts Luncheon in Honor of Babacan

"EU Term President Spain's Ambassador in Ankara Hosts Luncheon in Honor of Babacan

Thursday, 21 January 2010

European Union (EU) Term President Spain's Ambassador in Ankara, Joan Clos Matheu, has hosted a luncheon in honor of Turkish State Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan on Wednesday."

More:EU Term President Spain's Ambassador in Ankara Hosts Luncheon in Honor of Babacan

Turkish military denies allegations of new coup plan

"Turkish military denies allegations of new coup plan

A new alleged coup plan that surfaced in the Turkish media Wednesday is a scenario used in a military exercise program, the Turkish Armed Forces, or TSK, said in a statement Thursday."

More:Turkish military denies allegations of new coup plan - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Passenger train between Islamabad-Istanbul via Tehran on cards 

"Passenger train between Islamabad-Istanbul via Tehran on cards

ISLAMABAD, Jan 21 (APP): The governments of Pakistan, Iran and Turkey would consider running of a passenger train service between their capitals once the ECO container train which was operated on test ground becomes fully operational.The first demonstration container train was started from Islamabad via Tehran to Istanbul on 14-08-2009 which successfully reached destination on 28-08-2009.Federal Railways Minister Ghulam Ahmed Bilour talking to APP, said that proposed container train from Islamabad to Istanbul via Tehran was a beginning to operate a fully passenger Train services to enabling Pakistan to join the international club of Railways."

More:Associated Press Of Pakistan ( Pakistan's Premier NEWS Agency ) - Passenger train between Islamabad-Istanbul via Tehran on cards 

Erdogan lauds OIC’s increasing role in world affairs

"Erdogan lauds OIC’s increasing role in world affairs
Sultan Al-Tamimi | Arab News

JEDDAH: Turkish Premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited the headquarters of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) here on Wednesday and expressed his satisfaction over the 57-member group’s increasing role on the world stage."

More:Erdogan lauds OIC’s increasing role in world affairs

We care about Azerbaijani interests too, Turkish energy minister

"We care about Azerbaijani interests too, Turkish energy minister

Thu 21 January 2010 | 05:23 GMT Text size:
9480
Taner Yildiz

Turkey continues negotiating gas price with Azerbaijan.

'We continue negotiating gas price with Azerbaijan and I think we will agree on it soon."

More:News.Az - We care about Azerbaijani interests too, Turkish energy minister

Half of Turks Would Vote to Join EU

"Half of Turks Would Vote to Join EU
January 21, 2010

(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Half of the population of Turkey would support their country’s bid to enter the European Union (EU), according to a poll by MetroPOLL Strategic and Social Research Center. 49.7 per cent of respondents would vote 'Yes' in a referendum on accession, while 34.9 per cent would vote against it."

More:Half of Turks Would Vote to Join EU: Angus Reid Global Monitor

Turkish agents nab Al Qaida chief after raiding safe houses in three cities

"Turkish agents nab Al Qaida chief after raiding safe houses in three cities
ANKARA — Authorities in Turkey have reported the arrest of the head of Al Qaida's network in the nation.

Officials said Turkish security forces raided seven Al Qaida safe houses in Ankara on Jan. 18 and captured a man identified as the head of the Islamic insurgency network in Turkey."

More:Turkish agents nab Al Qaida chief after raiding safe houses in three cities

Turkey to Ban GMO Import below EU Standards

"Turkey to Ban GMO Import below EU Standards
2010-01-21 09:24:36
Turkey's Agriculture and Rural Affairs Ministry said Wednesday it would ban the import of those genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that do not meet European Union (EU) standards, Turkish media reported.

Turkey's Agriculture and Rural Affairs Ministry said Wednesday it would ban the import of those genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that do not meet European Union (EU) standards, Turkish media reported.

Changes were made to a regulation on GMOs, which Turkey adopted in October 2009, to clear previous public confusion regarding the import of GMOs, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported."

More:Turkey to Ban GMO Import below EU Standards

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Cyprus president writes to world leaders on peace talks - People's Daily Online

"Cyprus president writes to world leaders on peace talks
08:21, January 21, 2010

Cyprus President Demetris Christofias has written to five permanent members of the UN Security Council and the heads of EU member-states, briefing them on the latest developments in negotiations with Turkish Cypriot side."

More:Cyprus president writes to world leaders on peace talks - People's Daily Online

No Women, No Europe - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

"No Women, No Europe

Soner Çağaptay/Rueya Perinçek

The first president of the European Union, Herman Van Rompuy, is a known opponent of Turkey’s EU membership. Mr. Van Rompuy may find it easy to stick to his position: seven years after the Justice and Development Party, or AKP, rose to power in Ankara, Turkey is sliding away from European liberal democratic norms, including gender equality. Under the AKP, Turkish women are barred from power and are nonexistent in the executive levels of the bureaucracy."

More:No Women, No Europe - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

'Freddy Cole Quartet' to take stage in Istanbul

"'Freddy Cole Quartet' to take stage in Istanbul

ISTANBUL, January 20. (A.A). Freddy Cole, one of the best jazz vocalists of the world, will appear at concerts in Istanbul on January 29-30, 2010.

Guitarist Randy Napoleon, bass guitarist Elias Bailey and drummer Curtis Boyd will accompany Cole is the concerts at Istanbul Jazz Center."

MOre:BSANNA News - BSANNA NEWS

Ergenekon St. in Istanbul Renamed Hrant Dink St. | Armenian Weekly

"Ergenekon St. in Istanbul Renamed Hrant Dink St.
By Weekly Staff • on January 20, 2010

ISTANBUL, Turkey (A.W.)—On Jan. 19, which marks the third anniversary of the assassination of Turkish Armenian journalist Hrant Dink, Ergenekon Street in Istanbul was renamed “Hrant Dink Caddesi” (Hrant Dink street)."

More:Ergenekon St. in Istanbul Renamed Hrant Dink St. | Armenian Weekly

Turkey says reconciliation with Armenia at risk

"Turkey says reconciliation with Armenia at risk
By SELCAN HACAOGLU

The Turkish prime minister on Wednesday said an Armenian court's reference to the mass killings of Armenians could harm efforts to end a century of enmity.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan was reacting to the Jan. 12 approval by Armenia's Constitutional Court of an October agreement to heal ties and reopen shared borders."

More:Turkey says reconciliation with Armenia at risk - Taiwan News Online

Outlawed Kurdish party appeals to European Court in Strasbourg : Legal General

"Outlawed Kurdish party appeals to European Court in Strasbourg
Posted : Wed, 20 Jan 2010 17:33:51 GMT

Print this article email this article Comment on this article
Strasbourg - Turkey's main Kurdish political party appealed Wednesday to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) to reverse a domestic ruling that outlawed it on the grounds of being linked to terrorism, a party official announced on Wednesday. The Turkish Constitutional Court banned the Democratic Society party (DTP) on December 11, ruling that it was connected to the PKK, a Kurdish terrorist organisation."

More:Outlawed Kurdish party appeals to European Court in Strasbourg : Legal General

UEFA to open exhibition in Turkey's Istanbul

"UEFA to open exhibition in Turkey's Istanbul

UEFA will inaugurate the 'Only A Game?' exhibition at the Taksim Cumhuriyet Arts Gallery, with contributions of the Turkish Football Federation and Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality as a part of the Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture activities."

More:UEFA to open exhibition in Turkey's Istanbul [ WORLD BULLETIN- TURKEY NEWS, WORLD NEWS ]

Turkey: court ruling could hurt peace with Armenia

"Turkey: court ruling could hurt peace with Armenia
20 Jan 2010 18:00:30 GMT
Source: Reuters
* Armenia court reference to mass killings angers Turkey

* Armenia rejects link to conflict with Azerbaijan

* Rapprochement to help Armenian economy, Turkish prestige

(Updates with Armenian Foreign Ministry comment)

ANKARA, Jan 20 (Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday a ruling by a court in Armenia could derail efforts to end a century of hostility between the two neighbours."

More:Reuters AlertNet - Turkey: court ruling could hurt peace with Armenia

Turkish police arrest 13 suspected al-Qaeda members in raid - Monsters and Critics

"Turkish police arrest 13 suspected al-Qaeda members in raid

Jan 20, 2010, 8:08 GMT

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Istanbul - A police operation in the Turkish capital of Ankara resulted in the arrest of 13 suspected al-Qaeda members, the semi-official Anatolia Agency reported Wednesday.

Among those arrested in the Tuesday operation was a man alleged to be the militant Islamic group's leader in Turkey."

More:Turkish police arrest 13 suspected al-Qaeda members in raid - Monsters and Critics

Istanbul hotels poised for record year

"Istanbul hotels poised for record year
Bookmark and Share
Posted on: Wed, 20 Jan 2010 03:57:36 EST

ISTANBUL, Jan 20, 2010 (Xinhua via COMTEX) --

Istanbul, which celebrated the start of European Capital of Culture last Saturday, is expected to draw an unprecedented 10 million visitors to the metropolis this year, Today's Zaman reported on Wednesday."

More:Istanbul hotels poised for record year | TradingMarkets.com

EU to export supervision rules to Balkans and Turkey | EU - European Information on Financial Services

"EU to export supervision rules to Balkans and Turkey
Published: Wednesday 20 January 2010

The European Commission and the European Central Bank (ECB) yesterday (19 January) agreed on a two-year programme of €2.65 million to boost macro- and micro-prudential supervision in the Western Balkans and Turkey."

More:EurActiv.com - EU to export supervision rules to Balkans and Turkey | EU - European Information on Financial Services

Pope's Would-Be Assassin Plans to Sell His Story for Cash

"Pope's Would-Be Assassin Plans to Sell His Story for Cash
By Kremena Krumova
Epoch Times Staff Created: Jan 19, 2010 Last Updated: Jan 19, 2010

A day after being released from prison, 52-year-old Mehmet Ali Agca who tried to kill Pope John Paul II in 1981, announced he wants to write the book “Vaticana Code” together with Dan Brown and then to shoot a movie based on it. He will sell his first interview for $1.855 million and Hollywood has offered to pay him $8 million to reveal attack details."

More:Epoch Times - Pope's Would-Be Assassin Plans to Sell His Story for Cash

Showing of Film “Desperate Hours” Highlights the Heroism of Turkish Diplomats | TurkishNY.com

"Showing of Film “Desperate Hours” Highlights the Heroism of Turkish Diplomats
Monday, 18 January 2010 10:11

By Mark Meirowitz

On Sunday evening, January 17th, the film “Desperate Hours” was shown to a large group of attendees at Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun in Manhattan. The program was organized by Mark Meirowitz. We were privileged to have present at the event the distinguished filmmaker Victoria Barrett, Turkey’s Deputy Consul General Başar Sen, Rabbi Nissim Elnacave, as well as Turkishny.com’s Ridvan Sezer and Ali Cinar. With Ms. Barrett was her husband, Tom Barrett."

More:Showing of Film “Desperate Hours” Highlights the Heroism of Turkish Diplomats | TurkishNY.com

Pope gunman's release jars Turkey

"Pope gunman's release jars Turkey

By CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA
The Associated Press
Wednesday, January 20, 2010; 11:32 AM

ISTANBUL -- The release of the Turkish man who shot the pope in 1981 has unsettled Turks who remember him for another crime - the killing of journalist Abdi Ipekci, whose calls for tolerance still resonate in a divided nation."

More:Pope gunman's release jars Turkey - washingtonpost.com

With release of pope gunman, Turks recall another shooting by the same man - this one fatal

"With release of pope gunman, Turks recall another shooting by the same man - this one fatal

By Christopher Torchia (CP) – 1 hour ago

ISTANBUL, Turkey — The release of the Turkish man who shot the pope in 1981 has unsettled Turks who remember him for another crime - the killing of journalist Abdi Ipekci, whose calls for tolerance still resonate in a divided nation.

The world knows Mehmet Ali Agca for his attempt on Pope John Paul II, a brazen assault in the midst of throngs of the devout in Rome that has not been explained to the satisfaction of prosecutors. But his emergence after decades in jail had a deeper impact in Turkey, troubled by a dark past and concerns about impunity, conspiracy and freedom of expression."

More:The Canadian Press: With release of pope gunman, Turks recall another shooting by the same man - this one fatal

Turkey shifting toward radical Islam, says Israeli intelligence official

"Turkey shifting toward radical Islam, says Israeli intelligence official

Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak (R) held talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu on Sunday in the wake of a serious diplomatic row between the two countries. AFP photos

Turkey’s recent diplomatic moves are indicative of its shift away from the West and toward radical Islam, Israel’s chief intelligence official said, local media reported."

More:Turkey shifting toward radical Islam, says Israeli intelligence official - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review