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Thursday, October 31, 2019

Turkey drafting law to restrict powers of Istanbul municipality

Turkey drafting law to restrict powers of Istanbul municipality 

ARAB NEWS
November 01, 2019
01:28

Supporters of the new draft law say it will resolve confusion about overlapping authorities and help combat illegal housing in the city
ANKARA: The Turkish presidency is drafting a law that will remove power from the opposition-held Istanbul metropolitan municipality. Many suspect that the motive behind the legislation is retaliation against Istanbul Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, the Nation Alliance candidate who won office in a landslide victory in June against Binali Yildirim, the candidate from the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP).

More:Turkey drafting law to restrict powers of Istanbul municipality

Boom Times for Turkey’s Lobbyists in Trump’s Washington

Boom Times for Turkey’s Lobbyists in Trump’s Washington
October 31, 2019ADAM KLASFELDFacebookTwitterEmail


MANHATTAN (CN) – Some five years ago, Turkey’s soft power suddenly swelled in the United States as the country’s lobbyists and pro-government charities received millions in newfound funding.

That was the same year that leaked tapes appeared to show then-Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan instructing his son Bilal to dump massive amounts of money tied to a multibillion-dollar money-laundering scheme.

More:Boom Times for Turkey’s Lobbyists in Trump’s Washington

Turkish court dismisses case against ex-military chief

Turkish court dismisses case against ex-military chief
Constitutional Court dismisses case related to alleged secret organization Ergenekon citing failure to prosecute
Aylin Sirikli
31.10.2019

ANKARA

Turkey's Constitutional Court dismissed a case on Thursday against Ilker Basbug, the 26th chief of the general staff of Turkey, citing the failure to prosecute.

The ex-military chief was accused of plotting attacks against the Turkish government to pave the way for a military coup as well as being part of an alleged “deep state” organization called Ergenekon.

More:Turkish court dismisses case against ex-military chief

How Turkey Ruined Its Own Air Force (Nothing to Do with the F-35)

How Turkey Ruined Its Own Air Force (Nothing to Do with the F-35)

Michael Peck
The National Interest•October 30, 2019

Key Point: You can't fly fighter jets if you have no pilots.

Fighter pilots aren't cheap. The U.S. Air Force estimates that training a new pilot to fly a plane like the F-35 costs $11 million. And that doesn't count the priceless experience of a veteran pilot who has been flying for years. That's why the U.S. Air Force is willing to offer half-million-dollar bonuses to retain experienced fighter pilots.

More:How Turkey Ruined Its Own Air Force (Nothing to Do with the F-35)

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Turkey to Make Clear How Much Wiggle Room Remains to Cut Rates - Bloomberg

Turkey to Make Clear How Much Wiggle Room Remains to Cut Rates
By Cagan Koc
October 30, 2019, 5:00 PM EDT
Explore what’s moving the global economy in the new season of the Stephanomics podcast. Subscribe via Pocket Cast or iTunes.

Turkey’s new central banker is about to reveal if he’ll be able to put an exclamation point on his dash to cut interest rates.

More:Turkey to Make Clear How Much Wiggle Room Remains to Cut Rates - Bloomberg

How Do War And Politics Complement One Another In Turkey's Syria Dilemma? - Analysis - Eurasia Review

How Do War And Politics Complement One Another In Turkey’s Syria Dilemma? – Analysis
October 29, 2019 Vincent Lofaso 0 Comments
By Vincent Lofaso

In the spring of 2011 when Syrians first took to the streets to demonstrate their grievances against the rule of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the secular opposition in Turkey had just turned to infighting and Erdogan’s ruling AK Party was riding a wave of populism that seemed unstoppable. Be that as it may, when Syrian refugees arrived in the thousands on Turkish soil, President Erdogan’s domestic plans were disturbed.

More:How Do War And Politics Complement One Another In Turkey's Syria Dilemma? - Analysis - Eurasia Review

Syria: Lawmakers target Turkish President Erdogan in sanctions bill

'Double whammy': House approves sweeping Turkey sanctions bill, recognizes Armenian genocide
Deirdre Shesgreen, USA TODAYPublished 8:33 a.m. MT Oct. 29, 2019 | Updated 5:42 p.m. MT Oct. 29, 2019

WASHINGTON – In a remarkable rebuke of a NATO ally, the House on Tuesday approved a biting sanctions bill that could cripple Turkey's economy and would punish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan personally by requiring an assessment of his net worth amid questions about his finances in Turkey.

More:Syria: Lawmakers target Turkish President Erdogan in sanctions bill

US House of Representatives voted 403-16 to impose sanctions on Turkey for offensive in Syria

US House of Representatives voted 403-16 to impose sanctions on Turkey for offensive in Syria

NEWS | Oct 29, 22:03 GMT | By Anil Panchal

The United States’ (US) House of Representatives voted 403-16 in favor of the legislation that will push President Donald Trump to impose sanctions and other restrictions on Turkey and Turkish officials over its offensive in northern Syria, as per the Reuters.

More:US House of Representatives voted 403-16 to impose sanctions on Turkey for offensive in Syria

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Turkey Sanctions Get U.S. House Vote Despite Pence’s Cease-Fire | Financial Post

Turkey Sanctions Get U.S. House Vote Despite Pence's Cease-Fire
Bloomberg News
Daniel Flatley
October 29, 2019

(Bloomberg) — The U.S. House will vote Tuesday on a bipartisan bill to sanction Turkey, warning that a deal struck with the Trump administration won’t save the NATO ally from economic punishment for invading northern Syria.

More:Turkey Sanctions Get U.S. House Vote Despite Pence’s Cease-Fire | Financial Post

Turkey lobby goes to bat against Armenian genocide bill

Turkey lobby goes to bat against Armenian genocide bill
Aaron Schaffer October 28, 2019

ARTICLE SUMMARY
Ankara and its allies are warning that this week’s vote would "poison" the already strained bilateral relationship.

REUTERS/Joshua RobertsTurkish Ambassador to the United States Serdar Kilic speaks to the Conference on US-Turkey Relations in Washington, US, May 22, 2017.
Ankara and its allies are warning Congress of the risk of “permanent negative resentment” between Turkey and the United States if House members go forward with plans to recognize the 1915 Armenian genocide this week.

On Friday, Turkish Ambassador to the United States Serdar Kilic wrote to lawmakers to warn them that voting for the “biased” resolution would only add to the growing number of disputes between the two countries. The House Rules Committee is scheduled to take up the nonbinding resolution tonight, setting up a floor vote as early as Tuesday as lawmakers seek to punish Turkey for its intervention against the Kurds in Syria.

More:Turkey lobby goes to bat against Armenian genocide bill

Monday, October 28, 2019

Syrian Kurdish commander sparks fresh US-Turkish row

Syrian Kurdish commander sparks fresh US-Turkish row
Amberin Zaman October 25, 2019

ARTICLE SUMMARY
Mazlum Kobane, the chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces, may visit Washington — a move that would likely prompt Turkish calls for his extradition.

More:Syrian Kurdish commander sparks fresh US-Turkish row

Turkey to mark 96th anniversary of Republic Day - Turkey News

Turkey to mark 96th anniversary of Republic Day
ANKARA

Millions of Turks across the country and abroad will celebrate on Oct. 29 the 96th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey.

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the republic’s founder, on Oct. 29, 1923 officially declared the name of the nation and proclaimed the country’s status as a republic.

More:Turkey to mark 96th anniversary of Republic Day - Turkey News

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Erdogan and the Kurds: Inspired By Putin? | Jewish & Israel News Algemeiner.com

Erdogan and the Kurds: Inspired By Putin?
by James M. Dorsey
OPINION

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan holds up a map as he addresses the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York City, Sept. 24, 2019. Photo: Reuters / Lucas Jackson.

Turkey’s policy of suppressing Kurdish identity and denying the Kurds their cultural and political rights midwifed the birth in the 1970s of militant groups like the Kurdish Workers Party (PKK), which only recently dropped its demand for Kurdish independence. The group, which has waged a low-intensity insurgency that has cost tens of thousands of lives, has been declared a terrorist organization by Turkey, the US, and the EU.

More:Erdogan and the Kurds: Inspired By Putin? | Jewish & Israel News Algemeiner.com

Turkish President says killing of IS leader "turning point"

Turkish President says killing of IS leader "turning point"

Turkish President says killing of IS leader "turning point"
Ankara, Oct 28 (IANS) Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday said the killing of the fugitive leader of the Islamic State (IS) group Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is a "turning point" in fight against terrorism.

"The killing of Daesh (IS) ringleader marks a turning point in our joint fight against terrorism. Turkey will continue to support anti-terror efforts as it has done in the past," Erdogan tweeted, the Xinhua news agency reported.

More:Turkish President says killing of IS leader "turning point"

Syrian Kurds say they are withdrawing from area near Turkish border | TheHill

Syrian Kurds say they are withdrawing from area near Turkish border
BY JUSTINE COLEMAN - 10/27/19 01:25 PM EDT 146

Syrian Kurds announced on Sunday that their forces are leaving the Turkish border area, Reuters reported.

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) made this announcement after Turkey and Russia came to an agreement last week under which Syrian guards and Russia military police would patrol a 19-mile zone along Syria’s border with Turkey. The countries gave the SDF until Tuesday to retreat, Reuters noted.

More:Syrian Kurds say they are withdrawing from area near Turkish border | TheHill

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Erdogan hits back after Trump praises Kurdish militia leader - Europe - Stripes

Erdogan hits back after Trump praises Kurdish militia leader

By SELCAN HACAOGLU | Bloomberg News | Published: October 26, 2019

ANKARA, Turkey (Tribune News Service) — President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Donald Trump to "hand over" the leader of a Kurdish militia who's been invited to the U.S. by senators, calling the commander and his fighters terrorists.

More:Erdogan hits back after Trump praises Kurdish militia leader - Europe - Stripes

Friday, October 25, 2019

Erdogan Hits Back After Trump Praises Kurdish Militia Leader - Bloomberg

Erdogan Hits Back After Trump Praises Kurdish Militia Leader
By Selcan Hacaoglu
October 25, 2019, 5:46 AM EDT

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Donald Trump to “hand over” the leader of a Kurdish militia who’s been invited to the U.S. by senators, calling the commander and his fighters terrorists.

Hours after Trump said in a tweet that he had “really enjoyed” talking to Mazloum Abdi, the assumed name of the head of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, Erdogan hit back at the U.S. for giving an audience to a wanted criminal in an allied state.

More:Erdogan Hits Back After Trump Praises Kurdish Militia Leader - Bloomberg

Turkey considers doubling tax on foreign exchange sales | Ahval

Turkey considers doubling tax on foreign exchange sales
The Turkish government is planning to double a tax on foreign exchange sales that was reintroduced in May to bolster the embattled lira, news-site Habertürk reported on Friday. 

The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) submitted to parliament a new bill that proposes increasing the tax on foreign exchange transactions from 0.1 percent to 0.2 percent, Habertürk said.

More:Turkey considers doubling tax on foreign exchange sales | Ahval

In Turkey, Criticism About Military Aggression In Syria Exists But Is Muted : NPR

In Turkey, Criticism About Military Aggression In Syria Exists But Is Muted

PETER KENYON

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's military aggression in Syria to create what he calls a safe zone along the border has sparked international concern. But at home, the criticism is more muted.

More:In Turkey, Criticism About Military Aggression In Syria Exists But Is Muted : NPR

Istanbul's mosques may carry a political message - CNN Style

Some of Istanbul's mosques may carry a political message
Updated 25th October 2019
Pause

Written by
Emily Dixon, CNN
Over the past two decades, Turkey has seen a rapid increase in mosque construction. Earlier this year, the country's largest place of worship -- Istanbul's Camlica Mosque, which can accommodate 63,000 people -- officially opened its doors to the public.

More:Istanbul's mosques may carry a political message - CNN Style

Turkish and Syrian ambassadors clash at UN Security Council - 660 NEWS

Turkish and Syrian ambassadors clash at UN Security Council
BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Posted Oct 24, 2019 5:11 pm MDT
The Turkish and Syrian ambassadors at the U.N. are clashing at their first Security Council encounter since Turkey launched a cross-border offensive earlier this month.

More:Turkish and Syrian ambassadors clash at UN Security Council - 660 NEWS

Following Trump’s lead, Putin gives Erdogan what he wants

Following Trump’s lead, Putin gives Erdogan what he wants
Semih Idiz October 24, 2019

ARTICLE SUMMARY
Even his greatest detractors in Turkey are complimenting Erdogan over winning US and Russian support against the Syrian Kurds.

Sputnik/Alexei Druzhinin/Kremlin via REUTERSRussian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attend a news conference following their talks in Sochi, Russia, Oct. 22, 2019.
The agreement President Recep Tayyip Erdogan secured with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Oct. 22 complements his recent green light from US President Donald Trump for Turkey’s military incursion into Syria against the formerly US-backed People's Protection Units (YPG).

More:Following Trump’s lead, Putin gives Erdogan what he wants

Trump's Turkey problem

Trump's Turkey problem
by Jonathan Schanzer and Aykan Erdemir
 | October 24, 2019 11:00 PM

In what may well have been the shortest duration of sanctions in modern history, President Trump on Oct. 23 lifted all of the sanctions he had imposed on Turkey just nine days earlier for “escalating violence, endangering innocent civilians, and destabilizing the region” with its military incursion into northeast Syria.

More:Trump's Turkey problem

Turkish incursion into northern Syria: You reap what you sow - Qantara.de

You reap what you sow

Many Turks, at home and abroad, feel misunderstood. The Syrian offensive is intended to ease matters and does not constitute ethnic cleansing, they claim. They also say there is no racism in Turkey. This is a misrepresentation of the situation, says Tayfun Guttstadt in his contribution to the debate

More:Turkish incursion into northern Syria: You reap what you sow - Qantara.de

Turkey isolated amid international pressure: Erdogan's captive audience - Qantara.de

Erdogan's captive audience

Most Turkish citizens approve – to a greater or lesser extent – of their countryˈs incursion into Syria and are deeply irritated by the Westˈs apparent incomprehension of the situation on Turkeyˈs southern border. By Ayse Karabat

More:Turkey isolated amid international pressure: Erdogan's captive audience - Qantara.de

Thursday, October 24, 2019

EU lawmakers reject Turkey's 'safe zone' in Syria, eye sanctions steps - Reuters

EU lawmakers reject Turkey's 'safe zone' in Syria, eye sanctions steps
Francesco Guarascio
4 MIN READ

STRASBOURG (Reuters) - European Union lawmakers on Wednesday condemned Turkey’s offensive to carve out a “safe zone” in northeast Syria and prepared the way for new EU financial sanctions against Ankara.

More:EU lawmakers reject Turkey's 'safe zone' in Syria, eye sanctions steps - Reuters

Erdoğan surges as Turkey’s opposition plays his game | Ahval

Erdoğan surges as Turkey’s opposition plays his game

In what could be described as a double daredevil move, first with President Donald Trump and then with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan played a remarkable game of hardball this month with his military operation in Syria.

more:Erdoğan surges as Turkey’s opposition plays his game | Ahval

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Turkey’s next step in Syria, to get Europe on board

Turkey’s next step in Syria, to get Europe on board
In the early days of the influx of Syrian refugees, some were seen sleeping in parks, as Turkey was still getting organized for an emergency response to an ever-increasing number of Syrians fleeing their country.

More:Turkey’s next step in Syria, to get Europe on board

Russia And Turkey Reach Deal To Force Out Kurds In Northern Syria : NPR

Russia And Turkey Reach Deal To Force Out Kurds In Northern Syria

JANE ARRAF

After five hours of talks on Tuesday, the leaders of Russia and Turkey agreed on how to jointly patrol parts of Syria that until recently were controlled by Kurdish forces.

more;Russia And Turkey Reach Deal To Force Out Kurds In Northern Syria : NPR

Syria: Trump lifts Turkey sanctions as Russia moves into power void

Trump declares 'big success' in Syria, lifts sanctions on Turkey
Deirdre Shesgreen and David Jackson, USA TODAYPublished 6:59 a.m. ET Oct. 23, 2019 | Updated 3:32 p.m. ET Oct. 23, 2019

WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump lifted sanctions on Turkey Wednesday and declared a "big success" in Syria, saying Turkish officials had agreed to permanently end their military attack on Syrian Kurdish forces. 

Trump's move came even as his own envoy for Syria, James Jeffrey, condemned Turkey's short but brutal military assault as deeply disruptive and said Turkish forces may have committed war crimes in its attack on the Kurds.

More:Syria: Trump lifts Turkey sanctions as Russia moves into power void

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Sochi Summit: Potential Outcomes and Implications - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

The Sochi Summit: Potential Outcomes and Implications
Anna Borshchevskaya and Soner Cagaptay

October 21, 2019

As Washington pushes Erdogan to act responsibly in northeast Syria, the Turkish leader may face contrary pressures from Russia and Iran, who are keeping forces on the ground to back up whatever demands are made at this week’s summit and beyond.

More:The Sochi Summit: Potential Outcomes and Implications - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

Syrian cease-fire holds as Kurdish forces withdraw from Turkish border

Syrian cease-fire holds as Kurdish forces withdraw from Turkish border
Ayla Jean Yackley October 21, 2019

ARTICLE SUMMARY
A fragile truce held for a fourth day despite sporadic fighting as Kurdish militants leave a strategic town, the United States pulls out its soldiers and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan heads to Russia to discuss what comes next.

More:Syrian cease-fire holds as Kurdish forces withdraw from Turkish border

Turkey Pushes into Syria, Drills in Cypriot Waters

Turkey Burns its Bridges

As Turkey drills in the Cypriot EEZ and kicks off military operations in Northern Syria, the country appears to have pivoted towards Russia – and away from traditional partners Europe and NATO

More:Turkey Pushes into Syria, Drills in Cypriot Waters

Monday, October 21, 2019

Turkey isolated amid international pressure: Erdogan's captive audience - Qantara.de

Erdogan's captive audience

Most Turkish citizens approve – to a greater or lesser extent – of their countryˈs incursion into Syria and are deeply irritated by the Westˈs apparent incomprehension of the situation on Turkeyˈs southern border. By Ayse Karabat

More:Turkey isolated amid international pressure: Erdogan's captive audience - Qantara.de

Congress calls on US to scout nuclear alternatives to Turkey base

Congress calls on US to scout nuclear alternatives to Turkey base
Jack Detsch October 21, 2019

ARTICLE SUMMARY
Congress has tucked a provision into a bill to sanction Turkey for its two-week incursion into northern Syria that would study the possibility of removing US nuclear weapons and troops from Incirlik Air Base.
REUTERS/Umit BektasA US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II fighter jet (foreground) lands at Incirlik Air Base in the southern city of Adana, Turkey, Dec. 11, 2015.

More:Congress calls on US to scout nuclear alternatives to Turkey base

Kurds evacuate Syrian town in 1st pullout of cease-fire | News, Sports, Jobs - Williamsport Sun-Gazette

Kurds evacuate Syrian town in 1st pullout of cease-fire
TOP NEWS
OCT 21, 2019

AKCAKALE, Turkey (AP) — Dozens of vehicles rolled out of a besieged Syrian border town, evacuating Kurdish fighters and civilians and opening the way for Turkish-backed forces to take over in the first pullback under a three-day-old U.S.-brokered cease-fire.

More:Kurds evacuate Syrian town in 1st pullout of cease-fire | News, Sports, Jobs - Williamsport Sun-Gazette

Operation into Syria highlights Turkey's rift with Arab nations - China.org.cn

Operation into Syria highlights Turkey's rift with Arab nations

Following an emergency meeting called by Egypt on the offensive, the Arab League (AL) lambasted Turkey's now paused operation as an "invasion of an Arab state's land and an aggression on its sovereignty" and threatened Ankara of economic sanctions.

More:Operation into Syria highlights Turkey's rift with Arab nations - China.org.cn

Sunday, October 20, 2019

TURKEY Economy; Credit Card debt rising in Turkey

Does Trump understand how grossly he just insulted the president of Turkey? - The Washington Post

Does Trump understand how grossly he just insulted the president of Turkey?

Can Dundar, the former editor in chief of the leading Turkish newspaper Cumhuriyet, is now living in exile.

Earlier this week, amid burgeoning scandals in Washington and a dramatic shift in the balance of power in Syria, President Trump revealed a letter he had sent to the president of Turkey. Trump was apparently trying to show a confused American public that he’s really the man in charge.

Trump was acting on impulse. Yet his decision is likely to haunt Turkish-U.S. relations for a long time to come.

More:Does Trump understand how grossly he just insulted the president of Turkey? - The Washington Post

Erdoğan got the best of Trump, experts warn | TheHill

Erdoğan got the best of Trump, experts warn
BY REBECCA KHEEL - 10/19/19 02:43 PM EDT

President Trump, erstwhile businessman and "Art of the Deal" author, casts himself as a master negotiator. But experts say Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan got the best of Trump in negotiations over Syria.

More:Erdoğan got the best of Trump, experts warn | TheHill

The Latest: Syria Kurds say they will withdraw from border - Brownsville Herald: US & World News

The Latest: Syria Kurds say they will withdraw from border

Posted: Saturday, October 19, 2019 7:42 pm | Updated: 8:02 pm, Sat Oct 19, 2019.

Associated Press |

BEIRUT (AP) — The Latest on Turkey's invasion of northern Syria (all times local):

11:15 p.m.

A senior Syrian Kurdish official says his forces will pull back from a border area in accordance with a U.S.-brokered deal after Turkey allows the evacuation of its remaining fighters and civilians from a besieged town there.

More:The Latest: Syria Kurds say they will withdraw from border - Brownsville Herald: US & World News

TURKEY: president Erdogan's advisor reviews Turkeys attacks in Syria on Kurds

Read more at:
https://www.npr.org/2019/10/17/770848622/erdogan-adviser-on-turkeys-attacks-in-syria?t=1571581094318

Turkey-USA relations: Analyzing the letter from Trump to Analyzing


Read more at:
https://news.miami.edu/stories/2019/10/analyzing-the-letter-to-erdo%C4%9Fan.html

Turkey: Cease-fire might evetially not be sich a.good idea for Turkey


Read more at:
https://www.bloomberg.com/amp/opinion/articles/2019-10-18/the-syria-cease-fire-may-not-be-a-win-for-turkey

Friday, October 18, 2019

What the Media Aren't Telling You About Turkey and the Kurds - Antiwar.com Original

What the Media Aren’t Telling You About Turkey and the Kurds

by Marc D. Joffe Posted on October 17, 2019October 15, 2019
Mainstream media are taking occasional breaks from 24/7 impeachment coverage this month to lambaste the Trump Administration for abandoning our Syrian Kurdish allies at the insistence of Turkey’s despotic rulers. Since the original withdrawal announcement, Administration policy has taken on a helter-skelter quality: rushing out sanctions, threatening airstrikes and deploying troops elsewhere in the Middle East. Ultimately Trump policies are producing more foreign adventurism and less freedom of commerce for American companies. But the original decision to pull out was the correct one, and consistent media criticism of the withdrawal often omits important facts that the American public needs to consider. Specifically:

More:What the Media Aren't Telling You About Turkey and the Kurds - Antiwar.com Original

Opinion | Turkey’s Victory Over Donald Trump - The New York Times

Turkey’s Victory Over Donald Trump

The Turkish president got what he wanted — as did Russia and Iran.

More:Opinion | Turkey’s Victory Over Donald Trump - The New York Times

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Can the Turkish opposition develop a sustainable Kurdish policy?

Can the Turkish opposition develop a sustainable Kurdish policy?
Galip DalayThursday, October 17, 2019

Since 2002, the rule of Turkish politics has been clear and simple: Turkey periodically holds elections, and the winning party remains the governing Justice and Development Party (AKP) and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The last local election held on March 31 and Istanbul’s re-run election on June 23 were exceptions to this rule. The AKP suffered its most severe electoral defeat to date by losing almost all of Turkey’s major cities to the opposition, including Istanbul and Ankara.

More:Can the Turkish opposition develop a sustainable Kurdish policy?

What moves Putin, Assad, Erdogan and the Kurds? - www.israelhayom.com

What moves Putin, Assad, Erdogan and the Kurds?

Media commentators seem to ignore the fact that back in the 2000s, when Erdogan led his AKP party to victory in the general election and formed his first government, an accommodation was actually reached with the PKK.

More:What moves Putin, Assad, Erdogan and the Kurds? - www.israelhayom.com

'Don't Be a Fool!' Trump Wrote to Erdogan About Syria Advance | Time

'Don't Be a Tough Guy. Don't Be a Fool!' President Trump Wrote to Erdogan About Turkey's Advance Into Syria

BY JUSTIN SINK / BLOOMBERG OCTOBER 16, 2019
President Donald Trump wrote a letter to Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan calling on him to “work out a good deal!” and warning him not to be a “tough guy” or “fool.”

“History will look upon you favorably if you get this done the right and humane way,” according to the Oct. 9 letter, reported earlier by Fox Business Network and confirmed by the White House. “It will look upon you forever as the devil if good things don’t happen.”

More:'Don't Be a Fool!' Trump Wrote to Erdogan About Syria Advance | Time

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

U.S. charges state-owned Turkish bank in multibillion-dollar sanctions-busting scheme

U.S. charges state-owned Turkish bank in multibillion-dollar sanctions-busting scheme

The charges against Halkbank are linked to a previous case involving Reza Zarrab, a Turkish banker who was arrested in March for evading U.S. sanctions.

More:U.S. charges state-owned Turkish bank in multibillion-dollar sanctions-busting scheme

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Turkish unemployment rises to 13.9% as recession still weighs | Nasdaq

Turkish unemployment rises to 13.9% as recession still weighs
CONTRIBUTOR
Ali Kucukgocmen Reuters

ISTANBUL, Oct 15 (Reuters) - Turkey's unemployment rate rose to 13.9% in the June-Aug period, while the seasonally adjusted rate hit its highest on record, according to official data on Tuesday that suggested workers are feeling the pinch from a recession that appeared to be easing.

More:Turkish unemployment rises to 13.9% as recession still weighs | Nasdaq

Trump's light sanctions are a relief for bruised Turkish lira - Reuters

Trump's light sanctions are a relief for bruised Turkish lira
Behiye Selin Taner
4 MIN READ

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - The Turkish lira gained on Tuesday after Washington imposed lighter-than-expected sanctions for Turkey’s military incursion into Syria, providing some relief even while traders worried that heavier repercussions would follow.

More:Trump's light sanctions are a relief for bruised Turkish lira - Reuters

Factbox: Major Turkish companies affiliated with U.S.-sanctioned Turkish energy ministry - Reuters

Factbox: Major Turkish companies affiliated with U.S.-sanctioned Turkish energy ministry
4 MIN READ

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - The United States has sanctioned Turkey’s energy ministry in response to the Turkish cross-border offensive in northeast Syria, raising questions about the impact on the country’s wider energy sector.

More:Factbox: Major Turkish companies affiliated with U.S.-sanctioned Turkish energy ministry - Reuters

VW puts on hold plan for €1 bln car factory in Turkey over Syria incursion – EURACTIV.com

VW puts on hold plan for €1 bln car factory in Turkey over Syria incursion
By Krassen Nikolov | EURACTIV Bulgaria 14:20 (updated:  18:02)

Volkswagen has postponed the decision on opening a new car factory in Turkey against the background of the Turkish military offensive in Syria. “The final decision for the new plant was postponed by the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG,” a company spokesman said on Tuesday (15 October), confirming media reports.

More:VW puts on hold plan for €1 bln car factory in Turkey over Syria incursion – EURACTIV.com

As U.S. departs Syria, Kurds join Assad regime to fight a NATO ally | PBS NewsHour

As U.S. departs Syria, Kurds join Assad regime to fight a NATO ally
Oct 14, 2019 6:55 PM EDT

In the days since the announced withdrawal of U.S. troops from northern Syria, the country’s map is being redrawn. Both Turkey and the Russia-backed Syrian regime made territorial advances, and U.S.-partner Syrian Democratic Forces turned to Damascus for support. As a result, an estimated 130,000 civilians have fled their homes, and imprisoned ISIS fighters have escaped. Nick Schifrin reports.

More:As U.S. departs Syria, Kurds join Assad regime to fight a NATO ally | PBS NewsHour

Turkish economy faces fresh turmoil over Syrian operation

Turkish economy faces fresh turmoil over Syrian operation
READ IN:    Türkçe
Mustafa Sonmez October 14, 2019

ARTICLE SUMMARY
Ankara’s new military campaign in Syria has raised the specter of fresh trouble for the crisis-hit Turkish economy, but the government hopes to compensate with political gains.

More:Turkish economy faces fresh turmoil over Syrian operation

Alamos Gold halts construction at Turkish project amid protests - Reuters

Alamos Gold halts construction at Turkish project amid protests

(Reuters) - Alamos Gold has halted construction work at its Kirazli project in western Turkey, the Canadian gold miner said on Monday, after its mining concessions expired on Sunday amid protests against the project.

More:Alamos Gold halts construction at Turkish project amid protests - Reuters

Monday, October 14, 2019

Turkey’s “safe zone” may prove costly | The Interpreter

Turkey’s “safe zone”
may prove costly
XIAOLI GUO
In Ankara’s view, the intervention in Syria has been a
diplomatic and military success, but an economic risk looms.

More:Turkey’s “safe zone” may prove costly | The Interpreter

Behind the scenes of the Trump bluff that kicked off Turkey's invasion - Axios

Behind the scenes of the Trump bluff that kicked off Turkey's invasion

President Trump had been calling Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's bluff for more than 2 years, and some senior administration officials thought Erdoğan would never actually go through with his long-threatened Syria invasion, according to 6 sources with direct knowledge of the situation.

More:Behind the scenes of the Trump bluff that kicked off Turkey's invasion - Axios

Sunday, October 13, 2019

Can Turkish Lira Regain Support?

Can Turkish Lira Regain Support?

FBS
FX EmpireOctober 13, 2019
If we start looking for profit opportunities elsewhere, the Turkish lira will come up soon. What’s happening with the TRY and is it fit for trading?

More:Can Turkish Lira Regain Support?

Turkey's Syria advance leaves Europe with foreign fighter dilemma - Reuters

Turkey's Syria advance leaves Europe with foreign fighter dilemma
John Irish, Joseph Nasr
7 MIN READ

PARIS/BERLIN (Reuters) - European states are trying to fast-track a plan to shift thousands of foreign Islamic State militants out of Syrian prison camps and into Iraq, after the outbreak of fresh conflict in Syria raised the risk of jihadists escaping or returning home.

More:Turkey's Syria advance leaves Europe with foreign fighter dilemma - Reuters

Turkey's War in Syria Was Not Inevitable

Turkey’s War in Syria Was Not Inevitable

U.S. strategy in Syria has long been plagued by short-term thinking, while Russia, Turkey, and Iran played a long game. Trump’s betrayal of the Kurds is just the latest chapter in Washington’s bungled approach to the region.

More:Turkey's War in Syria Was Not Inevitable

Saturday, October 12, 2019

The Turkey mess is everybody's fault - Washington Times

The Turkey mess is everybody's fault

Major mistakes by Washington and Brussels have contributed to the problem

More:The Turkey mess is everybody's fault - Washington Times

NATO Chastises Turkey Over Syria, but Fears Driving It Toward Russia - WSJ

NATO Chastises Turkey Over Syria, but Fears Driving It Toward Russia
Ankara isolated after assault on Kurdish militants; alliance’s unity tested

By Emre Peker
Oct. 11, 2019 2:26 pm ET
BRUSSELS—Turkey’s military incursion into northern Syria this week triggered a new rift between Ankara and its NATO allies, highlighting a growing divergence on security concerns and complicating efforts to thwart an increasingly assertive Russia.

More:NATO Chastises Turkey Over Syria, but Fears Driving It Toward Russia - WSJ

Can the Turkish lira regain support?

Can the Turkish lira regain support?
Fri 11 Oct 2019 19:15:30 GMTAuthor: FBS | Category: News

What's next for the Turkish lira

While major currencies draw a lot of attention these days, it may be worth keeping a broad view of the market. If we start looking for profit opportunities elsewhere, the Turkish lira will come up soon. What's happening with the TRY and is it fit for trading?

More:Can the Turkish lira regain support?

Friday, October 11, 2019

Turkey’s Syria Incursion: What Spurred It, and What’s Next? - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

Turkey’s Syria Incursion: What Spurred It, and What’s Next?
Soner Cagaptay

October 11, 2019

The Trump administration is implicitly backing Ankara’s policy imperatives for now, but its approval comes with an imminent expiration date that could arrive even sooner if the operation goes awry.

On October 9, Turkey launched its long-expected military operation into north Syria with the goal of undermining the Kurdish People’s Defense Units (YPG). Why did Ankara act now? What are the operation’s tactical objectives? And how does the decision fit into the Trump administration’s own objectives in Syria?

More:Turkey’s Syria Incursion: What Spurred It, and What’s Next? - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

Mnuchin says Trump gives Turkey sanctions authority after Syria strikes

Trump administration clears the way for sanctions on Turkey: ‘We can shut down the Turkish economy’
PUBLISHED 38 MIN AGOUPDATED MOMENTS AGO
Jacob Pramuk

Trump gives his administration broad powers to put sanctions on Turkey
President Donald Trump has given his administration broad authority to slap sanctions on Turkey, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said Friday.

More:Mnuchin says Trump gives Turkey sanctions authority after Syria strikes

Turkey Condemns NATO Allies for Arming Kurdish 'Terrorists' in Syria: 'This Is Your Hypocrisy'

TURKEY CONDEMNS NATO ALLIES FOR ARMING KURDISH 'TERRORISTS' IN SYRIA: 'THIS IS YOUR HYPOCRISY'
BY DAVID BRENNAN ON 10/11/19 AT 6:42 AM EDT

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has condemned some of his NATO allies for their opposition to Ankara's invasion of northeastern Syria, branding their criticism hypocritical and accusing them of arming terrorist organizations.

More:Turkey Condemns NATO Allies for Arming Kurdish 'Terrorists' in Syria: 'This Is Your Hypocrisy'

France says EU summit will discuss Turkey sanctions next week

France says EU summit will discuss Turkey sanctions next week
Reuters•October 11, 2019
PARIS, Oct 11 (Reuters) - Next week's European Union summit will discuss sanctions on Turkey over its action in Syria, French State Secretary for European Affairs Amelie de Montchalin said on Friday.

More:France says EU summit will discuss Turkey sanctions next week

Sweden to push for EU weapons embargo against Turkey | National Post

Sweden to push for EU weapons embargo against Turkey

STOCKHOLM — Sweden will push for a European Union weapons embargo against Turkey at an EU foreign ministers meeting on Monday, the Swedish parliament decided on Friday, state radio reported.

Foreign Minister Ann Linde on Thursday condemnded Turkey’s military offensive in northeastern Syria

More:Sweden to push for EU weapons embargo against Turkey | National Post

i24NEWS - Reports: Norway suspends new arms exports to NATO ally Turkey

Netherlands joins Norway in halting weapons exports to Turkey
i24NEWS - AFP

October 10, 2019, 06:19 PM - latest revision October 11, 2019, 05:58 PM
Presidential Press Service via AP, Pool
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, waves to supporters during an event in Ankara, Turkey, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019
Oslo will also review the prior export licenses due to concerns over Turkey's incursion in north Syria

The Netherlands is to freeze all weapons exports to Turkey in the aftermath of Ankara's assault on Kurdish forces in northern Syria, the Dutch foreign ministry said Friday.

More:i24NEWS - Reports: Norway suspends new arms exports to NATO ally Turkey

The Refugee Crisis and the ISIS Fight in Mosul - The Atlantic

To Fight or to Flee

As Donald Trump seized on fears of refugees and ISIS in his rise to the presidency, the battle to take down Mosul, ISIS’s crown jewel in Iraq, was just beginning. This is what those moments felt like.

More:The Refugee Crisis and the ISIS Fight in Mosul - The Atlantic

Thursday, October 10, 2019

Airstrikes, shelling as Turkey and Kurds clash in Syria | News | DW | 10.10.2019

Airstrikes, shelling as Turkey and Kurds clash in Syria

Kurdish forces have responded to Turkey's offensive in Syria by shelling a Turkish border town. Earlier Turkey launched airstrikes and unleashed artillery shelling on Syrian towns, according to Turkey's Defense Ministry.

More:Airstrikes, shelling as Turkey and Kurds clash in Syria | News | DW | 10.10.2019

Turkey's Assault on Syria Prompts Emergency U.N. Security Council Meeting

U.N. Security Council Calls Emergency Meeting After Turkey Attacks Syria

Plus: Uncertain U.S.-China trade talks, an anti-Semitic attack in Germany, and the other stories we’re following today.

More:Turkey's Assault on Syria Prompts Emergency U.N. Security Council Meeting

Erdoğan plays high-stakes game with Turkey’s economy | Ahval

Erdoğan plays high-stakes game with Turkey’s economy

The Turkish offensive into northeast Syria is likely to result in economic volatility due to the threat of revenge attacks and possible U.S. sanctions hanging over the already struggling economy.

Turkey’s economy has been suffering since limited U.S. sanctions and increased tariffs on metals sparked a currency crisis last year. Unemployment is stubbornly high – around 20 percent - the lira is still weak, while many companies and banks are saddled with high levels of debt.

More:Erdoğan plays high-stakes game with Turkey’s economy | Ahval

Wednesday, October 09, 2019

Trauma training helps Turkish teachers to understand the needs of Syrian refugee children - Turkey | ReliefWeb

Trauma training helps Turkish teachers to understand the needs of Syrian refugee children

REPORTfrom TheirworldPublished on 09 Oct 2019 —View Original
A programme supported by Theirworld has trained over 1,000 teachers and touched the lives of 5,000 students affected by conflict and displacement.

More:Trauma training helps Turkish teachers to understand the needs of Syrian refugee children - Turkey | ReliefWeb

Turkey-U.S. relationship was fraught even before flap over America's Kurdish allies - Los Angeles Times

Turkey-U.S. relationship was fraught even before flap over America’s Kurdish allies

OCT. 9, 2019 4 AM
WASHINGTON —  Once again, a phone call between President Trump and a foreign leader is jangling international alliances, roiling domestic politics in the United States and raising uneasy questions about foreign policy in the hands of an unpredictable U.S. head of state whose personal business interests might not be transparent.

More:Turkey-U.S. relationship was fraught even before flap over America's Kurdish allies - Los Angeles Times

Turkey's New Internet Regulations Spark Fears of New Wave of Censorship | Voice of America - English

Turkey's New Internet Regulations Spark Fears of New Wave of Censorship
By Dorian Jones
October 8, 2019 05:08 PM

Turkey’s Freedom of Expression Association organized a briefing for lawyers on new internet regulations which was vastly oversubscribed as numerous legal challenges to the new rules are expected. (D. Jones/VOA News)
ISTANBUL, TURKEY - In Turkey, new controls regulating internet use have come into force. The government says all broadcasters, who are already restricted, need to abide by the same rules on the internet, but critics claim the new measures are an attempt to silence the last platform for independent journalism.

More:Turkey's New Internet Regulations Spark Fears of New Wave of Censorship | Voice of America - English

In Trump, Turkey’s Erdogan Keeps Finding a Sympathetic Ear - The New York Times

In Trump, Turkey’s Erdogan Keeps Finding a Sympathetic Ear
The Turkish leader has repeatedly talked the president around to his view of the world.

By Michael Crowley and Carlotta Gall
Oct. 8, 2019

WASHINGTON — Three times over the past year, President Trump has spoken with Turkey’s leader, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and told Mr. Erdogan what he wanted to hear.

More:In Trump, Turkey’s Erdogan Keeps Finding a Sympathetic Ear - The New York Times

Tuesday, October 08, 2019

Lira’s in for a Rough Ride If Turkey Moves Troops Into Syria - Bloomberg

Lira’s in for a Rough Ride If Turkey Moves Troops Into Syria

By Paul Wallace
October 8, 2019, 1:09 PM GMT+2
The lira’s volatility has climbed as Turkey’s possible incursion into northern Syria heightens the risk of U.S. sanctions. Still, Turkey is no stranger to geopolitical risk and these levels are well below those reached just a little over a year ago in a bilateral spat.

More:Lira’s in for a Rough Ride If Turkey Moves Troops Into Syria - Bloomberg

Erdogan news: Fury as critics accuse him of 'fiddling with numbers' after Trump threats | World | News | Express.co.uk

Erdogan fury as critics accuse him of 'fiddling with numbers' after Trump threats

TAYYIP ERDOGAN has come under increasing domestic pressure after US President Donald Trump's threat to destabilise the Turkish economy has lead to further downturn and accusations of corruption.

More:Erdogan news: Fury as critics accuse him of 'fiddling with numbers' after Trump threats | World | News | Express.co.uk

Trump's Decision to Withdraw from Syria Is Triumph for Erdogan | Voice of America - English

Trump's Decision to Withdraw from Syria Is Triumph for Erdogan
By Dorian Jones
October 7, 2019 05:04 PM

Syrian Kurds gather around a U.S. armored vehicle during a demonstration against Turkish threats on the outskirts of Ras al-Ain town in Syria's Hasakeh province near the Turkish border, Oct. 6, 2019.
ISTANBUL - President Donald Trump's announcement of a U.S. withdrawal from northern Syria, paving the way for a Turkish military operation against a Kurdish militia in the area, is widely being seen as a diplomatic triumph for Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

More:Trump's Decision to Withdraw from Syria Is Triumph for Erdogan | Voice of America - English

Monday, October 07, 2019

Trump will 'obliterate' Turkish economy if it does anything 'off-limits' in Syria | Euronews

Trump will 'obliterate' Turkish economy if it does anything 'off-limits' in Syria

US President Donald Trump has said he will "totally destroy and obliterate the economy of Turkey" if the country does anything he considers "off-limits" in northern Syria.

It came after an announcement from the White House on Sunday that US troops were stepping aside in the area for an imminent Turkish operation drew criticism.

More:Trump will 'obliterate' Turkish economy if it does anything 'off-limits' in Syria | Euronews

CHP leader sets new goals for his party - Turkey News

CHP leader sets new goals for his party
BOLU

Republican People’s Party (CHP) leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu set goals for his party to get prepared for the next parliament and presidential elections.

“We have completed the first stage of the elections. We achieved the results of working together and making a common voice. Now it’s time for the second stage. We will work together in the second stage. There will be parliament and presidential elections,” he said addressing at the CHP party camp in the Black Sea province of Bolu.

More:CHP leader sets new goals for his party - Turkey News

US troops' retreat from N Syria has begun: Erdoğan - Turkey News

US troops' retreat from N Syria has begun: Erdoğan
ANKARA-Anadolu Agency

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Oct. 7 confirmed that the U.S. troops started withdrawing from positions in northern Syria and pledged to secure the border.

"After our conversation yesterday [on Oct. 6] evening, as Mr. President [Donald Trump] stated, the retreat has begun," Erdoğan told reporters at Ankara's Esenboğa International Airport before his departure for a two-day visit to Serbia.

More:US troops' retreat from N Syria has begun: Erdoğan - Turkey News

Saturday, October 05, 2019

Environmental Degredation in Turkish Industrial Zone - SPIEGEL ONLINE

Health Problems Mount in Turkish Industrial Zone

Companies from around the world have built factories in the Turkish province of Kocaeli, east of Istanbul. The result has been an environmental disaster, with residents suffering from high rates of cancer and other maladies.

More:Environmental Degredation in Turkish Industrial Zone - SPIEGEL ONLINE

Friday, October 04, 2019

Turkey rules children’s book on history’s inspiring women to be treated as porn

Turkey rules children’s book on history’s inspiring women to be treated as porn

October 04, 2019
11:46

Turkey has ruled that million-selling book “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” should be partially banned
The book, which has been published in 47 languages, offers a series of inspiring stories about women from history for young children
ISTANBUL: Turkey has ruled that million-selling book “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” should be partially banned and treated like pornography because it could have a “detrimental influence” on young people.

More:Turkey rules children’s book on history’s inspiring women to be treated as porn

Islam and business: Diyanet – Turkey's religious authority that makes millions - Qantara.de

Diyanet – Turkey's religious authority that makes millions

Turkey's highest religious authority brings in huge profits, say experts. But as a historic brewery in Istanbul faces demolition, critics argue that such profiteering is not in line with Islam. By Aram Ekin Duran

More:Islam and business: Diyanet – Turkey's religious authority that makes millions - Qantara.de

Erdogan’s Chinese Gamble – The Diplomat

Erdogan’s Chinese Gamble
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is betting big on China.

By Ilan Berman
October 04, 2019

For over a year now, Turkey has lurched toward full blown economic crisis, propelled by a major devaluation of the national currency and ballooning external debt. These economic troubles have come at a significant political cost for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his ruling Justice & Development Party (AKP). In its August survey of Turkish public opinion, polling firm MetroPOLL found that Erdogan’s once-robust approval rating had dropped to 44 percent – down nearly 10 points from a year earlier. And this summer, the Turkish electorate delivered Erdogan’s government a very public rebuke when it voted resoundingly to confirm opposition candidate Ekrem Imamoglu as mayor of Istanbul in a re-run of the country’s contested regional elections. The bloom, it seems, has well and truly come off Erdogan’s rose.

More:Erdogan’s Chinese Gamble – The Diplomat

Thursday, October 03, 2019

New Rift Over Rates Brews in Turkey as Inflation Slows Below 10% - Bloomberg

New Rift Over Rates Brews in Turkey as Inflation Slows Below 10%
By Cagan Koc
October 2, 2019, 8:57 PM GMT+2 Updated on October 3, 2019, 9:49 AM GMT+2

Turkish inflation slowed sharply into single digits, possibly setting up another confrontation with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan after his new central banker hinted at limited room for more monetary easing.

More:New Rift Over Rates Brews in Turkey as Inflation Slows Below 10% - Bloomberg

Wednesday, October 02, 2019

Islamic State's money transfer network busted in Turkey

Islamic State's money transfer network busted in Turkey

ARTICLE SUMMARY
A Turkish police operation exposed how the Islamic State can still run cross-border money transfer networks despite its defeat in Syria and Iraq.


More:Islamic State's money transfer network busted in Turkey

Tuesday, October 01, 2019

The AKP submits first judiciary reform package to the parliament - Turkey News

The AKP submits first judiciary reform package to the parliament
ANKARA

The first Judicial Package, which will a priority of the Turkish Parliament in the new legislative year, was presented to the president of the parliament on Sept. 30.

More:The AKP submits first judiciary reform package to the parliament - Turkey News

CHP questions tax taken since 1999 earthquake after last week’s tremor - Turkey News

CHP questions tax taken since 1999 earthquake after last week’s tremor
ANKARA

Some 63 billion Turkish Liras were collected in special communication taxes following the 1999 Marmara earthquake, the worst seismic disaster in the country’s recent history, with the taxes becoming permanent in 2004, the main opposition Republican People’s Party’s (CHP) spokesperson has said.

More:CHP questions tax taken since 1999 earthquake after last week’s tremor - Turkey News

Old Friends Threaten Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Reign | Fast Forward | OZY

OLD FRIENDS THREATEN RECEP TAYYIP ERDOGAN’S REIGN
By Laura Pitel

When Ahmet Davutoglu was forced out as Turkey’s prime minister in May 2016, he pledged eternal loyalty to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. “I will sustain my faithful relationship with our president until my last breath,” vowed Erdogan’s long-serving foot soldier, despite the well-known tensions between the two. “No one has ever heard — and will ever hear — a single word against our president come from my mouth.”

More:Old Friends Threaten Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s Reign | Fast Forward | OZY

The Capital of Xinjiang Is Now in Turkey – Foreign Policy

The Capital of Xinjiang Is Now in Turkey

Ethnic cleansing of Uighurs in China has forced an exodus to Istanbul—and a desperate effort to keep their culture alive.

More:The Capital of Xinjiang Is Now in Turkey – Foreign Policy