"74.2% of Turks See US as Main Threat to World Peace
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com
Nearly two thirds of Turkish people still support Turkey's European Union (EU) membership while three quarters of Turks see the US as the biggest threat to world peace - in contrast to a mere two percent which see Iran as the major threat.
The poll, conducted by Pollmark among 2,639 people in 12 cities for the Yeni Safak daily, showed 62 percent of Turks backed the country's EU membership aspirations. This support has slightly slipped from the figure for the previous year which stood at 64 percent."
More:74.2% of Turks See US as Main Threat to World Peace
Monday, March 13, 2006
FT.com / World - Bomb allegations threaten Turkey’s uneasy balance
"Bomb allegations threaten Turkey’s uneasy balance
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: March 13 2006 17:02 | Last updated: March 13 2006 17:02
The military officer tipped to become Turkey’s most senior general later this year is at the centre of a political and legal storm over allegations that he tried to disrupt the country’s bid to join the European Union.
General Yasar Buyukanit, currently the commander of land forces, has not been charged with any crime. But a prosecutor investigating a bomb attack in Kurdish-dominated south-eastern Turkey last November has alleged that he obstructed justice by intervening on behalf of a soldier implicated in the attack."
More:FT.com / World - Bomb allegations threaten Turkey’s uneasy balance
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: March 13 2006 17:02 | Last updated: March 13 2006 17:02
The military officer tipped to become Turkey’s most senior general later this year is at the centre of a political and legal storm over allegations that he tried to disrupt the country’s bid to join the European Union.
General Yasar Buyukanit, currently the commander of land forces, has not been charged with any crime. But a prosecutor investigating a bomb attack in Kurdish-dominated south-eastern Turkey last November has alleged that he obstructed justice by intervening on behalf of a soldier implicated in the attack."
More:FT.com / World - Bomb allegations threaten Turkey’s uneasy balance
Bonds: Turkish debt among 'most attractive' - Marketplace by Bloomberg - International Herald Tribune
"Bonds: Turkish debt among 'most attractive'
By Agnes Lovasz Bloomberg News
MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2006
LONDON Turkey may sell 20-month debt at the lowest yield in more than two decades on Monday as the government curbs inflation and prepares to join the European Union.
Yields on benchmark 20-month bonds have fallen 11 percentage points since March 2004 as the government cut spending, raised taxes and reduced inflation to a 30-year low. Turkey's borrowing costs plunged as it recovered from a financial crisis that drove overnight interest rates to 6,200 percent in 2001."
More:Bonds: Turkish debt among 'most attractive' - Marketplace by Bloomberg - International Herald Tribune
By Agnes Lovasz Bloomberg News
MONDAY, MARCH 13, 2006
LONDON Turkey may sell 20-month debt at the lowest yield in more than two decades on Monday as the government curbs inflation and prepares to join the European Union.
Yields on benchmark 20-month bonds have fallen 11 percentage points since March 2004 as the government cut spending, raised taxes and reduced inflation to a 30-year low. Turkey's borrowing costs plunged as it recovered from a financial crisis that drove overnight interest rates to 6,200 percent in 2001."
More:Bonds: Turkish debt among 'most attractive' - Marketplace by Bloomberg - International Herald Tribune
Think tank faults government for island's deadlock - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper
"Think tank faults government for island's deadlock
By Andrew Borowiec
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
March 13, 2006
NICOSIA, Cyprus -- An international think tank has blamed Greek Cypriots for the impasse on the island in a stinging report, prompting dark muttering from politicians in Nicosia that they are the victims of an 'Anglo-American conspiracy.' "
More:Think tank faults government for island's deadlock - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper
By Andrew Borowiec
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
March 13, 2006
NICOSIA, Cyprus -- An international think tank has blamed Greek Cypriots for the impasse on the island in a stinging report, prompting dark muttering from politicians in Nicosia that they are the victims of an 'Anglo-American conspiracy.' "
More:Think tank faults government for island's deadlock - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper
..:: ABHABER.COM : Exclusive- Turkey tells Annan of its unease over Papadopoulos
"Exclusive- Turkey tells Annan of its unease over Papadopoulos
By Ayhan Simsek
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan last week conveyed to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan his disappointment over Annan's joint press statement with Greek Cypriot leader Tassos Papadopoulos following their talks in Paris on Feb. 28.
ABHaber learned that, in a telephone conversation with the secretary-general, Erdogan complained about the introduction of issues of 'disengagement of forces, demilitarization on the island, complete de-mining of Cyprus, and return of Famagusta' as steps of confidence-building measures before the revival of the peace talks. "
More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..
By Ayhan Simsek
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan last week conveyed to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan his disappointment over Annan's joint press statement with Greek Cypriot leader Tassos Papadopoulos following their talks in Paris on Feb. 28.
ABHaber learned that, in a telephone conversation with the secretary-general, Erdogan complained about the introduction of issues of 'disengagement of forces, demilitarization on the island, complete de-mining of Cyprus, and return of Famagusta' as steps of confidence-building measures before the revival of the peace talks. "
More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..
Scientific Cooperation between Turkish and Aleppo Universities :: Syrian Arab News Agency-SANA-Damascus-Syria ::
"Scientific Cooperation between Turkish and Aleppo Universities
Monday, March 13, 2006 - 10:05 AM
Aleppo, SANA
Consolidating scientific cooperation and the possibility of setting up joint scientific ventures between Syria and turkey were yesterday discussed by Rector of Aleppo University Dr. Mohammed Nizar Aqil and Participating Turkish University delegation in the 4th International Fair for Education and Training (IETEX) 2006.
Dr. Aqil talked about the importance of the Turkish participation in the exhibition in developing scientific cooperation through exchanging expertise between Aleppo University and the Turkish counterparts.
The Turkish Ghazi, Hasteeb and Middle East Universities took part in the IETEX 2006."
Scientific Cooperation between Turkish and Aleppo Universities :: Syrian Arab News Agency-SANA-Damascus-Syria ::
Monday, March 13, 2006 - 10:05 AM
Aleppo, SANA
Consolidating scientific cooperation and the possibility of setting up joint scientific ventures between Syria and turkey were yesterday discussed by Rector of Aleppo University Dr. Mohammed Nizar Aqil and Participating Turkish University delegation in the 4th International Fair for Education and Training (IETEX) 2006.
Dr. Aqil talked about the importance of the Turkish participation in the exhibition in developing scientific cooperation through exchanging expertise between Aleppo University and the Turkish counterparts.
The Turkish Ghazi, Hasteeb and Middle East Universities took part in the IETEX 2006."
Scientific Cooperation between Turkish and Aleppo Universities :: Syrian Arab News Agency-SANA-Damascus-Syria ::
A Mediating Role for Turkey in Iraq
"A Mediating Role for Turkey in Iraq
At long last the Iraqi Parliament has been invited to convene by President Talabani today Sunday, March 12, and to elect its speaker and deputy speaker, if they can.
The AKP government of Tayyip Erdogan is trying to play a greater role in the Middle East, not only in the Palestine-Israel conflict but also in the chaotic situation in Iraq by adopting an equal distance policy towards all sides. But for how long will this policy be sustainable? Will there be an Islamist Iraq under the Shiites, which would be a threat to Turkey? Low intensity civil war has been an ongoing fact of life in Iraq, which has now the propensity to turn into a fully fledged civil war, basically between the Shiite majority and the Sunni minority, to affect the rest of the ethnic groups, the Kurds, the Turkmens, Assyrians, etc."
More:A Mediating Role for Turkey in Iraq
At long last the Iraqi Parliament has been invited to convene by President Talabani today Sunday, March 12, and to elect its speaker and deputy speaker, if they can.
The AKP government of Tayyip Erdogan is trying to play a greater role in the Middle East, not only in the Palestine-Israel conflict but also in the chaotic situation in Iraq by adopting an equal distance policy towards all sides. But for how long will this policy be sustainable? Will there be an Islamist Iraq under the Shiites, which would be a threat to Turkey? Low intensity civil war has been an ongoing fact of life in Iraq, which has now the propensity to turn into a fully fledged civil war, basically between the Shiite majority and the Sunni minority, to affect the rest of the ethnic groups, the Kurds, the Turkmens, Assyrians, etc."
More:A Mediating Role for Turkey in Iraq
Turkey may benefit as European holidaymakers undaunted by bird flu - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
"Turkey may benefit as European holidaymakers undaunted by bird flu
Monday, March 13, 2006
BERLIN - TDN with AFP
European holiday companies attending a major trade fair in Berlin insisted that bird flu has not dented bookings for the key summer period, which is a bit of good news for Turkish resort owners and tour operators already hit by a drop in reservations."
More:Turkey may benefit as European holidaymakers undaunted by bird flu - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
Monday, March 13, 2006
BERLIN - TDN with AFP
European holiday companies attending a major trade fair in Berlin insisted that bird flu has not dented bookings for the key summer period, which is a bit of good news for Turkish resort owners and tour operators already hit by a drop in reservations."
More:Turkey may benefit as European holidaymakers undaunted by bird flu - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
Europe must listen to Gül's wise voice - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
"Europe must listen to Gül's wise voice
Monday, March 13, 2006
Yusuf KANLI
Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül was recently in Vienna and Salzburg to attend an EU Troika meeting with Turkey and for talks with European politicians and commission bureaucrats. In addition to explaining Turkey's position on a list of outstanding issues topped by the Cyprus problem, he took the opportunity as well to explain the �bridge role� Turkey could play in East-West relations, between the Christian and Muslim worlds."
More:Europe must listen to Gül's wise voice - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
Monday, March 13, 2006
Yusuf KANLI
Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül was recently in Vienna and Salzburg to attend an EU Troika meeting with Turkey and for talks with European politicians and commission bureaucrats. In addition to explaining Turkey's position on a list of outstanding issues topped by the Cyprus problem, he took the opportunity as well to explain the �bridge role� Turkey could play in East-West relations, between the Christian and Muslim worlds."
More:Europe must listen to Gül's wise voice - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
Will Dora initiate give-and-take with Turkey? - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
"Will Dora initiate give-and-take with Turkey?
Monday, March 13, 2006
'I will visit Athens, and she will visit us,' said Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül, sitting next to Dora Bakoyannis during their first meeting in Salzburg last week. There were a lot smiles for photo-ops, at which especially Bakoyannis is highly experienced. "
More:Will Dora initiate give-and-take with Turkey? - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
Monday, March 13, 2006
'I will visit Athens, and she will visit us,' said Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül, sitting next to Dora Bakoyannis during their first meeting in Salzburg last week. There were a lot smiles for photo-ops, at which especially Bakoyannis is highly experienced. "
More:Will Dora initiate give-and-take with Turkey? - Turkish Daily News Mar 13, 2006
Istanbul and Kiev vying to become Capital of Culture in 2010 | European Union Languages & Culture
"Istanbul and Kiev vying to become Capital of Culture in 2010
In Short:
A jury is scheduled to decide on 14 March on bids in the non-EU-member category by Istanbul and Kiev to hold the title of European Capital of Culture in 2010.
Background:
The 'European City of Culture' project was launched in 1985 on the initiative of Melina Mercouri, then minister of culture of Greece. The underlying goal has been to 'contribute to bringing the peoples of Europe together.' In 2000, the project's name was changed to European Capitals of Culture."
More:Istanbul and Kiev vying to become Capital of Culture in 2010 | European Union Languages & Culture
In Short:
A jury is scheduled to decide on 14 March on bids in the non-EU-member category by Istanbul and Kiev to hold the title of European Capital of Culture in 2010.
Background:
The 'European City of Culture' project was launched in 1985 on the initiative of Melina Mercouri, then minister of culture of Greece. The underlying goal has been to 'contribute to bringing the peoples of Europe together.' In 2000, the project's name was changed to European Capitals of Culture."
More:Istanbul and Kiev vying to become Capital of Culture in 2010 | European Union Languages & Culture
CASCFEN.org-Tr: Kurdish problem has socioeconomic aspects
"Tr: Kurdish problem has socioeconomic aspects
Published: 13.03.2006
CASCFEN, Baku, 13.03.2006 -- Addressing a conference on the unrest in Turkey's Southeast known as the 'Kurdish problem,' Osman Baydemir, mayor of the predominantly Kurdish southeastern city of Diyarbakır, said the problem has economic, social, political and cultural aspects (Turkish Daily News).
'To me the problem is economic, social, political and cultural. It has a legal basis. In order to overcome this problem there is a need for a project or a roadmap encompassing all of those details,' Baydemir was quoted as saying by the Anatolia news agency on the second day of a conference at Istanbul's private Bilgi University, where Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals discussed a peaceful resolution to the Kurdish problem."
More:CASCFEN.org
Published: 13.03.2006
CASCFEN, Baku, 13.03.2006 -- Addressing a conference on the unrest in Turkey's Southeast known as the 'Kurdish problem,' Osman Baydemir, mayor of the predominantly Kurdish southeastern city of Diyarbakır, said the problem has economic, social, political and cultural aspects (Turkish Daily News).
'To me the problem is economic, social, political and cultural. It has a legal basis. In order to overcome this problem there is a need for a project or a roadmap encompassing all of those details,' Baydemir was quoted as saying by the Anatolia news agency on the second day of a conference at Istanbul's private Bilgi University, where Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals discussed a peaceful resolution to the Kurdish problem."
More:CASCFEN.org
Hürriyet-Diyarbakir Mayor: If only Kurdish women had been taught Turkish
"Diyarbakir Mayor: If only Kurdish women had been taught Turkish
Diyarbakir Mayor Osman Baydemir, speaking on the second day of the 'Kurdish Matter' conference currently being held at Istanbul's Kultur University, noted that 'if the Turkish Republic had been successful at teaching Kurdish women Turkish, those sitting in this hall today wouldn't even know Kurdish, and we wouldn't have these problems.' "
More:Hürriyet
Diyarbakir Mayor Osman Baydemir, speaking on the second day of the 'Kurdish Matter' conference currently being held at Istanbul's Kultur University, noted that 'if the Turkish Republic had been successful at teaching Kurdish women Turkish, those sitting in this hall today wouldn't even know Kurdish, and we wouldn't have these problems.' "
More:Hürriyet
Turkey's Road to EU Membership:Progress and Challenges in Light of International Women's Day
"Turkey's Road to EU Membership:
Progress and Challenges in Light of International Women's Day
by
Graham Watson MEP
History teaches that Europeans are 'In uno plures' - many in one. Before wars and walls drove the continent asunder Europe's rich and varied mosaic encompassed citizens of the West, the Ottoman and the Austro-Hungarian Empires.
Fast-forward to modern times and October's historic decision to open the EU accession process to Turkey is probably the greatest outward symbol that the European Union is no Christian Club."
More:Turkey's Road to EU Membership:
Progress and Challenges in Light of International Women's Day
Progress and Challenges in Light of International Women's Day
by
Graham Watson MEP
History teaches that Europeans are 'In uno plures' - many in one. Before wars and walls drove the continent asunder Europe's rich and varied mosaic encompassed citizens of the West, the Ottoman and the Austro-Hungarian Empires.
Fast-forward to modern times and October's historic decision to open the EU accession process to Turkey is probably the greatest outward symbol that the European Union is no Christian Club."
More:Turkey's Road to EU Membership:
Progress and Challenges in Light of International Women's Day
The New Anatolian-Gul's Cyprus dilemma with the EU Troika
"Gul's Cyprus dilemma with the EU Troika
Huseyin Bagci
bagci@metu.edu.tr
After some silence on Turkish-European Union relations, now new storm clouds are gathering over Turkish foreign policy. The meeting of Turkey's foreign minister with the EU Troika in Vienna has started the old debate again: Is Turkey going to sell Cyprus for the sake of the EU membership? EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn has put the same demand forward again, being fully aware that the Turkish government cannot do this, i.e. opening Turkish ports to all members of the EU including the Southern Republic of Cyprus, using the official wording of the Turkish government. Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul stated after the Troika meeting that this has nothing to do with the negotiations and Turkey is continuing with the reform process as expected. Indeed, opening the ports to the Greek Cypriots would mean political suicide for the Turkish government as long as the EU doesn't lift its economic embargo from Northern Cyprus and give the promised financial aid. Now Austrian Foreign Minister Plassnik made an interesting correlation between opening the ports and lifting the economic embargo but then denied it immediately, probably after the strong reactions of Greek Cyprus."
More:The New Anatolian
Huseyin Bagci
bagci@metu.edu.tr
After some silence on Turkish-European Union relations, now new storm clouds are gathering over Turkish foreign policy. The meeting of Turkey's foreign minister with the EU Troika in Vienna has started the old debate again: Is Turkey going to sell Cyprus for the sake of the EU membership? EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn has put the same demand forward again, being fully aware that the Turkish government cannot do this, i.e. opening Turkish ports to all members of the EU including the Southern Republic of Cyprus, using the official wording of the Turkish government. Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul stated after the Troika meeting that this has nothing to do with the negotiations and Turkey is continuing with the reform process as expected. Indeed, opening the ports to the Greek Cypriots would mean political suicide for the Turkish government as long as the EU doesn't lift its economic embargo from Northern Cyprus and give the promised financial aid. Now Austrian Foreign Minister Plassnik made an interesting correlation between opening the ports and lifting the economic embargo but then denied it immediately, probably after the strong reactions of Greek Cyprus."
More:The New Anatolian
Financial Mirror-Papadopoulos slammed by International Crisis Group
"Papadopoulos slammed by International Crisis Group
13/03/2006
www.financialmirror.com
Call on Turkey to reduce troops
The International Crisis Group, headed by an influential board of former heads of state and ministers across the world, has pinpointed Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos as the main obstacle to a solution of the Cyprus problem, while at the same time calling on Turkey to reduce troop numbers and implement its EU obligations.
In a strongly worded Executive Summary dated March 8th, the report concludes “The most substantial blockage of such an agreement is now the policy and attitude of the Greek Cypriot leadership and in particular of President Tassos Papadopoulos.”
The report warned Greek Cypriots that the island will slip by default towards permanent partition and the independence of the north, whether formally recognised or not."
More:Financial Mirror
13/03/2006
www.financialmirror.com
Call on Turkey to reduce troops
The International Crisis Group, headed by an influential board of former heads of state and ministers across the world, has pinpointed Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos as the main obstacle to a solution of the Cyprus problem, while at the same time calling on Turkey to reduce troop numbers and implement its EU obligations.
In a strongly worded Executive Summary dated March 8th, the report concludes “The most substantial blockage of such an agreement is now the policy and attitude of the Greek Cypriot leadership and in particular of President Tassos Papadopoulos.”
The report warned Greek Cypriots that the island will slip by default towards permanent partition and the independence of the north, whether formally recognised or not."
More:Financial Mirror
Gul: Turkey to be Affected most by Iran Crisis
"Gul: Turkey to be Affected most by Iran Crisis
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul warned that any international intervention against Iran due to its nuclear program would affect Turkey.
'Any problem in our neighbor will have a significant impact on Turkey,' Gul told ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) deputies at a party meeting in Ankara on Sunday."
More:Gul: Turkey to be Affected most by Iran Crisis
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul warned that any international intervention against Iran due to its nuclear program would affect Turkey.
'Any problem in our neighbor will have a significant impact on Turkey,' Gul told ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) deputies at a party meeting in Ankara on Sunday."
More:Gul: Turkey to be Affected most by Iran Crisis
The New Anatolian-The military retaking lost political ground
"The military retaking lost political ground
Cengiz Candar
ccandar@superonline.com
The ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party, since its landslide election victory in November 2002, vigorously led Turkey�s drive toward the European Union. As Turkey set on the road of the European Union and took the route of accession after turning the sharp curves of Dec. 17, 2003 and last Oct. 3, the military�s weight in the political sphere had begun to dwindle. Last week, the row created by the Semdinli indictment has been like a boomerang. The military is back in the political arena with its acknowledged weight. It has retaken lost political ground."
More:The New Anatolian
Cengiz Candar
ccandar@superonline.com
The ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party, since its landslide election victory in November 2002, vigorously led Turkey�s drive toward the European Union. As Turkey set on the road of the European Union and took the route of accession after turning the sharp curves of Dec. 17, 2003 and last Oct. 3, the military�s weight in the political sphere had begun to dwindle. Last week, the row created by the Semdinli indictment has been like a boomerang. The military is back in the political arena with its acknowledged weight. It has retaken lost political ground."
More:The New Anatolian
Immigrants tested with gay kiss- from Pink News- all the latest gay news from the gay community - Pink News
"Immigrants tested with gay kiss
The test marks a crackdown on immigration for the country usually known for its liberal views
Readers Comments
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Netherlands may deport gay Iranians
13-March-2006
Marc Shoffman
Muslim groups are criticising the Netherlands over the use of films featuring two men kissing to test asylum seeker’s liberal attitudes as a basis for entry into the country.
Applicants’ reactions will be tested to see if they can accept the language and culture of Holland. "
More:Immigrants tested with gay kiss- from Pink News- all the latest gay news from the gay community - Pink News
The test marks a crackdown on immigration for the country usually known for its liberal views
Readers Comments
Click here to read and make Comments on this article
Receive our weekly news update
email:
Related Articles
Netherlands may deport gay Iranians
13-March-2006
Marc Shoffman
Muslim groups are criticising the Netherlands over the use of films featuring two men kissing to test asylum seeker’s liberal attitudes as a basis for entry into the country.
Applicants’ reactions will be tested to see if they can accept the language and culture of Holland. "
More:Immigrants tested with gay kiss- from Pink News- all the latest gay news from the gay community - Pink News
..:: ABHABER.COM : Turkish NGO's to protest France's 'genocide' recognition
"Turkish NGO's to protest France's 'genocide' recognition
Turkish groups in France are set to join forces in Paris today to work to overturn the French Parliament's recognition of the so-called Armenian genocide.
For the first meeting of an umbrella committee spearheaded by local offices of the Anatolian Culture Centers and Kemalist Thought Association, some 300 Turkish associations in France were invited.
Today's meeting is going to be held to exchange ideas for the goals and work of the committee. A public statement after the meeting is planned to announce how the committee will campaign against the legislative recognition."
More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..
Turkish groups in France are set to join forces in Paris today to work to overturn the French Parliament's recognition of the so-called Armenian genocide.
For the first meeting of an umbrella committee spearheaded by local offices of the Anatolian Culture Centers and Kemalist Thought Association, some 300 Turkish associations in France were invited.
Today's meeting is going to be held to exchange ideas for the goals and work of the committee. A public statement after the meeting is planned to announce how the committee will campaign against the legislative recognition."
More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..
S&P: Turkish Economy Better than Brazil
"S&P: Turkish Economy Better than Brazil
By Economy News Desk, Istanbul
Published: Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com
The International credit rating agency, Standard and Poor's (S&P) announced Turkey has a better economic performance than, Brazil, India, Egypt, Jordan, The Philippines, and Vietnam for its successful public finance."
More:S&P: Turkish Economy Better than Brazil
By Economy News Desk, Istanbul
Published: Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com
The International credit rating agency, Standard and Poor's (S&P) announced Turkey has a better economic performance than, Brazil, India, Egypt, Jordan, The Philippines, and Vietnam for its successful public finance."
More:S&P: Turkish Economy Better than Brazil
Turkish National Police Selects Cross Match Technologies to Make Law Enforcement Officials Safer and More Efficient
"Turkish National Police Selects Cross Match Technologies to Make Law Enforcement Officials Safer and More Efficient
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 13, 2006--
Leading Provider of Biometric Identity Applications and Solutions Criminal Booking System to Save Time and Protect Citizens from Dangerous Criminals
Cross Match Technologies, a global leader in providing high-quality interoperable biometric identity applications and solutions, announced today that the Turkish National Police Criminal Police Laboratories (CPL) has signed an agreement to use the Criminal Booking System (CBS) within Cross Match's end-to-end biometric identity solution platform. The system will be provided to Meteksan Sistem, a Turkish system integrator, through Cross Match's partnership with Biometri-CS, a leading company for biometrics technologies in Turkey, to support an integrated computer system that links police forces and agencies in Turkey."
More:Turkish National Police Selects Cross Match Technologies to Make Law Enforcement Officials Safer and More Efficient
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 13, 2006--
Leading Provider of Biometric Identity Applications and Solutions Criminal Booking System to Save Time and Protect Citizens from Dangerous Criminals
Cross Match Technologies, a global leader in providing high-quality interoperable biometric identity applications and solutions, announced today that the Turkish National Police Criminal Police Laboratories (CPL) has signed an agreement to use the Criminal Booking System (CBS) within Cross Match's end-to-end biometric identity solution platform. The system will be provided to Meteksan Sistem, a Turkish system integrator, through Cross Match's partnership with Biometri-CS, a leading company for biometrics technologies in Turkey, to support an integrated computer system that links police forces and agencies in Turkey."
More:Turkish National Police Selects Cross Match Technologies to Make Law Enforcement Officials Safer and More Efficient
Hürriyet-Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals meet over Kurdish issue
"Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals meet over Kurdish issue
Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals alike called for the PKK to lay down their arms at a gathering this weekend. Tight security surrounded the gathering of Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals who came together to discuss a peaceful resolution to the 22-year old Kurdish conflict in the southeast of the country. Speakers voiced the crisis on both sides of the debate: 'There is a crisis of confidence between the two sides,' Kurdish rights campaigner Sertac Bucak said. 'There is a Kurdish phobia in Turkey.' "
More:Hürriyet
Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals alike called for the PKK to lay down their arms at a gathering this weekend. Tight security surrounded the gathering of Turkish and Kurdish intellectuals who came together to discuss a peaceful resolution to the 22-year old Kurdish conflict in the southeast of the country. Speakers voiced the crisis on both sides of the debate: 'There is a crisis of confidence between the two sides,' Kurdish rights campaigner Sertac Bucak said. 'There is a Kurdish phobia in Turkey.' "
More:Hürriyet
Turkish Nat'l Income to Rise to $42,000 in 2050
"Turkish Nat'l Income to Rise to $42,000 in 2050
By Economy News Desk, Istanbul
Published: Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com
Turkey, leaving Belgium, Switzerland, and Sweden behind with its economic reforms and growth rate, expects to become the world’s 12th largest economy by 2050.
In 20th place in terms of national income (on gross domestic product basis) in 2005, the country has risen to 17th place."
More:Turkish Nat'l Income to Rise to $42,000 in 2050
By Economy News Desk, Istanbul
Published: Monday, March 13, 2006
zaman.com
Turkey, leaving Belgium, Switzerland, and Sweden behind with its economic reforms and growth rate, expects to become the world’s 12th largest economy by 2050.
In 20th place in terms of national income (on gross domestic product basis) in 2005, the country has risen to 17th place."
More:Turkish Nat'l Income to Rise to $42,000 in 2050
The New Anatolian-Kurdish problem cannot be solved with rhetoric
"Kurdish problem cannot be solved with rhetoric
Ilnur Cevik
icevik@yahoo.com
After Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared last summer that there is a Kurdish problem in Turkey but then failed to do something about it, a group of Turkish intellectuals apparently decided to take matters into their own hands and organized a conference. The meeting organized by the Helsinki Citizens Union at Istanbul's Bilgi University took up the 'Kurdish problem' over the weekend and as usual there was much talk that really added up to nothing�"
More:The New Anatolian
Ilnur Cevik
icevik@yahoo.com
After Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared last summer that there is a Kurdish problem in Turkey but then failed to do something about it, a group of Turkish intellectuals apparently decided to take matters into their own hands and organized a conference. The meeting organized by the Helsinki Citizens Union at Istanbul's Bilgi University took up the 'Kurdish problem' over the weekend and as usual there was much talk that really added up to nothing�"
More:The New Anatolian
BBC NEWS | Business | Turkish toil brings new form of faith
"Turkish toil brings new form of faith
By Aasiya Lodhi
Producer, Night Waves, BBC Radio 3
Furniture factory in Kayseri
Industrial and religious renewal go hand in hand in Turkey
In the Turkish city of Kayseri, Saffert Arsalan proudly shows off his furniture-making factory.
In little over a decade, Mr Arsalan's business has grown from a small enterprise to a multi-million pound international operation, exporting products to the United States, Germany and Israel."
More:BBC NEWS | Business | Turkish toil brings new form of faith
By Aasiya Lodhi
Producer, Night Waves, BBC Radio 3
Furniture factory in Kayseri
Industrial and religious renewal go hand in hand in Turkey
In the Turkish city of Kayseri, Saffert Arsalan proudly shows off his furniture-making factory.
In little over a decade, Mr Arsalan's business has grown from a small enterprise to a multi-million pound international operation, exporting products to the United States, Germany and Israel."
More:BBC NEWS | Business | Turkish toil brings new form of faith
Turkey: On Europe's Verge?
"Turkey: On Europe's Verge?
Great Decisions 2006, February 7, 2006
Henri J. Barkey, Chair of the Department of International Relations, Lehigh University
Omer Taspinar, Director, Turkey Program
This article appeared in Great Decisions 2006, a briefing book published annually by the Foreign Policy Association. Reprinted with permission. The Foreign Policy Association (FPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring the American public to learn more about the world. To learn more visit www.fpa.org."
More:Turkey: On Europe's Verge?
Great Decisions 2006, February 7, 2006
Henri J. Barkey, Chair of the Department of International Relations, Lehigh University
Omer Taspinar, Director, Turkey Program
This article appeared in Great Decisions 2006, a briefing book published annually by the Foreign Policy Association. Reprinted with permission. The Foreign Policy Association (FPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring the American public to learn more about the world. To learn more visit www.fpa.org."
More:Turkey: On Europe's Verge?
Sunday, March 12, 2006
EU: Turkish accession to the EU threatened by the Cypriot issue [Voltaire]
"EU: Turkish accession to the EU threatened by the Cypriot issue
Decyphering
The debate about the accession of Turkey into the EU is again at issue. At a time when it just opened, on September 1st, the European summit of Newport, in Wales, a preparatory meeting before the opening of negotiations on the accession, promised for October 3, tensions between the representatives from the EU and Turkey were on the rise regarding the Cypriot issue. Turkey does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, which exercises its authority upon the Greek part of the island where the division de facto of that country, took place in 1974, in a Turkish-Cypriot zone and Greek area."
More:EU: Turkish accession to the EU threatened by the Cypriot issue [Voltaire]
Decyphering
The debate about the accession of Turkey into the EU is again at issue. At a time when it just opened, on September 1st, the European summit of Newport, in Wales, a preparatory meeting before the opening of negotiations on the accession, promised for October 3, tensions between the representatives from the EU and Turkey were on the rise regarding the Cypriot issue. Turkey does not recognize the Republic of Cyprus, which exercises its authority upon the Greek part of the island where the division de facto of that country, took place in 1974, in a Turkish-Cypriot zone and Greek area."
More:EU: Turkish accession to the EU threatened by the Cypriot issue [Voltaire]
E.I.B. To Provide 3 Billion Euro As Project Credit In 2006
"E.I.B. To Provide 3 Billion Euro As Project Credit In 2006
Published: 3/12/2006
ANKARA - The European Investment Bank (EIB) will provide Turkey with a project credit of 3 billion Euro in 2006.
According to information received by the AA correspondent, the EIB will contribute important sums of financial assistance to Turkey during Turkey's harmonization process."
More:E.I.B. To Provide 3 Billion Euro As Project Credit In 2006
Published: 3/12/2006
ANKARA - The European Investment Bank (EIB) will provide Turkey with a project credit of 3 billion Euro in 2006.
According to information received by the AA correspondent, the EIB will contribute important sums of financial assistance to Turkey during Turkey's harmonization process."
More:E.I.B. To Provide 3 Billion Euro As Project Credit In 2006
Kurdish Conference Marked with Controversy over Zana
"Kurdish Conference Marked with Controversy over Zana
By Erkan Acar, Cagri Cobanoglu, Serbest Ozden, Istanbul
Published: Sunday, March 12, 2006
zaman.com
A panel discussion on the Kurdish issue in Turkey was hosted amid hot and strange opinions on the Dolapdere campus of Bilgi University in cooperation with the Helsinki Citizens Assembly and the Empathy Group."
More:Kurdish Conference Marked with Controversy over Zana
By Erkan Acar, Cagri Cobanoglu, Serbest Ozden, Istanbul
Published: Sunday, March 12, 2006
zaman.com
A panel discussion on the Kurdish issue in Turkey was hosted amid hot and strange opinions on the Dolapdere campus of Bilgi University in cooperation with the Helsinki Citizens Assembly and the Empathy Group."
More:Kurdish Conference Marked with Controversy over Zana
Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Europe/World
"Turkish PM says there’s no crisis with the army
Published: Sunday, 12 March, 2006, 11:22 AM Doha Time
Erdogan ... no jobs left for crisis engineers
ANKARA: Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan ruled out yesterday tensions between his Islamist-rooted government and the influential military following accusations that the army’s number two acted outside the law in the fight against Kurdish rebels.
A prosecutor dropped a bombshell this week when he called for a probe into land forces commander Yasar Buyukanit on suspicion he might have been linked to rogue elements in the army seeking to stir tensions in the mainly Kurdish southeast and derail Turkey’s bid to join the European Union."
More:Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Europe/World
Published: Sunday, 12 March, 2006, 11:22 AM Doha Time
Erdogan ... no jobs left for crisis engineers
ANKARA: Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan ruled out yesterday tensions between his Islamist-rooted government and the influential military following accusations that the army’s number two acted outside the law in the fight against Kurdish rebels.
A prosecutor dropped a bombshell this week when he called for a probe into land forces commander Yasar Buyukanit on suspicion he might have been linked to rogue elements in the army seeking to stir tensions in the mainly Kurdish southeast and derail Turkey’s bid to join the European Union."
More:Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Europe/World
I hereby prove Turkish people are innovative! - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
"I hereby prove Turkish people are innovative!
Sunday, March 12, 2006
AYŞE ÖZGÜN
Gossip columns and all of the media are going full speed ahead regarding an �adulterous� affair between the leading lady (single) of a highly rated TV series and her director (married) who were 'caught' necking in a jeep at the edge of the Bosporus one evening at a place where people usually go to drink a cup of tea."
More:I hereby prove Turkish people are innovative! - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
Sunday, March 12, 2006
AYŞE ÖZGÜN
Gossip columns and all of the media are going full speed ahead regarding an �adulterous� affair between the leading lady (single) of a highly rated TV series and her director (married) who were 'caught' necking in a jeep at the edge of the Bosporus one evening at a place where people usually go to drink a cup of tea."
More:I hereby prove Turkish people are innovative! - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
Historic Polonezköy as an example for promoting multi-ethnic culture and tourism - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
"Historic Polonezköy as an example for promoting multi-ethnic culture and tourism
Sunday, March 12, 2006
From my notebook
YÜKSEL SÖYLEMEZ
The Polish Embassy in Ankara has an eminent Turkish scholar in the person of Ambassador Grzegorz Michalski. He is more than a diplomatic emissary, a real ambassador of culture like his illustrious predecessor, Turkish scholar Ambassador Andrzej Ananicz."
More:Historic Polonezköy as an example for promoting multi-ethnic culture and tourism - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
Sunday, March 12, 2006
From my notebook
YÜKSEL SÖYLEMEZ
The Polish Embassy in Ankara has an eminent Turkish scholar in the person of Ambassador Grzegorz Michalski. He is more than a diplomatic emissary, a real ambassador of culture like his illustrious predecessor, Turkish scholar Ambassador Andrzej Ananicz."
More:Historic Polonezköy as an example for promoting multi-ethnic culture and tourism - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
Venetian coins in an Ottoman Bath
"Venetian coins in an Ottoman Bath
By Constantine Markides
REMAINS of an Ottoman Bath have been unearthed during excavations in the old city near the Paphos Gate where the new offices of the Sewage Board will be built.
The added discovery of a stash of 300-400 copper Venetian coins has led to speculation that the bath was built during the first few years of the Ottoman period in Cyprus, when Ottoman currency may not yet have been initiated and circulating around the island.
The Venetian Period in Cyprus lasted from 1489 until 1571, when the Ottomans conquered Famagusta and brought Cyprus under the umbrella of the Ottoman Empire for the next 300 years. "
More:Venetian coins in an Ottoman Bath
By Constantine Markides
REMAINS of an Ottoman Bath have been unearthed during excavations in the old city near the Paphos Gate where the new offices of the Sewage Board will be built.
The added discovery of a stash of 300-400 copper Venetian coins has led to speculation that the bath was built during the first few years of the Ottoman period in Cyprus, when Ottoman currency may not yet have been initiated and circulating around the island.
The Venetian Period in Cyprus lasted from 1489 until 1571, when the Ottomans conquered Famagusta and brought Cyprus under the umbrella of the Ottoman Empire for the next 300 years. "
More:Venetian coins in an Ottoman Bath
Iraqi Dinars | Turkey to build ‘huge industrial city’ in Kirkuk, Iraq; open new border crossing
"Turkey to build ‘huge industrial city’ in Kirkuk, Iraq; open new border crossing
March 09, 2006
The oil-rich northern city of Kirkuk is home to a sizeable Turkish ethnic community known in Iraq as Turkmen.
Jalabi was positive about his Ankara visit, saying Turkish authorities were prepared to expand economic cooperation with the country."
More:Iraqi Dinars | Iraqi News and Iraqi Money
March 09, 2006
The oil-rich northern city of Kirkuk is home to a sizeable Turkish ethnic community known in Iraq as Turkmen.
Jalabi was positive about his Ankara visit, saying Turkish authorities were prepared to expand economic cooperation with the country."
More:Iraqi Dinars | Iraqi News and Iraqi Money
Turkish Golf Celebrates 10th Year Magnificently
"Turkish Golf Celebrates 10th Year Magnificently
Published: Sunday, March 12, 2006
zaman.com
Turkish Golf Federation celebrated its 10th foundation anniversary with a ceremony in the Lutfi Kirdar Congress Center yesterday. Along with the traditional “Media Awards” of the Golf Federation, “Gratitude awards” were given to those who made a contribution to the development of golf in Turkey."
More:Turkish Golf Celebrates 10th Year Magnificently
Published: Sunday, March 12, 2006
zaman.com
Turkish Golf Federation celebrated its 10th foundation anniversary with a ceremony in the Lutfi Kirdar Congress Center yesterday. Along with the traditional “Media Awards” of the Golf Federation, “Gratitude awards” were given to those who made a contribution to the development of golf in Turkey."
More:Turkish Golf Celebrates 10th Year Magnificently
Gourmand’s corner - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
"Gourmand’s corner
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Kiremitte Kebap (Tile-Baked Kebap):
In Cappadocia one restaurant has invented its own version of this dish -- testi kebap, which is cooked in an earthenware pot shaped like a vase. The meat is pushed down the neck into the belly of the pot with peppers, tomato and spices, and is then left standing near the ovens all day to cook slowly, sealed with a thin piece of dough. To serve, the neck is whacked off with a heavy blade, and the contents are spilled from the belly. In the rest of central Anatolia, the meat is simply cooked gently in a flat earthenware dish or on a roof tile. Diced potatoes can also be added to the following recipe. "
More:Gourmand’s corner - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Kiremitte Kebap (Tile-Baked Kebap):
In Cappadocia one restaurant has invented its own version of this dish -- testi kebap, which is cooked in an earthenware pot shaped like a vase. The meat is pushed down the neck into the belly of the pot with peppers, tomato and spices, and is then left standing near the ovens all day to cook slowly, sealed with a thin piece of dough. To serve, the neck is whacked off with a heavy blade, and the contents are spilled from the belly. In the rest of central Anatolia, the meat is simply cooked gently in a flat earthenware dish or on a roof tile. Diced potatoes can also be added to the following recipe. "
More:Gourmand’s corner - Turkish Daily News Mar 12, 2006
Saturday, March 11, 2006
UK: No Armenian Genocide Took Place
"UK: No Armenian Genocide Took Place
By Foreign News Desk, Istanbul
Published: Saturday, March 11, 2006
zaman.com
Apparently, the British government does not regard the 1915-16 incidents during the Ottoman era as 'Armenian genocide.'
In a letter sent by the British Foreign Ministry upon the initiatives of a UK-based Turkish institution, it is stated the incidents do not fit the category of genocide. British diplomats speaking to Zaman also confirmed this. London refutes the claims in the Blue Book (Mavi Kitap) that caused a crisis between Turkey and UK. The book, said to be 'the biggest support' for the so-called Armenian genocide, claimed more than 1.5 million Armenians were slaughtered during the incidents."
More:UK: No Armenian Genocide Took Place
By Foreign News Desk, Istanbul
Published: Saturday, March 11, 2006
zaman.com
Apparently, the British government does not regard the 1915-16 incidents during the Ottoman era as 'Armenian genocide.'
In a letter sent by the British Foreign Ministry upon the initiatives of a UK-based Turkish institution, it is stated the incidents do not fit the category of genocide. British diplomats speaking to Zaman also confirmed this. London refutes the claims in the Blue Book (Mavi Kitap) that caused a crisis between Turkey and UK. The book, said to be 'the biggest support' for the so-called Armenian genocide, claimed more than 1.5 million Armenians were slaughtered during the incidents."
More:UK: No Armenian Genocide Took Place
EUobserver.com-Turkey suggests EU should strengthen anti-defamation laws
"Turkey suggests EU should strengthen anti-defamation laws
11.03.2006 - 18:08 CET | By Mark Beunderman
EUOBSERVER / SALZBURG - Turkish foreign minister Abdullah Gul has called upon EU states to extend their anti-defamation laws to ensure respect for Islam, an idea rejected by the Netherlands which also opposes a European Commission initiative for a joint UN resolution with islamic states.
The Turkish minister was attending a two-day informal EU foreign ministers' meeting in Salzburg on Friday and Saturday (10-11 March) where he opened a discussion on the dialogue between Europe and the muslim world on Saturday."
More:EUobserver.com
11.03.2006 - 18:08 CET | By Mark Beunderman
EUOBSERVER / SALZBURG - Turkish foreign minister Abdullah Gul has called upon EU states to extend their anti-defamation laws to ensure respect for Islam, an idea rejected by the Netherlands which also opposes a European Commission initiative for a joint UN resolution with islamic states.
The Turkish minister was attending a two-day informal EU foreign ministers' meeting in Salzburg on Friday and Saturday (10-11 March) where he opened a discussion on the dialogue between Europe and the muslim world on Saturday."
More:EUobserver.com
Reuters Recommends News Article | Reuters.com
"Turkey says EU must protect Islam
Sat Mar 11, 2006 2:54 PM ET170
By Ingrid Melander
SALZBURG, Austria (Reuters) - The European Union risks damaging its image worldwide if it does not do more to protect Islam against insults, Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul told Reuters in an interview on Saturday.
Gul said that was the message he gave EU counterparts in the Austrian city of Salzburg at a meeting called to draw lessons from the controversy over cartoons lampooning the Prophet Mohammad."
More:Reuters Recommends News Article | Reuters.com
Sat Mar 11, 2006 2:54 PM ET170
By Ingrid Melander
SALZBURG, Austria (Reuters) - The European Union risks damaging its image worldwide if it does not do more to protect Islam against insults, Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul told Reuters in an interview on Saturday.
Gul said that was the message he gave EU counterparts in the Austrian city of Salzburg at a meeting called to draw lessons from the controversy over cartoons lampooning the Prophet Mohammad."
More:Reuters Recommends News Article | Reuters.com
Guardian Unlimited | Turkish Film FestivalLondon
"Turkish Film Festival
London
Although it has a rich and long heritage, Turkey is not as inflexible as many other nations. While this willingness to explore the notion of change has been the cause of much trouble, there's no denying that the friction it produces makes life more interesting and results in a lively, vibrant culture. The often uneasy alliance between past and present is reflected here in the dramas such as amnesia drama Mummy I'm Scared, Waiting For The Clouds, about a woman's search for her own identity and family comedy My Father And My Son, the most successful Turkish movie of recent years."
More:Guardian Unlimited | The Guide | FIlm preview: March 11
London
Although it has a rich and long heritage, Turkey is not as inflexible as many other nations. While this willingness to explore the notion of change has been the cause of much trouble, there's no denying that the friction it produces makes life more interesting and results in a lively, vibrant culture. The often uneasy alliance between past and present is reflected here in the dramas such as amnesia drama Mummy I'm Scared, Waiting For The Clouds, about a woman's search for her own identity and family comedy My Father And My Son, the most successful Turkish movie of recent years."
More:Guardian Unlimited | The Guide | FIlm preview: March 11
Turkey targets export strategy in US, says minister - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
"Turkey targets export strategy in US, says minister
Saturday, March 11, 2006
MICHAEL KUSER
ISTANBUL – Turkish Daily News
The Turkish government aims to increase bilateral trade with the United States by focusing its export strategy on five key states, Trade Minister Kurşad Tüzmen said yesterday in Istanbul.
The Turkish-U.S. Business Council, affiliated with the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK), hosted the minister at a luncheon at Ceylan InterContinental on Friday."
More:Turkey targets export strategy in US, says minister - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
Saturday, March 11, 2006
MICHAEL KUSER
ISTANBUL – Turkish Daily News
The Turkish government aims to increase bilateral trade with the United States by focusing its export strategy on five key states, Trade Minister Kurşad Tüzmen said yesterday in Istanbul.
The Turkish-U.S. Business Council, affiliated with the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK), hosted the minister at a luncheon at Ceylan InterContinental on Friday."
More:Turkey targets export strategy in US, says minister - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
Greek Cypriots have lost the moral high ground
"‘Greek Cypriots have lost the moral high ground’
By Jean Christou
THE International Crisis Group (ICG) report on Cyprus sends a clear message to President Tassos Papadopoulos and the Greek Cypriot side that they have lost the moral high ground on the Cyprus issue.
“The Greek Cypriots are now regarded as the intransigent side and can no longer rely on international sympathy for the events of 1974,” said the 40-page report, which was published on Thursday.
And while the report recommends some ways forward for the Turkish side, the main criticism falls on the Cyprus government.
It said that since 1974, the Greek Cypriot public had been persuaded by its governments, its education system and its media of the moral and legal superiority of its cause. “Its elites have fostered a culture of resistance to colonial and neo-colonial influence and an image of the Greek Cypriots as the underdogs who would and should resist external pressures and dictates,” it said."
More:Greek Cypriots have lost the moral high ground
By Jean Christou
THE International Crisis Group (ICG) report on Cyprus sends a clear message to President Tassos Papadopoulos and the Greek Cypriot side that they have lost the moral high ground on the Cyprus issue.
“The Greek Cypriots are now regarded as the intransigent side and can no longer rely on international sympathy for the events of 1974,” said the 40-page report, which was published on Thursday.
And while the report recommends some ways forward for the Turkish side, the main criticism falls on the Cyprus government.
It said that since 1974, the Greek Cypriot public had been persuaded by its governments, its education system and its media of the moral and legal superiority of its cause. “Its elites have fostered a culture of resistance to colonial and neo-colonial influence and an image of the Greek Cypriots as the underdogs who would and should resist external pressures and dictates,” it said."
More:Greek Cypriots have lost the moral high ground
World Bank Endows $400 Million to Turkish Companies
"World Bank Endows $400 Million to Turkish Companies
By Zelis Yildiral, Istanbul
Published: Saturday, March 11, 2006
zaman.com
A subset of the World Bank, The International Finance Corporation (IFC), credited private companies in Turkey with $400 million this year.
The 40 years of IFC subsidization to a total of almost 100 Turkish companies reaches $2.8 billion."
More:World Bank Endows $400 Million to Turkish Companies
By Zelis Yildiral, Istanbul
Published: Saturday, March 11, 2006
zaman.com
A subset of the World Bank, The International Finance Corporation (IFC), credited private companies in Turkey with $400 million this year.
The 40 years of IFC subsidization to a total of almost 100 Turkish companies reaches $2.8 billion."
More:World Bank Endows $400 Million to Turkish Companies
The New Anatolian-Where does the AKP stand on the Kurdish problem?
"Where does the AKP stand on the Kurdish problem?
Mete Belovacikli
metebelovacikli@thenewanatolian.com
I recently mentioned that there's a serious difference of opinion between the government and some bureaucrats in Ankara on the Kurdish problem. The issue should be further explored since certain bureaucrats, who think differently than the government, are architects of a new policy that could go into practice in the following days.
This situation is pushing the government to look for new solutions. The rest of the bureaucrats, on the other hand, are in cooperation with the government out of fear of losing their positions. This, inevitably, gives the impression that there's a conflict within the bureaucracy. The developments experienced in the wake of the Semdinli incidents are the latest example of this conflict. "
More:The New Anatolian
Mete Belovacikli
metebelovacikli@thenewanatolian.com
I recently mentioned that there's a serious difference of opinion between the government and some bureaucrats in Ankara on the Kurdish problem. The issue should be further explored since certain bureaucrats, who think differently than the government, are architects of a new policy that could go into practice in the following days.
This situation is pushing the government to look for new solutions. The rest of the bureaucrats, on the other hand, are in cooperation with the government out of fear of losing their positions. This, inevitably, gives the impression that there's a conflict within the bureaucracy. The developments experienced in the wake of the Semdinli incidents are the latest example of this conflict. "
More:The New Anatolian
Will 'Valley of the Wolves' harm Tüzmen's America project? - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
"Will 'Valley of the Wolves' harm Tüzmen's America project?
Saturday, March 11, 2006
The current perception towards Turkey in the United States is not too encouraging due to the 'Valley of the Wolves-Iraq' movie and Hamas’ visit to Ankara"
More:Will 'Valley of the Wolves' harm Tüzmen's America project? - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
Saturday, March 11, 2006
The current perception towards Turkey in the United States is not too encouraging due to the 'Valley of the Wolves-Iraq' movie and Hamas’ visit to Ankara"
More:Will 'Valley of the Wolves' harm Tüzmen's America project? - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
Forbes richest list includes 21 Turkish billionaires - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
"Forbes richest list includes 21 Turkish billionaires
Saturday, March 11, 2006
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News
Forbes magazine this week released its annual list of the world's richest people, including 21 Turks with fortunes estimated at $1 billion or greater.
The magazine cited the surge in emerging stock markets during the past year, with the number of billionaires around the world rising by 102 to a record 793.
Forbes magazine's 2006 rankings reported the combined wealth of the world's billionaires grew 18 percent to $2.6 trillion (2.18 trillion euro)."
More:Forbes richest list includes 21 Turkish billionaires - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
Saturday, March 11, 2006
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News
Forbes magazine this week released its annual list of the world's richest people, including 21 Turks with fortunes estimated at $1 billion or greater.
The magazine cited the surge in emerging stock markets during the past year, with the number of billionaires around the world rising by 102 to a record 793.
Forbes magazine's 2006 rankings reported the combined wealth of the world's billionaires grew 18 percent to $2.6 trillion (2.18 trillion euro)."
More:Forbes richest list includes 21 Turkish billionaires - Turkish Daily News Mar 11, 2006
Ombudswoman fury at treatment of Turkish Cypriot property enquiries
"Ombudswoman fury at treatment of Turkish Cypriot property enquiries
By Elias Hazou
OMBUDSWOMAN Iliana Nicolaou has lashed the government for giving the runaround to Turkish Cypriots inquiring about the status and value of their land in the free areas.
Nicolaou’s office was alerted to several cases where Turkish Cypriots owning land in the south areas before 1974 wrote to the Guardian of Turkish Cypriot Properties only to receive vague answers and generalities.
One Turkish Cypriot couple owning considerable property contacted the Guardian in May 2004. The couple wanted to know the legal status of their real estate, whether the property had been appropriated, the reason for the appropriation and the estimated amount of a possible compensation.
But with no response forthcoming for six months, the couple instructed their lawyer to write to the Interior Ministry, which acts as the Guardian."
More:Ombudswoman fury at treatment of Turkish Cypriot property enquiries
By Elias Hazou
OMBUDSWOMAN Iliana Nicolaou has lashed the government for giving the runaround to Turkish Cypriots inquiring about the status and value of their land in the free areas.
Nicolaou’s office was alerted to several cases where Turkish Cypriots owning land in the south areas before 1974 wrote to the Guardian of Turkish Cypriot Properties only to receive vague answers and generalities.
One Turkish Cypriot couple owning considerable property contacted the Guardian in May 2004. The couple wanted to know the legal status of their real estate, whether the property had been appropriated, the reason for the appropriation and the estimated amount of a possible compensation.
But with no response forthcoming for six months, the couple instructed their lawyer to write to the Interior Ministry, which acts as the Guardian."
More:Ombudswoman fury at treatment of Turkish Cypriot property enquiries
Two-faced on terrorism - Los Angeles Times
"Two-faced on terrorism
By Henri J. Barkey, HENRI J. BARKEY is chairman of the international relations department at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania.
March 11, 2006
WASHINGTON, Jerusalem and Brussels were shocked when the Turkish government recently invited the leader of Hamas, Khaled Meshaal, to Ankara. By hosting the leader of a terrorist organization — one that has taken terror to new heights with its suicide bombings of malls and city buses — Turkey undermined its own cause. After all, Turkey has for many years been campaigning to get its homegrown Kurdish insurgency classified as a terrorist group. The United States and European Union have done so. So the invitation to the Hamas leader was particularly strange coming from Turkey, even while Turkey is negotiating to join the EU. "
More:Two-faced on terrorism - Los Angeles Times
By Henri J. Barkey, HENRI J. BARKEY is chairman of the international relations department at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania.
March 11, 2006
WASHINGTON, Jerusalem and Brussels were shocked when the Turkish government recently invited the leader of Hamas, Khaled Meshaal, to Ankara. By hosting the leader of a terrorist organization — one that has taken terror to new heights with its suicide bombings of malls and city buses — Turkey undermined its own cause. After all, Turkey has for many years been campaigning to get its homegrown Kurdish insurgency classified as a terrorist group. The United States and European Union have done so. So the invitation to the Hamas leader was particularly strange coming from Turkey, even while Turkey is negotiating to join the EU. "
More:Two-faced on terrorism - Los Angeles Times
The New Anatolian-Kretschmer highlights Turkey's homework in EU bid
"Kretschmer highlights Turkey's homework in EU bid
The New Anatolian / Istanbul
European Commission Representative to Turkey Ambassador Hansjoerg Kretschmer listed Turkey's homework to join the 25-nation bloc on Thursday, giving top priority to the fulfillment of obligations before 2014.
Kretschmer made the remarks during his speech at a conference sponsored by the Kadir Has University in Istanbul, entitled 'Turkish-European Union Relations after October 3, 2005.'
Underlining that all European Union members must fulfill certain political and economic criteria, Kretschmer said, 'More freedom, more human rights and more democracy are needed by member states.' "
More:The New Anatolian
The New Anatolian / Istanbul
European Commission Representative to Turkey Ambassador Hansjoerg Kretschmer listed Turkey's homework to join the 25-nation bloc on Thursday, giving top priority to the fulfillment of obligations before 2014.
Kretschmer made the remarks during his speech at a conference sponsored by the Kadir Has University in Istanbul, entitled 'Turkish-European Union Relations after October 3, 2005.'
Underlining that all European Union members must fulfill certain political and economic criteria, Kretschmer said, 'More freedom, more human rights and more democracy are needed by member states.' "
More:The New Anatolian
The New Anatolian-EU: Iran standoff can be solved diplomatically but sanctions possible
"EU: Iran standoff can be solved diplomatically but sanctions possible
The Associated Press / Salzburg
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul on Friday joined top European Union officials where they stressed that a diplomatic solution over Iran's nuclear program is still possible, but also appeared to leave open the possibility of Tehran being hit by sanctions.
'The United Nations Security Council is not the end of the diplomatic route,' EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner told reporters in Salzburg at the start of a two-day unofficial meeting of foreign ministers."
More:The New Anatolian
The Associated Press / Salzburg
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul on Friday joined top European Union officials where they stressed that a diplomatic solution over Iran's nuclear program is still possible, but also appeared to leave open the possibility of Tehran being hit by sanctions.
'The United Nations Security Council is not the end of the diplomatic route,' EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner told reporters in Salzburg at the start of a two-day unofficial meeting of foreign ministers."
More:The New Anatolian
The New Anatolian-Plassnik: EU working to lift Turkish Cypriot embargo
"Plassnik: EU working to lift Turkish Cypriot embargo
The New Anatolian / Salzburg
The European Union is working to lift the embargo imposed on Turkish Cypriots, said Austrian Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik, whose country holds the rotating EU presidency, on Friday.
Speaking to the Anatolia news agency ahead of an unofficial meeting of EU-West Balkans foreign ministers in Salzburg, Plassnik noted that the EU approved a direct aid regulation for the Turkish Cypriots and is working for the approval of a direct trade regulation, a statement to lessen Turkish and Turkish Cypriot criticisms over the EU's approval of a direct aid regulation by decoupling it from direct trade."
More:The New Anatolian
The New Anatolian / Salzburg
The European Union is working to lift the embargo imposed on Turkish Cypriots, said Austrian Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik, whose country holds the rotating EU presidency, on Friday.
Speaking to the Anatolia news agency ahead of an unofficial meeting of EU-West Balkans foreign ministers in Salzburg, Plassnik noted that the EU approved a direct aid regulation for the Turkish Cypriots and is working for the approval of a direct trade regulation, a statement to lessen Turkish and Turkish Cypriot criticisms over the EU's approval of a direct aid regulation by decoupling it from direct trade."
More:The New Anatolian
Reuters AlertNet - Turkey warns of new bird flu risk as spring arrives
"Turkey warns of new bird flu risk as spring arrives
10 Mar 2006 15:00:39 GMT
Source: Reuters
ANKARA, March 10 (Reuters) - Turkey's agriculture minister said on Friday the country could face fresh outbreaks of bird flu this spring as migratory birds head north after wintering in warmer climes and he urged officials to be more vigilant."
More:Reuters AlertNet - Turkey warns of new bird flu risk as spring arrives
10 Mar 2006 15:00:39 GMT
Source: Reuters
ANKARA, March 10 (Reuters) - Turkey's agriculture minister said on Friday the country could face fresh outbreaks of bird flu this spring as migratory birds head north after wintering in warmer climes and he urged officials to be more vigilant."
More:Reuters AlertNet - Turkey warns of new bird flu risk as spring arrives
Turkey Included in EU's Strategic Energy Projects
"Turkey Included in EU's Strategic Energy Projects
By Selcuk Gultasli, Brussels
Published: Saturday, March 11, 2006
zaman.com
Turkey's strategic importance in terms of energy supply has been confirmed by the European Union.
The European Commission said Ankara is indispensable in supplying energy to the Union as four of the 10 pipeline projects to feed the continent in the next 5-10 years will pass from Turkey."
More:Turkey Included in EU's Strategic Energy Projects
By Selcuk Gultasli, Brussels
Published: Saturday, March 11, 2006
zaman.com
Turkey's strategic importance in terms of energy supply has been confirmed by the European Union.
The European Commission said Ankara is indispensable in supplying energy to the Union as four of the 10 pipeline projects to feed the continent in the next 5-10 years will pass from Turkey."
More:Turkey Included in EU's Strategic Energy Projects
Kurdish Info - Veteran General Tolaon: I also know he is a good kid
"Veteran General Tolaon: I also know he is a good kid
IZMIR(DIHA) - Veteran General Hursit Tolon who attended to panel arranged in Ataturk Thought Center had supported the statement of General Yasar Buyukanit about the member of JITEM Ali Kaya as ' I know he is a good kid' and said that ' I also know he is a good kid'
Ex-commander of military veteran General Hursit Tolon attended the panel ' Where Turkey goes' arranged in Ege University Culture Center by Association of Adherent of Ataturk Thoughts. Some professors by saying that they will take the attendance in the salon had made participation of students imperative in the panel which the Rector Ulku Bayindir, professors and many prosecutors attended."
More:Kurdish Info - Veteran General Tolaon: I also know he is a good kid
IZMIR(DIHA) - Veteran General Hursit Tolon who attended to panel arranged in Ataturk Thought Center had supported the statement of General Yasar Buyukanit about the member of JITEM Ali Kaya as ' I know he is a good kid' and said that ' I also know he is a good kid'
Ex-commander of military veteran General Hursit Tolon attended the panel ' Where Turkey goes' arranged in Ege University Culture Center by Association of Adherent of Ataturk Thoughts. Some professors by saying that they will take the attendance in the salon had made participation of students imperative in the panel which the Rector Ulku Bayindir, professors and many prosecutors attended."
More:Kurdish Info - Veteran General Tolaon: I also know he is a good kid
Telegraph | News | Britons' homes in Turkish Cyprus 'are safe'
"Britons' homes in Turkish Cyprus 'are safe'
By David Rennie
(Filed: 11/03/2006)
Thousands of British families who bought cheap houses or land in Northern Cyprus were told yesterday that their investments were secure, even if European courts ruled that their property was stolen from Greek owners during the 1974 division of the island."
More:Telegraph | News | Britons' homes in Turkish Cyprus 'are safe'
By David Rennie
(Filed: 11/03/2006)
Thousands of British families who bought cheap houses or land in Northern Cyprus were told yesterday that their investments were secure, even if European courts ruled that their property was stolen from Greek owners during the 1974 division of the island."
More:Telegraph | News | Britons' homes in Turkish Cyprus 'are safe'
Friday, March 10, 2006
CDA Wants New EU Category: Partnership
"CDA Wants New EU Category: Partnership
THE HAGUE, 11/03/06 - The Christian democrats (CDA) do not want to offer any new countries candidate EU membership offering prospects of full membership of the EU. Instead, countries such as Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia-Montenegro and Albania should be offered a 'Partnership', according to a discussion memorandum.
Partnership would be a new category not leading to membership, but still clearly involving closer partnership with the EU than the European Neighbourhood Policy, which now applies to a number of countries in the former Soviet Union. Partnership could also for the CDA be the outcome of the negotiations between Turkey and the EU, according to the document drawn up by a working party for the largest government party."
More:CDA Wants New EU Category: Partnership
THE HAGUE, 11/03/06 - The Christian democrats (CDA) do not want to offer any new countries candidate EU membership offering prospects of full membership of the EU. Instead, countries such as Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia-Montenegro and Albania should be offered a 'Partnership', according to a discussion memorandum.
Partnership would be a new category not leading to membership, but still clearly involving closer partnership with the EU than the European Neighbourhood Policy, which now applies to a number of countries in the former Soviet Union. Partnership could also for the CDA be the outcome of the negotiations between Turkey and the EU, according to the document drawn up by a working party for the largest government party."
More:CDA Wants New EU Category: Partnership
Anti-bribe clause in Japanese agreement draws Turkish ire
"Anti-bribe clause in Japanese agreement draws Turkish ire
Published: 3/10/2006
ANKARA - Turkish lawmakers rejected a 2.4 million dollar (two million euro) grant agreement with Japan because of a clause demanding that Turkey ensure the deal will be corruption-free, a senior parliamentarian said Friday."
More:Anti-bribe clause in Japanese agreement draws Turkish ire
Published: 3/10/2006
ANKARA - Turkish lawmakers rejected a 2.4 million dollar (two million euro) grant agreement with Japan because of a clause demanding that Turkey ensure the deal will be corruption-free, a senior parliamentarian said Friday."
More:Anti-bribe clause in Japanese agreement draws Turkish ire
Ditch the kebab, bring on Istanbul's French quarter - Cities - Times Online
"Ditch the kebab, bring on Istanbul's French quarter
Jill Hartley finds designer boutiques and rooftop bars all the rage, while Jeremy Seal provides the basics on where to eat, sleep, drink and how to plan a trip to Istanbul
If Tony Blair feels he is sinking too low in the polls at home, I suggest an ego-boosting trip to Turkey, where he is almost as revered as David Beckham. We wondered why the Turks were being so friendly on our final day in Istanbul (the restaurant where we had lunch even reduced the bill), until we saw Jack Straw’s mugshot staring back at us from the morning front pages."
More:Ditch the kebab, bring on Istanbul's French quarter - Cities - Times Online
Jill Hartley finds designer boutiques and rooftop bars all the rage, while Jeremy Seal provides the basics on where to eat, sleep, drink and how to plan a trip to Istanbul
If Tony Blair feels he is sinking too low in the polls at home, I suggest an ego-boosting trip to Turkey, where he is almost as revered as David Beckham. We wondered why the Turks were being so friendly on our final day in Istanbul (the restaurant where we had lunch even reduced the bill), until we saw Jack Straw’s mugshot staring back at us from the morning front pages."
More:Ditch the kebab, bring on Istanbul's French quarter - Cities - Times Online
ChessBase.com - Chess News - Turkish Championship in historical Pendik
"Turkish Championship in historical Pendik
09.03.2006 The town has remanents of dwellings from 5,000 BC. There are ancient Macedonian and Roman settlements. It was taken over by Turkey 1080 and the name changed from Pantikapeum to Pendik. Today this coastal Anatolian suburb of Istanbul is paying host to the Turkish Championship. Watch it live.
The Turkish Championship begins
2006 Turkish Chess Championship will begin in Pendik/Istanbul tomorrow by the sponsorship of Pendik Municipality. It will be a round robin tournament and has 14 participants. The championship is taking place in Pendik Town, which is on the Anatolian side of Istanbul."
More:ChessBase.com - Chess News - Turkish Championship in historical Pendik
09.03.2006 The town has remanents of dwellings from 5,000 BC. There are ancient Macedonian and Roman settlements. It was taken over by Turkey 1080 and the name changed from Pantikapeum to Pendik. Today this coastal Anatolian suburb of Istanbul is paying host to the Turkish Championship. Watch it live.
The Turkish Championship begins
2006 Turkish Chess Championship will begin in Pendik/Istanbul tomorrow by the sponsorship of Pendik Municipality. It will be a round robin tournament and has 14 participants. The championship is taking place in Pendik Town, which is on the Anatolian side of Istanbul."
More:ChessBase.com - Chess News - Turkish Championship in historical Pendik
REPORTER.GR-Turkey seeks to strengthen trade with Poland
"Turkey seeks to strengthen trade with Poland
13:23 - 10 March 2006 - Turkey's business partnerships with Poland have not reached capacity levels said Foreign Trade Minster Kürsad Tüzmen yesterday, in a meeting with his Polish counterpart, Piotr Wozniak, following several months of increased promotion of mutual trade between the two countries. "
More:REPORTER.GR
13:23 - 10 March 2006 - Turkey's business partnerships with Poland have not reached capacity levels said Foreign Trade Minster Kürsad Tüzmen yesterday, in a meeting with his Polish counterpart, Piotr Wozniak, following several months of increased promotion of mutual trade between the two countries. "
More:REPORTER.GR
Focus English News-Turkish President Vetoes Act Allowing Erbakan to Serve Sentence Under House Arrest
"Turkish President Vetoes Act Allowing Erbakan to Serve Sentence Under House Arrest
Ankara. Today Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer vetoed an act making possible former Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan to serve his sentence under house arrest, Turkish TV station TRT informs.
The Turkish President pointed out the changes in the act were against the principles of the constitutional state.
“We cannot adopt a law only to serve private interests and in favor of some persons”, Sezer stated. He noted the public knows the changes in the Execution of Sentences and Security Measures Act aim at solving the Erbakan case by allowing him to serve the rest of his sentence under house arrest without returning the money he has embezzled from the Turkish Treasury. "
More:Focus English News-"Turkish President Vetoes Act Allowing Erbakan to Serve Sentence Under House Arrest
Ankara. Today Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer vetoed an act making possible former Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan to serve his sentence under house arrest, Turkish TV station TRT informs.
The Turkish President pointed out the changes in the act were against the principles of the constitutional state.
“We cannot adopt a law only to serve private interests and in favor of some persons”, Sezer stated. He noted the public knows the changes in the Execution of Sentences and Security Measures Act aim at solving the Erbakan case by allowing him to serve the rest of his sentence under house arrest without returning the money he has embezzled from the Turkish Treasury. "
Ankara. Today Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer vetoed an act making possible former Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan to serve his sentence under house arrest, Turkish TV station TRT informs.
The Turkish President pointed out the changes in the act were against the principles of the constitutional state.
“We cannot adopt a law only to serve private interests and in favor of some persons”, Sezer stated. He noted the public knows the changes in the Execution of Sentences and Security Measures Act aim at solving the Erbakan case by allowing him to serve the rest of his sentence under house arrest without returning the money he has embezzled from the Turkish Treasury. "
More:Focus English News-"Turkish President Vetoes Act Allowing Erbakan to Serve Sentence Under House Arrest
Ankara. Today Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer vetoed an act making possible former Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan to serve his sentence under house arrest, Turkish TV station TRT informs.
The Turkish President pointed out the changes in the act were against the principles of the constitutional state.
“We cannot adopt a law only to serve private interests and in favor of some persons”, Sezer stated. He noted the public knows the changes in the Execution of Sentences and Security Measures Act aim at solving the Erbakan case by allowing him to serve the rest of his sentence under house arrest without returning the money he has embezzled from the Turkish Treasury. "
United Press International - Intl. Intelligence - Common Ground: In Brussels we trust?
"Common Ground: In Brussels we trust?
By IPAK RUZCAN
ANKARA, Turkey, March 10 (UPI) -- In a few weeks' time Turkish and European Union officials will sit down for the European Union entry talks, during which over thirty 'chapters' of European norms and standards will be discussed and reviewed. Turkey will have to comply with all of them before it can join the club.
The first session, covering standards and norms in science and research, will no doubt prove to be relatively unproblematic. But Ankara knows all too well that it is just a matter of time before such thorny issues as religious freedoms and human rights come up for discussion. For the Alevis, a cultural and religious group facing religious discrimination in Turkey, there is hope that the negotiations will bring needed relief."
More:United Press International - Intl. Intelligence - Common Ground: In Brussels we trust?
By IPAK RUZCAN
ANKARA, Turkey, March 10 (UPI) -- In a few weeks' time Turkish and European Union officials will sit down for the European Union entry talks, during which over thirty 'chapters' of European norms and standards will be discussed and reviewed. Turkey will have to comply with all of them before it can join the club.
The first session, covering standards and norms in science and research, will no doubt prove to be relatively unproblematic. But Ankara knows all too well that it is just a matter of time before such thorny issues as religious freedoms and human rights come up for discussion. For the Alevis, a cultural and religious group facing religious discrimination in Turkey, there is hope that the negotiations will bring needed relief."
More:United Press International - Intl. Intelligence - Common Ground: In Brussels we trust?
USATODAY.com - His hotel lights up the stars
"His hotel lights up the stars
BEVERLY HILLS — Oscar time was crunch time at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.
By Bob Riha, Jr., USA TODAY
The French Renaissance-style stone hotel near Rodeo Drive was sold out last weekend, packed with movie moguls and nominees in town for the ceremony.
Nominees Felicity Huffman and Terrence Howard were spotted. So were Uma Thurman, Joan Collins, Sean Penn. Chevy Chase jammed on the piano in the lobby lounge.
Latecomers not accustomed to hearing the word 'no' begged to get in. Some didn't.
Turning thumbs up or down on such pleas was longtime general manager Ali Kasikci. (Photo Gallery: Hotelier for a day)
The 50-year-old Turkish-born Kasikci (Ka-seek-ee ) is known as a top performer who has elevated The Peninsula's profile in his 14-year tenure. Its February occupancy was 85%, vs. 62% for the average U.S. lodging, according to preliminary figures from Smith Travel Research."
More:USATODAY.com - His hotel lights up the stars
BEVERLY HILLS — Oscar time was crunch time at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.
By Bob Riha, Jr., USA TODAY
The French Renaissance-style stone hotel near Rodeo Drive was sold out last weekend, packed with movie moguls and nominees in town for the ceremony.
Nominees Felicity Huffman and Terrence Howard were spotted. So were Uma Thurman, Joan Collins, Sean Penn. Chevy Chase jammed on the piano in the lobby lounge.
Latecomers not accustomed to hearing the word 'no' begged to get in. Some didn't.
Turning thumbs up or down on such pleas was longtime general manager Ali Kasikci. (Photo Gallery: Hotelier for a day)
The 50-year-old Turkish-born Kasikci (Ka-seek-ee ) is known as a top performer who has elevated The Peninsula's profile in his 14-year tenure. Its February occupancy was 85%, vs. 62% for the average U.S. lodging, according to preliminary figures from Smith Travel Research."
More:USATODAY.com - His hotel lights up the stars
Rehn: We’ll Carefully Examine Turkey's EU Course
"Rehn: We’ll Carefully Examine Turkey's EU Course
By Cihan, Athens
Published: Friday, March 10, 2006
zaman.com
European Union (EU) Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn said, 'The progress made by Turkey in the EU process will be evaluated religiously in the Commission's 2006 report.'
In his speech Thursday at the Foreign Relations Commission of the Greek Parliament the Commissioner said Turkey should carry out its responsibilities and meet the criteria and conditions in its EU process."
More:Rehn: We’ll Carefully Examine Turkey's EU Course
By Cihan, Athens
Published: Friday, March 10, 2006
zaman.com
European Union (EU) Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn said, 'The progress made by Turkey in the EU process will be evaluated religiously in the Commission's 2006 report.'
In his speech Thursday at the Foreign Relations Commission of the Greek Parliament the Commissioner said Turkey should carry out its responsibilities and meet the criteria and conditions in its EU process."
More:Rehn: We’ll Carefully Examine Turkey's EU Course
Residents tell 50 years of Istanbul in exhibition - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
"Residents tell 50 years of Istanbul in exhibition
Friday, March 10, 2006
The exposition titled 'Istanbul and its Districts in Memoirs,' which will kick off on March 25, features diverse and never-intersecting accounts of Istanbul told by people who lived in various districts of the city in 1950s"
More:Residents tell 50 years of Istanbul in exhibition - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
Friday, March 10, 2006
The exposition titled 'Istanbul and its Districts in Memoirs,' which will kick off on March 25, features diverse and never-intersecting accounts of Istanbul told by people who lived in various districts of the city in 1950s"
More:Residents tell 50 years of Istanbul in exhibition - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
The New Anatolian-Prudence, not ready answers about Semdinli indictment
"Prudence, not ready answers about Semdinli indictment
Cengiz Candar
ccandar@superonline.com
The Semdinli indictment is already much more than a judicial process to be conducted in normalcy in any democratic country, especially if that country is a 'country of accession' to the European Union.
For an outsider, the whole saga of the Semdinli case is incomprehensible. For an insider who happened to follow the latest developments from outside -- like myself -- it is equally incomprehensible. I had been out, in the Middle East,for a while and couldn't understand what was going on and why through reading the Turkish media reports and the commentaries on the case. This means that even those so-called insiders who were inside the country are extremely confused over making a prognosis on the developments."
More:The New Anatolian
Cengiz Candar
ccandar@superonline.com
The Semdinli indictment is already much more than a judicial process to be conducted in normalcy in any democratic country, especially if that country is a 'country of accession' to the European Union.
For an outsider, the whole saga of the Semdinli case is incomprehensible. For an insider who happened to follow the latest developments from outside -- like myself -- it is equally incomprehensible. I had been out, in the Middle East,for a while and couldn't understand what was going on and why through reading the Turkish media reports and the commentaries on the case. This means that even those so-called insiders who were inside the country are extremely confused over making a prognosis on the developments."
More:The New Anatolian
«Trend» news agency: News from Azerbaijan and South Caucasus
"We attach great importance to Turkish-Azerbaijani relationships – Minister Abdullah Gul
Source: Trend
Author: R.Abdullayev
10.03.2006
Exclusive interview of Trend with the Turkish Foreign Minister, Abdulla Gul
Question: How could you characterize the major principles of Ankara’s foreign policy in respect to the South Caucasus countries? What are your visions on the nearest perspectives of development of cooperation between Turkey and Azerbaijan?
Answer: Provision of security and stability in the South Caucasus has always been a priority direction of our foreign policy. Our relationships with the countries of the region are based on deep historic and culture roots. In this context we attach special importance to see in the South Caucasus independent, peacefully co-existing and cooperating countries with firm political and economic stability, as well as economic assistance to these countries."
More:«Trend» news agency: News from Azerbaijan and South Caucasus
Source: Trend
Author: R.Abdullayev
10.03.2006
Exclusive interview of Trend with the Turkish Foreign Minister, Abdulla Gul
Question: How could you characterize the major principles of Ankara’s foreign policy in respect to the South Caucasus countries? What are your visions on the nearest perspectives of development of cooperation between Turkey and Azerbaijan?
Answer: Provision of security and stability in the South Caucasus has always been a priority direction of our foreign policy. Our relationships with the countries of the region are based on deep historic and culture roots. In this context we attach special importance to see in the South Caucasus independent, peacefully co-existing and cooperating countries with firm political and economic stability, as well as economic assistance to these countries."
More:«Trend» news agency: News from Azerbaijan and South Caucasus
Indictment continues to rattle Parliament - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
"Indictment continues to rattle Parliament
Friday, March 10, 2006
Opposition calls for suspension of the prosecutor, resignation of a commission chairman and sees the ruling party as being behind it all "
More:Indictment continues to rattle Parliament - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
Friday, March 10, 2006
Opposition calls for suspension of the prosecutor, resignation of a commission chairman and sees the ruling party as being behind it all "
More:Indictment continues to rattle Parliament - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
Karagöz and Hacivat movie increases interest in shadow theater - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
"Karagöz and Hacivat movie increases interest in shadow theater
Friday, March 10, 2006
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
The movie by Ezel Akay �Hacivat Karagöz Neden Öldürüldü� (Why Hacivat and Karagöz were Executed), which is currently being screened in Turkish movie halls, has increased the interest in legendary traditional Turkish shadow theater �Karagöz and Hacivat.� "
More:Karagöz and Hacivat movie increases interest in shadow theater - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
Friday, March 10, 2006
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
The movie by Ezel Akay �Hacivat Karagöz Neden Öldürüldü� (Why Hacivat and Karagöz were Executed), which is currently being screened in Turkish movie halls, has increased the interest in legendary traditional Turkish shadow theater �Karagöz and Hacivat.� "
More:Karagöz and Hacivat movie increases interest in shadow theater - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
Will Russian investors replace Turks and Dutchmen in Azerbaijan? Azeri press digest - Russian News - REGNUM
"Will Russian investors replace Turks and Dutchmen in Azerbaijan? Azeri press digest
Armenia’s non-constructive position in the Karabakh peace process is pushing Azerbaijan into policy revision, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev says Mar 1, while opening a village of refugees and displaced people in Agdam region. He regrets that the long-term peace talks with Armenia have given no fruits, to date. There are certain hopes but they all are blasted by Armenia’s non-constructive position. Aliyev notes that he has always been and will be an advocate of cease-fire. Azerbaijan’s position is that the Karabakh conflict must be resolved by peace, and there is a special format for that: the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs are now consulting, and there are certain opportunities for finalizing the key principles. But Armenia is again non-constructive and disinterested in having the principles finalized. “And so, Azerbaijan should think over what to do,” says Aliyev. (AzerTag)"
More:Will Russian investors replace Turks and Dutchmen in Azerbaijan? Azeri press digest - Russian News - REGNUM
Armenia’s non-constructive position in the Karabakh peace process is pushing Azerbaijan into policy revision, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev says Mar 1, while opening a village of refugees and displaced people in Agdam region. He regrets that the long-term peace talks with Armenia have given no fruits, to date. There are certain hopes but they all are blasted by Armenia’s non-constructive position. Aliyev notes that he has always been and will be an advocate of cease-fire. Azerbaijan’s position is that the Karabakh conflict must be resolved by peace, and there is a special format for that: the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs are now consulting, and there are certain opportunities for finalizing the key principles. But Armenia is again non-constructive and disinterested in having the principles finalized. “And so, Azerbaijan should think over what to do,” says Aliyev. (AzerTag)"
More:Will Russian investors replace Turks and Dutchmen in Azerbaijan? Azeri press digest - Russian News - REGNUM
Turkish Cypriots to hold census this month
"Turkish Cypriots to hold census this month
By Simon Bahceli
POPULATION figures in the Turkish Cypriot-controlled north of the island will come under the spotlight again later this month when a general census is carried out on March 26.
Turkish Cypriot population figures have remained a contentious issue since the ethnic partition of the island in 1974, with argument raging over the number of Turkish Cypriots still living in the north. Greek Cypriot sources insist the number of Turkish mainland settlers on the island exceeds those of indigenous Turkish Cypriots. Such assertions are strongly contested by the Turkish Cypriot side.
Before the referendum on the Annan plan in 2004 the Turkish Cypriot authorities gave a list of 41,000 Turkish settlers it wished to see remain on the island after a solution to the Cyprus problem. The Annan plan actually allowed for 45,000."
More:Turkish Cypriots to hold census this month
By Simon Bahceli
POPULATION figures in the Turkish Cypriot-controlled north of the island will come under the spotlight again later this month when a general census is carried out on March 26.
Turkish Cypriot population figures have remained a contentious issue since the ethnic partition of the island in 1974, with argument raging over the number of Turkish Cypriots still living in the north. Greek Cypriot sources insist the number of Turkish mainland settlers on the island exceeds those of indigenous Turkish Cypriots. Such assertions are strongly contested by the Turkish Cypriot side.
Before the referendum on the Annan plan in 2004 the Turkish Cypriot authorities gave a list of 41,000 Turkish settlers it wished to see remain on the island after a solution to the Cyprus problem. The Annan plan actually allowed for 45,000."
More:Turkish Cypriots to hold census this month
What does the EU Commission say nowadays? - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
"What does the EU Commission say nowadays?
Friday, March 10, 2006
The European Commission’s Representative in Turkey Hansjoerg Kretschmer speaking at the World Bank meeting on 'Promoting Sustained Growth and Convergence with the European Union' on Monday, repeated that our country could technically become a member in 2014. In order to keep to this schedule, he said the accession negotiations need to be completed by 2012 at the latest. "
More:What does the EU Commission say nowadays? - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
Friday, March 10, 2006
The European Commission’s Representative in Turkey Hansjoerg Kretschmer speaking at the World Bank meeting on 'Promoting Sustained Growth and Convergence with the European Union' on Monday, repeated that our country could technically become a member in 2014. In order to keep to this schedule, he said the accession negotiations need to be completed by 2012 at the latest. "
More:What does the EU Commission say nowadays? - Turkish Daily News Mar 10, 2006
EUobserver.com
"EU urges Turkey to keep its word on Cyprus
10.03.2006 - 09:58 CET | By Lucia Kubosova
EU enlargement commissioner Olli Rehn has urged Turkey to open its ports and airspace to Greek Cypriot ships and planes, if it wants to proceed smoothly with membership talks.
Ankara agreed to extend a customs union agreement to the EU's new member states, including the divided island of Cyprus, before officially launching membership talks last October."
More:EUobserver.com
10.03.2006 - 09:58 CET | By Lucia Kubosova
EU enlargement commissioner Olli Rehn has urged Turkey to open its ports and airspace to Greek Cypriot ships and planes, if it wants to proceed smoothly with membership talks.
Ankara agreed to extend a customs union agreement to the EU's new member states, including the divided island of Cyprus, before officially launching membership talks last October."
More:EUobserver.com
Scotsman.com News - Latest News - More victims of Turkish bus crash
"More victims of Turkish bus crash
The bodies of four more passengers were pulled from a Turkish river, as rescuers attempted to account for all of the people missing after a bus plunged from a cliff.
There are now 20 people known killed in the accident, which media reports said occurred after the driver fell asleep and his vehicle ran off the road and into the Kelkit River."
More:Scotsman.com News - Latest News - More victims of Turkish bus crash
The bodies of four more passengers were pulled from a Turkish river, as rescuers attempted to account for all of the people missing after a bus plunged from a cliff.
There are now 20 people known killed in the accident, which media reports said occurred after the driver fell asleep and his vehicle ran off the road and into the Kelkit River."
More:Scotsman.com News - Latest News - More victims of Turkish bus crash
World Bank spells out a reform agenda for Turkey | European Union Enlargement
"World Bank spells out a reform agenda for Turkey
In Short:
Unemployment and education are among the key issues Turkey is advised by the World Bank to address during its journey toward EU membership.
RELATED
* EU-Turkey relations
* EU-Turkey negotiations
Brief News:
In its fresh report entitled 'Turkey: Country economic memorandum 2006,' the World Bank recognises Ankara's reform efforts and economic performance to date and directs attention to future steps to be taken.
The key recommendations include:
* creating new job opportunities and getting more women into the work force
* reducing the 'black economy'
* improving the quality of policy co-ordination across different parts of the country's public administration
* tighter measures to rationalise expenditures, while at the same time increasing the budget for education, infrastructural and rural development and environment
* continuing with reforms to improve tax efficiency and broaden the tax base
* continuing with a determined debt reduction process
* removing administrative barriers to businesses
* advancing with state aid system reform
* boosting technology adoption and innovation
* promoting social inclusion"
More:World Bank spells out a reform agenda for Turkey | European Union Enlargement
In Short:
Unemployment and education are among the key issues Turkey is advised by the World Bank to address during its journey toward EU membership.
RELATED
* EU-Turkey relations
* EU-Turkey negotiations
Brief News:
In its fresh report entitled 'Turkey: Country economic memorandum 2006,' the World Bank recognises Ankara's reform efforts and economic performance to date and directs attention to future steps to be taken.
The key recommendations include:
* creating new job opportunities and getting more women into the work force
* reducing the 'black economy'
* improving the quality of policy co-ordination across different parts of the country's public administration
* tighter measures to rationalise expenditures, while at the same time increasing the budget for education, infrastructural and rural development and environment
* continuing with reforms to improve tax efficiency and broaden the tax base
* continuing with a determined debt reduction process
* removing administrative barriers to businesses
* advancing with state aid system reform
* boosting technology adoption and innovation
* promoting social inclusion"
More:World Bank spells out a reform agenda for Turkey | European Union Enlargement
Interview with Nuri Colakoglu on Istanbul's 2010 Cultural Capital bid | European Union Languages & Culture
"Interview with Nuri Colakoglu on Istanbul's 2010 Cultural Capital bid
In Short:
The chairman of the Executive Committee of Istanbul's bid for the title of Cultural Capital of Europe in 2010 is convinced that Istanbul's long history has enabled the city to 'design a sui generis concept of cosmopolitanism.' If named as a Cultural Capital, the city will 'serve as a showcase of living together.'
Istanbul is a contender for the coveted title of Cultural Capital of Europe in 2010. What are the main motivations behind the city’s application? "
More:Interview with Nuri Colakoglu on Istanbul's 2010 Cultural Capital bid | European Union Languages & Culture
In Short:
The chairman of the Executive Committee of Istanbul's bid for the title of Cultural Capital of Europe in 2010 is convinced that Istanbul's long history has enabled the city to 'design a sui generis concept of cosmopolitanism.' If named as a Cultural Capital, the city will 'serve as a showcase of living together.'
Istanbul is a contender for the coveted title of Cultural Capital of Europe in 2010. What are the main motivations behind the city’s application? "
More:Interview with Nuri Colakoglu on Istanbul's 2010 Cultural Capital bid | European Union Languages & Culture
Hürriyet-Ankara receives advance support from Baradei on nuclear power
"Ankara receives advance support from Baradei on nuclear power
The president of the International Atomic Energy Commission, Mohammed El Baradei, has said publicly that he would support Ankara's quest for nuclear energy. Baradei's statement comes at a time when the world press is focused on Iran's controversial attempts to start up its own purportedly peaceful nuclear program. Baradei did not, within this framework, that Turkey's role in the tension with Iran over nuclear power was big, saying 'I see no other country which can successfully bring about dialogue between the two sides.'"
More:Hürriyet
The president of the International Atomic Energy Commission, Mohammed El Baradei, has said publicly that he would support Ankara's quest for nuclear energy. Baradei's statement comes at a time when the world press is focused on Iran's controversial attempts to start up its own purportedly peaceful nuclear program. Baradei did not, within this framework, that Turkey's role in the tension with Iran over nuclear power was big, saying 'I see no other country which can successfully bring about dialogue between the two sides.'"
More:Hürriyet
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Freedom of Thought Prize awarded to Turkish journalists
"Freedom of Thought Prize awarded to Turkish journalists
Two Turkish journalists working in Belgium were recently honored for more than 30 years of covering human rights in their home country.
The Human Rights Association of Turkey gave the 2006 Ayse Zarakolu Freedom of Thought Prize to Dogan Ozguden and Inci Tugsavul. The two journalists founded Info-Turk, an NGO that reports on issues that are controversial in Turkey, such as anti-Semitism and the Armenian Genocide. They are subject to arrest in their home country, for alleged “crimes of opinion” and insults to “Turkishness.”"
More:Freedom of Thought Prize awarded to Turkish journalists
Two Turkish journalists working in Belgium were recently honored for more than 30 years of covering human rights in their home country.
The Human Rights Association of Turkey gave the 2006 Ayse Zarakolu Freedom of Thought Prize to Dogan Ozguden and Inci Tugsavul. The two journalists founded Info-Turk, an NGO that reports on issues that are controversial in Turkey, such as anti-Semitism and the Armenian Genocide. They are subject to arrest in their home country, for alleged “crimes of opinion” and insults to “Turkishness.”"
More:Freedom of Thought Prize awarded to Turkish journalists
EUROPA - Rapid - Deepening and widening: the false dichotomy- Mr Olli Rehn
""Deepening and widening: the false dichotomy- Mr Olli Rehn-Public lecture at the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP)
....As regards Turkey, the 3rd of October 2005 was definitely a turning point in the history of EU-Turkey relations – and a key decision for the whole continent. The aim of launching launching accession negotiations is to achieve a key strategic assumption: the European Union needs, for its own interest, a stable, democratic, stable and prosperous Turkey, which respects human rights and the rule of law, is able to implement our policies, meet our standards and which remains a strong and reliable ally in today’s world.
For those who still question the strategic value of such a step, I simply invite them to look at the news: on issues as different as the energy crisis, Iran, Iraq or the cartoons crisis, Turkey appears as a key player which we absolutely need on our side or as a bridge and a moderator between civilisations.
Clearly, we all know, and the Turks know it even better, that it will be a long and winding road before accession can take place. At the technical level, the negotiation process is proceeding relatively well, and I’m confident that the first chapter (on Science and Research) will be opened soon."
More:EUROPA - Rapid - Press Releases
....As regards Turkey, the 3rd of October 2005 was definitely a turning point in the history of EU-Turkey relations – and a key decision for the whole continent. The aim of launching launching accession negotiations is to achieve a key strategic assumption: the European Union needs, for its own interest, a stable, democratic, stable and prosperous Turkey, which respects human rights and the rule of law, is able to implement our policies, meet our standards and which remains a strong and reliable ally in today’s world.
For those who still question the strategic value of such a step, I simply invite them to look at the news: on issues as different as the energy crisis, Iran, Iraq or the cartoons crisis, Turkey appears as a key player which we absolutely need on our side or as a bridge and a moderator between civilisations.
Clearly, we all know, and the Turks know it even better, that it will be a long and winding road before accession can take place. At the technical level, the negotiation process is proceeding relatively well, and I’m confident that the first chapter (on Science and Research) will be opened soon."
More:EUROPA - Rapid - Press Releases
TownOnline.com - Follen Church members, Muslim friends represented
"Follen Church members, Muslim friends represented
Thursday, March 9, 2006
In the summer of 2001, a Unitarian Universalist-Muslim dialogue group was planned by Rev. Lucinda Duncan and Maggie Herzig from Follen Church (UU) and Imam Salih Yucel of the Boston Dialogue Foundation, a Turkish Muslim group. Their first meeting was set for mid-September. Little did the groups know at that time how important their dialogue would be in the increasingly polarized post-9/11 world."
More:TownOnline.com - Arts & Lifestyle: Follen Church members, Muslim friends represented
Thursday, March 9, 2006
In the summer of 2001, a Unitarian Universalist-Muslim dialogue group was planned by Rev. Lucinda Duncan and Maggie Herzig from Follen Church (UU) and Imam Salih Yucel of the Boston Dialogue Foundation, a Turkish Muslim group. Their first meeting was set for mid-September. Little did the groups know at that time how important their dialogue would be in the increasingly polarized post-9/11 world."
More:TownOnline.com - Arts & Lifestyle: Follen Church members, Muslim friends represented
Accountability or what? - Turkish Daily News Mar 09, 2006
"Accountability or what?
Thursday, March 9, 2006
Yusuf KANLI
There are remarks from some circles stressing that a civilian prosecutor making charges about a senior commander of the Turkish Armed Forces and in a way urging that he be tried at a military tribunal is a demonstration of the deepening of European Union-oriented reforms and consolidation of the civilian authority over the military."
More:Accountability or what? - Turkish Daily News Mar 09, 2006
Thursday, March 9, 2006
Yusuf KANLI
There are remarks from some circles stressing that a civilian prosecutor making charges about a senior commander of the Turkish Armed Forces and in a way urging that he be tried at a military tribunal is a demonstration of the deepening of European Union-oriented reforms and consolidation of the civilian authority over the military."
More:Accountability or what? - Turkish Daily News Mar 09, 2006
German holiday bookings to Turkey rise after bird flu slump - industry assn - Forbes.com
"German holiday bookings to Turkey rise after bird flu slump - industry assn
03.09.2006, 08:31 AM
BERLIN (AFX) - Bookings to Turkey have risen again following a previous slump when bird flu was discovered in the country, the head of the German Tourist Association Klaus Laepple said at the international travel fair in Berlin.
Laepple does not think the industry will see a decline in bookings to Turkey this year compared to last year."
More:German holiday bookings to Turkey rise after bird flu slump - industry assn - Forbes.com
03.09.2006, 08:31 AM
BERLIN (AFX) - Bookings to Turkey have risen again following a previous slump when bird flu was discovered in the country, the head of the German Tourist Association Klaus Laepple said at the international travel fair in Berlin.
Laepple does not think the industry will see a decline in bookings to Turkey this year compared to last year."
More:German holiday bookings to Turkey rise after bird flu slump - industry assn - Forbes.com
EU Steps Back, Turkey Allows Native Tongue Broadcasts
"EU Steps Back, Turkey Allows Native Tongue Broadcasts
By Emre Demir, Strasbourg
Published: Thursday, March 09, 2006
zaman.com
Turkey's Supreme Board of Radio and Television (RTUK) have given permission for three local channels to broadcast programs nonstop in Kurdish.
However, several European Union countries prefer the limitation of minority language broadcasts, even though the EU set granting permission for Kurdish broadcasts as a precondition to start full membership negotiations. Greece does not permit Turkish broadcasts, while Denmark and Sweden ended Turkish broadcasting on the state radio in February."
More:EU Steps Back, Turkey Allows Native Tongue Broadcasts
By Emre Demir, Strasbourg
Published: Thursday, March 09, 2006
zaman.com
Turkey's Supreme Board of Radio and Television (RTUK) have given permission for three local channels to broadcast programs nonstop in Kurdish.
However, several European Union countries prefer the limitation of minority language broadcasts, even though the EU set granting permission for Kurdish broadcasts as a precondition to start full membership negotiations. Greece does not permit Turkish broadcasts, while Denmark and Sweden ended Turkish broadcasting on the state radio in February."
More:EU Steps Back, Turkey Allows Native Tongue Broadcasts
TAV Takes 'Finance Oscar'
"TAV Takes 'Finance Oscar'
By Anadolu News Agency (aa), Istanbul
Published: Thursday, March 09, 2006
zaman.com
The Turkish airport operating and management consortium, Tepe-Akfen (TAV), won an EMEA award, known as the “Finance Oscar” presented to the most successful finance projects."
More:TAV Takes 'Finance Oscar'
By Anadolu News Agency (aa), Istanbul
Published: Thursday, March 09, 2006
zaman.com
The Turkish airport operating and management consortium, Tepe-Akfen (TAV), won an EMEA award, known as the “Finance Oscar” presented to the most successful finance projects."
More:TAV Takes 'Finance Oscar'
Anatolian offers reach for Sky
"Anatolian offers reach for Sky
(Travel Weekly Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge)
ANATOLIAN Sky has launched its 2006 Turkey and North Cyprus programme with a raft of special offers.
The operator is offering breaks from 299, early savings of up to 290 per person and high-season savings of up to 50 a person.
Managing director Akin Koc said he expects the offers to help the operator fill its capacity, having already sold 60%.
Early summer covers April, May, June and the beginning of July."
More:Anatolian offers reach for Sky
(Travel Weekly Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge)
ANATOLIAN Sky has launched its 2006 Turkey and North Cyprus programme with a raft of special offers.
The operator is offering breaks from 299, early savings of up to 290 per person and high-season savings of up to 50 a person.
Managing director Akin Koc said he expects the offers to help the operator fill its capacity, having already sold 60%.
Early summer covers April, May, June and the beginning of July."
More:Anatolian offers reach for Sky
Racism : Moratinos criticises Sebta satirical song against Muslims :: moroccoTimes.com
"Moratinos criticises Sebta satirical song against Muslims
Morocco TIMES 3/9/2006 | 7:59 pm
Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos last week reproached a song insulting Muslims, which won the top award of a local Chirigota festival recently held in Sebta, a Moroccan northern city still occupied by Spain.
The song includes the words, “Hitler made a mistake … the Turks are animals … bastard Moros.” "
More:Racism : Moratinos criticises Sebta satirical song against Muslims :: moroccoTimes.com
Morocco TIMES 3/9/2006 | 7:59 pm
Spanish Foreign Minister Miguel Angel Moratinos last week reproached a song insulting Muslims, which won the top award of a local Chirigota festival recently held in Sebta, a Moroccan northern city still occupied by Spain.
The song includes the words, “Hitler made a mistake … the Turks are animals … bastard Moros.” "
More:Racism : Moratinos criticises Sebta satirical song against Muslims :: moroccoTimes.com
BakuTODAY.net - Azerbaijani And Turkish Diaspora Consolidate Their Efforts
"Azerbaijani And Turkish Diaspora Consolidate Their Efforts
Turan 10/03/2006 02:08
Six hundred and fifty delegates from Azerbaijan and approximately 600 representatives of the country's Diaspora from 44 countries will participate in the second 'Azerbaijanis of the World' Congress to be held in Baku on March 16, head of the State Committee for Work with the Diaspora Nazim Nbrahimov said at a press-conference today. "
BakuTODAY.net - Azerbaijani And Turkish Diaspora Consolidate Their Efforts
Turan 10/03/2006 02:08
Six hundred and fifty delegates from Azerbaijan and approximately 600 representatives of the country's Diaspora from 44 countries will participate in the second 'Azerbaijanis of the World' Congress to be held in Baku on March 16, head of the State Committee for Work with the Diaspora Nazim Nbrahimov said at a press-conference today. "
BakuTODAY.net - Azerbaijani And Turkish Diaspora Consolidate Their Efforts
Belgium Allows Terrorist to Escape | The Brussels Journal
"Belgium Allows Terrorist to Escape
From the desk of Paul Belien on Thu, 2006-03-09 15:05
Two weeks ago, a terrorist managed to escape arrest in Brussels, despite being
under surveillance by 32 agents of the Belgian state security, the Sûreté de l’Etat (SdE). Belgium is an inherently corrupt state. The prototype of what the European Union as a federal state is likely to become. I have argued for some time (The Spectator, 13 July 2002) that it is no coincidence that Belgium has become a safe haven for international terrorists. Artificial states like Belgium (The Salisbury Review, December 2003) tend to be corrupt (The Wall Street Journal, 12 September 1996) because no-one identifies with the state. Hence, it is no surprise that no-one in the Belgian government refuses to accept responsibility for the escape of Fehriye Erdal."
More:Belgium Allows Terrorist to Escape | The Brussels Journal
From the desk of Paul Belien on Thu, 2006-03-09 15:05
Two weeks ago, a terrorist managed to escape arrest in Brussels, despite being
under surveillance by 32 agents of the Belgian state security, the Sûreté de l’Etat (SdE). Belgium is an inherently corrupt state. The prototype of what the European Union as a federal state is likely to become. I have argued for some time (The Spectator, 13 July 2002) that it is no coincidence that Belgium has become a safe haven for international terrorists. Artificial states like Belgium (The Salisbury Review, December 2003) tend to be corrupt (The Wall Street Journal, 12 September 1996) because no-one identifies with the state. Hence, it is no surprise that no-one in the Belgian government refuses to accept responsibility for the escape of Fehriye Erdal."
More:Belgium Allows Terrorist to Escape | The Brussels Journal
Turkish General Accused in Bookshop Bombing - New York Times
"Turkish General Accused in Bookshop Bombing
By SEBNEM ARSU
Published: March 9, 2006
ISTANBUL, March 9 - A rift between Turkey’s Islamic-leaning government and the secular military showed signs of growing this week when a civilian prosecutor suggested that a prominent general was behind covert illegal operations in the Kurdish southeastern region."
More:Turkish General Accused in Bookshop Bombing - New York Times
By SEBNEM ARSU
Published: March 9, 2006
ISTANBUL, March 9 - A rift between Turkey’s Islamic-leaning government and the secular military showed signs of growing this week when a civilian prosecutor suggested that a prominent general was behind covert illegal operations in the Kurdish southeastern region."
More:Turkish General Accused in Bookshop Bombing - New York Times
bitterlemons-international.org - Middle East Roundtable
"Halal Turkey
Soner Cagaptay and Duden Yegenoglu
Turkey is cool nowadays. Istanbul bustles with designer high-rises, fusion restaurants in the gentrifying Beyoglu neighborhood, and a Picasso exhibit in the Sabanci museum on the Bosphorus. The city's new museum of modern art overlooking the Ottoman Topkapi Palace teems with visitors. Istanbul has all the signs of a city that is coming of age as a world-class metropolis."
More:bitterlemons-international.org - Middle East Roundtable
Soner Cagaptay and Duden Yegenoglu
Turkey is cool nowadays. Istanbul bustles with designer high-rises, fusion restaurants in the gentrifying Beyoglu neighborhood, and a Picasso exhibit in the Sabanci museum on the Bosphorus. The city's new museum of modern art overlooking the Ottoman Topkapi Palace teems with visitors. Istanbul has all the signs of a city that is coming of age as a world-class metropolis."
More:bitterlemons-international.org - Middle East Roundtable
LONDRA GAZETE ::Bullying effects 1 in 4 Turkish pupils
"Bullying effects 1 in 4 Turkish pupils
Shock new figures published this week have revealed that one in four pupils from Turkish, Kurdish and Turkish Cypriot backgrounds are likely to have experienced racist bullying at school."
More:LONDRA GAZETE :Bullying effects 1 in 4 Turkish pupils
Shock new figures published this week have revealed that one in four pupils from Turkish, Kurdish and Turkish Cypriot backgrounds are likely to have experienced racist bullying at school."
More:LONDRA GAZETE :Bullying effects 1 in 4 Turkish pupils
LONDRA GAZETE :: Proceeds to go to Turkish schools
"Proceeds to go to Turkish schools
PROCEEDS of a concert given on Saturday by the Kyrenia Choir will go to Turkish supplementary school in London, it was announced."
More:Proceeds to go to Turkish schools
PROCEEDS of a concert given on Saturday by the Kyrenia Choir will go to Turkish supplementary school in London, it was announced."
More:Proceeds to go to Turkish schools
LONDRA GAZETE :: 'Where would we be if not for Atatürk'?
"'Where would we be if not for Atatürk'?
A WOMEN’S conference held by the Anatolia Cultural Centre on Friday to mark International Women’s Day presented an analysis of Atatürk’s reforms and their effects on the status of women in Turkey."
More:LONDRA GAZETE :'Where would we be if not for Atatürk'?
A WOMEN’S conference held by the Anatolia Cultural Centre on Friday to mark International Women’s Day presented an analysis of Atatürk’s reforms and their effects on the status of women in Turkey."
More:LONDRA GAZETE :'Where would we be if not for Atatürk'?
Turkish Military Probe: Violence in Van Overshadows Turkey EU Bid - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News
"Violence in Van Overshadows Turkey EU Bid
A bomb exploded in Turkey's troubled Kurdish-dominated southeast on Thursday killing at least three people. The attack comes only a day after the country's Justice Ministry said it was investigating a regional prosecutor who claims a top Turkish general is trying to foment violence there."
More:Turkish Military Probe: Violence in Van Overshadows Turkey EU Bid - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News
A bomb exploded in Turkey's troubled Kurdish-dominated southeast on Thursday killing at least three people. The attack comes only a day after the country's Justice Ministry said it was investigating a regional prosecutor who claims a top Turkish general is trying to foment violence there."
More:Turkish Military Probe: Violence in Van Overshadows Turkey EU Bid - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News
The New Anatolian-The bright image of Turkey in the Arab world (2)
"The bright image of Turkey in the Arab world (2)
Abdel Halim Ghazaly
ghazaly1@gmail.com
It is highly important to explain the Arab world's perception of the Justice and Development Party�s (AKP) landslide victory in the general elections held in November 2002, as this is mainly seen as historic defeat of the extreme secular political forces which were usually accused of being the enemy of Turkey's Islamic identity which monopolized power for decades. Some Arab commentators and intellectuals, however, described the outcome of the election as a similar defeat of the traditional conservative political Islamic trend dubbed �reactionary� and against full-fledged democracy that secures the fundamental freedoms of society."
More:The New Anatolian
Abdel Halim Ghazaly
ghazaly1@gmail.com
It is highly important to explain the Arab world's perception of the Justice and Development Party�s (AKP) landslide victory in the general elections held in November 2002, as this is mainly seen as historic defeat of the extreme secular political forces which were usually accused of being the enemy of Turkey's Islamic identity which monopolized power for decades. Some Arab commentators and intellectuals, however, described the outcome of the election as a similar defeat of the traditional conservative political Islamic trend dubbed �reactionary� and against full-fledged democracy that secures the fundamental freedoms of society."
More:The New Anatolian
The New Anatolian-Western countries create new posts at Ankara embassies
"Western countries create new posts at Ankara embassies
Zeynep Gurcanli
gurcanli@thenewanatolian.com
It is difficult to position Turkey within the global framework:
Is it a Western or an Eastern country? Can we describe Turkey by using Western democratic values, or should we also insist upon 'special conditions' arising from its geographical location?
Positioning a country within the global framework is also related to the approach of other countries, especially the bigger and influential ones. And one of the main indicators of this view are the diplomats posted to this specific country."
More:The New Anatolian
Zeynep Gurcanli
gurcanli@thenewanatolian.com
It is difficult to position Turkey within the global framework:
Is it a Western or an Eastern country? Can we describe Turkey by using Western democratic values, or should we also insist upon 'special conditions' arising from its geographical location?
Positioning a country within the global framework is also related to the approach of other countries, especially the bigger and influential ones. And one of the main indicators of this view are the diplomats posted to this specific country."
More:The New Anatolian
People's Daily Online -- European Parl't welcomes positive signals from UN-Cypriot meeting
"European Parl't welcomes positive signals from UN-Cypriot meeting
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut
European Parliament's High Level Contact Group welcomed on Tuesday 'the positive signals' from a recent meeting of UN Secretary General Annan and Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos over the resumption of reunification talks in Cyprus.
The seven-member group made the remarks in a statement issued here at a press conference after visiting both the Turkish Cypriot north and the Greek Cypriot south on Monday and Tuesday."
More:People's Daily Online -- European Parl't welcomes positive signals from UN-Cypriot meeting
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut
European Parliament's High Level Contact Group welcomed on Tuesday 'the positive signals' from a recent meeting of UN Secretary General Annan and Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos over the resumption of reunification talks in Cyprus.
The seven-member group made the remarks in a statement issued here at a press conference after visiting both the Turkish Cypriot north and the Greek Cypriot south on Monday and Tuesday."
More:People's Daily Online -- European Parl't welcomes positive signals from UN-Cypriot meeting
Whittier Daily News -Small group ventures into great issues
"Small group ventures into great issues
Locals affiliated with United Nations
By Pam Wight Staff Writer
WHITTIER - Joining a talk about Turkey's entry into the European Union seemed a topic well within John Frantz's repertoire.
As an avid reader and seeker of knowledge, the 70-year-old Whittier resident thought it was a subject he knew something about.
But after attending his first 'Great Decisions' discussion at the First Friend's Church in Whittier Wednesday, Frantz realized he had something to learn.
'I didn't realize how much I didn't know,' said Frantz, who only recently expanded his intellectual areas of interest from philosophy and religion to politics."
More:Whittier Daily News - News
Locals affiliated with United Nations
By Pam Wight Staff Writer
WHITTIER - Joining a talk about Turkey's entry into the European Union seemed a topic well within John Frantz's repertoire.
As an avid reader and seeker of knowledge, the 70-year-old Whittier resident thought it was a subject he knew something about.
But after attending his first 'Great Decisions' discussion at the First Friend's Church in Whittier Wednesday, Frantz realized he had something to learn.
'I didn't realize how much I didn't know,' said Frantz, who only recently expanded his intellectual areas of interest from philosophy and religion to politics."
More:Whittier Daily News - News
Focus English News-Turkish Central Bank Monetary Reserves Amount to Over USD 57.5 Billion
"Turkish Central Bank Monetary Reserves Amount to Over USD 57.5 Billion
9 March 2006 | 13:06 | FOCUS News Agency
Ankara. During the week February 24th-March 3rd the monetary reserves of the Turkish Central Bank have increased by USD 1.14 billion and have reached the record level of USD 57.5 billion, ANKA news agency informs.
The biggest contribution for that has the external contractual loan of EUR 750 million (about USD 900 million).
There is no change in the gold reserves of the bank and they remain at USD 1.915 billion."
More:Focus English News
9 March 2006 | 13:06 | FOCUS News Agency
Ankara. During the week February 24th-March 3rd the monetary reserves of the Turkish Central Bank have increased by USD 1.14 billion and have reached the record level of USD 57.5 billion, ANKA news agency informs.
The biggest contribution for that has the external contractual loan of EUR 750 million (about USD 900 million).
There is no change in the gold reserves of the bank and they remain at USD 1.915 billion."
More:Focus English News
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