"'A chance for Europe and a chance for Turkey'
Visit by a women's committee delegation to Istanbul and Ankara
(31/1/2005 - 2/2/2005) Lissy Gr�ner, SPD-MEP
'In December last year, 407 MEPs voted 'Yes' to giving the green light to entry negotiations with Ankara. At the same time, they also emphasised that this was no guarantee of entry and that respect for human rights has to be a central concern in all spheres,' stresses Lissy Gr�ner, SPD MEP, PES Group coordinator within the Committee for Equal Opportunities and Women's Rights.
'Like all other accession countries, the Turks must comply with the Copenhagen criteria before being admitted.'
'In specific terms of the rights of, and equal status for, women on the Bosporus and, in particular, violence against them, a great deal still has to be done. The trip undertaken by the women's committee delegation will help pave the way for a report on the situation facing women in Turkey. "
More:News - Parliamentary Group of the Party of European Socialists
Monday, January 31, 2005
Hitites to be Made 'World Famous'
"Hitites to be Made 'World Famous'
By Burcin Selcuk Dokgoz
Published: Monday 31, 2005
zaman.com
The Hitites civilization will be presented at the International Tourism Fair, which will be organized in Brussels, Belgium. An 11-people delegation consisting of businessmen and tourism sector professionals under the auspice of Corum Governor Huseyin Poroy will make the presentation of the Hitites civilization and Corum at the fair to be held between February 2nd and 8th. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005020116137)
By Burcin Selcuk Dokgoz
Published: Monday 31, 2005
zaman.com
The Hitites civilization will be presented at the International Tourism Fair, which will be organized in Brussels, Belgium. An 11-people delegation consisting of businessmen and tourism sector professionals under the auspice of Corum Governor Huseyin Poroy will make the presentation of the Hitites civilization and Corum at the fair to be held between February 2nd and 8th. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005020116137)
The Journal of Turkish Weekly:Turkish PM' Iraq Concerns: US Failed in Halt Separatism in Northern Iraq
"Turkish PM' Iraq Concerns: US Failed in Halt Separatism in Northern Iraq
Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has criticised the US for failing to halt what he called Kurdish efforts to dominate the oil-rich city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq.
Turkey believes Iraqi Kurds, who voted in large numbers in Sunday's election, are trying to wrest control of Kirkuk at the expense of local Arabs and Turkish-speaking Turkmen (Turkomans).
Turkish authorities say that US President George Bush assured Turkey he would look into the matter, but had done nothing so far.
Turkish PM Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey is taking its own precautions over Kirkuk."
More:The Journal of Turkish Weekly
Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has criticised the US for failing to halt what he called Kurdish efforts to dominate the oil-rich city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq.
Turkey believes Iraqi Kurds, who voted in large numbers in Sunday's election, are trying to wrest control of Kirkuk at the expense of local Arabs and Turkish-speaking Turkmen (Turkomans).
Turkish authorities say that US President George Bush assured Turkey he would look into the matter, but had done nothing so far.
Turkish PM Tayyip Erdogan says Turkey is taking its own precautions over Kirkuk."
More:The Journal of Turkish Weekly
The New York Times > Arts > Art & Design > Turkey Knocks on Europe's Door With a Thousand Years of Culture
"Turkey Knocks on Europe's Door With a Thousand Years of Culture
By ALAN RIDING
Published: February 1, 2005
ONDON - The Turks marched into central Europe in 1529 and again in 1683, but their troops were stopped at the gates of Vienna. Now, more politely, Turkey is looking to enter the European Union through diplomacy, but it still faces resistance. By all accounts, it must demonstrate over the next decade that a large Muslim nation deserves a place in Europe. To this end, it is mobilizing culture.
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One step is 'Turks: A Journey of a Thousand Years, 600-1600,' a large exhibition running through April 12 at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. Most of the 350 objects on display come from two major Istanbul museums, while three Turkish business groups are the show's main sponsors. Turkey's culture minister, Erkan Mumcu, said he hoped the exhibition would help Turkey's campaign to become part of Europe.
And why not? Before Europeans hold referendums on whether to admit Turkey, they must better know a people whose popular image is still largely shaped by the clichés of warriors, harems and immigrants. Certainly, few Europeans today recognize Turkey as a modern secular state with a rich and sophisticated past. So, yes, if "Turks" travels around Europe, as proposed, it should prove something of a revelation."
More:The New York Times > Arts > Art & Design > Turkey Knocks on Europe's Door With a Thousand Years of Culture
By ALAN RIDING
Published: February 1, 2005
ONDON - The Turks marched into central Europe in 1529 and again in 1683, but their troops were stopped at the gates of Vienna. Now, more politely, Turkey is looking to enter the European Union through diplomacy, but it still faces resistance. By all accounts, it must demonstrate over the next decade that a large Muslim nation deserves a place in Europe. To this end, it is mobilizing culture.
Advertisement
One step is 'Turks: A Journey of a Thousand Years, 600-1600,' a large exhibition running through April 12 at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. Most of the 350 objects on display come from two major Istanbul museums, while three Turkish business groups are the show's main sponsors. Turkey's culture minister, Erkan Mumcu, said he hoped the exhibition would help Turkey's campaign to become part of Europe.
And why not? Before Europeans hold referendums on whether to admit Turkey, they must better know a people whose popular image is still largely shaped by the clichés of warriors, harems and immigrants. Certainly, few Europeans today recognize Turkey as a modern secular state with a rich and sophisticated past. So, yes, if "Turks" travels around Europe, as proposed, it should prove something of a revelation."
More:The New York Times > Arts > Art & Design > Turkey Knocks on Europe's Door With a Thousand Years of Culture
The Daily Star - Politics - Turkey slams U.S. failure to halt Kurds' designs on Kirkuk
"Turkey slams U.S. failure to halt Kurds' designs on Kirkuk
Washington insists it wants to preserve Iraq's Unity
Ankara warns it will take action if attempts to take control plunge city into ethnic turmoil
Compiled by Daily Star staff
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Turkey criticized the United States for failing to halt Kurdish efforts to dominate the city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq, and warned it could take action if attempts to take control plunges the city into ethnic turmoil.
'Some people are looking the other way while mass migration (of Kurds to Kirkuk) takes place,' the Wall Street Journal quoted Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyep Erdogan as saying in an interview given on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in the Swiss resort of Davos."
More:The Daily Star - Politics - Turkey slams U.S. failure to halt Kurds' designs on Kirkuk
Washington insists it wants to preserve Iraq's Unity
Ankara warns it will take action if attempts to take control plunge city into ethnic turmoil
Compiled by Daily Star staff
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Turkey criticized the United States for failing to halt Kurdish efforts to dominate the city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq, and warned it could take action if attempts to take control plunges the city into ethnic turmoil.
'Some people are looking the other way while mass migration (of Kurds to Kirkuk) takes place,' the Wall Street Journal quoted Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyep Erdogan as saying in an interview given on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in the Swiss resort of Davos."
More:The Daily Star - Politics - Turkey slams U.S. failure to halt Kurds' designs on Kirkuk
AP Wire | 01/31/2005 | Israel, Turkey discuss $1 billion military deal
"Israel, Turkey discuss $1 billion military deal
By LAURIE COPANS
Associated Press
JERUSALEM - Israel and Turkey are negotiating a deal worth more than $1 billion for Israel to upgrade Turkish fighter planes and tanks, Israeli military officials said Monday.
Turkish military officials confirmed they were discussing a deal but said it was unlikely the Muslim country would sign an agreement for Israel to refurbish the tanks because Turkey was not satisfied with Israel's previous upgrades.
The deal will be a focus of a visit to Turkey this week by Israeli army chief of staff Lt. Gen. Moshe Yaalon, the officials said on condition of anonymity.
Defense Ministry director general Amos Yaron led a visit by Israeli officials to Turkey last week to discuss the deal.
Israel and Turkey signed a cooperation agreement in 1996 and Israel has since renovated almost 200 of Turkey's M60 tanks and dozens of F-4 fighter planes.
As part of the emerging agreement, Israel would update 44 F-4 fighter planes and more than 100 M60 tanks, the Israeli officials said.
The talks signal a desire by the countries' militaries to further strengthen relations that have flourished since the 1996 cooperation deal, the officials said.
But on the political level, Turkish-Israel relations had chilled with Israel complaining last year when Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused it of state terrorism against Palestinians.
A visit by Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul to Israel in January warmed ties.
Officials from both countries said Turkey is also interested in buying Israeli-made Harpy pilotless aircraft that can target radar stations.
Israeli weapons sales to Turkey have amounted to $3 billion since 1996, includi"
AP Wire | 01/31/2005 | Israel, Turkey discuss $1 billion military deal
By LAURIE COPANS
Associated Press
JERUSALEM - Israel and Turkey are negotiating a deal worth more than $1 billion for Israel to upgrade Turkish fighter planes and tanks, Israeli military officials said Monday.
Turkish military officials confirmed they were discussing a deal but said it was unlikely the Muslim country would sign an agreement for Israel to refurbish the tanks because Turkey was not satisfied with Israel's previous upgrades.
The deal will be a focus of a visit to Turkey this week by Israeli army chief of staff Lt. Gen. Moshe Yaalon, the officials said on condition of anonymity.
Defense Ministry director general Amos Yaron led a visit by Israeli officials to Turkey last week to discuss the deal.
Israel and Turkey signed a cooperation agreement in 1996 and Israel has since renovated almost 200 of Turkey's M60 tanks and dozens of F-4 fighter planes.
As part of the emerging agreement, Israel would update 44 F-4 fighter planes and more than 100 M60 tanks, the Israeli officials said.
The talks signal a desire by the countries' militaries to further strengthen relations that have flourished since the 1996 cooperation deal, the officials said.
But on the political level, Turkish-Israel relations had chilled with Israel complaining last year when Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused it of state terrorism against Palestinians.
A visit by Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul to Israel in January warmed ties.
Officials from both countries said Turkey is also interested in buying Israeli-made Harpy pilotless aircraft that can target radar stations.
Israeli weapons sales to Turkey have amounted to $3 billion since 1996, includi"
AP Wire | 01/31/2005 | Israel, Turkey discuss $1 billion military deal
VOA News - US Official Reassures Turkey Over Iraq's Kurds
"US Official Reassures Turkey Over Iraq's Kurds By VOA News
31 January 2005
Turkish leaders, concerned that new political power for Iraqi Kurds could lead to their control of the oil-rich province of Kirkuk, have received reassurance from a visiting U.S. official that Kirkuk is a matter for all Iraqis to decide.
The Pentagon's Douglas Feith told Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul Monday the United States is committed to preserving Iraq's territorial integrity. The defense policy official said the issue of Kirkuk is not a matter for one group to decide, but for the Iraqi people in general.
Turkey is worried that Kurds in northern Iraq might use their increased influence to press for independence, and that could inspire Kurdish separatists living in southeastern Turkey.
On Monday, Mr. Gul said if ethnic unrest were to erupt in Kirkuk, the Turkish public would pressure the government to respond."
VOA News - US Official Reassures Turkey Over Iraq's Kurds
31 January 2005
Turkish leaders, concerned that new political power for Iraqi Kurds could lead to their control of the oil-rich province of Kirkuk, have received reassurance from a visiting U.S. official that Kirkuk is a matter for all Iraqis to decide.
The Pentagon's Douglas Feith told Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul Monday the United States is committed to preserving Iraq's territorial integrity. The defense policy official said the issue of Kirkuk is not a matter for one group to decide, but for the Iraqi people in general.
Turkey is worried that Kurds in northern Iraq might use their increased influence to press for independence, and that could inspire Kurdish separatists living in southeastern Turkey.
On Monday, Mr. Gul said if ethnic unrest were to erupt in Kirkuk, the Turkish public would pressure the government to respond."
VOA News - US Official Reassures Turkey Over Iraq's Kurds
Aljazeera.Net - Kurds await independence vote result
"Kurds await independence vote result
Monday 31 January 2005, 20:43 Makka Time, 17:43 GMT
Kurds voted on whether they wanted independence from Iraq
An informal referendum on independence for Iraqi Kurdistan was conducted in Kurdish areas alongside the weekend's election, a campaign group has said.
'A poll on independence was organised throughout Kurdistan,' said Shamal Huaizi of the Referendum Movement for Iraqi Kurdistan, promising to announce the results in a week.
Huaizi said his association had printed two million forms which were distributed to voters outside polling stations asking: 'Do you want an independent Kurdistan?'
"
More:Aljazeera.Net - Kurds await independence vote result
Monday 31 January 2005, 20:43 Makka Time, 17:43 GMT
Kurds voted on whether they wanted independence from Iraq
An informal referendum on independence for Iraqi Kurdistan was conducted in Kurdish areas alongside the weekend's election, a campaign group has said.
'A poll on independence was organised throughout Kurdistan,' said Shamal Huaizi of the Referendum Movement for Iraqi Kurdistan, promising to announce the results in a week.
Huaizi said his association had printed two million forms which were distributed to voters outside polling stations asking: 'Do you want an independent Kurdistan?'
"
More:Aljazeera.Net - Kurds await independence vote result
International Relations and Security Network ISN-Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and a nuclear Iran
"Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and a nuclear Iran
Both the Saudi monarchy and the Turkish republic would face a precarious dilemma in the face of a nuclear Iran arm-twisting for conciliatory benefits.
By Jonathan Feiser for PINR (31/01/05)
On 1 January, Iran at last codified that the Islamic republic would be holding presidential elections this summer. One of the major policy issues that will be affected by this election will be Iran's potential development and acquisition of nuclear weapons. A nuclear Iran - regardless of its intention - remains a clear and intrinsic threat both to the US and its regional interests and allies. If Iran were to acquire nuclear weapons, then, from a strategic standpoint, a 'best case' scenario for US interests would be an Iran that retains a defensive stance and does not seek to expand its influence in the region. That being said, even defensive tactics can be affected in a world where states possess variable and often wildly differing notions of national security interests. Because of this, Washington is working to take preventive measures to slow Iran's quest for power. "
More:International Relations and Security Network ISN - Security Watch
Both the Saudi monarchy and the Turkish republic would face a precarious dilemma in the face of a nuclear Iran arm-twisting for conciliatory benefits.
By Jonathan Feiser for PINR (31/01/05)
On 1 January, Iran at last codified that the Islamic republic would be holding presidential elections this summer. One of the major policy issues that will be affected by this election will be Iran's potential development and acquisition of nuclear weapons. A nuclear Iran - regardless of its intention - remains a clear and intrinsic threat both to the US and its regional interests and allies. If Iran were to acquire nuclear weapons, then, from a strategic standpoint, a 'best case' scenario for US interests would be an Iran that retains a defensive stance and does not seek to expand its influence in the region. That being said, even defensive tactics can be affected in a world where states possess variable and often wildly differing notions of national security interests. Because of this, Washington is working to take preventive measures to slow Iran's quest for power. "
More:International Relations and Security Network ISN - Security Watch
Second Turkish-speaking group faces defeat in Greece
"Second Turkish-speaking group faces defeat in Greece
AFP: 1/31/2005
ATHENS, Jan 31 (AFP) - Greece's Supreme Court is expected to deny a licence to a women's group in northeastern Greece because it wants to describe itself as Turkish, a court source said Monday.
It is the second Supreme Court case in a month in which a group from northeastern Greece's 100,000-strong Turkish-speaking Muslim community has sought to describe itself in ethnic rather than religious terms.
The court is likely to follow the recommendation of the public prosecutor in Greece's highest civilian court Dimitris Kyritsakis and rule against the proposed Cultural Association of Turkish Women of Rodopi Prefecture. "
More:Second Turkish-speaking group faces defeat in Greece
AFP: 1/31/2005
ATHENS, Jan 31 (AFP) - Greece's Supreme Court is expected to deny a licence to a women's group in northeastern Greece because it wants to describe itself as Turkish, a court source said Monday.
It is the second Supreme Court case in a month in which a group from northeastern Greece's 100,000-strong Turkish-speaking Muslim community has sought to describe itself in ethnic rather than religious terms.
The court is likely to follow the recommendation of the public prosecutor in Greece's highest civilian court Dimitris Kyritsakis and rule against the proposed Cultural Association of Turkish Women of Rodopi Prefecture. "
More:Second Turkish-speaking group faces defeat in Greece
Turks.US - In Turkey's interest
"In Turkey's interest
Sunday, January 30 2005 @ 10:39 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 35
By Meliha Altunisik
'The possibility of a civil war is the worst-case scenario. The Kirkuk issue will continue to be high on the agenda of Turkish policy-makers.'
In general, Turkey has been a supporter of 'free and fair elections in Iraq' and considers the upcoming elections of January 30 a critical part of Iraq's transition. According to Ankara, the elections may ease problems of transition, decrease violence and instability, and bring normalization and legitimacy to the post-Saddam regime. The holding of elections has also been in line with Turkey's general Iraq policy that calls for a unified, stable, and democratic Iraq. "
More:Turks.US - In Turkey's interest
Sunday, January 30 2005 @ 10:39 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 35
By Meliha Altunisik
'The possibility of a civil war is the worst-case scenario. The Kirkuk issue will continue to be high on the agenda of Turkish policy-makers.'
In general, Turkey has been a supporter of 'free and fair elections in Iraq' and considers the upcoming elections of January 30 a critical part of Iraq's transition. According to Ankara, the elections may ease problems of transition, decrease violence and instability, and bring normalization and legitimacy to the post-Saddam regime. The holding of elections has also been in line with Turkey's general Iraq policy that calls for a unified, stable, and democratic Iraq. "
More:Turks.US - In Turkey's interest
Turkey can be EU's bridge to Mideast: PM
"Turkey can be EU's bridge to Mideast: PM
Big News Network.com Sunday 30th January, 2005 (UPI)
Turkey will create a reconciliation of civilizations when it joins the European Union, its prime minister has told the World Economic Forum.
The EU is no longer a union of steel and coal ... it is not a Christian club. It is a totality of political values, Turkish Prime Minister "
More:Turkey can be EU's bridge to Mideast: PM
Big News Network.com Sunday 30th January, 2005 (UPI)
Turkey will create a reconciliation of civilizations when it joins the European Union, its prime minister has told the World Economic Forum.
The EU is no longer a union of steel and coal ... it is not a Christian club. It is a totality of political values, Turkish Prime Minister "
More:Turkey can be EU's bridge to Mideast: PM
Turkey May Get to See Its Founder -- as Husband
"Turkey May Get to See Its Founder -- as Husband
By Amberin Zaman, Special to The Times
ANKARA, Turkey � The brief and stormy marriage of Kemal Ataturk, this nation's revolutionary founder, has long been shrouded in official secrecy. But the veil of mystery may be lifted this week when the contents of his socialite wife's private letters and diaries are expected to be made public.
Historians say the private writings of the fiercely independent Latife Usakligil should shed new light on her former husband. Ataturk is revered by millions of Turks as the leader who rebuilt their nation after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and transformed it into one of the more Westernized and secular nations in the Muslim world. "
More:Turkey May Get to See Its Founder -- as Husband
By Amberin Zaman, Special to The Times
ANKARA, Turkey � The brief and stormy marriage of Kemal Ataturk, this nation's revolutionary founder, has long been shrouded in official secrecy. But the veil of mystery may be lifted this week when the contents of his socialite wife's private letters and diaries are expected to be made public.
Historians say the private writings of the fiercely independent Latife Usakligil should shed new light on her former husband. Ataturk is revered by millions of Turks as the leader who rebuilt their nation after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire and transformed it into one of the more Westernized and secular nations in the Muslim world. "
More:Turkey May Get to See Its Founder -- as Husband
Turkey's Economy Gaining Respect
"Turkey's Economy Gaining Respect
Slowing inflation, expanding GDP, soaring productivity and falling interest rates create a level of economic stability not seen since the 1980s.
By Vincent Boland, Financial Times
ANKARA, Turkey � If the state of a country's economy can be judged by the quality of the paper its money is printed on, Turkey's is in rude good health. At the start of the year the central bank introduced crisp new Turkish lira notes, minus six zeros, to replace the inflation-ravaged old ones, often so shabby that they were held together with adhesive tape.
The redenomination is not just cosmetic. Turkey's economic decline and high inflation during the 1990s led to a steep loss of value in the currency that has now been halted. Inflation fell to 9.3% in 2004, the first time since 1972 that it has been in single figures. The 1990s average was 77.5%, said Serhan Cevik, an analyst at Morgan Stanley in London."
More:Turkey's Economy Gaining Respect
Slowing inflation, expanding GDP, soaring productivity and falling interest rates create a level of economic stability not seen since the 1980s.
By Vincent Boland, Financial Times
ANKARA, Turkey � If the state of a country's economy can be judged by the quality of the paper its money is printed on, Turkey's is in rude good health. At the start of the year the central bank introduced crisp new Turkish lira notes, minus six zeros, to replace the inflation-ravaged old ones, often so shabby that they were held together with adhesive tape.
The redenomination is not just cosmetic. Turkey's economic decline and high inflation during the 1990s led to a steep loss of value in the currency that has now been halted. Inflation fell to 9.3% in 2004, the first time since 1972 that it has been in single figures. The 1990s average was 77.5%, said Serhan Cevik, an analyst at Morgan Stanley in London."
More:Turkey's Economy Gaining Respect
Turkish Daily News:Bill Gates kicks off e-education project in Ankara
"Bill Gates kicks off e-education project in Ankara
Monday, January 31, 2005
Microsoft Corporation boss Bill Gates, the richest man in the world, paid a four-hour visit to Turkey yesterday at the invitation of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He was scheduled to attend a ceremony to launch an e-education portal that will help teachers at state schools get training on the Internet.
Gates met with Erdogan and four Cabinet ministers in a closed-door discussion.
Gates, whose personal wealth exceeds $48 billion, was also expected to make a donation to the Education Ministry to help in the education of schoolchildren.
The opening of an e-education portal comes as part of a $30-million project to boost the use of computer and Internet technologies in education. "
Turkish Daily News
Monday, January 31, 2005
Microsoft Corporation boss Bill Gates, the richest man in the world, paid a four-hour visit to Turkey yesterday at the invitation of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. He was scheduled to attend a ceremony to launch an e-education portal that will help teachers at state schools get training on the Internet.
Gates met with Erdogan and four Cabinet ministers in a closed-door discussion.
Gates, whose personal wealth exceeds $48 billion, was also expected to make a donation to the Education Ministry to help in the education of schoolchildren.
The opening of an e-education portal comes as part of a $30-million project to boost the use of computer and Internet technologies in education. "
Turkish Daily News
Kirkuk or Where we arrived now as Turks and Kurds?
"Kirkuk or Where we arrived now as Turks and Kurds?
Former Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, who made the Turkish Cypriots feel better with the 1974 intervention, was also concerned about similar problems Turkmens were facing in Iraq. While he was prime minister, he wanted to bring the issue forward at the highest level, at the earliest opportunity. But he grabbed that opportunity as journalist when he visited Saddam twice during and after the first Gulf War.
'Karaoglan' (Dark Boy, a popular nickname which suggests a lovable daredevil) Ecevit asked when he met with Saddam Hussein at his palace in Baghdad, that is currently being used as military headquarters by the U. S. troops: 'Kirkuk will definitely be given to the Kurdish state if it is separated from Iraq. Isn't it suitable to say that it should be given to the Turkmens?' "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005013116093)
Former Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit, who made the Turkish Cypriots feel better with the 1974 intervention, was also concerned about similar problems Turkmens were facing in Iraq. While he was prime minister, he wanted to bring the issue forward at the highest level, at the earliest opportunity. But he grabbed that opportunity as journalist when he visited Saddam twice during and after the first Gulf War.
'Karaoglan' (Dark Boy, a popular nickname which suggests a lovable daredevil) Ecevit asked when he met with Saddam Hussein at his palace in Baghdad, that is currently being used as military headquarters by the U. S. troops: 'Kirkuk will definitely be given to the Kurdish state if it is separated from Iraq. Isn't it suitable to say that it should be given to the Turkmens?' "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005013116093)
Turkish Daily News:Last-minute Iraq warning: Turkey won't remain indifferent to suffering of Turkmens
"Last-minute Iraq warning: Turkey won't remain indifferent to suffering of Turkmens
Monday, January 31, 2005
YUSUF KANLI
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Foreign Minister Abdullah G�l said Turkey has no territorial designs on Iraq but that it cannot remain indifferent to the sufferings of the Turkmens should an altered demographic composition of Kirkuk trigger an ethnic clash.
In an exclusive interview with the Turkish Daily News, Foreign Minister G�l stressed that Turkey was not threatening an intervention but that everyone should bear in mind that the government of any democratic country must take into consideration the sentiments and sensitivities of its public. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Monday, January 31, 2005
YUSUF KANLI
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Foreign Minister Abdullah G�l said Turkey has no territorial designs on Iraq but that it cannot remain indifferent to the sufferings of the Turkmens should an altered demographic composition of Kirkuk trigger an ethnic clash.
In an exclusive interview with the Turkish Daily News, Foreign Minister G�l stressed that Turkey was not threatening an intervention but that everyone should bear in mind that the government of any democratic country must take into consideration the sentiments and sensitivities of its public. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News:No dogs or garbage on the streets
"No dogs or garbage on the streets
Monday, January 31, 2005
FARUK BILDIRICI
�In the olden days in Germany, the apartments where Turks lived could be recognized by the clothes hanging out to dry on the balconies,� said Alanya Mayor Hasan Sipahioglu.
He cited this example as a way of illustrating the contributions Germans have made to Alanya. He then talked about the balconies of the Germans.
�You can tell where foreigners in Alanya live by the way their balconies look. Flowers, instead of drying clothes, appear on their balconies. When their neighbors try to imitate them, the apartments look much nicer,� he says. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Monday, January 31, 2005
FARUK BILDIRICI
�In the olden days in Germany, the apartments where Turks lived could be recognized by the clothes hanging out to dry on the balconies,� said Alanya Mayor Hasan Sipahioglu.
He cited this example as a way of illustrating the contributions Germans have made to Alanya. He then talked about the balconies of the Germans.
�You can tell where foreigners in Alanya live by the way their balconies look. Flowers, instead of drying clothes, appear on their balconies. When their neighbors try to imitate them, the apartments look much nicer,� he says. "
More:Turkish Daily News
EUobserver.com - Turkish AKP gets observer status in EU's largest political family
"Turkish AKP gets observer status in EU's largest political family
31.01.2005 - 09:57 CET | By Lucia Kubosova
EUOBSERVER / BRUSSELS - The political parties of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan and of Ukraine President Viktor Yushchenko have received observer status within the centre-right European People's Party.
The political bureau of the EPP, the largest political group in the European parliament, hammered out the decision concerning the AK Party and 'Our Ukraine' on Friday (28 January).
The group's party leaders gave a green light to the AK Party last November - long after the Turkish party informally expressed its desire to participate.
Mr Erdogan's request for his Justice and Development party to join the centre-right's ranks had caused difficulties within the EPP - which has several members opposed to Turkey's full membership of the EU.
Mr Yushchenko's political platform was accepted in view of his commitment to promote Ukraine's future in the EU.
'I am particularly pleased with this development, because it, once again, proves that the EPP attracts strong and reliable leaders from all over Europe,' EPP President Martens said in a statement. "
More:EUobserver.com - Print format
31.01.2005 - 09:57 CET | By Lucia Kubosova
EUOBSERVER / BRUSSELS - The political parties of Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayip Erdogan and of Ukraine President Viktor Yushchenko have received observer status within the centre-right European People's Party.
The political bureau of the EPP, the largest political group in the European parliament, hammered out the decision concerning the AK Party and 'Our Ukraine' on Friday (28 January).
The group's party leaders gave a green light to the AK Party last November - long after the Turkish party informally expressed its desire to participate.
Mr Erdogan's request for his Justice and Development party to join the centre-right's ranks had caused difficulties within the EPP - which has several members opposed to Turkey's full membership of the EU.
Mr Yushchenko's political platform was accepted in view of his commitment to promote Ukraine's future in the EU.
'I am particularly pleased with this development, because it, once again, proves that the EPP attracts strong and reliable leaders from all over Europe,' EPP President Martens said in a statement. "
More:EUobserver.com - Print format
Turks.US - In Turkey's interest
"In Turkey's interest
Sunday, January 30 2005 @ 10:39 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 29
By Meliha Altunisik
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'The possibility of a civil war is the worst-case scenario. The Kirkuk issue will continue to be high on the agenda of Turkish policy-makers.'
In general, Turkey has been a supporter of 'free and fair elections in Iraq' and considers the upcoming elections of January 30 a critical part of Iraq's transition. According to Ankara, the elections may ease problems of transition, decrease violence and instability, and bring normalization and legitimacy to the post-Saddam regime. The holding of elections has also been in line with Turkey's general Iraq policy that calls for a unified, stable, and democratic Iraq. "
More:Turks.US - In Turkey's interest
Sunday, January 30 2005 @ 10:39 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 29
By Meliha Altunisik
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'The possibility of a civil war is the worst-case scenario. The Kirkuk issue will continue to be high on the agenda of Turkish policy-makers.'
In general, Turkey has been a supporter of 'free and fair elections in Iraq' and considers the upcoming elections of January 30 a critical part of Iraq's transition. According to Ankara, the elections may ease problems of transition, decrease violence and instability, and bring normalization and legitimacy to the post-Saddam regime. The holding of elections has also been in line with Turkey's general Iraq policy that calls for a unified, stable, and democratic Iraq. "
More:Turks.US - In Turkey's interest
Aljazeera.Net - Turkey slams US over Iraqi Kurds
"Turkey slams US over Iraqi Kurds
Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has criticised the US for failing to halt what he called Kurdish efforts to dominate the oil-rich city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq.
Turkey believes Iraqi Kurds, who voted in large numbers in Sunday's election, are trying to wrest control of Kirkuk at the expense of local Arabs and Turkish-speaking Turkmen.
Ankara fears this could herald a concerted drive to build an independent Kurdish state in northern Iraq, which might in turn reignite separatism among the Kurds of southeastern Turkey. "
More:Aljazeera.Net - Turkey slams US over Iraqi Kurds
Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has criticised the US for failing to halt what he called Kurdish efforts to dominate the oil-rich city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq.
Turkey believes Iraqi Kurds, who voted in large numbers in Sunday's election, are trying to wrest control of Kirkuk at the expense of local Arabs and Turkish-speaking Turkmen.
Ankara fears this could herald a concerted drive to build an independent Kurdish state in northern Iraq, which might in turn reignite separatism among the Kurds of southeastern Turkey. "
More:Aljazeera.Net - Turkey slams US over Iraqi Kurds
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Deep split in Turkish opposition party
"Deep split in Turkish opposition party
By Susan Sachs The New York Times Monday, January 31, 2005
ISTANBUL After a raucous session of name-calling and a chair-throwing melee that had to be broken up by the riot police, Turkey's main opposition leader beat back a challenge by reformers on Sunday and was re-elected to lead the Republican People's Party.
.
The vote at a special two-day convention exposed the deep divisions within the party, which has tried to present itself as a secular and center-left counterweight to the more religious-minded Justice and Development Party of Prime Minister Recip Tayyip Erdogan."
More:Deep split in Turkish opposition party
By Susan Sachs The New York Times Monday, January 31, 2005
ISTANBUL After a raucous session of name-calling and a chair-throwing melee that had to be broken up by the riot police, Turkey's main opposition leader beat back a challenge by reformers on Sunday and was re-elected to lead the Republican People's Party.
.
The vote at a special two-day convention exposed the deep divisions within the party, which has tried to present itself as a secular and center-left counterweight to the more religious-minded Justice and Development Party of Prime Minister Recip Tayyip Erdogan."
More:Deep split in Turkish opposition party
The young of Istanbul Office of DEHAP launch the campaign 'We will not allow the war' - Roj TV News
"The young of Istanbul Office of DEHAP launch the campaign 'We will not allow the war'
The young of Istanbul Office of Democratic People's Party (DEHAP) have started the campaign 'We will not allow war' aiming to gather together Turkish and Kurdish peoples, and called public opinion to boost it.
Nearly 300 members of DEHAP carrying mottos written ''We will not give permission to combat' and ' No war, end insulation and shouldering two coffins ; one covered with pall green, yellow, red in colour and the other covered with Turkish flag came together on Sirinevler Boulevard, Istanbul. Seyma Kantarci making a declaration in the name of the group stated that peaceful environment which has been lasting for 6 months is a result of attempts by Kurdish People's Leader Abdullah Ocalan and emphasized the necessity to terminate isolation applications on Ocalan. She stressed that the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) government should show the same sensibility it pays to the Israeli-Palestinian problem to the Kurd problem in its own country and, added the AKP government should be more sensitive about people's democratic demands."
More:The young of Istanbul Office of DEHAP launch the campaign 'We will not allow the war' - Roj TV News
The young of Istanbul Office of Democratic People's Party (DEHAP) have started the campaign 'We will not allow war' aiming to gather together Turkish and Kurdish peoples, and called public opinion to boost it.
Nearly 300 members of DEHAP carrying mottos written ''We will not give permission to combat' and ' No war, end insulation and shouldering two coffins ; one covered with pall green, yellow, red in colour and the other covered with Turkish flag came together on Sirinevler Boulevard, Istanbul. Seyma Kantarci making a declaration in the name of the group stated that peaceful environment which has been lasting for 6 months is a result of attempts by Kurdish People's Leader Abdullah Ocalan and emphasized the necessity to terminate isolation applications on Ocalan. She stressed that the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) government should show the same sensibility it pays to the Israeli-Palestinian problem to the Kurd problem in its own country and, added the AKP government should be more sensitive about people's democratic demands."
More:The young of Istanbul Office of DEHAP launch the campaign 'We will not allow the war' - Roj TV News
Turkey says U.S. should leave Iraq this year
"Turkey says U.S. should leave Iraq this year
Big News Network.com Sunday 30th January, 2005 (UPI)
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said Sunday the United States-led forces in Iraq should withdraw before the end of this year.
He told reporters in Ankara the Iraqi people should be allowed to administer their own affairs before the end of 2005.
Gul, who is also Turkey's deputy prime minister, said his country supports the Iraqi elections, saying they are the beginning of a democratic phase. "
Turkey says U.S. should leave Iraq this year
Big News Network.com Sunday 30th January, 2005 (UPI)
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said Sunday the United States-led forces in Iraq should withdraw before the end of this year.
He told reporters in Ankara the Iraqi people should be allowed to administer their own affairs before the end of 2005.
Gul, who is also Turkey's deputy prime minister, said his country supports the Iraqi elections, saying they are the beginning of a democratic phase. "
Turkey says U.S. should leave Iraq this year
Turkish Daily News:Turkey questions actions of security forces in fight against PKK members
"Turkey questions actions of security forces in fight against PKK members
Sunday, January 30, 2005
The head of IHD branch office in Diyarbakir, Selahattin Demirtas, says some 300 people remained missing in the mainly-Kurdish southeast of Turkey.
JAMES C. HELICKE
Diyarbakir - AP
For more than a decade, Aydin Demir petitioned Turkish authorities to be told the fate of his brother.
Then one day in November, villagers uncovered soiled clothing and what appeared to be the remains of the brother and 10 other Kurds, last seen when they were detained by the military, in a mass grave at the bed of a creek outside his village.
What happened next signaled a small but important shift - driven largely by the nation's bid to join the European Union - in the government's relations with its formidable military, which had long enjoyed free rein in its battle against outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) members."
More:Turkish Daily News
Sunday, January 30, 2005
The head of IHD branch office in Diyarbakir, Selahattin Demirtas, says some 300 people remained missing in the mainly-Kurdish southeast of Turkey.
JAMES C. HELICKE
Diyarbakir - AP
For more than a decade, Aydin Demir petitioned Turkish authorities to be told the fate of his brother.
Then one day in November, villagers uncovered soiled clothing and what appeared to be the remains of the brother and 10 other Kurds, last seen when they were detained by the military, in a mass grave at the bed of a creek outside his village.
What happened next signaled a small but important shift - driven largely by the nation's bid to join the European Union - in the government's relations with its formidable military, which had long enjoyed free rein in its battle against outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) members."
More:Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News:'Istanbul Modern' and 'Ankara Contemporary'
"'Istanbul Modern' and 'Ankara Contemporary'
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Reflections - Sefik Kahramankaptan
We were in Istanbul the previous week and met with Oya and B�lent Eczacibasi at the Istanbul Modern Art Gallery, which is perhaps the one artistic hot-spot most discussed among intellectuals. We presented them with a letter stating that the Foundation of Contemporary Arts (�AGSAV) Prize of Honor, which is Turkey's most prestigious prize in visual arts, would be given to the Eczacibasi Group as an institution in 2005.
If you ask, �Why the Eczacibasi Group?� the answer would include the collective contributions they have made since Dr. Nejat Eczacibasi began his efforts including the implementation of the Istanbul Biennale, the establishment of the virtual museum) on the Web (www.sanalmuze.com) and last, but not least, Istanbul Modern. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Reflections - Sefik Kahramankaptan
We were in Istanbul the previous week and met with Oya and B�lent Eczacibasi at the Istanbul Modern Art Gallery, which is perhaps the one artistic hot-spot most discussed among intellectuals. We presented them with a letter stating that the Foundation of Contemporary Arts (�AGSAV) Prize of Honor, which is Turkey's most prestigious prize in visual arts, would be given to the Eczacibasi Group as an institution in 2005.
If you ask, �Why the Eczacibasi Group?� the answer would include the collective contributions they have made since Dr. Nejat Eczacibasi began his efforts including the implementation of the Istanbul Biennale, the establishment of the virtual museum) on the Web (www.sanalmuze.com) and last, but not least, Istanbul Modern. "
More:Turkish Daily News
NEWSWEEK INTERVIEWS: Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish Prime Minister
"NEWSWEEK INTERVIEWS: Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish Prime Minister
Sunday January 30, 10:49 am ET
Mohamed ElBaradei, Director-General of International Atomic Energy Agency
Erdogan: U.S. Has Not Been as 'Sensitive as We Would Have Hoped' Against Kurdish Terror Group PKK; Turks Didn't Have Adequate Protection in Iraq
ElBaradei: Through IAEA, They Have Extensive Picture of Iran's Nuclear Program; A Military Strike Against Iran 'At This Stage Is Unhelpful'
NEW YORK, Jan. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan tells Newsweek that part of the reason for the strained U.S./Turkey relations is, 'the fact that the U.S. has not been as sensitive as we would have hoped against [Kurdish terrorist organization] PKK, which is responsible for 40,000 lost lives in Turkey, has created some negative emotions... 'He adds that almost 100 Turkish citizens-most of whom were truckdrivers providing logistical support to U.S. troops, and humanitarian assistance to Iraqis-have lost their lives in Iraq. 'These people provided these services without protection,' Erdogan says. 'As the Turkish people saw their own countrymen lose their lives without adequate protection-that had an effect.'"
More:NEWSWEEK INTERVIEWS: Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish Prime Minister
Sunday January 30, 10:49 am ET
Mohamed ElBaradei, Director-General of International Atomic Energy Agency
Erdogan: U.S. Has Not Been as 'Sensitive as We Would Have Hoped' Against Kurdish Terror Group PKK; Turks Didn't Have Adequate Protection in Iraq
ElBaradei: Through IAEA, They Have Extensive Picture of Iran's Nuclear Program; A Military Strike Against Iran 'At This Stage Is Unhelpful'
NEW YORK, Jan. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan tells Newsweek that part of the reason for the strained U.S./Turkey relations is, 'the fact that the U.S. has not been as sensitive as we would have hoped against [Kurdish terrorist organization] PKK, which is responsible for 40,000 lost lives in Turkey, has created some negative emotions... 'He adds that almost 100 Turkish citizens-most of whom were truckdrivers providing logistical support to U.S. troops, and humanitarian assistance to Iraqis-have lost their lives in Iraq. 'These people provided these services without protection,' Erdogan says. 'As the Turkish people saw their own countrymen lose their lives without adequate protection-that had an effect.'"
More:NEWSWEEK INTERVIEWS: Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish Prime Minister
Turkish Daily News:Only Turks can decide on Turkish EU entry
"Only Turks can decide on Turkish EU entry
Sunday, January 30, 2005
TDN Editorial by Yusuf KANLI
YUSUF KANLI
We, as a nation, tend at times to act like a masochistic society. Rather than trusting our abilities and having confidence in ourselves, we tend to obsess over minor issues, fail to see the big picture and make life very difficult for ourselves.
Only few weeks ago we were busy discussing whether or not the European Union would give us a date to start accession talks. Most of us were very pessimistic, while some of us were acting with self-confidence and trying to comfort the majority, saying: �EU membership is very important for Turkey. We must get a date for the start of talks. But should Europe decide to continue with its delaying tactics, this great nation can part ways with Europe and will continue to exist.� "
More:Turkish Daily News
Sunday, January 30, 2005
TDN Editorial by Yusuf KANLI
YUSUF KANLI
We, as a nation, tend at times to act like a masochistic society. Rather than trusting our abilities and having confidence in ourselves, we tend to obsess over minor issues, fail to see the big picture and make life very difficult for ourselves.
Only few weeks ago we were busy discussing whether or not the European Union would give us a date to start accession talks. Most of us were very pessimistic, while some of us were acting with self-confidence and trying to comfort the majority, saying: �EU membership is very important for Turkey. We must get a date for the start of talks. But should Europe decide to continue with its delaying tactics, this great nation can part ways with Europe and will continue to exist.� "
More:Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News:Turkey's Kirkuk predicament
Turkish Daily News: "Turkey's Kirkuk predicament
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Iraq continues to be a potentially destabilizing factor not only in Turkish-US ties but also in Ankara�s bid to become a member of the European Union
ANKARA � Turkish Daily News
Almost two years after saying �no� to military involvement in Iraq in a parliamentary decision made on March 1, 2003, Ankara is hoping that Iraq's occupiers and its interim administration will not allow developments that would jeopardize Turkish security interests in Iraq. Furthermore, the ramifications of the March 1 decision are now subject to an evolving domestic debate."
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Iraq continues to be a potentially destabilizing factor not only in Turkish-US ties but also in Ankara�s bid to become a member of the European Union
ANKARA � Turkish Daily News
Almost two years after saying �no� to military involvement in Iraq in a parliamentary decision made on March 1, 2003, Ankara is hoping that Iraq's occupiers and its interim administration will not allow developments that would jeopardize Turkish security interests in Iraq. Furthermore, the ramifications of the March 1 decision are now subject to an evolving domestic debate."
Ethnic Groups Try to Stake Claim on Kirkuk (washingtonpost.com)
"Ethnic Groups Try to Stake Claim on Kirkuk
Kurds, Arabs and Turkmens Vie for Political Dominance in Divisive Elections
By Jackie Spinner
Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, January 30, 2005; Page A16
KIRKUK, Iraq -- Mustafa Rafiq, a 21-year-old medical student, plans to vote in Sunday's elections -- a vote, he said, that in this northern Iraqi city has more to do with the past than the future.
Rafiq, like other ethnic Turkmens in Kirkuk, will cast his ballot on behalf of his heritage in a city that three ethnic groups are now fighting to control. He couldn't care less about the political aspirations or campaign promises of those running for office, he said."
More:Ethnic Groups Try to Stake Claim on Kirkuk (washingtonpost.com)
Kurds, Arabs and Turkmens Vie for Political Dominance in Divisive Elections
By Jackie Spinner
Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, January 30, 2005; Page A16
KIRKUK, Iraq -- Mustafa Rafiq, a 21-year-old medical student, plans to vote in Sunday's elections -- a vote, he said, that in this northern Iraqi city has more to do with the past than the future.
Rafiq, like other ethnic Turkmens in Kirkuk, will cast his ballot on behalf of his heritage in a city that three ethnic groups are now fighting to control. He couldn't care less about the political aspirations or campaign promises of those running for office, he said."
More:Ethnic Groups Try to Stake Claim on Kirkuk (washingtonpost.com)
Ancient people return to Turkey - The Washington Times: World Briefings - January 30, 2005
"Ancient people return to Turkey
By James C. Helicke
ASSOCIATED PRESS
HABERLI, Turkey � Nine-year-old Ninua Saliba played hide-and-seek outside a seventh-century church as village men drank tea, chatted in a language similar to that Jesus spoke and waited for a visit by the local Turkish governor.
The politician's stop and the calm in the ancient village would have been inconceivable just a few years ago, when the tiny Christian community in southeastern Turkey was caught in the middle of fighting between Turkish troops and Kurdish rebels. "
More:Ancient people return to Turkey - The Washington Times: World Briefings - January 30, 2005
By James C. Helicke
ASSOCIATED PRESS
HABERLI, Turkey � Nine-year-old Ninua Saliba played hide-and-seek outside a seventh-century church as village men drank tea, chatted in a language similar to that Jesus spoke and waited for a visit by the local Turkish governor.
The politician's stop and the calm in the ancient village would have been inconceivable just a few years ago, when the tiny Christian community in southeastern Turkey was caught in the middle of fighting between Turkish troops and Kurdish rebels. "
More:Ancient people return to Turkey - The Washington Times: World Briefings - January 30, 2005
The Journal of Turkish Weekly:Separatist Kurdish Plans in Iraqi Elections
"Separatist Kurdish Plans in Iraqi Elections
Barzani: 'Give Vote and Get Kirkuk'
JTW - Iraqi KDP Leader Barzani says the Iraqi polls will show the Kurdish potential to establish a Kurdistan.
Barzani added 'Our support for the elections and our votes will show our population in Iraq. It will show our potential as Kurd and Kurdistan. Joining the elections and giving vote is a national and religious duty for all the Kurds.'
Barzani and the other Kurdish leader Talabani makes efforts to annex Kirkuk (Kerkuk), Hanekin, Mendeli, Mahmur, Shehan and Shengar to so-called Kurdistan."
More:The Journal of Turkish Weekly
Barzani: 'Give Vote and Get Kirkuk'
JTW - Iraqi KDP Leader Barzani says the Iraqi polls will show the Kurdish potential to establish a Kurdistan.
Barzani added 'Our support for the elections and our votes will show our population in Iraq. It will show our potential as Kurd and Kurdistan. Joining the elections and giving vote is a national and religious duty for all the Kurds.'
Barzani and the other Kurdish leader Talabani makes efforts to annex Kirkuk (Kerkuk), Hanekin, Mendeli, Mahmur, Shehan and Shengar to so-called Kurdistan."
More:The Journal of Turkish Weekly
Comment - Partition is the solution we deserve
"Comment - Partition is the solution we deserve
By Loucas Charalambous
IN AN ARTICLE published in Athens newspaper Ta Nea, Alexis Heraclides, a lecturer at Greece�s Pantion University, arrives at the following conclusion:
�The Cyprus problem cannot be solved � and will not be solved � as long as the majority of Greek Cypriots are not in a position to comprehend the level of their responsibility for the situation in Cyprus up to the fait accompli of 1974. And this is, I would say, the deeper meaning of the �resounding no� of April 24, 2004 � they said no because they cannot yet face up to their guilt for that period.�
I disagree that this was the reason we rejected the settlement last April, but I will agree with Heraclides� point that Greek Cypriots are in no position to comprehend their responsibilities � the responsibilities of their leadership, to be more precise � for the situation before 1974. When they discuss the Cyprus problem, they always start from the premise that the Turks are to blame for everything. Our guys are the innocent virgins.
This column has on countless occasions pointed out the horrific responsibilities of our leadership. These responsibilities can be seen in the violent dissolution of the state established by the Zurich agreement three years earlier, with the aim of terminating the participation of the Turkish Cypriots.
That Tassos Papadopoulos � one of the protagonists of this depressing story, which led to all the misfortunes that have followed since then � is today the president of the Republic, thanks to the vote of the Greek Cypriots, is the most conclusive proof of their inability to recognise the responsibilities that Heraclides correctly talks about. "
More:Comment - Partition is the solution we deserve
By Loucas Charalambous
IN AN ARTICLE published in Athens newspaper Ta Nea, Alexis Heraclides, a lecturer at Greece�s Pantion University, arrives at the following conclusion:
�The Cyprus problem cannot be solved � and will not be solved � as long as the majority of Greek Cypriots are not in a position to comprehend the level of their responsibility for the situation in Cyprus up to the fait accompli of 1974. And this is, I would say, the deeper meaning of the �resounding no� of April 24, 2004 � they said no because they cannot yet face up to their guilt for that period.�
I disagree that this was the reason we rejected the settlement last April, but I will agree with Heraclides� point that Greek Cypriots are in no position to comprehend their responsibilities � the responsibilities of their leadership, to be more precise � for the situation before 1974. When they discuss the Cyprus problem, they always start from the premise that the Turks are to blame for everything. Our guys are the innocent virgins.
This column has on countless occasions pointed out the horrific responsibilities of our leadership. These responsibilities can be seen in the violent dissolution of the state established by the Zurich agreement three years earlier, with the aim of terminating the participation of the Turkish Cypriots.
That Tassos Papadopoulos � one of the protagonists of this depressing story, which led to all the misfortunes that have followed since then � is today the president of the Republic, thanks to the vote of the Greek Cypriots, is the most conclusive proof of their inability to recognise the responsibilities that Heraclides correctly talks about. "
More:Comment - Partition is the solution we deserve
Vassiliou insists property bill will not target Turkish Cypriots
"Vassiliou insists property bill will not target Turkish Cypriots
By George Psyllides
A BILL targeting foreigners buying Greek Cypriot property in the occupied north could sail through parliament in the next couple of weeks after the majority of parties gave it the green light.
It is nothing more than an amendment to current legislation concerning the illegal possession and use of property, but due to the political situation it becomes a very important weapon in the fight against the sale of refugee properties in the north.
The Turkish Cypriot breakaway state has embarked on a frenzy of property sales to eager European opportunists, mostly British, seeking properties at bargain prices.
The amendment would allow district courts to issue European arrest warrants for people holding properties illegally.
Current legislation, in force for the past 40 years, provides for a maximum penalty of six months in jail or a �400 fine for offenders."
More:Vassiliou insists property bill will not target Turkish Cypriots
By George Psyllides
A BILL targeting foreigners buying Greek Cypriot property in the occupied north could sail through parliament in the next couple of weeks after the majority of parties gave it the green light.
It is nothing more than an amendment to current legislation concerning the illegal possession and use of property, but due to the political situation it becomes a very important weapon in the fight against the sale of refugee properties in the north.
The Turkish Cypriot breakaway state has embarked on a frenzy of property sales to eager European opportunists, mostly British, seeking properties at bargain prices.
The amendment would allow district courts to issue European arrest warrants for people holding properties illegally.
Current legislation, in force for the past 40 years, provides for a maximum penalty of six months in jail or a �400 fine for offenders."
More:Vassiliou insists property bill will not target Turkish Cypriots
Jerusalem Post | Breaking News from Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish World
"Main opposition Turkish party re-elects leader
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
ANKARA, TURKEY
Turkey's main opposition center-left Republican People's Party re-elected Deniz Baykal as its chairman early Sunday.
Baykal received 674 of the 1,219 votes cast at a party congress in Ankara on Saturday, the Anatolia news agency said. Baykal's sole opponent was Mustafa Sarigul, the popular mayor of Istanbul's affluent Sisli district, who received 460 votes, it said.
The party, Turkey's oldest, is pro-secular and favors a strong state sector in the economy. "
More:Jerusalem Post | Breaking News from Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish World
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
ANKARA, TURKEY
Turkey's main opposition center-left Republican People's Party re-elected Deniz Baykal as its chairman early Sunday.
Baykal received 674 of the 1,219 votes cast at a party congress in Ankara on Saturday, the Anatolia news agency said. Baykal's sole opponent was Mustafa Sarigul, the popular mayor of Istanbul's affluent Sisli district, who received 460 votes, it said.
The party, Turkey's oldest, is pro-secular and favors a strong state sector in the economy. "
More:Jerusalem Post | Breaking News from Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish World
Turkey may not Recognize Election Results in Kerkuk
"Turkey may not Recognize Election Results in Kerkuk
By Erdal Sen, Cetiner Cetin
Published: Sunday 30, 2005
zaman.com
There is speculation on which strategy Turkey will adopt after the elections in Kirkuk in the wake of its tough warnings about the Iraqi city.
According to information received by Zaman from government sources, it is likely that Ankara will say that it does not recognize the elections in Kirkuk. Comments have been made that intervention by Turkish military forces is still an option that cannot be ignored though it seems unlikely. Deciding to participate in the elections 'to spoil the games played in Kirkuk', the Iraqi Turkmen Front (ITF) is also said to have held talks about on not recognizing the elections. Yunus Bayraktar, a Turkmen member of the Kirkuk District Council noted that they are considering not recognizing the election results because the election committee is not showing the required objectivity. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005013016061)
By Erdal Sen, Cetiner Cetin
Published: Sunday 30, 2005
zaman.com
There is speculation on which strategy Turkey will adopt after the elections in Kirkuk in the wake of its tough warnings about the Iraqi city.
According to information received by Zaman from government sources, it is likely that Ankara will say that it does not recognize the elections in Kirkuk. Comments have been made that intervention by Turkish military forces is still an option that cannot be ignored though it seems unlikely. Deciding to participate in the elections 'to spoil the games played in Kirkuk', the Iraqi Turkmen Front (ITF) is also said to have held talks about on not recognizing the elections. Yunus Bayraktar, a Turkmen member of the Kirkuk District Council noted that they are considering not recognizing the election results because the election committee is not showing the required objectivity. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005013016061)
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Turkish PM Erdogan Lays Case for EU Bid At Davos Forum
"Turkish PM Erdogan Lays Case for EU Bid At Davos Forum
DAVOS, Switzerland (AFP) -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan laid his country's case for European Union membership Friday before leaders from all over the world, saying it would help bridge a divide between civilizations.
'We want a Europe, a world, where there is a reconciliation between civilizations,' Erdogan told political, business and social leaders gathered for the World Economic Forum at this Swiss ski resort.
Responding to critics who have questioned Ankara's historic right to join the 25-member EU, the Turkish leader recalled how, in the dying years of the Ottoman empire in the early 20th century, it 'was defined as 'the sick man of Europe', not as the sick man of Asia.'
'The European Union is no longer a union of steel and coal, it is no longer (just) an economic union,' Erdogan said. "
More:Turkish PM Erdogan Lays Case for EU Bid At Davos Forum
DAVOS, Switzerland (AFP) -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan laid his country's case for European Union membership Friday before leaders from all over the world, saying it would help bridge a divide between civilizations.
'We want a Europe, a world, where there is a reconciliation between civilizations,' Erdogan told political, business and social leaders gathered for the World Economic Forum at this Swiss ski resort.
Responding to critics who have questioned Ankara's historic right to join the 25-member EU, the Turkish leader recalled how, in the dying years of the Ottoman empire in the early 20th century, it 'was defined as 'the sick man of Europe', not as the sick man of Asia.'
'The European Union is no longer a union of steel and coal, it is no longer (just) an economic union,' Erdogan said. "
More:Turkish PM Erdogan Lays Case for EU Bid At Davos Forum
Turks.US - Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
"Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
Friday, January 28 2005 @ 10:37 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 60
A day after Second Chief of Staff General Basbug, Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan talked about Kirkuk. He said 'Our sensitivity was voiced to all, including Bush.' Before departing for Davos, Erdogan said that 'We voiced our sensitivity about Kirkuk entering under Kurdish control long time ago. U.S. and UN should not allow a negative formation here.
'If they do, they will have to pay the bill of such a mistake.' "
More:Turks.US - Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
Friday, January 28 2005 @ 10:37 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 60
A day after Second Chief of Staff General Basbug, Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan talked about Kirkuk. He said 'Our sensitivity was voiced to all, including Bush.' Before departing for Davos, Erdogan said that 'We voiced our sensitivity about Kirkuk entering under Kurdish control long time ago. U.S. and UN should not allow a negative formation here.
'If they do, they will have to pay the bill of such a mistake.' "
More:Turks.US - Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
The Journal of Turkish Weekly:Denktas: Independence Can Never Be A Bargaining Issue Regarding Cyprus Problem
"Denktas: Independence Can Never Be A Bargaining Issue Regarding Cyprus Problem
President Rauf R. Denktas has warned that the independence can never be a bargaining issue regarding the Cyprus problem.
Speaking today (27.01.2005) at a party at the Presidential Palace organised to celebrate the President�s birthday, Mr Denktas said that the Turkish Cypriot people is now enjoying its freedom after long-years of yearning.
Reiterating that everyone knows the real aim of the Greek Cypriot side, President Denktas said the Turkish Cypriot people has been continuing its struggle to prevent Greek Cypriots to claim the whole of the island."
More:The Journal of Turkish Weekly
President Rauf R. Denktas has warned that the independence can never be a bargaining issue regarding the Cyprus problem.
Speaking today (27.01.2005) at a party at the Presidential Palace organised to celebrate the President�s birthday, Mr Denktas said that the Turkish Cypriot people is now enjoying its freedom after long-years of yearning.
Reiterating that everyone knows the real aim of the Greek Cypriot side, President Denktas said the Turkish Cypriot people has been continuing its struggle to prevent Greek Cypriots to claim the whole of the island."
More:The Journal of Turkish Weekly
Aslan: According To Official Figures, About Ten Thousand Turkish People Had Been Massacred By Armenians In Erzurum
"Aslan: According To Official Figures, About Ten Thousand Turkish People Had Been Massacred By Armenians In Erzurum
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ERZURUM (AA) - Documents about massacres committed by the Armenians against Turkish people in eastern city of Erzurum and adjacent areas between the years of 1918 and 1920 were compiled by Assistant Prof. Betul Aslan of Ataturk University in a book entitled ''Armenian Events in Erzurum''.
The book includes a brief history of Armenians in Anatolia, documents about massacres committed by Armenians, results of excavations in the city, testimonies of those who witnessed the massacres, and recollections of Russian, German and American officials in the region such as Russian officer Tverdo Khlebov, Russian nurse Tatyana Karameli, German journalist Paul Wietz and former Council of Germany in Erzurum Edgar Andres. "
More:Aslan: According To Official Figures, About Ten Thousand Turkish People Had Been Massacred By Armenians In Erzurum
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ERZURUM (AA) - Documents about massacres committed by the Armenians against Turkish people in eastern city of Erzurum and adjacent areas between the years of 1918 and 1920 were compiled by Assistant Prof. Betul Aslan of Ataturk University in a book entitled ''Armenian Events in Erzurum''.
The book includes a brief history of Armenians in Anatolia, documents about massacres committed by Armenians, results of excavations in the city, testimonies of those who witnessed the massacres, and recollections of Russian, German and American officials in the region such as Russian officer Tverdo Khlebov, Russian nurse Tatyana Karameli, German journalist Paul Wietz and former Council of Germany in Erzurum Edgar Andres. "
More:Aslan: According To Official Figures, About Ten Thousand Turkish People Had Been Massacred By Armenians In Erzurum
Leaders Of The Banned Turkish Associations In Greece To Get Together In Istanbul
"Leaders Of The Banned Turkish Associations In Greece To Get Together In Istanbul
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ISTANBUL (AA) - Chairmen of the banned Turkish associations in Greece will get together tomorrow at a panel discussion in Istanbul's Topkapi Eresin Hotel. The associations were shut down due to the presence of the word ''Turkish'' in their names.
According to a press release from the Western Thrace Turks Solidarity Association, the panel discussion has been organized to take place on January 29, a day celebrated as the day of 'National Resistance.'
The participants at the panel discussion include Iskece (Xanthi) Turkish Union Chairman Cetin Mandaci, Gumulcine (Komotini) Turkish Youth Union Chairman Adnan Selim, Western Thrace Turkish Teachers Union Chairman Sadik Salihbey and Western Thrace Turkish Minority Consultation Council Co-Chairman Ismail Rodoplu.
"
Leaders Of The Banned Turkish Associations In Greece To Get Together In Istanbul
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ISTANBUL (AA) - Chairmen of the banned Turkish associations in Greece will get together tomorrow at a panel discussion in Istanbul's Topkapi Eresin Hotel. The associations were shut down due to the presence of the word ''Turkish'' in their names.
According to a press release from the Western Thrace Turks Solidarity Association, the panel discussion has been organized to take place on January 29, a day celebrated as the day of 'National Resistance.'
The participants at the panel discussion include Iskece (Xanthi) Turkish Union Chairman Cetin Mandaci, Gumulcine (Komotini) Turkish Youth Union Chairman Adnan Selim, Western Thrace Turkish Teachers Union Chairman Sadik Salihbey and Western Thrace Turkish Minority Consultation Council Co-Chairman Ismail Rodoplu.
"
Leaders Of The Banned Turkish Associations In Greece To Get Together In Istanbul
Turkish Ambassador Logoglu Sends Letter To N.B.C. Over A Serial Slandering Turkey
"Turkish Ambassador Logoglu Sends Letter To N.B.C. Over A Serial Slandering Turkey
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON (AA) - Turkish community in the United States reacted NBC's serial ''West Wing'' which introduced Turkey as a country cutting heads of women who commit adultery.
Upon broadcast of the serial, Turkish Ambassador to Washington Faruk Logoglu sent a letter to NBC TV and expressed disappointment over the serial which distorts realities about Turkey. Meanwhile, Turkish officials in Washington applied legal consultants to find out which measures can be taken legally about the issue. "
More:Turkish Ambassador Logoglu Sends Letter To N.B.C. Over A Serial Slandering Turkey
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON (AA) - Turkish community in the United States reacted NBC's serial ''West Wing'' which introduced Turkey as a country cutting heads of women who commit adultery.
Upon broadcast of the serial, Turkish Ambassador to Washington Faruk Logoglu sent a letter to NBC TV and expressed disappointment over the serial which distorts realities about Turkey. Meanwhile, Turkish officials in Washington applied legal consultants to find out which measures can be taken legally about the issue. "
More:Turkish Ambassador Logoglu Sends Letter To N.B.C. Over A Serial Slandering Turkey
Sahin: We Don't Ask Permission From Nobody To Express What We Saw In Kirkuk
"Sahin: We Don't Ask Permission From Nobody To Express What We Saw In Kirkuk
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ISTANBUL (AA) - ''Turkey is closely interested in Iraq. We do not ask permission from nobody while expressing what we have witnessed in Kirkuk,'' said Turkish State Minister & Deputy Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Sahin.
When a reporter asked whether there may be a tension between Turkey and the United States due to Kirkuk, Sahin said, ''We are closely interested in the incidents in our neighbor Iraq. We have expressed this to all of our allies, and especially the United States. We have predicted the existing situation in Iraq before it emerged. We are sensitive on certain matters. We hope that appropriate measures would be taken. Our Premier had expressed this as well,'' said Sahin. "
Sahin: We Don't Ask Permission From Nobody To Express What We Saw In Kirkuk
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ISTANBUL (AA) - ''Turkey is closely interested in Iraq. We do not ask permission from nobody while expressing what we have witnessed in Kirkuk,'' said Turkish State Minister & Deputy Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Sahin.
When a reporter asked whether there may be a tension between Turkey and the United States due to Kirkuk, Sahin said, ''We are closely interested in the incidents in our neighbor Iraq. We have expressed this to all of our allies, and especially the United States. We have predicted the existing situation in Iraq before it emerged. We are sensitive on certain matters. We hope that appropriate measures would be taken. Our Premier had expressed this as well,'' said Sahin. "
Sahin: We Don't Ask Permission From Nobody To Express What We Saw In Kirkuk
Rice To Visit Turkey
"Rice To Visit Turkey
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON (AA) - U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will travel to several European countries including Turkey and the Middle East beginning next week.
U.S. State Department spokesman Richard Boucher announced today (Thursday) that Rice will visit Britain, Germany, Poland, Turkey, Israel, Italy, France, Belgium and Luxembourg between February 3rd and 10th.
President George W. Bush also plans a trip to Europe between February 22nd and 25th, and Rice's visit helps prepare the way, Boucher said.
Rice will have the opportunity of putting forward the cooperation agenda with the European friends and allies of the United States, Boucher said.
Boucher added that Rice intends to promote President Bush's vision of democracy and freedom as the keys to peace and prosperity.
(MS)
2005-01-27 "
Rice To Visit Turkey
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON (AA) - U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will travel to several European countries including Turkey and the Middle East beginning next week.
U.S. State Department spokesman Richard Boucher announced today (Thursday) that Rice will visit Britain, Germany, Poland, Turkey, Israel, Italy, France, Belgium and Luxembourg between February 3rd and 10th.
President George W. Bush also plans a trip to Europe between February 22nd and 25th, and Rice's visit helps prepare the way, Boucher said.
Rice will have the opportunity of putting forward the cooperation agenda with the European friends and allies of the United States, Boucher said.
Boucher added that Rice intends to promote President Bush's vision of democracy and freedom as the keys to peace and prosperity.
(MS)
2005-01-27 "
Rice To Visit Turkey
Erdogan: Turkey Is In Favor Of Peace
"Erdogan: Turkey Is In Favor Of Peace
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
DAVOS (AA) - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday, ''Turkey is in favor of peace.''
Prime Minister Erdogan, who is currently in Davos town of Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum, partook in a luncheon on ''the Future of the Secular Crescent''.
When asked about allegations saying that Turkey might intervene in northern part of Iraq, Prime Minister Erdogan said, ''Turkey has always been in favor of peace. However, Turkey has some sensitivities about its rights. For instance, presence of terrorist organization PKK in north of Iraq causes problems.'' "
More:Erdogan: Turkey Is In Favor Of Peace
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
DAVOS (AA) - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday, ''Turkey is in favor of peace.''
Prime Minister Erdogan, who is currently in Davos town of Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum, partook in a luncheon on ''the Future of the Secular Crescent''.
When asked about allegations saying that Turkey might intervene in northern part of Iraq, Prime Minister Erdogan said, ''Turkey has always been in favor of peace. However, Turkey has some sensitivities about its rights. For instance, presence of terrorist organization PKK in north of Iraq causes problems.'' "
More:Erdogan: Turkey Is In Favor Of Peace
Iraqi Turks Disappointed With Absence Of Their Political Front's Logo On Election Brochures
"Iraqi Turks Disappointed With Absence Of Their Political Front's Logo On Election Brochures
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ISTANBUL (AA) - Iraqi Turks Cultural and Assistance Association Chairman Kemal Beyatli has criticized the lack of the logo of the Iraq Turkmen Front (ITC) on election brochures and stated that this situation is an unfortunate one.
Within the framework organized by the International Organization for Migration's Independent Iraq Election Commission, Beyatli casted his vote today at an elementary school in Istanbul. "
More:Iraqi Turks Disappointed With Absence Of Their Political Front's Logo On Election Brochures
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
ISTANBUL (AA) - Iraqi Turks Cultural and Assistance Association Chairman Kemal Beyatli has criticized the lack of the logo of the Iraq Turkmen Front (ITC) on election brochures and stated that this situation is an unfortunate one.
Within the framework organized by the International Organization for Migration's Independent Iraq Election Commission, Beyatli casted his vote today at an elementary school in Istanbul. "
More:Iraqi Turks Disappointed With Absence Of Their Political Front's Logo On Election Brochures
Nixon Center Expert Baran: The U.S. Intends To Change The Status Quo In Turkey's Region
"Nixon Center Expert Baran: The U.S. Intends To Change The Status Quo In Turkey's Region
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. (AA) - The International Security & Energy Program Director of the Nixon Center Zeyno Baran has stated that the United States intends to change the status quo in Turkey's region. ''Hence, Turkey would have to pursue a more active policy,'' affirmed Baran.
Participating in a panel discussion, sponsored by the American-Turkish Council (ATC) and Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C., Baran referred to U.S. President's inaugural address, where he mentioned the importance of the spread of democracy globally, and remarked that in such a scenario Turkey must make clear where it stands. ''Turkey's stance will have an impact on the strategic partnership between Turkey and the U.S..'' she said. "
More:Nixon Center Expert Baran: The U.S. Intends To Change The Status Quo In Turkey's Region
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. (AA) - The International Security & Energy Program Director of the Nixon Center Zeyno Baran has stated that the United States intends to change the status quo in Turkey's region. ''Hence, Turkey would have to pursue a more active policy,'' affirmed Baran.
Participating in a panel discussion, sponsored by the American-Turkish Council (ATC) and Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C., Baran referred to U.S. President's inaugural address, where he mentioned the importance of the spread of democracy globally, and remarked that in such a scenario Turkey must make clear where it stands. ''Turkey's stance will have an impact on the strategic partnership between Turkey and the U.S..'' she said. "
More:Nixon Center Expert Baran: The U.S. Intends To Change The Status Quo In Turkey's Region
Conference On Turkey - E.U. - U.S.A.
"Conference On Turkey - E.U. - U.S.A.
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. (AA) - European Union Commission Washington, D.C. Representative Jonathan Davidson has stated that the EU is firmly determined to find avenues that will lead to the resolution of the Cyprus problem.
The American-Turkish Council (ATC) and Atlantic Council organized a conference, titled ''Turkey's Acceptance into the EU: The Impact on the USA relations with Turkey and EU,'' in an office of the American Senate yesterday.
In a speech delivered, Davidson said that a new step must be taken in Cyprus for a solution. ''We expect an increase in the number of efforts made to find a solution. We also expect the UN to re-start the meetings after the April elections in Northern Cyprus,'' told Davidson. Davidson indicated that the issues of Cyprus and Armenians are not a part of the upcoming negotiations. "
More:Conference On Turkey - E.U. - U.S.A.
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
WASHINGTON, D.C. (AA) - European Union Commission Washington, D.C. Representative Jonathan Davidson has stated that the EU is firmly determined to find avenues that will lead to the resolution of the Cyprus problem.
The American-Turkish Council (ATC) and Atlantic Council organized a conference, titled ''Turkey's Acceptance into the EU: The Impact on the USA relations with Turkey and EU,'' in an office of the American Senate yesterday.
In a speech delivered, Davidson said that a new step must be taken in Cyprus for a solution. ''We expect an increase in the number of efforts made to find a solution. We also expect the UN to re-start the meetings after the April elections in Northern Cyprus,'' told Davidson. Davidson indicated that the issues of Cyprus and Armenians are not a part of the upcoming negotiations. "
More:Conference On Turkey - E.U. - U.S.A.
Erdogan: We Have Been Maintaining Our Preparatory Efforts For Our E.U. Membership Process
"Erdogan: We Have Been Maintaining Our Preparatory Efforts For Our E.U. Membership Process
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
DAVOS (AA) - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday, ''we have been maintaining our preparatory efforts for our EU membership process. Also, efforts have been under way to form the legal infrastructure for the Ankara Agreement. We are in favor of solution.''
Prime Minister Erdogan, who is currently in Davos town of Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum, held a news conference.
Upon a question about so-called Armenian genocide, Prime Minister Erdogan said, ''our official position is clear. According to our point of view, not politicians but historians should deal with such issues. As the Republic of Turkey, we have opened air corridor with Armenia, and also initiated trade. There are 30 thousand citizens of Armenian origin in Turkey. They do not have such problems.'' "
More:Erdogan: We Have Been Maintaining Our Preparatory Efforts For Our E.U. Membership Process
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
DAVOS (AA) - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday, ''we have been maintaining our preparatory efforts for our EU membership process. Also, efforts have been under way to form the legal infrastructure for the Ankara Agreement. We are in favor of solution.''
Prime Minister Erdogan, who is currently in Davos town of Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum, held a news conference.
Upon a question about so-called Armenian genocide, Prime Minister Erdogan said, ''our official position is clear. According to our point of view, not politicians but historians should deal with such issues. As the Republic of Turkey, we have opened air corridor with Armenia, and also initiated trade. There are 30 thousand citizens of Armenian origin in Turkey. They do not have such problems.'' "
More:Erdogan: We Have Been Maintaining Our Preparatory Efforts For Our E.U. Membership Process
Babacan: Turkey Will Meet E.U.'s Budget Deficit And Debt Stock Criteria
"Babacan: Turkey Will Meet E.U.'s Budget Deficit And Debt Stock Criteria
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
DAVOS (AA) - ''Turkey will meet the EU's criteria for budget deficit in 2006 and for debt stock in 2007,'' said Turkish State Minister Ali Babacan.
Babacan held a news conference regarding his meetings in Davos on Thursday.
''I have attended sessions about Europe and we have discussed the vision of Europe for the future. We have taken up monetary and budget issues which monetary union member countries should comply with, besides European Constitution which has to be approved by all members before October 2006,'' said Babacan. "
More:Babacan: Turkey Will Meet E.U.'s Budget Deficit And Debt Stock Criteria
Anadolu Agency: 1/29/2005
DAVOS (AA) - ''Turkey will meet the EU's criteria for budget deficit in 2006 and for debt stock in 2007,'' said Turkish State Minister Ali Babacan.
Babacan held a news conference regarding his meetings in Davos on Thursday.
''I have attended sessions about Europe and we have discussed the vision of Europe for the future. We have taken up monetary and budget issues which monetary union member countries should comply with, besides European Constitution which has to be approved by all members before October 2006,'' said Babacan. "
More:Babacan: Turkey Will Meet E.U.'s Budget Deficit And Debt Stock Criteria
Harold Doan and Associates Ltd. - TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
"TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
Jan. 28 2005
Davos, Switzerland � Turkey joining the European Union will be a �reconciliation of civilizations,� Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday in a special message at the World Economic Forum�s Annual Meeting 2005. In addition, the country at the crossroads of east and west will serve as a catalyst for positive change in the Balkans and exercise a stabilizing influence in the troubled region that touches its borders.
�The EU is no longer a union of steel and coal . . . it is not a Christian club. It is a totality of political values,� Erdogan said. It has been a long road to fulfilling the EU�s accession criteria, with an application for membership first being filed 42 years ago. On 3 November 2004 Turkey was finally given the green light to launch negotiations for full membership.
�We fulfilled the Copenhagen criteria in just two years,� he noted. �The process will not be led by the government alone; NGOs and others are involved. . . But I believe the most difficult chapter will be the common agricultural policy.� "
More:Harold Doan and Associates Ltd. - TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
Jan. 28 2005
Davos, Switzerland � Turkey joining the European Union will be a �reconciliation of civilizations,� Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday in a special message at the World Economic Forum�s Annual Meeting 2005. In addition, the country at the crossroads of east and west will serve as a catalyst for positive change in the Balkans and exercise a stabilizing influence in the troubled region that touches its borders.
�The EU is no longer a union of steel and coal . . . it is not a Christian club. It is a totality of political values,� Erdogan said. It has been a long road to fulfilling the EU�s accession criteria, with an application for membership first being filed 42 years ago. On 3 November 2004 Turkey was finally given the green light to launch negotiations for full membership.
�We fulfilled the Copenhagen criteria in just two years,� he noted. �The process will not be led by the government alone; NGOs and others are involved. . . But I believe the most difficult chapter will be the common agricultural policy.� "
More:Harold Doan and Associates Ltd. - TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
IRAQ: Worried Turkey Keeps Close Watch
"Worried Turkey Keeps Close Watch
Aaron Glantz
ARBIL, Northern Iraq, Jan 29 (IPS) - The afternoon call to prayer sounds on the final Friday before election on Sunday, and thousands of Kurds across Northern Iraq file into their mosques. At each one of them, imams appointed by the ruling Kurdish factions give the same message: go out and vote.
�Vote, vote, and vote for all the martyrs who helped you get your freedom,� a middle aged imam preaches in Quritan, a small town southwest of the regional capital Arbil. �Vote for the people who were killed by Saddam in al-Anfal. This election is our chance to win our freedom.�
In the afternoon after the sermons are over, Arbil too is in full election mode. The red, green, and white Kurdish national flag is everywhere. Half the cars fly the flag, and it is draped over government buildings. Speakers at street corners blare out the same message. �Hurry, hurry, get ready to vote for the Kurdistan list.�
Across the border, Turkish leaders have been listening to these voices carefully. "
More:IRAQ: Worried Turkey Keeps Close Watch
Aaron Glantz
ARBIL, Northern Iraq, Jan 29 (IPS) - The afternoon call to prayer sounds on the final Friday before election on Sunday, and thousands of Kurds across Northern Iraq file into their mosques. At each one of them, imams appointed by the ruling Kurdish factions give the same message: go out and vote.
�Vote, vote, and vote for all the martyrs who helped you get your freedom,� a middle aged imam preaches in Quritan, a small town southwest of the regional capital Arbil. �Vote for the people who were killed by Saddam in al-Anfal. This election is our chance to win our freedom.�
In the afternoon after the sermons are over, Arbil too is in full election mode. The red, green, and white Kurdish national flag is everywhere. Half the cars fly the flag, and it is draped over government buildings. Speakers at street corners blare out the same message. �Hurry, hurry, get ready to vote for the Kurdistan list.�
Across the border, Turkish leaders have been listening to these voices carefully. "
More:IRAQ: Worried Turkey Keeps Close Watch
Turks.US - Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
" Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
Friday, January 28 2005 @ 10:37 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 39
A day after Second Chief of Staff General Basbug, Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan talked about Kirkuk. He said 'Our sensitivity was voiced to all, including Bush.' Before departing for Davos, Erdogan said that 'We voiced our sensitivity about Kirkuk entering under Kurdish control long time ago. U.S. and UN should not allow a negative formation here.
'If they do, they will have to pay the bill of such a mistake.'
Erdogan said that Sunday's elections in Iraq will not be democratic. Meeting foreign journalists in Davos, 'These elections can be defined as a transition to democracy.' He said that the boycott of Sunni Arabs will effect the elections.
American State Department Spokesman Richard Boucher reacted by saying that ; We do not claim these elections are excellent but they will be important for a democratic structure.
Boucher said that, Secretary of State C. Rice will visit Turkey during his 3-10 February European tour. Douglas Fight the Number 3 of the U.S. Defence Ministry is coming to Turkey at the beginning of next week. "
Turks.US - Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
Friday, January 28 2005 @ 10:37 PM Central Standard Time
Views: 39
A day after Second Chief of Staff General Basbug, Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan talked about Kirkuk. He said 'Our sensitivity was voiced to all, including Bush.' Before departing for Davos, Erdogan said that 'We voiced our sensitivity about Kirkuk entering under Kurdish control long time ago. U.S. and UN should not allow a negative formation here.
'If they do, they will have to pay the bill of such a mistake.'
Erdogan said that Sunday's elections in Iraq will not be democratic. Meeting foreign journalists in Davos, 'These elections can be defined as a transition to democracy.' He said that the boycott of Sunni Arabs will effect the elections.
American State Department Spokesman Richard Boucher reacted by saying that ; We do not claim these elections are excellent but they will be important for a democratic structure.
Boucher said that, Secretary of State C. Rice will visit Turkey during his 3-10 February European tour. Douglas Fight the Number 3 of the U.S. Defence Ministry is coming to Turkey at the beginning of next week. "
Turks.US - Turkey's Erdogan: U.S AND UN Will Pay Price
Aljazeera.Net - Turkey eyes Iraq poll with concern
"Turkey eyes Iraq poll with concern
By Jonathan Gorvett
Saturday 29 January 2005, 0:32 Makka Time, 21:32 GMT
Turkey's leaders have been voicing fears this week that Sunday's Iraqi elections may have dire consequences for stability across their southern border.
The deputy chief of staff of the country's powerful military, General Ilker Basbug, said on Wednesday that developments could threaten the territorial and political integrity of Iraq and would pose an important security problem for Turkey.
In 2003, after the US-led invasion of Iraq, Turkey had threatened to send its troops into the north of the country if it fell under the control of Kurdish forces. It only backed down after Washington applied strong pressure."
More:Aljazeera.Net - Turkey eyes Iraq poll with concern
By Jonathan Gorvett
Saturday 29 January 2005, 0:32 Makka Time, 21:32 GMT
Turkey's leaders have been voicing fears this week that Sunday's Iraqi elections may have dire consequences for stability across their southern border.
The deputy chief of staff of the country's powerful military, General Ilker Basbug, said on Wednesday that developments could threaten the territorial and political integrity of Iraq and would pose an important security problem for Turkey.
In 2003, after the US-led invasion of Iraq, Turkey had threatened to send its troops into the north of the country if it fell under the control of Kurdish forces. It only backed down after Washington applied strong pressure."
More:Aljazeera.Net - Turkey eyes Iraq poll with concern
Turkish Daily News:'Secularism is strong in Turkey'
"'Secularism is strong in Turkey'
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Attending a luncheon in Davos, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in response to questions: �It's a mistake to regard Turkey as a country that doesn't separate religion from civil affairs. Those who want to understand Turkey must eliminate their prejudices.�
Explaining his personal understanding of religion, Erdogan said that he, as a political leader, is not in a state of uncertainty. �I am trying to be a devout person, and we should fear only extremism, not devout persons.�
He also said that the Justice and Development Party (AKP) has adopted the secular principles enumerated in the 1982 Turkish Constitution."
Turkish Daily News
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Attending a luncheon in Davos, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in response to questions: �It's a mistake to regard Turkey as a country that doesn't separate religion from civil affairs. Those who want to understand Turkey must eliminate their prejudices.�
Explaining his personal understanding of religion, Erdogan said that he, as a political leader, is not in a state of uncertainty. �I am trying to be a devout person, and we should fear only extremism, not devout persons.�
He also said that the Justice and Development Party (AKP) has adopted the secular principles enumerated in the 1982 Turkish Constitution."
Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News: Finance minister says foreign interest in Turkey's privatization high
"Finance minister says foreign interest in Turkey's privatization high
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Turkish Finance Minister Kemal Unakitan says the positive economic performance over the last two years and the possibility of EU accession has helped raise foreign interest in Turkey's privatization projects
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Turkish Finance Minister Kemal Unakitan, currently in Davos attending World Economic Forum meetings, told Anatolia news agency reporter Mustafa Seven that there is great international interest in Turkey's privatization projects.
Unakitan, noting that before going to Davos he visited the United States and had gathered ideas and opinions concerning privatization, said, �There is great interest in Turkey as a result of the economic performance the country has exhibited over the last two years and as a result of the country obtaining a European Union accession negotiation date.� "
More:Turkish Daily News
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Turkish Finance Minister Kemal Unakitan says the positive economic performance over the last two years and the possibility of EU accession has helped raise foreign interest in Turkey's privatization projects
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Turkish Finance Minister Kemal Unakitan, currently in Davos attending World Economic Forum meetings, told Anatolia news agency reporter Mustafa Seven that there is great international interest in Turkey's privatization projects.
Unakitan, noting that before going to Davos he visited the United States and had gathered ideas and opinions concerning privatization, said, �There is great interest in Turkey as a result of the economic performance the country has exhibited over the last two years and as a result of the country obtaining a European Union accession negotiation date.� "
More:Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News:'Turkey capable of EU membership'
"'Turkey capable of EU membership'
Saturday, January 29, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Despite the presence of a strong opposition to Turkey's EU bid from French politicians such as the new UMP chairman, Nicolas Sarkozy, who is getting ready to be President Jacques Chirac's successor, French Interior Minister Dominique de Villepin said yesterday that Turkey had the necessary qualifications to become an EU member. However, he added that starting negotiations didn't mean eventual EU membership.
�All options are open, but it's still the French citizens who will decide this (Turkey's EU membership),� said De Villepin. "
Turkish Daily News
Saturday, January 29, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Despite the presence of a strong opposition to Turkey's EU bid from French politicians such as the new UMP chairman, Nicolas Sarkozy, who is getting ready to be President Jacques Chirac's successor, French Interior Minister Dominique de Villepin said yesterday that Turkey had the necessary qualifications to become an EU member. However, he added that starting negotiations didn't mean eventual EU membership.
�All options are open, but it's still the French citizens who will decide this (Turkey's EU membership),� said De Villepin. "
Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News:Talat likens Greek Cypriots to Haider
"Talat likens Greek Cypriots to Haider
Saturday, January 29, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Talat yesterday compared the Greek Cypriot administration with Austrian far-right leader J�rg Haider, saying the European Union should exclude the Greek Cypriots due to their uncompromising attitude over finding a resolution to the Cyprus dispute, as it had excluded Haider upon his glory in elections.
Talat said the EU should not allow the Greek Cypriot administration any rest since it wasn't behaving in a European fashion by insisting on the isolation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC).
�It's the EU's duty to find creative formulas for lifting the isolation and, if needs be, to push aside this small, aggressive society (the Greek Cypriots) that doesn't act European,� Anatolia quoted Talat as saying. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Saturday, January 29, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Turkish Cypriot Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Talat yesterday compared the Greek Cypriot administration with Austrian far-right leader J�rg Haider, saying the European Union should exclude the Greek Cypriots due to their uncompromising attitude over finding a resolution to the Cyprus dispute, as it had excluded Haider upon his glory in elections.
Talat said the EU should not allow the Greek Cypriot administration any rest since it wasn't behaving in a European fashion by insisting on the isolation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC).
�It's the EU's duty to find creative formulas for lifting the isolation and, if needs be, to push aside this small, aggressive society (the Greek Cypriots) that doesn't act European,� Anatolia quoted Talat as saying. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Erdogan pledges no delay on Cyprus in EU bid
"Erdogan pledges no delay on Cyprus in EU bid
By Staff Reporter
TURKISH Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan pledged yesterday there would be no delay in signing a document extending Turkey's agreement with the European Union to all new EU members, including Cyprus.
EU leaders said last month that Turkey must extend the so-called Ankara Agreement to all 25 member states before it may open negotiations to join the wealthy bloc on Oct. 3.
The move is highly sensitive in Turkey because it is seen by diplomats as tantamount to de facto recognition of the internationally recognised Cypriot government without a peace deal.
Erdogan said Turkey was scrutinising the legal terms of the agreement. 'We shall be concluding these initiatives and we do not wish to have any delay,' he told a news conference at the World Economic Forum.
He declined to say when Turkey would sign the accord but said he had discussed the path to the start of accession talks with German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder and EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn in private meetings in Davos."
More:Erdogan pledges no delay on Cyprus in EU bid
By Staff Reporter
TURKISH Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan pledged yesterday there would be no delay in signing a document extending Turkey's agreement with the European Union to all new EU members, including Cyprus.
EU leaders said last month that Turkey must extend the so-called Ankara Agreement to all 25 member states before it may open negotiations to join the wealthy bloc on Oct. 3.
The move is highly sensitive in Turkey because it is seen by diplomats as tantamount to de facto recognition of the internationally recognised Cypriot government without a peace deal.
Erdogan said Turkey was scrutinising the legal terms of the agreement. 'We shall be concluding these initiatives and we do not wish to have any delay,' he told a news conference at the World Economic Forum.
He declined to say when Turkey would sign the accord but said he had discussed the path to the start of accession talks with German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder and EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn in private meetings in Davos."
More:Erdogan pledges no delay on Cyprus in EU bid
'Biggest Risk Waiting for Turkey in 2005 is Cyprus and Northern Iraq'
"'Biggest Risk Waiting for Turkey in 2005 is Cyprus and Northern Iraq'
By aa
Published: Saturday 29, 2005
zaman.com
The Deutsche Bank Eurasia Group Stability Index (DESIX) has reported that the biggest risks awaiting Turkey in 2005 are Cyprus and Northern Iraq issues and related possible developments.
An analysis released by the organization cites the terrorist organization Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) still exists in northern Iraq and stresses that the situation in Iraq triggers concerns about escalating instability regarding Turkish security. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012916039)
By aa
Published: Saturday 29, 2005
zaman.com
The Deutsche Bank Eurasia Group Stability Index (DESIX) has reported that the biggest risks awaiting Turkey in 2005 are Cyprus and Northern Iraq issues and related possible developments.
An analysis released by the organization cites the terrorist organization Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) still exists in northern Iraq and stresses that the situation in Iraq triggers concerns about escalating instability regarding Turkish security. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012916039)
'Muslim Turkey' Discussions in EU Alarming
"'Muslim Turkey' Discussions in EU Alarming
By Selcuk Gultasli
Published: Saturday 29, 2005
zaman.com
The Amnesty International (AI) Secretary-General Irene Khan said discussions in the European Union (EU) about Turkey's identity are alarming.
Khan stated yesterday (January 28) excluding Turkey because it is an Islamic country is unfair and that diversity is one of the EU pillars. Currently in the Swiss town of Davos for the World Economic Forum meetings, the AI secretary general gave an interview to Zaman and emphasized that no systematic torture has remained in Turkey. She addedon the subject that they, as the AI, do not see eye-to-eye on the issue with some human rights groups in Turkey. She said many positive developments have been realized in Turkey lately, however, it still has a long way to despite all these developments and alerts the challenge for the Turkish government will be implementing these reforms. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012916040)
By Selcuk Gultasli
Published: Saturday 29, 2005
zaman.com
The Amnesty International (AI) Secretary-General Irene Khan said discussions in the European Union (EU) about Turkey's identity are alarming.
Khan stated yesterday (January 28) excluding Turkey because it is an Islamic country is unfair and that diversity is one of the EU pillars. Currently in the Swiss town of Davos for the World Economic Forum meetings, the AI secretary general gave an interview to Zaman and emphasized that no systematic torture has remained in Turkey. She addedon the subject that they, as the AI, do not see eye-to-eye on the issue with some human rights groups in Turkey. She said many positive developments have been realized in Turkey lately, however, it still has a long way to despite all these developments and alerts the challenge for the Turkish government will be implementing these reforms. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012916040)
Friday, January 28, 2005
Harold Doan and Associates Ltd. - TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
"TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
Jan. 28 2005
Davos, Switzerland � Turkey joining the European Union will be a �reconciliation of civilizations,� Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday in a special message at the World Economic Forum�s Annual Meeting 2005. In addition, the country at the crossroads of east and west will serve as a catalyst for positive change in the Balkans and exercise a stabilizing influence in the troubled region that touches its borders.
�The EU is no longer a union of steel and coal . . . it is not a Christian club. It is a totality of political values,� Erdogan said. It has been a long road to fulfilling the EU�s accession criteria, with an application for membership first being filed 42 years ago. On 3 November 2004 Turkey was finally given the green light to launch negotiations for full membership. "
More:Harold Doan and Associates Ltd. - TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
Jan. 28 2005
Davos, Switzerland � Turkey joining the European Union will be a �reconciliation of civilizations,� Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday in a special message at the World Economic Forum�s Annual Meeting 2005. In addition, the country at the crossroads of east and west will serve as a catalyst for positive change in the Balkans and exercise a stabilizing influence in the troubled region that touches its borders.
�The EU is no longer a union of steel and coal . . . it is not a Christian club. It is a totality of political values,� Erdogan said. It has been a long road to fulfilling the EU�s accession criteria, with an application for membership first being filed 42 years ago. On 3 November 2004 Turkey was finally given the green light to launch negotiations for full membership. "
More:Harold Doan and Associates Ltd. - TURKEY JOINING THE EU A �RECONCILIATION OF CIVILIZATIONS� SAYS PRIME MINISTER
Turkish PM Erdogan lays case for EU bid at Davos forum
"Turkish PM Erdogan lays case for EU bid at Davos forum
AFP: 1/28/2005
DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 28 (AFP) - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan laid his country's case for European Union membership Friday before leaders from all over the world, saying it would help bridge a divide between civilizations.
'We want a Europe, a world, where there is a reconciliation between civilizations,' Erdogan told political, business and social leaders gathered for the World Economic Forum at this Swiss ski resort.
Responding to critics who have questioned Ankara's historic right to join the 25-member EU, the Turkish leader recalled how, in the dying years of the Ottoman empire in the early 20th century, it 'was defined as 'the sick man of Europe', not as the sick man of Asia.' "
More:Turkish PM Erdogan lays case for EU bid at Davos forum
AFP: 1/28/2005
DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 28 (AFP) - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Erdogan laid his country's case for European Union membership Friday before leaders from all over the world, saying it would help bridge a divide between civilizations.
'We want a Europe, a world, where there is a reconciliation between civilizations,' Erdogan told political, business and social leaders gathered for the World Economic Forum at this Swiss ski resort.
Responding to critics who have questioned Ankara's historic right to join the 25-member EU, the Turkish leader recalled how, in the dying years of the Ottoman empire in the early 20th century, it 'was defined as 'the sick man of Europe', not as the sick man of Asia.' "
More:Turkish PM Erdogan lays case for EU bid at Davos forum
FROM ATAA: Message Regarding NBC's "The West Wing"
"FROM ATAA: Message Regarding NBC's 'The West Wing'
ATAA: 1/28/2005
Dear Members of the Turkish American Community:
Two weeks after Fox Television's first episode of '24' defamed Turkey, Turkish companies, and Turkish Americans as supporters of terrorism, NBC's 'The West Wing' defamed Turkey and the ruling Justice and Development Party as executioners of women who have premarital sex.
The “West Wing” episode, “King Corn”, (NBC, January 26, 9am EST), takes place in the corn-growing state of Iowa and concerns a presidential campaign focused on farm subsidies, ethanol, and NAFTA. During the campaign, there arises an international crisis in which Turkey, having adopted Islamic laws under the leadership of the AKP, has convicted and ordered the execution by beheading of a woman, Karli, for having sex with her fiancée. The stated crime is adultery. The news, displaying a map of Turkey and the Turkish flag, adds that the execution will create difficulties for Turkey’s EU admission. Furthermore, the news states that despite the tragic situation of this Turkish woman, the US Administration places so much importance on Turkey’s alliance that it will continue to support Turkey.
A major theme in “King Corn” concerns how presidential candidates and their campaign managers must weigh between political expediency and moral obligations when campaigning. In order to gain corn farmer votes, one candidate supports a measure in violation of his conscience, as he believes the measure actually helps corporate interests rather than corn farmers. Another candidate obeys his conscience and speaks his mind to the farmers despite the risk of losing their support. The wife of the former, who is upset at the fact that her husband acted against his conscience, campaigns the rights of the “poor Turkish woman” and attempts to get her husband interested in the issue. But her husband is more interested in farmer votes than Turkish human rights.
John Wells Productions is in association with Warner Brother Studios. In “King Corn”, the Executive Producer was John Wells, Director Alex Graves, and Emmy award winning writer and creator Aaron Sorkin. Despite their credentials, it appears that these men either conducted no research or deliberately ignored the facts.
The ATAA Anti-Defamation Committee reported that the statements made in “King Corn” regarding Turkey and AKP are false, as there is no Islamic law, no crime of adultery, no crime of fornication, and no death penalty in Turkey. For over 80 years, the Turkish legal code has been based on European models: Swiss, French, Italian and German. AKP, listening to its few orthodox constituents, considered a law against adultery, and wisely decided against it. AKP never envisioned the death penalty for such a crime.
The Committee reported that the Wells team even got the crime wrong, citing adultery to describe sexual relations between two unmarried individuals. As there is no Turkish law on the matter, the Committee reviewed the closest law that could be found. Under Virginia law, which was repealed only days ago, adultery occurs when a married person has sex with a person to whom he or she is not married. Under the same law, premarital sex constitutes the ancient crime of fornication. If the Wells team wanted to be more persuasive in their misrepresentation, they might have fit the right crime to the facts they imagined.
Furthermore, the Committee reported that Turkey is an anti-death penalty country on paper and in practice. AKP removed the death penalty from the books, and prior ruling parties refused to use it. Indeed, the last execution in Turkey took place over twenty years ago regarding an Armenian ASALA terrorist who stormed Ankara International Airport and massacred 10, wounded 72 and executed an American hostage. During the same period, 948 have been executed in America, four since January 1, 2005 (www.deathpenaltyinfo.org). The method of execution in Turkey was hanging, as in the states of Washington and New Jersey, and never beheading, as in countries of France or Saudi Arabia.
The ATAA is communicating with NBC, Wells Productions, Warner Brothers and the sponsors, with the objective to arrest the defamation and obtain relief.
Sincerely,
Vural Cengiz
President, ATAA
Assembly of Turkish American Associations"
FROM ATAA: Message Regarding NBC's "The West Wing"
ATAA: 1/28/2005
Dear Members of the Turkish American Community:
Two weeks after Fox Television's first episode of '24' defamed Turkey, Turkish companies, and Turkish Americans as supporters of terrorism, NBC's 'The West Wing' defamed Turkey and the ruling Justice and Development Party as executioners of women who have premarital sex.
The “West Wing” episode, “King Corn”, (NBC, January 26, 9am EST), takes place in the corn-growing state of Iowa and concerns a presidential campaign focused on farm subsidies, ethanol, and NAFTA. During the campaign, there arises an international crisis in which Turkey, having adopted Islamic laws under the leadership of the AKP, has convicted and ordered the execution by beheading of a woman, Karli, for having sex with her fiancée. The stated crime is adultery. The news, displaying a map of Turkey and the Turkish flag, adds that the execution will create difficulties for Turkey’s EU admission. Furthermore, the news states that despite the tragic situation of this Turkish woman, the US Administration places so much importance on Turkey’s alliance that it will continue to support Turkey.
A major theme in “King Corn” concerns how presidential candidates and their campaign managers must weigh between political expediency and moral obligations when campaigning. In order to gain corn farmer votes, one candidate supports a measure in violation of his conscience, as he believes the measure actually helps corporate interests rather than corn farmers. Another candidate obeys his conscience and speaks his mind to the farmers despite the risk of losing their support. The wife of the former, who is upset at the fact that her husband acted against his conscience, campaigns the rights of the “poor Turkish woman” and attempts to get her husband interested in the issue. But her husband is more interested in farmer votes than Turkish human rights.
John Wells Productions is in association with Warner Brother Studios. In “King Corn”, the Executive Producer was John Wells, Director Alex Graves, and Emmy award winning writer and creator Aaron Sorkin. Despite their credentials, it appears that these men either conducted no research or deliberately ignored the facts.
The ATAA Anti-Defamation Committee reported that the statements made in “King Corn” regarding Turkey and AKP are false, as there is no Islamic law, no crime of adultery, no crime of fornication, and no death penalty in Turkey. For over 80 years, the Turkish legal code has been based on European models: Swiss, French, Italian and German. AKP, listening to its few orthodox constituents, considered a law against adultery, and wisely decided against it. AKP never envisioned the death penalty for such a crime.
The Committee reported that the Wells team even got the crime wrong, citing adultery to describe sexual relations between two unmarried individuals. As there is no Turkish law on the matter, the Committee reviewed the closest law that could be found. Under Virginia law, which was repealed only days ago, adultery occurs when a married person has sex with a person to whom he or she is not married. Under the same law, premarital sex constitutes the ancient crime of fornication. If the Wells team wanted to be more persuasive in their misrepresentation, they might have fit the right crime to the facts they imagined.
Furthermore, the Committee reported that Turkey is an anti-death penalty country on paper and in practice. AKP removed the death penalty from the books, and prior ruling parties refused to use it. Indeed, the last execution in Turkey took place over twenty years ago regarding an Armenian ASALA terrorist who stormed Ankara International Airport and massacred 10, wounded 72 and executed an American hostage. During the same period, 948 have been executed in America, four since January 1, 2005 (www.deathpenaltyinfo.org). The method of execution in Turkey was hanging, as in the states of Washington and New Jersey, and never beheading, as in countries of France or Saudi Arabia.
The ATAA is communicating with NBC, Wells Productions, Warner Brothers and the sponsors, with the objective to arrest the defamation and obtain relief.
Sincerely,
Vural Cengiz
President, ATAA
Assembly of Turkish American Associations"
FROM ATAA: Message Regarding NBC's "The West Wing"
FT.com / Home UK - Ataturk's party faces fight to regain its relevance in Turkey
"Ataturk's party faces fight to regain its relevance in Turkey
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: January 28 2005 02:00 | Last updated: January 28 2005 02:00
Turkey's main opposition Republican People's party (CHP) meets this weekend to try to resolve a leadership challenge amid claims of corruption and death threats. The party founded by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk has the haunting feeling that it is on the brink of irrelevance.
Deniz Baykal, the CHP's remote and gaunt 66-year-old leader, is being challenged by two men largely unknown outside the party's ranks: Mustafa Sarigul, mayor of a district of Istanbul, and Zulfu Livaneli, a member of parliament for the city. Mr Baykal's supporters, and even his detractors, say he is likely to survive at the party's special convention.
However, that will not resolve divisions within the party or change the fact that Turkey's entire political opposition is in disarray."
More:FT.com / Home UK - Ataturk's party faces fight to regain its relevance in Turkey
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: January 28 2005 02:00 | Last updated: January 28 2005 02:00
Turkey's main opposition Republican People's party (CHP) meets this weekend to try to resolve a leadership challenge amid claims of corruption and death threats. The party founded by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk has the haunting feeling that it is on the brink of irrelevance.
Deniz Baykal, the CHP's remote and gaunt 66-year-old leader, is being challenged by two men largely unknown outside the party's ranks: Mustafa Sarigul, mayor of a district of Istanbul, and Zulfu Livaneli, a member of parliament for the city. Mr Baykal's supporters, and even his detractors, say he is likely to survive at the party's special convention.
However, that will not resolve divisions within the party or change the fact that Turkey's entire political opposition is in disarray."
More:FT.com / Home UK - Ataturk's party faces fight to regain its relevance in Turkey
Turkish Daily News:Rehn: EU talks will start on Oct. 3
"Rehn: EU talks will start on Oct. 3
Friday, January 28, 2005
ANKARA � Turkish Daily News
Accession talks between Turkey and the European Union will start on Oct. 3 and a process of screening may go parallel to the talks, EU's Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn said yesterday.
Rehn, earlier this month, said the screening process, designed to check compatibility of the Turkish regulations with those of the EU, would start a day after the accession talks are officially launched on Oct. 3 and added that the screening could take up to a year, thus delaying the actual opening of the accession talks to the next year."
More:Turkish Daily News
Friday, January 28, 2005
ANKARA � Turkish Daily News
Accession talks between Turkey and the European Union will start on Oct. 3 and a process of screening may go parallel to the talks, EU's Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn said yesterday.
Rehn, earlier this month, said the screening process, designed to check compatibility of the Turkish regulations with those of the EU, would start a day after the accession talks are officially launched on Oct. 3 and added that the screening could take up to a year, thus delaying the actual opening of the accession talks to the next year."
More:Turkish Daily News
inadaily.com | Article service:Reassessing Cyprus
"Reassessing Cyprus
Commentary
Kathimerini Greece | Costas Iordanidis - Kathimerini
ATHENS
Athens and Nicosia are currently reassessing Greece's position ahead of fresh negotiations aimed at solving the Cyprus problem based on the plan prepared by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
But it would be naive to suppose that the Turkish side is going to simply support Annan's proposal. Any fresh talks will be regarded as an opportunity for it to make new maximalist demands. This is exactly what the Turkish side is going to do and the result will be a solution based on Annan's blueprint with a few minor amendments.
Annan has said he will only launch a new round of negotiations if it appears that there is a possibility for the two sides to reach an agreement. However, because the fundamental starting point of each party is unlikely to change, a time frame will once again be imposed on any new attempt to reach a solution.
Many commentators in Athens and Nicosia believe that Greece could adopt the same approach to Cyprus as to the Aegean, that is, an unswerving strategy, at least until Turkey joins the European Union."
More:inadaily.com | Article service
Commentary
Kathimerini Greece | Costas Iordanidis - Kathimerini
ATHENS
Athens and Nicosia are currently reassessing Greece's position ahead of fresh negotiations aimed at solving the Cyprus problem based on the plan prepared by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
But it would be naive to suppose that the Turkish side is going to simply support Annan's proposal. Any fresh talks will be regarded as an opportunity for it to make new maximalist demands. This is exactly what the Turkish side is going to do and the result will be a solution based on Annan's blueprint with a few minor amendments.
Annan has said he will only launch a new round of negotiations if it appears that there is a possibility for the two sides to reach an agreement. However, because the fundamental starting point of each party is unlikely to change, a time frame will once again be imposed on any new attempt to reach a solution.
Many commentators in Athens and Nicosia believe that Greece could adopt the same approach to Cyprus as to the Aegean, that is, an unswerving strategy, at least until Turkey joins the European Union."
More:inadaily.com | Article service
E.U., Cyprus And Economy
"E.U., Cyprus And Economy
BYEGM: 1/28/2005
BY MERIC KOYATASI
AKSAM- EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn said during last week�s Sacrifice Fest that the screening process would start in October and that this would last for one year, which means, EU membership talks will start in October 2006, that is, one year after the date given to Turkey. Meanwhile, the EU is putting pressure on Turkey to make a concession for a solution to the Cyprus issue until October this year. I believe the EU will corner Turkey�s EU membership, but it also doesn�t want to exclude Turkey completely. In addition, the Turkish society is very far away from the EU in terms of culture and courses of conduct. Now let�s consider the Turkish-EU relations from a different perspective. Domestic and foreign business circles are glad that Turkey will start membership talks with the EU. People think a great many mergers and direct foreign investment will flow to Turkey. "
More:E.U., Cyprus And Economy
BYEGM: 1/28/2005
BY MERIC KOYATASI
AKSAM- EU Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn said during last week�s Sacrifice Fest that the screening process would start in October and that this would last for one year, which means, EU membership talks will start in October 2006, that is, one year after the date given to Turkey. Meanwhile, the EU is putting pressure on Turkey to make a concession for a solution to the Cyprus issue until October this year. I believe the EU will corner Turkey�s EU membership, but it also doesn�t want to exclude Turkey completely. In addition, the Turkish society is very far away from the EU in terms of culture and courses of conduct. Now let�s consider the Turkish-EU relations from a different perspective. Domestic and foreign business circles are glad that Turkey will start membership talks with the EU. People think a great many mergers and direct foreign investment will flow to Turkey. "
More:E.U., Cyprus And Economy
Icra to launch credit rating in Turkey by May
"Icra to launch credit rating in Turkey by May
Pradeep Gooptu in Kolkata | January 28, 2005 10:11 IST
Icra Ltd, which recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Turkey's First Turkish Credit Rating Agency to set up Turkey's first credit rating agency, expects to get necessary clearances from Turkey's Securities and Exchanges Commission to begin operations by May of this year.
Icra will depute two or three executives and organise training programmes for FTCRA staff covering theoretical and practical aspects of credit rating of various types of debt instruments, besides the methodology for analysing and evaluating businesses and institutions, their financials, and their credit worthiness, Icra managing director P K Choudhury said in Kolkata on Thursday."
More:Icra to launch credit rating in Turkey by May
Pradeep Gooptu in Kolkata | January 28, 2005 10:11 IST
Icra Ltd, which recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Turkey's First Turkish Credit Rating Agency to set up Turkey's first credit rating agency, expects to get necessary clearances from Turkey's Securities and Exchanges Commission to begin operations by May of this year.
Icra will depute two or three executives and organise training programmes for FTCRA staff covering theoretical and practical aspects of credit rating of various types of debt instruments, besides the methodology for analysing and evaluating businesses and institutions, their financials, and their credit worthiness, Icra managing director P K Choudhury said in Kolkata on Thursday."
More:Icra to launch credit rating in Turkey by May
The Journal of Turkish Weekly:US Responds to Erdogan�s Iraq Election Criticism
"US Responds to Erdogan�s Iraq Election Criticism
US responds to Erdogan�s Iraq election criticism
The Turkish Prime Minister said that massive irregularities would undermine the value of the Iraqi election.
January 28� Washington has downplayed criticism from Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan that Sunday�s general election in Iraq would be flawed and would not stop violence or instability in the country.
US State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said late Thursday, despite problems, the Iraq general elections would be a milestone as Iraqis are to elect their leader.
�No one is claiming that they would be perfect.� Boucher told a press briefing
Boucher said that everyone knew that there would be violence and that people would try to disrupt the election.
However, he said that it was an important step for Iraq that the elections be held, despite the difficulties. "
The Journal of Turkish Weekly
US responds to Erdogan�s Iraq election criticism
The Turkish Prime Minister said that massive irregularities would undermine the value of the Iraqi election.
January 28� Washington has downplayed criticism from Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan that Sunday�s general election in Iraq would be flawed and would not stop violence or instability in the country.
US State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said late Thursday, despite problems, the Iraq general elections would be a milestone as Iraqis are to elect their leader.
�No one is claiming that they would be perfect.� Boucher told a press briefing
Boucher said that everyone knew that there would be violence and that people would try to disrupt the election.
However, he said that it was an important step for Iraq that the elections be held, despite the difficulties. "
The Journal of Turkish Weekly
Khaleej Times Online:With oil-rich city in mind, Iraqi Turkmens go to the polls in Turkey
"With oil-rich city in mind, Iraqi Turkmens go to the polls in Turkey
(AFP)
28 January 2005
ANKARA - Iraqis living in Turkey began voting Friday in Iraqi elections, with the majority of them Turkmen expatriates wary over the future of the ethnically volatile oil-rich city of Kirkuk.
In a high school in a residential neighborhood in Ankara, voters cast their ballots amid tight security measures, prompted by fears that tensions betweenKurds and Turkmens in Kirkuk might spill over to polling stations in Turkey, a security guard said.
�Kirkuk is our soul and blood. It is indispensible for us,� said Cemal Bayatli, a Kirkuk-born engineer who has lived in Turkey for the past 32 years.
�I came here to vote in order to prove the size of the Turkmen community in Iraq,� he added."
More:Khaleej Times Online
(AFP)
28 January 2005
ANKARA - Iraqis living in Turkey began voting Friday in Iraqi elections, with the majority of them Turkmen expatriates wary over the future of the ethnically volatile oil-rich city of Kirkuk.
In a high school in a residential neighborhood in Ankara, voters cast their ballots amid tight security measures, prompted by fears that tensions betweenKurds and Turkmens in Kirkuk might spill over to polling stations in Turkey, a security guard said.
�Kirkuk is our soul and blood. It is indispensible for us,� said Cemal Bayatli, a Kirkuk-born engineer who has lived in Turkey for the past 32 years.
�I came here to vote in order to prove the size of the Turkmen community in Iraq,� he added."
More:Khaleej Times Online
Turkish Daily News:Erdogan anticipates prosperus future for Turkey
"Erdogan anticipates prosperus future for Turkey
Friday, January 28, 2005
Prime Minister Erdogan expressed confidence in Turkey�s future and said the atmosphere of crisis that had been prevalent in Turkey two years ago has vanished during AKP governance
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said yesterday that Turkey's success in overcoming serious obstacles proves that stability, which was the most urgent shortcoming of the country before the Justice and Development Party (AKP) came to power, has been established within the two years of their term of governance. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Friday, January 28, 2005
Prime Minister Erdogan expressed confidence in Turkey�s future and said the atmosphere of crisis that had been prevalent in Turkey two years ago has vanished during AKP governance
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said yesterday that Turkey's success in overcoming serious obstacles proves that stability, which was the most urgent shortcoming of the country before the Justice and Development Party (AKP) came to power, has been established within the two years of their term of governance. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News-Securing a German visa made easier
"Securing a German visa made easier
Friday, January 28, 2005
The German Embassy is taking the necessary steps to ensure that the process is made easier and that the crowds outside dissapear
Elif KARADENIZLI
ANKARA � Turkish Daily News
The problem of visa lines in front of the German Embassy, frequently noted by the Turkish press, is undergoing attempts at resolution with a new system that includes telephone appointments. According to the new procedure applicants are to make appointments after Feb. 10 and must pay a preliminary 9-euro fee. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Friday, January 28, 2005
The German Embassy is taking the necessary steps to ensure that the process is made easier and that the crowds outside dissapear
Elif KARADENIZLI
ANKARA � Turkish Daily News
The problem of visa lines in front of the German Embassy, frequently noted by the Turkish press, is undergoing attempts at resolution with a new system that includes telephone appointments. According to the new procedure applicants are to make appointments after Feb. 10 and must pay a preliminary 9-euro fee. "
More:Turkish Daily News
KurdishMedia News - Turkey won't sit back over Kirkuk spillover
"Turkey won�t sit back over Kirkuk spillover
28/01/2005 Turkish Daily News - By Yusuf Kanli
ANKARA /CRACOW �(TDN) Turkey doesn�t want to be drawn into a conflict that could erupt over a boiling dispute regarding control of the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk, but nobody should expect Ankara to sit back and watch if developments there spill over, destabilizing neighboring Iraq, Foreign Minister Abdullah G�l indicated yesterday.
�Spoiling the demographic structure of Kirkuk would be a serious threat for the future of all of Iraq. Turkey is very worried about the reports of the demographic manipulation,� G�l told the Turkish Daily News in an exclusive interview on his way to Poland, where, along with other foreign dignitaries, he will honor the victims of Auschwitz and commemorate the camp�s liberation by Russian soldiers near the end of World War II. "
More:KurdishMedia News - Daily Kurdish news updates
28/01/2005 Turkish Daily News - By Yusuf Kanli
ANKARA /CRACOW �(TDN) Turkey doesn�t want to be drawn into a conflict that could erupt over a boiling dispute regarding control of the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk, but nobody should expect Ankara to sit back and watch if developments there spill over, destabilizing neighboring Iraq, Foreign Minister Abdullah G�l indicated yesterday.
�Spoiling the demographic structure of Kirkuk would be a serious threat for the future of all of Iraq. Turkey is very worried about the reports of the demographic manipulation,� G�l told the Turkish Daily News in an exclusive interview on his way to Poland, where, along with other foreign dignitaries, he will honor the victims of Auschwitz and commemorate the camp�s liberation by Russian soldiers near the end of World War II. "
More:KurdishMedia News - Daily Kurdish news updates
Turkish Daily News:Erdogan will become the wizard of Cyprus
"Mehmet Ali Birand: Erdogan will become the wizard of Cyprus
Friday, January 28, 2005
Mehmet Ali Birand
Let's agree in the beginning of the article so that no misunderstanding ensues.
�The Turkish side surprised everyone by approving the Annan plan. However, they got nothing in return. Greek Cypriots deceived everyone by rejecting the plan. And in the short term, they did not need to face any consequences.�
This pleased none of us. We made a great sacrifice, but the international media had not provided us with the expected support. None of the promises made were kept.
We became angry and even reacted. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Friday, January 28, 2005
Mehmet Ali Birand
Let's agree in the beginning of the article so that no misunderstanding ensues.
�The Turkish side surprised everyone by approving the Annan plan. However, they got nothing in return. Greek Cypriots deceived everyone by rejecting the plan. And in the short term, they did not need to face any consequences.�
This pleased none of us. We made a great sacrifice, but the international media had not provided us with the expected support. None of the promises made were kept.
We became angry and even reacted. "
More:Turkish Daily News
The Shorthorn Online | News | Talk gives view of robot future
"Talk gives view of robot future
An engineering professor from Turkey discusses the field of mechatronics.
The Shorthorn: Andrew Campbell
Okyay Kaynak, UNESCO chair on mechatronics at the Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey, lectures on the development of mechatronics Thursday in Nedderman Hall.
By Meredith Moore
Contributor to The Shorthorn
Imagine a soccer team of robots winning the World Cup.
This it not a fantasy for Okyay Kaynak, a professor at Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey. He thinks the robot team could happen in as little as 50 years.
Engineering students gathered in Nedderman Hall on Thursday to hear Dr. Kaynak, a member of the Institute of Electric and Electronic Engineering, speak about the ever-changing technology of mechatronics.
The integration of mechanical, electrical and computer systems over the last century define mechatronics today."
More:The Shorthorn Online | News | Talk gives view of robot future
An engineering professor from Turkey discusses the field of mechatronics.
The Shorthorn: Andrew Campbell
Okyay Kaynak, UNESCO chair on mechatronics at the Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey, lectures on the development of mechatronics Thursday in Nedderman Hall.
By Meredith Moore
Contributor to The Shorthorn
Imagine a soccer team of robots winning the World Cup.
This it not a fantasy for Okyay Kaynak, a professor at Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey. He thinks the robot team could happen in as little as 50 years.
Engineering students gathered in Nedderman Hall on Thursday to hear Dr. Kaynak, a member of the Institute of Electric and Electronic Engineering, speak about the ever-changing technology of mechatronics.
The integration of mechanical, electrical and computer systems over the last century define mechatronics today."
More:The Shorthorn Online | News | Talk gives view of robot future
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Xinhua - English:French parliament votes on referendum on EU admissions
"French parliament votes on referendum on EU admissions
www.chinaview.cn 2005-01-28 08:59:21
PARIS, Jan. 27 (Xinhuanet) -- French parliament members voted Thursday for a compulsory referendum allowing new European Union (EU) admission bids, which will be applied to Turkey if its EU admission negotiations conclude.
The parliament members adopted in first reading the Article 2 of the bill to modify French constitution by stipulating that future EU admission bids should be necessarily submitted to referendum by French people.
French President Jacques Chirac's ruling central-right party UMP voted for the bill, while French left parties Socialist Party and French Communist Party voted against. UMP's allies UDF abstained from the voting.
According to French Justice Minister Dominique Perben, the article is helpful to clarify debates and prevent super position between the referendum scheduled for this summer over the European constitution and the thorny issue of the Turkish bid for EU.
The parliament will vote later article 4 of the bill, which stipulates that this referendum will be applied only after the admission of Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia to the European Union. "
Xinhua - English
www.chinaview.cn 2005-01-28 08:59:21
PARIS, Jan. 27 (Xinhuanet) -- French parliament members voted Thursday for a compulsory referendum allowing new European Union (EU) admission bids, which will be applied to Turkey if its EU admission negotiations conclude.
The parliament members adopted in first reading the Article 2 of the bill to modify French constitution by stipulating that future EU admission bids should be necessarily submitted to referendum by French people.
French President Jacques Chirac's ruling central-right party UMP voted for the bill, while French left parties Socialist Party and French Communist Party voted against. UMP's allies UDF abstained from the voting.
According to French Justice Minister Dominique Perben, the article is helpful to clarify debates and prevent super position between the referendum scheduled for this summer over the European constitution and the thorny issue of the Turkish bid for EU.
The parliament will vote later article 4 of the bill, which stipulates that this referendum will be applied only after the admission of Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia to the European Union. "
Xinhua - English
State removes reference to genocide from lesson - FAZ.NET - FAZ Weekly
"State removes reference to genocide from lesson
28. Januar 2005 POTSDAM. In response to a Turkish request, officials in the state of Brandenburg have removed a passage in a history lesson about a controversial event in Turkish history - the deaths of thousands of Armenians in the early 20th century. The lesson focused on genocide and mentioned the Armenian case as the only example. The decision was made two weeks ago after Turkish General Counsel Aydin Durusay raised the issue. Turkey maintains the Armenians were killed as the Ottoman Empire fought civil unrest. Part of the empire became Turkey in 1923. Armenians say 1.5 million people were killed between 1915 and 1923 as part of the empire's campaign to push them from eastern Turkey. pra"
State removes reference to genocide from lesson - FAZ.NET - FAZ Weekly
28. Januar 2005 POTSDAM. In response to a Turkish request, officials in the state of Brandenburg have removed a passage in a history lesson about a controversial event in Turkish history - the deaths of thousands of Armenians in the early 20th century. The lesson focused on genocide and mentioned the Armenian case as the only example. The decision was made two weeks ago after Turkish General Counsel Aydin Durusay raised the issue. Turkey maintains the Armenians were killed as the Ottoman Empire fought civil unrest. Part of the empire became Turkey in 1923. Armenians say 1.5 million people were killed between 1915 and 1923 as part of the empire's campaign to push them from eastern Turkey. pra"
State removes reference to genocide from lesson - FAZ.NET - FAZ Weekly
FT.com / News in depth / Iraq - Kurdish leader rules out Kirkuk compromise
"Kurdish leader rules out Kirkuk compromise
By Gareth Smyth in Arbil
Published: January 27 2005 21:16 | Last updated: January 27 2005 21:16
Nichervan Barzani, the prime minister of the Kurdish administration in Arbil, has ruled out compromise over the disputed northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk, reinforcing the growing assertiveness of the Kurds in the run-up to Sunday's election.
His comments come amid a warning by Turkey on Wednesday that a move by Kurds to take control of the city could spark a civil war in Iraq. "
More:FT.com / News in depth / Iraq - Kurdish leader rules out Kirkuk compromise
By Gareth Smyth in Arbil
Published: January 27 2005 21:16 | Last updated: January 27 2005 21:16
Nichervan Barzani, the prime minister of the Kurdish administration in Arbil, has ruled out compromise over the disputed northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk, reinforcing the growing assertiveness of the Kurds in the run-up to Sunday's election.
His comments come amid a warning by Turkey on Wednesday that a move by Kurds to take control of the city could spark a civil war in Iraq. "
More:FT.com / News in depth / Iraq - Kurdish leader rules out Kirkuk compromise
Talat looks to EU for new ways to help the north
"Talat looks to EU for new ways to help the north
By Myria Antoniadou in Brussels
E.U. OFFICIALS yesterday offered support to Mehmet Ali Talat�s demand that Turkish Cypriots be helped out of their isolation, according to sources.
At the same time they publicly admitted there is nothing else the Commission can do on a package it had proposed to this end.
In an effort by the Commission to back the leader of the Republican Turkish Party in the upcoming election, Talat met here with Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn, foreign relations supremo Xavier Solana and a deputy foreign minister of the Luxembourg presidency.
He was also the main speaker at a discussion organised by the Brussels think-tank European Policy Centre (EPC) and the Turkish ARI Movment.
Talat told the European officials and reiterated during the discussion that he is not in Brussels seeking recognition of the breakaway regime but the end of isolation and a settlement.
He said this can be achieved through the Commission�s stalled package, which would in effect force the Greek Cypriots into a solution."
More:Talat looks to EU for new ways to help the north
By Myria Antoniadou in Brussels
E.U. OFFICIALS yesterday offered support to Mehmet Ali Talat�s demand that Turkish Cypriots be helped out of their isolation, according to sources.
At the same time they publicly admitted there is nothing else the Commission can do on a package it had proposed to this end.
In an effort by the Commission to back the leader of the Republican Turkish Party in the upcoming election, Talat met here with Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn, foreign relations supremo Xavier Solana and a deputy foreign minister of the Luxembourg presidency.
He was also the main speaker at a discussion organised by the Brussels think-tank European Policy Centre (EPC) and the Turkish ARI Movment.
Talat told the European officials and reiterated during the discussion that he is not in Brussels seeking recognition of the breakaway regime but the end of isolation and a settlement.
He said this can be achieved through the Commission�s stalled package, which would in effect force the Greek Cypriots into a solution."
More:Talat looks to EU for new ways to help the north
US Reiterates Support for Annan Plan
"US Reiterates Support for Annan Plan
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Thursday 27, 2005
zaman.com
US State Department Spokesperson Richard Boucher said he has no knowledge of any new initiative prepared by United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Kofi Annan for Cyprus. In a press briefing, Boucher said that the Annan plan is a good one and there should be a way to make both parties accept this plan.
Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Namik Tan, commenting on Land Forces Commander General Yasar Buyukanit's statement that no soldier will leave the island unless a permanent agreement is signed in Cyprus, said, 'If the Greek side had approached the Annan Plan positively, the security issues would have been solved by now.' Remarking that Turkey held a peaceful vision for Cyprus, Tan reminded that Ankara put forward this attitude during the discussions of the Annan Plan. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012815999)
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Thursday 27, 2005
zaman.com
US State Department Spokesperson Richard Boucher said he has no knowledge of any new initiative prepared by United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Kofi Annan for Cyprus. In a press briefing, Boucher said that the Annan plan is a good one and there should be a way to make both parties accept this plan.
Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Namik Tan, commenting on Land Forces Commander General Yasar Buyukanit's statement that no soldier will leave the island unless a permanent agreement is signed in Cyprus, said, 'If the Greek side had approached the Annan Plan positively, the security issues would have been solved by now.' Remarking that Turkey held a peaceful vision for Cyprus, Tan reminded that Ankara put forward this attitude during the discussions of the Annan Plan. "
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012815999)
Reuters AlertNet - DAVOS-Turkey's Erdogan says Iraq vote undemocratic
"DAVOS-Turkey's Erdogan says Iraq vote undemocratic
27 Jan 2005 17:14:55 GMT
Source: Reuters
DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that this weekend's Iraqi election would not be fully democratic and would not stem violence or help stabilise the country.
'It would not be possible to characterise this election as a fully democratic election,' Erdogan told reporters at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, noting that one major ethnic group, Sunni Arabs, had decided not to participate.
'This is the signal of some more negative developments in the future of Iraq,' he said. He predicted the vote would not diminish widespread violence. Turkey neighbours Iraq. "
Reuters AlertNet - DAVOS-Turkey's Erdogan says Iraq vote undemocratic
27 Jan 2005 17:14:55 GMT
Source: Reuters
DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that this weekend's Iraqi election would not be fully democratic and would not stem violence or help stabilise the country.
'It would not be possible to characterise this election as a fully democratic election,' Erdogan told reporters at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, noting that one major ethnic group, Sunni Arabs, had decided not to participate.
'This is the signal of some more negative developments in the future of Iraq,' he said. He predicted the vote would not diminish widespread violence. Turkey neighbours Iraq. "
Reuters AlertNet - DAVOS-Turkey's Erdogan says Iraq vote undemocratic
Kirkuk tensions could spark Iraq civil war, Turkish intervention: report
"Kirkuk tensions could spark Iraq civil war, Turkish intervention: report
AFP: 1/27/2005
BAGHDAD, Jan 27 (AFP) - Ethnic tensions in the disputed northern Iraqi oil hub of Kirkuk are the biggest threat hanging over the country's stability and could spark a regional conflict, the International Crisis Group (ICG) said in a report received Thursday.
'In northern Iraq, largely unnoticed, a conflict is brewing that, if allowed to boil over, could precipitate civil war, break-up of the country and in a worst-case scenario Turkish intervention,' said the report. "
More:Kirkuk tensions could spark Iraq civil war, Turkish intervention: report
AFP: 1/27/2005
BAGHDAD, Jan 27 (AFP) - Ethnic tensions in the disputed northern Iraqi oil hub of Kirkuk are the biggest threat hanging over the country's stability and could spark a regional conflict, the International Crisis Group (ICG) said in a report received Thursday.
'In northern Iraq, largely unnoticed, a conflict is brewing that, if allowed to boil over, could precipitate civil war, break-up of the country and in a worst-case scenario Turkish intervention,' said the report. "
More:Kirkuk tensions could spark Iraq civil war, Turkish intervention: report
Salt Lake Tribune - Nation/World:Turkey ready to interveneif Iraq erupts
"Turkey ready to interveneif Iraq erupts
The New York Times
ISTANBUL, Turkey - Turkey's military is prepared to intervene if post-election clashes erupt in northern Iraq or if Iraqi Kurds try to form an independent state, a senior army general said Wednesday.
The statement by Gen. Ilker Basbug, who ranks second in the Turkish army, underscored Turkey's growing anxiety over the national and provincial Iraqi elections scheduled for Sunday."
More:Salt Lake Tribune - Nation/World
The New York Times
ISTANBUL, Turkey - Turkey's military is prepared to intervene if post-election clashes erupt in northern Iraq or if Iraqi Kurds try to form an independent state, a senior army general said Wednesday.
The statement by Gen. Ilker Basbug, who ranks second in the Turkish army, underscored Turkey's growing anxiety over the national and provincial Iraqi elections scheduled for Sunday."
More:Salt Lake Tribune - Nation/World
Turkish Daily News:Turkey seeks US action against PKK
"Turkey seeks US action against PKK
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Turkey seeks close NATO ally the United States to take non-military measures against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) members based in northern Iraq, the Anatolia news agency reported yesterday.
Among the steps Ankara expected from Washington were capturing leading PKK members in the neighboring region and handing them over to Turkey, the agency said, quoting Turkish sources based in Washington. The United States says it cannot take any military action to root out the PKK bases from the mountains of northern Iraq due to the heavy security problems it faces in Iraq.
Anatolia said Turkey also wants a camp in Makhmur that Turkey views as a shelter for PKK members to be closed down. "
Turkish Daily News
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Turkey seeks close NATO ally the United States to take non-military measures against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) members based in northern Iraq, the Anatolia news agency reported yesterday.
Among the steps Ankara expected from Washington were capturing leading PKK members in the neighboring region and handing them over to Turkey, the agency said, quoting Turkish sources based in Washington. The United States says it cannot take any military action to root out the PKK bases from the mountains of northern Iraq due to the heavy security problems it faces in Iraq.
Anatolia said Turkey also wants a camp in Makhmur that Turkey views as a shelter for PKK members to be closed down. "
Turkish Daily News
'Europe Understands us Better After Dec. 17'
"'Europe Understands us Better After Dec. 17'
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Thursday 27, 2005
zaman.com
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Talat has said that Europe understands Turkish Cypriots better after the December 17, 2004 European Union (EU) summit. While in the EU capital of Brussels for meetings, Talat told Cihan news agency that Europe has been this understanding before.
During his visit, the TRNC Prime Minister met with the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Olli Rehn. Talat said that the meeting focused on increasing efforts to end the TRNC's economic isolation.
Talat also met with EU Common Security and Foreign Policy High Representative Javier Solana and Nicolas Schmit, EU Term President and Luxembourg's Minister for European Affairs. "
ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012715988)
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Thursday 27, 2005
zaman.com
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Talat has said that Europe understands Turkish Cypriots better after the December 17, 2004 European Union (EU) summit. While in the EU capital of Brussels for meetings, Talat told Cihan news agency that Europe has been this understanding before.
During his visit, the TRNC Prime Minister met with the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Olli Rehn. Talat said that the meeting focused on increasing efforts to end the TRNC's economic isolation.
Talat also met with EU Common Security and Foreign Policy High Representative Javier Solana and Nicolas Schmit, EU Term President and Luxembourg's Minister for European Affairs. "
ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005012715988)
Turkish Daily News:Turkey's Kirkuk anxiety
"Turkey's Kirkuk anxiety
Thursday, January 27, 2005
TDN Editorial by Yusuf KANLI
YUSUF KANLI
It's no secret that the Turkish government and its military command are very much concerned with the efforts of northern Iraqi Kurdish parties to change the demographic composition of Kirkuk.
Gen. Ilker Basbug, deputy chief of the Turkish General Staff, pointed out at a press briefing that was televised live for the first time that although Turkey has no precise figure on the number of Kurds settled in the area by Kurdish political parties, the recent migration of a large number of Kurds into the oil-rich northern Iraqi city has substantively changed the demographic composition of the area and created a very explosive situation. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Thursday, January 27, 2005
TDN Editorial by Yusuf KANLI
YUSUF KANLI
It's no secret that the Turkish government and its military command are very much concerned with the efforts of northern Iraqi Kurdish parties to change the demographic composition of Kirkuk.
Gen. Ilker Basbug, deputy chief of the Turkish General Staff, pointed out at a press briefing that was televised live for the first time that although Turkey has no precise figure on the number of Kurds settled in the area by Kurdish political parties, the recent migration of a large number of Kurds into the oil-rich northern Iraqi city has substantively changed the demographic composition of the area and created a very explosive situation. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Turkish Daily News:Kalaycioglu: EU can always veto Turkey
"Kalaycioglu: EU can always veto Turkey
Thursday, January 27, 2005
'Developments depend on the degree to which Turkey will be able to solve the Cyprus problem within the framework of the Annan plan and secure the cooperation of Greek Cyprus'
G�L DEMIR
ISTANBUL � Turkish Daily News
Part 1
One of the key issues facing Turkey prior to the beginning of accession talks with the European Union is the problem of Cyprus. Professor Ersin Kalaycioglu, rector of Istanbul's Isik University, answered questions from the Turkish Daily News on this issue. Spelling out the problems Turkey will likely face during the process, Kalaycioglu stressed that it wasn't possible to foresee the position of Turkey and the EU in 2015, noting that it was always a probability that Turkey's full membership would be vetoed. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Thursday, January 27, 2005
'Developments depend on the degree to which Turkey will be able to solve the Cyprus problem within the framework of the Annan plan and secure the cooperation of Greek Cyprus'
G�L DEMIR
ISTANBUL � Turkish Daily News
Part 1
One of the key issues facing Turkey prior to the beginning of accession talks with the European Union is the problem of Cyprus. Professor Ersin Kalaycioglu, rector of Istanbul's Isik University, answered questions from the Turkish Daily News on this issue. Spelling out the problems Turkey will likely face during the process, Kalaycioglu stressed that it wasn't possible to foresee the position of Turkey and the EU in 2015, noting that it was always a probability that Turkey's full membership would be vetoed. "
More:Turkish Daily News
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
FT.com / News in depth / Iraq - Turks fear civil war if Kurds win in Iraq
"Turks fear civil war if Kurds win in Iraq
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: January 26 2005 23:03 | Last updated: January 26 2005 23:03
A senior Turkish military commander warned on Wednesday that Turkey would face �a serious security problem� if the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk came under Kurdish control after Sunday's election, a development he claimed could lead to civil war in Iraq.
In comments that underline Turkey's concern about Kurdish autonomy in Iraq after the election, General Ilker Basbug, deputy head of the armed forces, said an influx of Kurds into Kirkuk was �outside the framework of the law� and would render the result of the vote �questionable� if it resulted in the town coming under Kurdish control"
More:FT.com / News in depth / Iraq - Turks fear civil war if Kurds win in Iraq
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: January 26 2005 23:03 | Last updated: January 26 2005 23:03
A senior Turkish military commander warned on Wednesday that Turkey would face �a serious security problem� if the northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk came under Kurdish control after Sunday's election, a development he claimed could lead to civil war in Iraq.
In comments that underline Turkey's concern about Kurdish autonomy in Iraq after the election, General Ilker Basbug, deputy head of the armed forces, said an influx of Kurds into Kirkuk was �outside the framework of the law� and would render the result of the vote �questionable� if it resulted in the town coming under Kurdish control"
More:FT.com / News in depth / Iraq - Turks fear civil war if Kurds win in Iraq
FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Turkey's reforms deserve UNHCR recognition
"Turkey's reforms deserve UNHCR recognition
By David Tomsovic
Published: January 27 2005 02:00 | Last updated: January 27 2005 02:00
From Mr David Tomsovic.
Sir, Your World News Digest item 'Japan deportations attract UNHCR ire' (January 24), concerning two Kurdish asylum seekers deported by Japan to Turkey, states that Japan's justice ministry said the deportations were conducted in 'precise accordance with the law'. But your report fails to mention an even more important political and legal consideration: specifically, that by extending the hand of membership of the European Union to Turkey, the 25 EU states find that human rights, the rule of law, freedom of expression and a prohibition against torture in Turkey have reached a level commensurate with the common European values."
More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Turkey's reforms deserve UNHCR recognition
By David Tomsovic
Published: January 27 2005 02:00 | Last updated: January 27 2005 02:00
From Mr David Tomsovic.
Sir, Your World News Digest item 'Japan deportations attract UNHCR ire' (January 24), concerning two Kurdish asylum seekers deported by Japan to Turkey, states that Japan's justice ministry said the deportations were conducted in 'precise accordance with the law'. But your report fails to mention an even more important political and legal consideration: specifically, that by extending the hand of membership of the European Union to Turkey, the 25 EU states find that human rights, the rule of law, freedom of expression and a prohibition against torture in Turkey have reached a level commensurate with the common European values."
More:FT.com / Comment & analysis / Letters - Turkey's reforms deserve UNHCR recognition
Agenzia Giornalistica Italia - TURKEY: CASINI, IT'S A STRONGHOLD AGAINST FUNDAMENTALISM
"TURKEY: CASINI, IT'S A STRONGHOLD AGAINST FUNDAMENTALISM
(AGI) - Rome, Jan. 26 - 'I must praise the role of Turkey as a stronghold against Islamic fundamentalism. Its lay institutions will hold off the spread of Islamic extremism', said Speaker of the Lower House Pier Ferdinando Casini. Speaking on the sidelines of the signing of a cooperation protocol between Italian and Turkish parliaments, attended by Turkish Parliament Speaker Bulent Arinc, Mr Casini said that 'visitors travelling to Turkey will see many mosques. Those coming to Italy will see many churches. Let's not deny that our roots and traditions are different. However', he concluded, 'the future of mankind lies in better dialogue between religions. It is important to communicate and come to a mutual understanding despite existing differences'."
Agenzia Giornalistica Italia - News In English
(AGI) - Rome, Jan. 26 - 'I must praise the role of Turkey as a stronghold against Islamic fundamentalism. Its lay institutions will hold off the spread of Islamic extremism', said Speaker of the Lower House Pier Ferdinando Casini. Speaking on the sidelines of the signing of a cooperation protocol between Italian and Turkish parliaments, attended by Turkish Parliament Speaker Bulent Arinc, Mr Casini said that 'visitors travelling to Turkey will see many mosques. Those coming to Italy will see many churches. Let's not deny that our roots and traditions are different. However', he concluded, 'the future of mankind lies in better dialogue between religions. It is important to communicate and come to a mutual understanding despite existing differences'."
Agenzia Giornalistica Italia - News In English
Xinhua - Turkey earns 15.9 billion US dollars in tourism in 2004
"Turkey earns 15.9 billion US dollars in tourism in 2004
www.chinaview.cn 2005-01-27 01:06:14
ANKARA, Jan. 26 (Xinhuanet) -- Turkey's tourism income in 2004 increased to 15.9 billion US dollars or 32.5 percent higher than the previous year, Turkish State Statistics Institute announced on Wednesday.
Foreign tourists brought 12.1 billion dollars revenue last year and the rest were contributed by domestic tourists.
Among a record 17.5 million foreigners visiting Turkey last year, Germany was the largest source of foreign tourists with 3.9 million, followed by Russia with 1.6 million and Britain with 1.3 million.
On the average, foreign tourists spent about 705 dollars per person during their stay in Turkey.
Last year, almost four million Turks traveled overseas and spent632 dollars per person.
Tourism was Turkey's leading source of foreign exchange with 13.2 billion dollars income in 2003. Enditem "
More:Xinhua - English
www.chinaview.cn 2005-01-27 01:06:14
ANKARA, Jan. 26 (Xinhuanet) -- Turkey's tourism income in 2004 increased to 15.9 billion US dollars or 32.5 percent higher than the previous year, Turkish State Statistics Institute announced on Wednesday.
Foreign tourists brought 12.1 billion dollars revenue last year and the rest were contributed by domestic tourists.
Among a record 17.5 million foreigners visiting Turkey last year, Germany was the largest source of foreign tourists with 3.9 million, followed by Russia with 1.6 million and Britain with 1.3 million.
On the average, foreign tourists spent about 705 dollars per person during their stay in Turkey.
Last year, almost four million Turks traveled overseas and spent632 dollars per person.
Tourism was Turkey's leading source of foreign exchange with 13.2 billion dollars income in 2003. Enditem "
More:Xinhua - English
German Christian Social Union Vows to Block Turkish Membership
"German Christian Social Union Vows to Block Turkish Membership
German Christian Social Union (CSU) party leader Edmund Stoiber says they will do everything they can to prevent Turkey from becoming a member of the European Union (EU).
Tension builds as the December 17 summit where EU leaders will make a decision on whether or not to begin negotiations with Turkey nears. Stoider spoke to the German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagzeitung on Saturday (December 11) to respond to criticism by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Stoiber is also the Bavarian provincial president and said that Erdogan should know that he and Angela Merkel of the Christian Democratic Union will do their best to produce a decision in support of open-ended negotiations with Turkey at the December summit. Stoiber said that Germany will be governed by Christian Democrats in 2006 at any rate and that they will work with other countries, like France, to block Turkey's membership. 'Turkey's EU membership will be blocked by the Europeans. Our goal is a 'privileged partnership' that will not put any extra burden on Europe,' Stoiber added. "
More:German Christian Social Union Vows to Block Turkish Membership
German Christian Social Union (CSU) party leader Edmund Stoiber says they will do everything they can to prevent Turkey from becoming a member of the European Union (EU).
Tension builds as the December 17 summit where EU leaders will make a decision on whether or not to begin negotiations with Turkey nears. Stoider spoke to the German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagzeitung on Saturday (December 11) to respond to criticism by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Stoiber is also the Bavarian provincial president and said that Erdogan should know that he and Angela Merkel of the Christian Democratic Union will do their best to produce a decision in support of open-ended negotiations with Turkey at the December summit. Stoiber said that Germany will be governed by Christian Democrats in 2006 at any rate and that they will work with other countries, like France, to block Turkey's membership. 'Turkey's EU membership will be blocked by the Europeans. Our goal is a 'privileged partnership' that will not put any extra burden on Europe,' Stoiber added. "
More:German Christian Social Union Vows to Block Turkish Membership
Turkish PM to meet German chancellor at Davos power fest
"Turkish PM to meet German chancellor at Davos power fest
AFP: 1/26/2005
ANKARA, Jan 26 (AFP) - Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has scheduled a meeting with German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder to discuss Turkey's candidature in the European Union and the situation in divided Cyprus, Turkish and German sources said Wednesday.
The meeting was expected to take place at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, starting Wednesday.
The Anatolia news agency said Erdogan would also meet the Pakistani and Egyptian prime ministers, and press reports said he would meet with Prime Minister Tony Blair of Britain.
Erdogan used the 2003 World Economic Forum to press UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to reopen discussions aimed at reunifying Cyprus. "
More:Turkish PM to meet German chancellor at Davos power fest
AFP: 1/26/2005
ANKARA, Jan 26 (AFP) - Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has scheduled a meeting with German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder to discuss Turkey's candidature in the European Union and the situation in divided Cyprus, Turkish and German sources said Wednesday.
The meeting was expected to take place at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, starting Wednesday.
The Anatolia news agency said Erdogan would also meet the Pakistani and Egyptian prime ministers, and press reports said he would meet with Prime Minister Tony Blair of Britain.
Erdogan used the 2003 World Economic Forum to press UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to reopen discussions aimed at reunifying Cyprus. "
More:Turkish PM to meet German chancellor at Davos power fest
Gen. Buyukanit And Cyprus
"Gen. Buyukanit And Cyprus
BYEGM: 1/26/2005
BY FIKRET BILA
MIILLIYET- Land Forces Commander Gen. Yasar Buyukanit�s recent remarks in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has important messages for the EU and the Greek Cypriot administration. Stating that not a single Turkish soldier will be withdrawn from the island without a certain and permanent solution, Buyukanit emphasized that the Turkish side favored a solution. He emphasized that Turkish soldiers are located in Cyprus based on international agreements in order to ensure Turkish Cypriots� security. Buyukanit added that the isolation on Turkish Cypriots was not only unfair, but also illegal. The solution of the Cyprus issue is a stipulation for Turkey to start membership talks with the EU. "
More:Gen. Buyukanit And Cyprus
BYEGM: 1/26/2005
BY FIKRET BILA
MIILLIYET- Land Forces Commander Gen. Yasar Buyukanit�s recent remarks in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has important messages for the EU and the Greek Cypriot administration. Stating that not a single Turkish soldier will be withdrawn from the island without a certain and permanent solution, Buyukanit emphasized that the Turkish side favored a solution. He emphasized that Turkish soldiers are located in Cyprus based on international agreements in order to ensure Turkish Cypriots� security. Buyukanit added that the isolation on Turkish Cypriots was not only unfair, but also illegal. The solution of the Cyprus issue is a stipulation for Turkey to start membership talks with the EU. "
More:Gen. Buyukanit And Cyprus
No US support for Ankara over Kirkuk election concerns
"No US support for Ankara over Kirkuk election concerns
The concerns of Ankara over the Kurdish population shift for the Iraqi general elections were not only passed on to the United Nations Secretary General but to as well Washington.
January 26� Washington does not believe that there were major irregularities being perpetrated in the Northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk ahead of next Sunday�s general election, a US State Department spokesman said Wednesday."
More:No US support for Ankara over Kirkuk election concerns
The concerns of Ankara over the Kurdish population shift for the Iraqi general elections were not only passed on to the United Nations Secretary General but to as well Washington.
January 26� Washington does not believe that there were major irregularities being perpetrated in the Northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk ahead of next Sunday�s general election, a US State Department spokesman said Wednesday."
More:No US support for Ankara over Kirkuk election concerns