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Wednesday, August 31, 2005

| | Deutsche Welle |Cyprus to block EU-Turkey talks

"Cyprus to block EU-Turkey talks
Cyprus has threatened to block Turkey's membership talks with the European Union in a dispute over diplomatic ties. Ankara currently does not recognize the Greek Cypriot government in the south of the island, even though it represents all of Cyprus in the EU. Instead Turkey only deals with the breakaway Turkish Cypriot state in the north. The European Commission has increased pressure on Ankara by insisting it open its ports to Cypriot vessels,- as part of a customs union with all 25 EU member states. Implementation of that protocol is one of the EU's preconditions for negotiations with Ankara, scheduled to begin on October Third. "

More:| | Deutsche Welle |Cyprus to block EU-Turkey talks

Britain must find solution to EU dispute over Turkey - World - Times Online

"Britain must find solution to EU dispute over Turkey
By Anthony Browne and Rory Watson
A PARTICULARLY turbulent period in European politics will commence today when EU foreign ministers give their response to Turkey’s refusal to recognise Cyprus before starting membership talks.

The dispute over Turkey, which has grown increasingly acrimonious during the summer, is one of many engulfing the EU and threatening to swamp Britain’s six-month presidency."

More:Britain must find solution to EU dispute over Turkey - World - Times Online

Hurriyetim-Oskanian hails release of Turkish scholar

"Oskanian hails release of Turkish scholar

Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian stated on Tuesday that he was very pleased the Turkish scholar Yektan Turkyilmaz, who was arrested and put on trial for trying to carry old books out of the country, has been released. Noting that had Turkyilmaz been put in jail, Yerevan's international image would have been damaged."

More:Hurriyetim-Oskanian
hails release of Turkish scholar

The Epoch Times | Roadblocks for Turkey’s EU Dream

"Roadblocks for Turkey’s EU Dream
By Denis Charleton
The Epoch Times
Aug 31, 2005

German Conservative leader Angela Merkel has proposed that Turkey should be offered “privileged partnership” status rather than full membership in the European Union."

More:The Epoch Times | Roadblocks for Turkey’s EU Dream

The Daily Star - Opinion Articles - The U.S. and Turkey may soon clash over the PKK

"The U.S. and Turkey may soon clash over the PKK

By Henri J. Barkey
Commentary by
Thursday, September 01, 2005

A few months ago, former Turkish Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit stunned observers when he remarked that six years after the capture of Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) leader Abdullah Ocalan, he still did not really know why it was that the United States had delivered him to the Turkish authorities in Kenya. Considering Washington's unwavering support for Turkey's anti-PKK campaign, Ecevit's comments were mostly interpreted as the ruminations of an ailing and defeated nationalist politician."

More:The Daily Star - Opinion Articles - The U.S. and Turkey may soon clash over the PKK

www.explorernews.com-Fulbright sends Foothills teachers to other lands

"Fulbright sends Foothills teachers to other lands

By Erin Schmidt, ESchmidt@ExplorerNews.com

August 31, 2005 - Gili Sherman may never look at a tulip the same way again. Every time she sees the beautiful flower, she is taken back to the architecture, domes, windows and arches of Istanbul, Turkey, and her monthlong tour through a misunderstood country."

More:www.explorernews.com-Fulbright sends Foothills teachers to other lands

Turkish Daily News - National Geographic filming Canakkale sea battle documentary

"National Geographic filming Canakkale sea battle documentary
Wednesday, August 31, 2005

Canadian crew of 'The Sea Hunters' and their Turkish partners to shoot film on shipwrecks

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Two shipwrecks of the World War I Canakkale sea battle are to be the subjects of a National Geographic documentary, reported the Anatolia news agency.

Goliath and Triumph were British warships that fought Turkey in the sea off Çanakkale. Goliath was sunk by the Turkish torpedo boat Muavenet-i Milliye in Morto Bay, while Triumph was sunk at Kabatepe by the German submarine U21."

More:Turkish Daily News - National Geographic filming Canakkale sea battle documentary

Turkish Daily News - Azerbaijan downplays landmark direct flight from KKTC to Baku

"Azerbaijan downplays landmark direct flight from KKTC to Baku
Wednesday, August 31, 2005

'This visit is above all an economic one linked to business affairs. There is no need to politicize the issue,' says Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Mammadyarov "

More:Turkish Daily News - Azerbaijan downplays landmark direct flight from KKTC to Baku

Centraal Beheer: 'Turkey is the Country Where Tourists Face the Fewest Robberies'

"'Turkey is the Country Where Tourists Face the Fewest Robberies'
By Anadolu News Agency (aa)
Published: Wednesday, August 31, 2005

Authorities from Centraal Beheer, one of the Netherlands' largest insurance companies, reported that Turkey is a secure holiday destination where tourists face the fewest incident of robbery and other crime cases."

More:Turkey is the Country Where Tourists Face the Fewest Robberies'

TURKEY-ITALY: TURKISH PREMIER TO PICK UP AWARD IN NAPLES

"Turkish premier Erdogan

TURKEY-ITALY: TURKISH PREMIER TO PICK UP AWARD IN NAPLES
Istanbul, 31 August (AKI) - Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan arrives in Italy on Thursday, where he will first visit Naples to pick up an award for fostering Mediterranean regional ties and then move to the shores of the northern Lake Como to join other international delegates at an annual geopolitical forum organised by an Italian think-tank."

More:TURKEY-ITALY: TURKISH PREMIER TO PICK UP AWARD IN NAPLES

EUobserver.com-Turkey to dominate foreign ministers' agenda

"Turkey to dominate foreign ministers' agenda
31.08.2005 - 17:32 CET | By Mark Beunderman

EUOBSERVER / BRUSSELS - Amid a full agenda of issues varying from Iran to bird flu, the question of Turkey is likely to dominate the foreign ministers’ gathering tomorrow and Friday (1 and 2 September).

The six-monthly informal meeting – or 'Gymnich' meeting, after the German city where the first gathering of this kind was held – will take place at the Celtic Manor resort in Wales."

More:EUobserver.com-Turkey to dominate foreign ministers' agenda

Financial Mirror-Turkish Cypriots spending CYP 70,000 per day in the south

"Turkish Cypriots spending CYP 70,000 per day in the south


31/08/2005
www.financialmirror.com

Turkish Cypriots spend about CYP 70,000 per day in the government-controlled areas, while Greek Cypriots spend around CYp 65,000, according to new research.

The research is based on a survey carried out by Cyprus College in association with the Central Bank of Cyprus.

The research found that an estimated 6,000 Turkish Cypriots cross the checkpoints every day to the south, spending in total CYP 70,000 per day, while 3,800 Greek Cypriots cross every day to the north, spending in total CYP 65,000 per day.

Average daily expenditure by Turkish Cypriots in the south is CYP 15.54, up from CYP 5.68 in 2003."

More:Financial Mirror-Turkish Cypriots spending CYP 70,000 per day in the south

Turkish Daily News - Solar cars race at Istanbul Formula 1 track -- silent and slow

"Solar cars race at Istanbul Formula 1 track -- silent and slow
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

Turkey's first solar-powered car race took place at the Istanbul Park Race Track on Tuesday, 10 days after Formula 1 cars sped around the complex with a thunderous wail audible from miles away.

However, the solar cars made their debut on the track driving as fast as their batteries and solar panels would permit and were as silent as butterflies with their electric engines. "

More:Turkish Daily News - Solar cars race at Istanbul Formula 1 track -- silent and slow

France Won't Risk EU Unity Over Cyprus Challenge to Turkey: PM

"France Won't Risk EU Unity Over Cyprus Challenge to Turkey: PM

France wants to keep EU unity intact even as it questions Turkey's membership request given its refusal to recognise Cyprus, French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin told his senior diplomatic corps.

'I want to both keep European unity and obtain the necessary clarifications from Turkey,' he told an annual meeting of French ambassadors gathered in Paris Tuesday.

'I have stressed the fact that for a candidate country to want to enter into a union in which it doesn't recognise one of the members poses a political problem,' he said."

More:France Won't Risk EU Unity Over Cyprus Challenge to Turkey: PM

BakuTODAY.net - Baku Hosts Azeri-Cypriot Business Forum

"Baku Hosts Azeri-Cypriot Business Forum

Baku Today / Assa Irada 31/08/2005 17:13

The Azerbaijan-Northern Cyprus business forum was held in Baku on Tuesday. The event was organized by the Union of Azerbaijani-Turkish Businessmen (UATB). "

More:BakuTODAY.net -Baku Hosts Azeri-Cypriot Business Forum

Ankara Expects EU to Act Positivly for Membership Talks

"Ankara Expects EU to Act Positivly for Membership Talks
By Erdal Sen, Suleyman Kurt
Published: Wednesday, August 31, 2005

Ankara does not expect any surprises in the beginning of membership talks on October 3 despite anti-Turkey remarks from some members of the European Union (EU).

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan advised his cabinet not to have second thoughts about beginning negotiations on October 3, and Turkish diplomats also share the same view."

More:Ankara Expects EU to Act Positivly for Membership Talks

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Gul warns Chirac on exploiting the Cyprus issue

"Turkey: Gul warns Chirac on exploiting the Cyprus issue

16:11 - 31 August 2005 - Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul said Ankara was ready to 'establish relations with the new partnership state that will emerge following a comprehensive settlement on Cyprus', Turkish Daily News reports.

'Turkey's political will to be a full member of the EU is stronger than ever, and it is only natural for us to interact increasingly with all EU members on the way to Turkey's full membership in the union,' Gul told the Turkish Daily News in an apparent response to French President Jacques Chriac, who has repeatedly demanded Turkey's recognition of Greek Cyprus even as Ankara's accession negotiations with the bloc are due to open on Oct. 3."

More:REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Gul warns Chirac on exploiting the Cyprus issue

EUPolitix.com - EU to push Turkey on Cyprus customs agreement

"EU to push Turkey on Cyprus customs agreement

The EU is set to ask Ankara to give assurances on Turkey's intentions to implement an agreement to full European customs union - a deal that includes Cyprus.

EU lawyers are 'looking at the character' of the precise terms in which Turkey signed up to European customs rules governing the free movement of goods.

Ankara’s agreement to customs union with all 25 EU countries was a precondition to opening Turkey's membership talks set by Europe's leaders in December 2004."

More:EUPolitix.com - EU to push Turkey on Cyprus customs agreement

Three critical days in EU-Turkey relations

"Three critical days in EU-Turkey relations
The following three days will mark the course of relations between the European Union and Turkey.

BRUSSELS - Ties between Turkey and the European Union face a tough test over the next three days, with a series of meetings of representatives of the bloc’s member states set to chart the course of Ankara’s accession process."

More:Three critical days in EU-Turkey relations

Turkish Drummer Mesmerizes Brazilians

"Turkish Drummer Mesmerizes Brazilians
By Culture & Arts News
Published: Wednesday, August 31, 2005

World-famous Turkish percussionist Burhan Ocal dazzled music lovers abroad with performances from his latest album “Yeni Ruya” (New Dream) giving two concerts in Brazil along with the music group, Oriental Ensemble as part of the Mostra Sesc de Artes Festival on Monday night."

More:Turkish Drummer Mesmerizes Brazilians

Xinhua - Turkish, Greek sportsmen to swim for global peace

"Turkish, Greek sportsmen to swim for global peace
www.chinaview.cn 2005-08-31 19:13:02

ANKARA, Aug. 31 (Xinhuanet) -- Turkish and Greek sportsmen will swim for global peace between Datca town of Aegean city of Mugla of Turkey and Symi island of Greece on September 1st International Day of Peace, a Turkish senior official said on Wednesday.

'With this activity which we have been organizing for three years, we are giving messages of friendship,' Datca Mayor Erol Karakullukcu was quoted by semi-official Anatolia news agency as saying."

More:Xinhua - Turkish, Greek sportsmen to swim for global peace

THE ISSUE OF TURKEY IN THE EU

"THE ISSUE OF TURKEY IN THE EU
Brussels, 31 August 2005 (12:59 UTC 2)

The permanent representatives of the EU member states in their meeting will decide on the stance the EU will adopt toward the unilateral statement by Turkey according to which it does not recognize the Cypriot Republic. The statement accompanied the documents signed by Ankara for the expansion of Turkey's customs union with the EU to include the 10 new EU member states."

More:THE ISSUE OF TURKEY IN THE EU

Victory Day reception had strong anti-terrorism message

"Victory Day reception had strong anti-terrorism message
Buyukanit said that there are those who want to use terrorist incidents to turn Turkey into Palestine.
ANKARA - Terrorism in the region in and around Turkey had increased and the country was the victim of a game being played against it, a senior Turkish general said Tuesday night."

More:Victory Day reception had strong anti-terrorism message

Tuesday, August 30, 2005

English News from Austria-Members and EU row over Turkey

"Members and EU row over Turkey
Aufz�hlung Ferrero-Waldner announces start of talks for October 3.

Alpbach. Angela Merkel, German CDU/CSU-candidate for Chancellor, put it most bluntly in a letter to heads of states in the EU: No full membership for Turkey. Some Austrian politicians agree.

In an interview with the 'Wiener Zeitung”, former Vice-Chancellor Erhard Busek urged the Austrian government to break the bad news to Turkey that an EU-entry is still far off."

More:English News from Austria

Telegraph | Property | Hot newcomer: Turkey

"Hot newcomer: Turkey
(Filed: 31/08/2005)

Catherine Moye discovers what Turkey has to offer

Turkey's stunning scenery, 4,350 miles of coastline, wonderful climate and rich culture now draws 14 million tourists. And last year, international homebuyers accounted for nearly half of all foreign investment. Why? Property prices have risen about 30 per cent in the past 12 months, yet an off-plan, three-bedroom property next to a marina can be bought for less than �70,000."

More:Telegraph | Property | Hot newcomer: Turkey

Expatica - France walking thin line on Turkey-Cyprus question

"France walking thin line on Turkey-Cyprus question

PARIS, Aug 30 (AFP) - France wants to avoid a new crisis over Turkey's stance on Cyprus ahead of Ankara's accession talks with the European Union, French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy said Tuesday.

France 'does not want to open a new crisis in Europe' but as an EU member it 'is within its rights in asking Turkey to clarify its position' on Cyprus, Douste-Blazy told an annual meeting of French ambassadors in Paris."

More:Expatica - France walking thin line on Turkey-Cyprus question

Austrian foreign minister stresses EU partnership, not membership, for Turkey - Forbes.com

"Austrian foreign minister stresses EU partnership, not membership, for Turkey
08.30.2005, 03:02 PM

VIENNA (AFX) - Austria plans to ask the European Union to think about a 'more realistic' alternative to granting Turkey full membership in the 25-member bloc, Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik said on Tuesday."

More:Austrian foreign minister stresses EU partnership, not membership, for Turkey - Forbes.com

Hurriyetim-Those without guns are invited

"Those without guns are invited

The Black Sea residents of Turkey, famed for their close relations with guns, are now calling for a stop to the deaths resulting from bullets raining down from the guns of local thugs. Invitations to the traditional celebrations held on the high plains above the Black Sea by local villages and towns now warn 'come without your guns' to prospective celebrants."

More:Hurriyetim-Those without guns are invited

Scoop: Press Roundtable: Democracy in Europe and Beyond

"Press Roundtable: Democracy in Europe and Beyond
Wednesday, 31 August 2005, 10:11 am
Press Release: US State Department
Solidarity 25th Anniversary: Democracy in Europe and Beyond

Daniel Fried, Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs
On-The-Record Press Roundtable
Washington, DC
August 23, 2005

(10:00 a.m. EDT)


MODERATOR: Good morning. It'd be helpful for you to know who everyone is.

ASSISTANT SECRETARY FRIED: Yes.

MODERATOR: So if you could just briefly --

QUESTION: I'm Gabor Horvath from Nepszadbadsag, Hungary.

ASSISTANT SECRETARY FRIED: Hi.

QUESTION: I'm Yasmin Congar with Turkey's Milliyet."

More:Scoop: Press Roundtable: Democracy in Europe and Beyond

Turkey's Kurds languish in poverty | csmonitor.co

"Turkey's Kurds languish in poverty
The Kurdish southeast copes with unemployment, violence.
By Yigal Schleifer | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor
BISMIL, TURKEY – Outside a post office in this southeastern Turkish town ringed by cotton and wheat fields, men and women jostle for position, eager to read a list of names posted near the window. The names are of poor families with school-age children eligible for financial support from a World Bank program, giving each $7-14 per child every month."

More:Turkey's Kurds languish in poverty | csmonitor.com

FT.com / Home UK - EU links moves on Cyprus to Turkish accession talks

"EU links moves on Cyprus to Turkish accession talks
By Daniel Dombey in Brussels
Published: August 30 2005 22:22 | Last updated: August 30 2005 22:22

Turkey EUOlli Rehn, the European Union's commissioner for enlargement, has made an urgent plea for EU governments to start membership negotiations with Turkey on time on October 3.
ADVERTISEMENT

But he also signalled that Ankara eventually needed to make further concessions to Cyprus if the talks were to progress. France and Cyprus have recently doubted Turkey's readiness to begin the negotiations, because of Ankara's refusal to recognise Cyprus diplomatically."

More:FT.com / Home UK - EU links moves on Cyprus to Turkish accession talks

Row Intensifies Over Turkey's EU Bid | Europe | Deutsche Welle |

"Row Intensifies Over Turkey's EU Bid

Turkey's EU aspirations won't be that easily fulfilled
Turkey's EU aspirations won't be that easily fulfilled

Days before EU foreign ministers meet to discuss the negotiating framework for EU entry talks with Turkey, positions have hardened on Ankara's EU bid. France is urging Turkey to clarify its position on Cyprus."

More:Row Intensifies Over Turkey's EU Bid | Europe | Deutsche Welle |

Expatica - Turkey entry talks to top EU ministers' agenda

"Turkey entry talks to top EU ministers' agenda

30 August 2005

BRUSSELS - European Union foreign ministers meet in Wales this week for informal talks on the planned start of membership negotiations with Turkey in early October and the bloc's failed attempts at nuclear diplomacy with Iran.

Croatia's demands for an early start to E.U. entry talks are also on the agenda of the foreign ministers' meeting on September 1 and 2."

More:Expatica - Turkey entry talks to top EU ministers' agenda

Helsingin Sanomat - Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn: It all depends on Turkey

"Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn: It all depends on Turkey
By Unto H�m�l�inen

When the European Union went on summer holiday in late July, Commissioner Olli Rehn finally got a chance to get to his summer cottage on the shores of Puulavesi in Mikkeli.
During the first week of his holiday, an unexploded bomb from the war was found in his neighbouring village, and the area was evacuated.
'I know the place where they found the bomb quite well. I had been cycling there a couple of days earlier', Rehn says. "

More:Helsingin Sanomat - Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn: It all depends on Turkey

Retail Week - Business information for the retail industry

"Harvey Nichols reveals Turkish move
By Mark Faithfull
30/08/2005

Harvey Nichols is to open its fifth store outside the UK after signing an exclusive licence with Unitim, a diversified Istanbul-based business group that represents a number of brands in Turkey and Eastern Europe.

The fashion store will make its debut at Istanbul’s Kanyon Shopping Mall, scheduled to open in September 2006. The 86,115 sq ft (8,000 sq m), Harvey Nichols store will include fashion, fragrance, beauty and home, as well as a gourmet food market and fine dining restaurants, bar and cafe. "

More:Retail Week - Business information for the retail industry

Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | We owe them a debt of honour

"We owe them a debt of honour

The Ukrainians and Turks can't be left out of the new Europe

Peter Preston
Monday August 29, 2005
The Guardian

It's the debate that stopped dead in its tracks. One minute after the French referendum vote came in, Tony Blair was ideological master of the EU rebels, liberated, prescribing the course of things to come in Brussels, chortling behind Jacques Chirac's back. And the next minute, nothing happened. Europe went on holiday. Mr Europe went to Barbados. Six months to save the union turned into four."

More:Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | We owe them a debt of honour

BBC NEWS | Programmes | This World | The hidden wives of Turkey

"The hidden wives of Turkey
By Nick Read
Producer/Director, World Weddings: The Second Wife

The villages of south-east Anatolia, in the corner of Turkey that borders Iraq and Syria, are bleak, hauntingly beautiful places that do not give up their secrets lightly."

More:BBC NEWS | Programmes | This World | The hidden wives of Turkey

JTW News - Reform in United Nations and Turkey

"Reform in United Nations and Turkey
View: Dr. Sedat Laciner

All agrees that the United Nations (UN) needs reform. The UN was established after the Second World War and based on the balance of power of that time. The US, USSR, UK, France and China became permanent members of the UN Security Council with veto power. However the balance of power dramatically shifted during the Cold War era: Japan and Germany emerged as ‘economic superpowers’; UK and France became more ‘ordinary powers’; new power areas appeared, like Asia-Pacific etc. The Cold War competition curtailed the need for structural change, yet with the end of the Cold War, the new ‘actors’ demanded more rights in the UN system. The 5-big have resisted the reform ca
lls in the 1990s. However the Iraq War clearly showed that the current UN System cannot provide dialogue and co-operation between the big economic, military and political great powers. "

More:JTW News - Reform in United Nations and Turkey

Turkey, the EU and Cyprus-The Washington Times

"Turkey, the EU and Cyprus

TODAY'S COLUMNIST
By Tulin Daloglu
August 30, 2005

On the Senate floor almost a month ago, Sen. Olympia Snowe, Maine Republican, criticized the State Department's endorsement of congressional travel to northern Cyprus. '[T]he decision by the government of Cyprus not to prosecute those who make illegal landings is a gesture of restraint, designed to promote the freedom of movement among the two communities,' she said. She may or may not have meant that Rep. Edward Whitfield, Kentucky Republican, who visited northern Cyprus in May with a congressional delegation was lucky not to have been arrested.
Mr. Whitfield said he was delivering the message of the president of the United States to the Turkish Cypriots who accepted the U.N.-backed peace plan to reunify the island, and that America will keep its promise and not let them out in the cold."

More:Turkey, the EU and Cyprus-The Washington Times,

JTW News - Nationalism danger to Turkey's internal security

"Nationalism danger to Turkey's internal security
View: Onder Aytac & Emre Uslu

On Oct. 3 the screening process for Turkey's European Union project will be launched. This long process will not only change many old habits of the Turkish state, but Turkish society and private institutions also will have to undergo a drastic transformation to adapt to new conditions in the coming years. This transformation, notwithstanding its positive contributions to Turkey, is likely to cause some conflicts and confrontations at the same time. "

More:JTW News - Nationalism danger to Turkey's internal security

JTW News - Angela Merkel's letter vs. wisemen article about Turkey

"Angela Merkel's letter vs. wisemen article about Turkey
View: Professor Huseyin Bagci

On Sept. 1 a European Union foreign minister's meeting will take place. The meeting does not reflect business as usual. Many interesting topics and debates are certain to arise, and most prominent will be the issue of Turkey. A letter written by German Christian Democrat leader and candidate for chancellorship Angela Merkel was sent to all Christian Democrat Party leaders of the EU members states. The letter contains the same ideas that have been circulating for about a year: Turkey should be offered a privileged partnership status, and not full EU membership as was promised both in Helsinki in 1999 and last December's Brussels summit. This letter is signific
ant for Turkey because a politically charged letter sent by then U.S. President Lyndon Johnson had a great political impact in 1964, leading to the break up of Turkish-U.S. relations and 1974's intervention on Cyprus."

More:JTW News - Angela Merkel's letter vs. wisemen article about Turkey

JTW News - EU Commission: Turkey’s Recognition of Cyprus not a Legal Obligation

"EU Commission: Turkey’s Recognition of Cyprus not a Legal Obligation
European Commission (EC) Spokesperson Francoise Le Bail revealed that there is no legal obligation for Turkey to recognize Greek Cyprus in line with the agreement concerning the start of negotiations with Turkey.

In a statement to journalists in Brussels, the European Union’s executive arm Spokesperson Le Bail told, “It is clear that every effort that Turkey can make before October 3 will be very helpful. But there is no legal obligation for Turkey to do more than it has done already.” "

More:JTW News - EU Commission: Turkey’s Recognition of Cyprus not a Legal Obligation

No Turkish Airline Company on French Black List

"No Turkish Airline Company on French Black List
By Mustafa Gun
Published: Tuesday, August 30, 2005
zaman.com

French Civilian Aviation Organization (DGAC) has announced the banned airline companies that failed to accomplish full flight security.

North Korean Air Koryo, US Air Saint-Thomas, Liberian International Air Service, Mozambique LAM and Thailand’s Phuket Airlines are among the companies mentioned in the blacklist, in which no Turkish airline company was mentioned. The flight ban also includes Trans airways, which is a subsidiary of LAM. France had already banned the flights of Air Saint-Thomas in March 2004, International Air Service in April 2004 and LAM in December 2004."

No Turkish Airline Company on French Black List

Cyprus protests to UN over T/C leader’s statements

"Cyprus protests to UN over T/C leader’s statements
CNA - NICOSIA-Cyprus - 30/8/2005 11:24
1125:CYPPRESS:02

Cyprus protests to UN over T/C leader's statements

Nicosia, Aug 30 (CNA) - Cyprus has sent a letter to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, protesting statements made by Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat on the latest developments on the Cyprus problem and prospects to solve the issue.

In a letter that was circulated yesterday as a UN document, charge d’affaires of the Permanent Mission of Cyprus to the UN Andreas Hadjichrysanthou referred to the statements made by Talat earlier this month, by which he proposed the opening of ports and airports in the Turkish occupied areas in exchange for the return of Varosha."

Cyprus protests to UN over T/C leader’s statements

Everything that was Dreaded is Happening in Iraq

"Everything that was Dreaded is Happening in Iraq

Negotiations over the Iraqi constitution have ended and the charter will put up for referendum on October 15. As it was feared, a federal state is being envisaged. Everyone knows that if this is ratified at the referendum, it will not last long, and within a relatively short period of time, the “Federative Kurdish State” will demand full independence."

More:Everything that was Dreaded is Happening in Iraq

Turkish Daily News - European Parliament to host conference on Kurdish issue

"European Parliament to host conference on Kurdish issue
Tuesday, August 30, 2005

‘Turks and Kurds must choose between peaceful coexistence or a return to violence,’ believes Uzun, a Kurdish-language writer who is to attend the conference in Brussels"

More:Turkish Daily News - European Parliament to host conference on Kurdish issue

Jerusalem Post | With enough patience and goodwill

"With enough patience and goodwill
By GWYNNE DYER

Sometimes, just forcing yourself to say the right words can save thousands of lives. 'The Kurdish problem is everybody's problem, but above all mine,' said Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the mainly Kurdish city of Diyarbekir last week. 'We will solve all problems through democracy,' he added – and went on to admit that the national government, dominated by the Turkishspeaking majority, had long mistreated the Kurds who make up a fifth of the country's people."

More:Jerusalem Post |With enough patience and goodwill

Corvallis Gazette-Times -Nuclear experts gather at OSU

"...Conversely, Orhan Yesin, the delegate from Turkey, said his country has a research reactor but no nuclear power plants. The professor at Middle East Technical University said he faces a lot of opposition from those concerned with the safety of nuclear energy.

'I am trying to explain it isn't unsafe if you do the right things in design and operations,' he said."

More:.: Corvallis Gazette-Times :. News

Turkish Daily News - Turkey celebrates Victory Day

"Turkey celebrates Victory Day
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

The 83rd anniversary of the landmark victory of the Turkish military led by Mustafa Kemal Ataturk over an invading Greek army will be celebrated nationwide today.

The first official ceremony will take place at Ataturk's mausoleum in Ankara, where top military commanders led by Chief of General Staff Gen. Hilmi Ozkok will lay a wreath at Ataturk's tomb. All across the nation, military and civilian officials will lay wreaths at Ataturk statues."

More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey celebrates Victory Day

EUpolitix.com - Paris turns up the heat on Turkey-Cyprus issue

"Paris turns up the heat on Turkey-Cyprus issue

French president Jacques Chirac has reiterated that Turkey should make “clarifications” on Ankara’s position towards Cyprus.

He told French ambassadors that Turkey’s line was within the letter of EU obligations but against the spirit of membership, report French newspapers.

European Parliament president Josep Borrell said Chirac’s doubts were more serious than German opposition candidate Angela Merkel's anti-Turkey stance, because it is a new development from an already elected head of state, the Spanish press note.

Meanwhile, the European Commission underlined that that there is no legal obligation for Turkey to recognise Greek Cyprus before starting accession talks with the EU 25."

EUpolitix.com - Paris turns up the heat on Turkey-Cyprus issue

Monday, August 29, 2005

Crossfire War: Europe; Turkey - Greece - Half Moon Joint Exercise - Regional Imp

"Crossfire War: Europe; Turkey - Greece - Half Moon Joint Exercise - Regional Imp

By Willard Payne

Night Watch: PRISTINA - Ostensibly under the command of NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR), Turkish and Greek battalions conducted a joint exercise called Half Moon.

The 62 Turkish and Greek soldiers were under the command of Turkish Captain Ahmet Dener and Greek Major Konstantinos Alexopulos. The three day maneuvers were conducted on the check points formed on the border with Albania and in the Dragas region of Kosovo. The purpose of the exercise is to guarantee the security of Kosovo. The operations included: preventing illegal crossings, weapons, drugs and human trafficking."

More:Crossfire War: Europe; Turkey - Greece - Half Moon Joint Exercise - Regional Imp

EU says Turkey can start accession talks despite refusal to recognise Cyprus - Forbes.com

"EU says Turkey can start accession talks despite refusal to recognise Cyprus
08.29.2005, 10:19 AM

BRUSSELS (AFX) - Turkey can start EU membership talks as planned in October despite its refusal to recognize Cyprus, since this was not a condition for the negotiations to begin, the European Commission said.

But the commission, the European Union's executive arm, insisted that the talks will be with the whole 25-member bloc, and called on Ankara to do all it could to ease tensions over the thorny Cyprus issue.

'It is clear that every effort that Turkey can do before October 3 will be very helpful,' said spokeswoman Francoise Le Bail, referring to the planned start date for talks with Ankara.

'But there is no legal obligation for Turkey to do more than it has done already,' she added. "

More:EU says Turkey can start accession talks despite refusal to recognise Cyprus - Forbes.com

The Anatolian Times-Denktas: Azerbaijan Needs Time To Recognize Turkish Republic Of Northern Cyprus

"Denktas: Azerbaijan Needs Time To Recognize Turkish Republic Of Northern Cyprus
BAKU - Rauf Denktas, former president of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), and TRNC FM & Deputy Prime Minister Serdar Denktas were today in Baku to have talks with Azerbaijani executives.

TRNC delegation also visited the tomb of Haydar Aliyev, the former president of Azerbaijan, and cemetery of Turkish soldiers in Baku.

Rauf Denktas told reporters, ''Azerbaijan needs time to recognize us (TRNC).''

Asked whether some circles try to put pressure on Azerbaijan arguing that 'if Azerbaijan recognizes TRNC, Greek Cypriot administration will recognize Upper Karabakh (under Armenian occupation)', Denktas stated, ''this is immorality. Greek Cypriots had attacked to occupy lands of our people, as Armenians attacked Azerbaijan. Turkey saved our lands and people.''

Stating that it was immoral to accept Greek Cypriot administration as the legitimate government of Cyprus, Denktas stressed, ''we secured justice and freedom by establishing TRNC. I wish our friends act by knowing that fact. Azerbaijan embraced us and did not listen to Greek Cypriots. We are grateful to Azerbaijan.''"

More:The Anatolian Times-Denktas: Azerbaijan Needs Time To Recognize Turkish Republic Of Northern Cyprus

EUPolitix.com - France raises Turkey's EU entry stakes

"France raises Turkey's EU entry stakes

Paris is set to push a new precondition for Turkish EU entry at a UK summit of Europe’s foreign ministers this week.

French President Jacques Chirac has racked up the pressure on Ankara to clarify Turkey’s stance on the Republic of Cyprus.

The issue of Cyprus could herald new lows in turbulent Anglo-French relations if rifts emerge at the informal Newport gathering of EU foreign ministers on Thursday September 1."

More:EUPolitix.com - France raises Turkey's EU entry stakes

U.S. Congressmen Meet Turkish Textile Representatives In Istanbul

"U.S. Congressmen Meet Turkish Textile Representatives In Istanbul

ISTANBUL - Members of U.S. Congress and Senate met representatives of Turkish textile industry in Turkish commercial hub of Istanbul.

The meeting was hosted by Istanbul Textile and Apparel Exporters' Association (IHKIB)."

More:U.S. Congressmen Meet Turkish Textile Representatives In Istanbul

IRAQ: KURDISH MILITANTS SET TO RESIST TURKISH-U.S. ATTACKS

"A pro-Kurd manifestation in Iraq

IRAQ: KURDISH MILITANTS SET TO RESIST TURKISH-U.S. ATTACKS

Sulaymaniyya, 29 August (AKI) - Amid reports that the United States and Turkey are preparing an attack against the Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK)'s headquarters in Qindil hills of northern Iraq - an area which borders Iran and Turkey - a Kurdish leader has warned that the separatist group will put up a fight. Muhammad Fa'iq Kawalbi, president of Iraqi Kurdish party, Democratic Solution, told a Sulaymaniyya-based Kurdish newspapaer, Aso, that 'if American troops attack PKK headquarters on Qindil hills, Kurdish fighters will descend from the mountains into Iraqi and Turkish cities and lead similar operations to those conducted by terrorist groups such as [the al-Qaeda linked Kurdish group] Ansar al-Sunna.' "

More:IRAQ: KURDISH MILITANTS SET TO RESIST TURKISH-U.S. ATTACKS

IKEA Commissions Headscarf for Female Muslim Staff

"IKEA Commissions Headscarf for Female Muslim Staff
By Hasan Cucuk
Published: Monday, August 29, 2005

Swedish Furnishing Chain IKEA commissioned a special headscarf for its female Muslim staff. The firm indicated that the increasing number of Muslim staff lead them to design a headscarf with an IKEA logo on it, to enable female Muslim employees to wear the hijab in their workplace.

The headscarves were first been introduced at Ikea’s London stores. IKEA named the headscarf “IKEA-HIJAB” and they will soon come into use in IKEA stores in other countries as well."

More:IKEA Commissions Headscarf for Female Muslim Staff

Expatica - Living in, moving to, or working in Germany, plus German news in English

"Berlin and Paris 'united' on Turkey's EU talks
29 August 2005

BERLIN - Germany and France are united on the issue of the upcoming entry talks between Turkey and the European Union, a German government spokesman said in Berlin Sunday.

Berlin and Paris are agreed that the entry negotiations should proceed as unanimously agreed at the E.U. summit in December 2004, the spokesman said."

More:Expatica - Living in, moving to, or working in Germany, plus German news in English

Professor Lewy Blows So-Called Armenian Genocide Allegations

"Professor Lewy Blows So-Called Armenian Genocide Allegations
By Anadolu News Agency (aa)
Published: Monday, August 29, 2005
The famous US Political Scientist Professor, Guenter Lewy, announced that documents and interpretations related to the three main plots forming the base of the so-called Armenian genocide allegations were at least suspicious and the allegations never proved that Armenian murders from the beginning of the last century were pre-planned."

More:Professor Lewy Blows So-Called Armenian Genocide Allegations

JTW News - Interview with Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul

"Interview with Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul
The Target is Full membership to the EU

By Balcicek PAMIR, True
Whenever I see the minister of foreign affairs Abdullah Gül, I want to say ‘What’s going to happen with the EU?’. I suppose there are many who are asking such questions, because he starts talking about this before l even ask him. When Gül says ‘There is no reason to feel hopeless, the doors of the European Union aren’t closed, but are widely open’ , all l can do is to turn on the recorder to record what he says. Abdullah Gül, whom l met within the Foreign Ministry Residence, replies my question ‘Even against all these odds like the negative opinions on the world press and the impositions, you are saying that the d
oors are opened?’ with ‘From the intellectuals to politicians to common people, all of us have a lack of confidence. We can’t get over this’. We talked with the minister of foreign affairs about the point where we stand and the future possibilities. I hope that you’ll read the answers with interest."

More:JTW News - Interview with Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul

Opinion: Merkel's Turkish Delight | Press Reviews & Opinion | Deutsche Welle |

"Opinion: Merkel's Turkish Delight
Chancellor candidate Angela Merkel has renewed her efforts to kibosh Turkey's bid to join the EU. The dangerously misguided campaign exposes the worst side of Germany's conservatives, says DW-WORLD's Marc Young."

More:Opinion: Merkel's Turkish Delight | Press Reviews & Opinion | Deutsche Welle |

Financial Mirror-Cyprus not happy with UK Presidency Turkey plans

"Cyprus not happy with UK Presidency Turkey plans

Foreign minister George Iacovou has expressed concern about the apparent plans of the British EU Presidency to wrap up discussion of Turkey on September 1.

Speaking before his departure for the Netherlands, Austria and Slovakia on Sunday, Iacovou said all signs led to the assumption that the British Presidency is seeking to conclude the discussion on Turkey on September 1, during the informal General and Foreign Affairs Council of the meeting of EU foreign ministers in Wales: “something which we do not accept”, he said.

An official meeting of COREPER (permanent EU ministry representatives) takes place on August 31, while an informal meeting of foreign ministers takes place on September 1-2 in Newport, Wales.

“We believe that the EU Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER) should examine the EU's counter-statement, answering to the issues raised by the Turkish statement,” Iacovou said, adding that the Republic of Cyprus is ready for such a possibility “with its legal and political arguments.”"

More:Financial Mirror

ekathimerini.com | EU feuds over Turkey

"EU feuds over Turkey

By Costas Iordanidis

The government has been thrown somewhat off balance by the stance adopted by two key European Union member states, France and Germany, in relation to the scheduled launch of Turkey’s accession talks with the European Union in October.

This follows Friday’s declarations by both French President Jacques Chirac and Germany’s opposition Christian Democratic leader Angela Merkel — expected to be elected chancellor in next month’s general elections — concerning Ankara’s persistent refusal to recognize Cyprus.

Turkey’s stance “poses political and judicial problems, and isn’t in the spirit of what we expect from a candidate for the union,” Chirac told European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso on Friday."

More:ekathimerini.com | EU feuds over Turkey

ekathimerini.com | EU feuds over Turkey

"EU feuds over Turkey

By Costas Iordanidis

The government has been thrown somewhat off balance by the stance adopted by two key European Union member states, France and Germany, in relation to the scheduled launch of Turkey’s accession talks with the European Union in October.

This follows Friday’s declarations by both French President Jacques Chirac and Germany’s opposition Christian Democratic leader Angela Merkel — expected to be elected chancellor in next month’s general elections — concerning Ankara’s persistent refusal to recognize Cyprus.

Turkey’s stance “poses political and judicial problems, and isn’t in the spirit of what we expect from a candidate for the union,” Chirac told European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso on Friday."

More:ekathimerini.com | EU feuds over Turkey

EUPolitix.com - Back to work for EU

"Back to work for EU

Bra wars, bird bugs, lethal flu pandemics, air safety, terrorism and Turkish EU entry are at the top of the European political in-tray as Brussels returns to work.

There are key developments in European politics for EU institutions to consider as European Commissioners, MEPs and officials return after the summer break."

More:EUPolitix.com - Back to work for EU

JTW Interview - The Target is Full membership to the EU

"The Target is Full membership to the EU
By Balcicek PAMIR, True

Whenever I see the minister of foreign affairs Abdullah G�l, I want to say ‘What’s going to happen with the EU?’. I suppose there are many who are asking such questions, because he starts talking about this before l even ask him. When G�l says ‘There is no reason to feel hopeless, the doors of the European Union aren’t closed, but are widely open’ , all l can do is to turn on the recorder to record what he says. Abdullah G�l, whom l met within the Foreign Ministry Residence, replies my question ‘Even against all these odds like the negative opinions on the world press and the impositions, you are saying that the doors are opened?’ with ‘From the intellectuals to politicians to common people, all of us have a lack of confidence. We can’t get over this’. We talked with the minister of foreign affairs about the point where we stand and the future possibilities. I hope that you’ll read the answers with interest."

More:JTW Interview - The Target is Full membership to the EU

The New Anatolian-Cicek: Britain followed Turkey's lead in anti-terror efforts - PART I

"Cicek: Britain followed Turkey's lead in anti-terror efforts - PART I

Kemal Balci
The New Anatolian / Ankara

Justice Minister Cemil Cicek: We'll make arrangements which balance security and democratization

Cicek says new approaches to fight terror being considered by European countries are already part of the Turkish legal system

Cicek underlines that Turkey already has regional courts much like special terror courts, and that certain aspects of Emergency Rule authority can be used with the well-intentioned cooperation of state bodies"

More:The New Anatolian-Cicek: Britain followed Turkey's lead in anti-terror efforts - PART I

Nokia Reaches Settlement With Turkish Government

"Nokia Reaches Settlement With Turkish Government

STOCKHOLM -(Dow Jones)- Finland's Nokia Oyj (NOK) said Monday it has reached a settlement in its financial claims against the Turkish network operator Telsim subject to the successful sale of Telsim's assets.

Under the terms of the arrangement with Telsim and the Turkish Savings and Deposit Insurance Fund (TMSF), which currently controls and manages Telsim's assets, Nokia will receive a settlement payment following the completion of the sale of Telsim's assets.

The settlement is subject to the formal board approval of TMSF, and the amount of the settlement will depend on the final proceeds from the future sale of Telsim's assets. "

More:Nokia Reaches Settlement With Turkish Government

JTW News - Time to reassess combat against terror in Turkey

"Time to reassess combat against terror in Turkey
A complete rethinking on how to combat threats stemming from terror attacks by the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party is vital, political scientist La�iner says, suggesting Parliament as a key place to start

EMİNE KART

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

No one can regard the cost of Turkey's fight against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) as “inexpensive,” given that the country has spent not only tens of billions of dollars but, more importantly, also lost tens of thousands of people over more than two wasted decades.

It is not possible to term such a fight that is still taking lives as “successful,” according to political scientist Dr. Sedat La�iner, head of the Anka
ra-based International Strategic Research Organization (ISRO/USAK). "

More:JTW News - Time to reassess combat against terror in Turkey

Sunday, August 28, 2005

BakuTODAY.net - Turkish Cypriots chip away at isolation with direct flight

"Turkish Cypriots chip away at isolation with direct flight

29/08/2005 01:55

NICOSIA, Aug 28 (AFP) - An airliner operated by the breakaway Turkish state
in northern Cyprus was set to leave for Azerbaijan on the first direct flight out of the isolated statelet to a country other than Turkey, an official said Sunday."

More:BakuTODAY.net - Turkish Cypriots chip away at isolation with direct flight

IC Publications-Turkish Cypriots chip away at isolation with direct flight

"Turkish Cypriots chip away at isolation with direct flight

An airliner operated by the breakaway Turkish state in northern Cyprus was set to leave for Azerbaijan on the first direct flight out of the isolated statelet to a country other than Turkey, an official said Sunday.

The flight operated by Turkish Cypriot Airlines comes a month after an Azerbaijani plane landed in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on the first direct commercial flight to the self-proclaimed state in three decades avoiding Turkey.

'The flight to Baku will be an important step towards breaking the economic isolation and embargos imposed on the TRNC,' Kudret Akay, an adviser to the Turkish Cypriot foreign ministry, said."

More:IC Publications-Turkish Cypriots chip away at isolation with direct flight

Turkey, Cyprus and the EU - Editorials & Commentary - International Herald Tribune

"Turkey, Cyprus and the EU

MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 2005
Turkey, Cyprus and the EU

It is always a delight to read an opinion article like Philip Gordon's ("Cyprus is a poor excuse for turning away Turkey," Views, Aug. 18) that is not only 100 percent accurate, but also blunt and loud, since the European Union's recent attitude toward Turkey justifies shaving the diplomatic cuteness."

More:Turkey, Cyprus and the EU - Editorials & Commentary - International Herald Tribune

ottawasun.com - Ottawa and Region - Turks meet to mark diplomat's murder

" Turkish-Canadians gathered yesterday at the spot where a diplomat from their homeland was murdered 23 years ago.

Atilla Altikat's killers are still free although the Justice Commandos of the Armenian Genocide claimed responsibility.

"We hope the murderers will be found and their supporters, who we believe are in Canada, will be brought to justice," said organizer Kevser Taymaz.

"The bigger picture is that Armenian-Canadians will realize other citizens of the Ottoman Empire lost their lives and we will remember our losses together -- in a Canadian way."

Dozens of people from Ottawa, Montreal and Toronto gathered on Island Park Dr. for Muslim prayers and speeches.

They handed out leaflets showing Altikat's bloodied body."

More:ottawasun.com - Ottawa and Region - Turks meet to mark diplomat's murder

JTW News - Germany vs. France Over Turkey’s Membership

"Germany vs. France Over Turkey’s Membership
Schroder Fully Supports Turkey’s EU Membership While the French President Turns to Skeptical

* German Chancellor Gerhard Schr�der gives support to Turkey’s European Union membership. Schroder said “Turkey has kept her all promises and now it is the EU’s turn to honor its promises. Schroder also argued that Turkey is vital for the EU’s security. Gerhard Chroder claimed that Turkey’s membership to the EU was a historical chance for the EU and for Germany and Germany must continue its existing European vision.

* Mr. Schroeder has assured Turkey that talks on its entry into the European Union will begin on Oct. 3 as planned"

More:JTW News - Germany vs. France Over Turkey’s Membership

Turkish Daily News - Greenpeace sailing vessel 'Anna' moors in Istanbul on 'Peaceful Energy Tour'

"Greenpeace sailing vessel 'Anna' moors in Istanbul on 'Peaceful Energy Tour'
Sunday, August 28, 2005

İSTANBUL – Turkish Daily News

World environmental action group Greenpeace has sent its sailing vessel Anna to Istanbul on a Peaceful Energy Tour to draw attention to problems created by fossil fuels and climatic change."

More:Turkish Daily News - Greenpeace sailing vessel 'Anna' moors in Istanbul on 'Peaceful Energy Tour'

Gulf Times Newspaper - Qatar, Gulf and World News - Europe/World

"EU urged to stand by Turkey commitment
Published: Sunday, 28 August, 2005, 12:12 PM Doha Time
ANKARA: The European Union should keep its commitment to Turkey and launch accession negotiations in October as planned for eventual full membership of the bloc, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder said in comments published in a Turkish newspaper yesterday.
“My government believes Turkey has fulfilled every pledge it made, including those on Cyprus. I am sure the European Union will also keep its pledge,” Schroeder told a gathering of Turkish businessmen in Berlin on Friday, the mass-circulation Sabah daily reported."

More:Gulf Times Newspaper - Qatar, Gulf and World News - Europe/World

Turkish Daily News - The Turkish public and terror

"The Turkish public and terror
Sunday, August 28, 2005

Yuksel SOYLEMEZ

A recent public opinion poll has clearly shown that the Turkish people have no tolerance for al-Qaeda's terror attacks. To the question, "Does al-Qaeda defend the rights of Muslims worldwide?" no one said 'yes.' "

More:Turkish Daily News - The Turkish public and terror

Cyprus prepared arguments ahead of EU meeting for Turkey, FM says

"Cyprus prepared arguments ahead of EU meeting for Turkey, FM says
CNA - LARNACA-Cyprus - 28/8/2005 12:05
1205:CYPPRESS:02

Cyprus prepared arguments ahead of EU meeting for Turkey, FM says

Larnaca, Aug 28 (CNA) - Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs George Iacovou said here Sunday that Cyprus has prepared its legal and political arguments ahead of European Union meetings to discuss the commencement of negotiations between the EU and Turkey."

More:Cyprus prepared arguments ahead of EU meeting for Turkey, FM says

US and Turkey Cooperate in Textile Sector Against China

"US and Turkey Cooperate in Textile Sector Against China
By Zaman
Published: Sunday, August 28, 2005
A delegation from the US Congress and Senate met with Turkish businessmen from the textile sector in Istanbul. The US Congress and Senate members, who support the Turkish textile and ready-made sectors’ international fight against China’s unfair competition they made at the White House meeting, were present in the meeting."

More:US and Turkey Cooperate in Textile Sector Against China

Gul: Taking Side with Greek Cypriots is Also Against EU Spirit

"Gul: Taking Side with Greek Cypriots is Also Against EU Spirit
By Ersan Temizel, Musa Ozyurek
Published: Sunday, August 28, 2005

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul reacted to French President Jacques Chirac’s remarks that Ankara’s declaration on not recognizing the Greek Cypriot administration “poses political and legal problems and that it is not in the spirit expected of a candidate to the Union.' Gul recalled that it was the Greek Cypriot administration, who, in a referendum on April 24, 2004, rejected the Annan Plan, which the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), and the entire world reached a consensus. Underlying that Greek Cypriots have in fact acted against the European spirit, Gul called on EU members to act consistently on the Cyprus issue. The Turkish foreign minister noting the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) fulfilled its responsibilities said an embargo against Turkish Cypriots was also against the EU spirit and principles. “Greek Cypriots carrying this problem into the EU should pay the costs for their behavior,” Gul said."

More:Gul: Taking Side with Greek Cypriots is Also Against EU Spirit

'We' tries to unite Cyprus on the news - Business - International Herald Tribune

"'We' tries to unite Cyprus on the news

'We' tries to unite Cyprus on the news
By J. Alex Tarquinio International Herald Tribune

MONDAY, AUGUST 29, 2005
NICOSIA For an hour before dinner each weeknight, many Cypriots on both the Greek and Turkish sides of this island tune into the same TV show. It is called "Biz" in Turkish, and "Emis" in Greek. Both words mean "we.""



More:'We' tries to unite Cyprus on the news - Business - International Herald Tribune

Saturday, August 27, 2005

Turkey Sees No Imminent Deal on EU Talks Issue

"Turkey Sees No Imminent Deal on EU Talks Issue

ANKARA, 27 August 2005 — Turkey does not expect EU foreign ministers to reach agreement on a negotiating mandate for its talks to join the European Union when they meet in Wales on Sept. 1-2, Turkish Economy Minister Ali Babacan said yesterday. But Babacan said Turkey was optimistic that it will start talks to join the European Union on schedule on Oct. 3 despite growing opposition within the bloc to Ankara’s membership bid.

“There is only a weak chance of getting a final decision (on the text) on Sept 1-2... (But) we want the negotiation framework document to be signed before Oct 3,” he said. Some EU member states, notably France, are wary about taking in the large, relatively poor, Muslim country, though Turkey is not expected to join the bloc before 2015 at the earliest."

More:Turkey Sees No Imminent Deal on EU Talks Issue

Turks.US Daily News - Turkish companies took on $64 billion of projects abroad Daily News

" Turkish companies took on $64 billion of projects abroad

Saturday, August 27 2005 @ 11:27 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Views: 11

BusinessTurkish contracting firms have so far taken on projects worth $64 billion in 63 countries, said Turkish State Minister Kursad Tuzmen in reply to a question posed by Republican People's Party (CHP) deputy Feridun Baloglu.

According to Tuzmen the foreign trade undersecretariat kept records of Turkish contracting companies active in foreign countries.

Tuzmen stressed that the companies are suffering from operating mostly in countries which have high political and commercial risk."

Turks.US Daily News - Turkish companies took on $64 billion of projects abroad Daily News

Turkish Daily News - Turkey undeterred as EU ups opposition

"Turkey undeterred as EU ups opposition
Saturday, August 27, 2005

Chirac says Turkish declaration on non-recognition of Greek Cyprus ‘not in the spirit’ of a country trying to join the EU, and Merkel launches bid to rally support for privileged partnership "

More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey undeterred as EU ups opposition

Turkish Daily News - UN documents Denktaş’s letter

"UN documents Denktaş’s letter
Saturday, August 27, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

A letter sent by Turkish Cypriot Foreign Minister Serdar Denktaş to U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan concerning a Security Council report on the international organization's operation in Cyprus has been admitted as a United Nations document, reported the Anatolia news agency."

More:Turkish Daily News - UN documents Denktaş’s letter

EU Membership is a Significant Tool for Modern Civilization'

"'EU Membership is a Significant Tool for Modern Civilization'
By Anadolu News Agency (aa)
Published: Saturday, August 27, 2005

The Turkish Chief of the General Staff, Hilmi Ozkok, said Turkey’s European Union (EU) vision is the “modern civilization” goal of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic. Ozkok drew attention in his Victory Day message to the psychological operations that corrupted and separated the nation internally and externally."

More:EU Membership is a Significant Tool for Modern Civilization'

Turkish Daily News - Before Oct. 3

"Before Oct. 3
Saturday, August 27, 2005

The first EU meeting to be held before Oct. 3 that is of any interest to us was postponed to Aug. 31. The Committee of Permanent Representatives of the European Union will assess the declaration attached to the additional customs union protocol at this meeting. "

More:Turkish Daily News - Before Oct. 3

Turkish Daily News - Armenian conference and bill in September

"Armenian conference and bill in September
Saturday, August 27, 2005

If my memory is not playing tricks on me, a similar resolution was submitted during Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Washington in June, and a minor crisis ensued."

More:Turkish Daily News - Armenian conference and bill in September

Turkish Daily News - Peace rock festival Barışarock to shake Istanbul

"Peace rock festival Barışarock to shake Istanbul
Saturday, August 27, 2005

'This festival is more important than any Formula 1 race,' says Nejat Yavaşoğulları, vocalist for Bulutsuzluk Ozlemi

ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

The Global Peace and Justice Commission has organized a festival called Barışarock 2005 Karşı Festival, (Rock for Peace 2005 Alternative Festival), scheduled for this weekend in Istanbul."

More:Turkish Daily News - Peace rock festival Barışarock to shake Istanbul

JTW News - Schroder: EU’s turn to honour its promise

"Schr�der: EU’s turn to honour its promise
Talking exclusively to H�rriyet’s Ertuğrul �zk�k in Berlin, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder has pledged that he will do his best to back Turkey’s EU bid, adding that Turkey has travelled a long distance since December 17, 2004 – when a date for the opening of accession talks was officially given by the EU. “Turkey has fulfilled all its promises,” Schroder said, “Now it is time we honour ours.”

Schroder also pointed out that the negotiation period will be no easy task: “It goes without saying that the negotiation will take a long time, and both parties can bring it to a halt if they want to. Therefore there is no reason either of the parties should be afraid.” "

More:JTW News - Schr�der: EU’s turn to honour its promise

Scoop: Mazur: Getting To The Bottom Of The Dorak Affair

"Dig Of The Century: Getting To The Bottom Of The Dorak Affair

By Suzan Mazur

He's held out longer than Woodward, Bernstein & Deep Throat. But it's time British archaeologist James 'Jimmie' Mellaart, now age 80 or so and in his golden years, finally fesses up to the whereabouts of the priceless 'Royal Treasure of Dorak,' which he first tantalized the world with by publishing drawings of the artifacts in the November 28, 1959 issue of The Illustrated London News, saying the pieces were from a clandestine dig in northwest Turkey. And after which the press clamored to see it. However, fabulous Dorak had by then apparently vanished, along with its owner, Anna Papastrati.

Mellaart said he first met Papastrati, a Greek woman who spoke English with an American accent, on a train bound for the Aegean coast city of Izmir in the summer of 1958. He described her as, 'very attractive in a tarty sort of way', and said he was fascinated by an ancient gold bracelet she wore."

More:Scoop: Mazur: Getting To The Bottom Of The Dorak Affair

Friday, August 26, 2005

The Guardian | Turkey's EU dream dealt double blow as Chirac and Merkel raise doubts

"Turkey's EU dream dealt double blow as Chirac and Merkel raise doubts

Luke Harding in Berlin and Nicholas Watt in Brussels
Saturday August 27, 2005
The Guardian

Turkey's 40-year dream of joining the European family suffered a double blow yesterday when Jacques Chirac and Angela Merkel, Germany's conservative leader, raised serious doubts about forthcoming talks on EU membership.

In his most significant intervention of the year on Turkey, the French president accused Ankara of failing to act 'in the spirit' of a country hoping to join the EU.

Mr Chirac singled out Turkey's conduct last month when it signed a customs agreement with all EU countries - the last obstacle ahead of membership talks - but insisted that it would still refuse to recognise Cyprus."

More:Guardian Unlimited | The Guardian | Turkey's EU dream dealt double blow as Chirac and Merkel raise doubts

In Istanbul, Contemporary Art Blooms Amid a Thousand Minarets - New York Times

"In Istanbul, Contemporary Art Blooms Amid a Thousand Minarets
By LEE SMITH

NURAN TERZIOGLU, a Turkish curator and gallery owner, is holding court in Cezayir, a restaurant in Beyoglu, Istanbul's pre-eminent arts neighborhood. A large group of writers and journalists is meeting in an adjoining room, while a few artists are lounging around in the cafe, a bright beige room with high ceiling fans and decorated only with prints of the great 15th-century miniaturist Siyah Kalem, or Black Pencil, one of the fathers of Ottoman, hence Turkish, art.

As the late summer afternoon turns to dusk, Ms. Terzioglu, 61, owner of the Apel Gallery, is talking about what it means to be a contemporary Turkish artist, caught between the modern city and the Istanbul of a thousand minarets. 'It's a tradition going back over 10,000 years,' she said, sipping from a glass of green mint liqueur. 'But definitely the signal moment was when Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror conquered the Byzantine city and ordered that the culture not be destroyed. Instead, the Ottomans added to it, in part by inviting the greatest artists from all over the empire to the palace.'"

More:In Istanbul, Contemporary Art Blooms Amid a Thousand Minarets - New York Times

'We Understand Turkey’s Impatience About PKK'

"'We Understand Turkey’s Impatience About PKK'
By Zaman
Published: Friday, August 26, 2005

US Charged’Affaires in Ankara, Nancy McEldowney, said Turkey was impatient about resolving the problem with the terrorist organization Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK); however, they understood the reason for impatience."

More:'We Understand Turkey’s Impatience About PKK'

Special Eurobarometer Report Confirms Turkish Citizens Are More Innovation-Friendly than 20 of the 25 EU Countries


"Malta and Slovakia are the Member States with the highest proportion of proinnovation citizens i.e. either “enthusiasts” or the “attracted” group. However, a relatively large proportion of countries follow very closely behind. Both Slovakia and Malta, along with Slovenia and Luxembourg boast among the highest proportion of “enthusiasts”, amounting to close to one in five citizens. Both Turkey and Romania can be distinguished with respective proportions of 25% and 20% falling under the “enthusiasts” category.
On the other side of the coin, the typology analysis shows that citizens in Poland and Latvia are least ready to embrace innovation as over three in five are classified as “anti-innovation” or “reluctant”. However, the highest proportions of “anti-innovation” citizens are in Greece (22%), Cyprus (21%) and Portugal (20%). A similarly high proportion of Bulgarians (20%) falls under this category."

For full report:Special Eurobarometer Report Confirms Turkish Citizens Are More Innovation-Friendly than 20 of the 25 EU Countries

FT.com / World - Paris and Berlin dent Turkey's EU hopes

"Paris and Berlin dent Turkey's EU hopes
By George Parker in Brussels, Bertrand Benoit in Berlin and John Thornhill in Paris
Published: August 26 2005 19:49 | Last updated: August 26 2005 19:49

Turkey EUTurkey's hopes for a smooth start to European Union membership talks on October 3 were Friday shaken by separate warning shots from France and Germany.

Jacques Chirac, France's president, on Friday appeared to throw up a new hurdle to the start of talks, suggesting that Turkey needed to recognise Cyprus."

More:FT.com / World - Paris and Berlin dent Turkey's EU hopes

World Peace Herald-UPI Interview: Turkey's man in Brussels

"UPI Interview: Turkey's man in Brussels
By Gareth Harding
UPI Chief European Correspondent
Published August 26, 2005

BRUSSELS -- Almost 40 years after it first applied to join the European Union, Turkey is due to begin membership talks with Brussels in just over a month. United Press International talked to Turkey's Ambassador to the EU, Oguz Demiralp, about the chances of Ankara's membership bid succeeding and the widespread fears many Europeans have about the large, poor, mostly Muslim republic entering the wealthy Western club. "

More:World Peace Herald-UPI Interview: Turkey's man in Brussels

BBC NEWS | Europe | EU hears fresh doubts over Turkey

"EU hears fresh doubts over Turkey
French President Jacques Chirac (right) greets European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso at the Elysee Palace in Paris
Mr Chirac (right) received EU Commission chief Barroso in Paris
Two of Europe's top politicians have voiced fresh concern about the EU's plan to start entry talks with Turkey on 3 October.

The French President, Jacques Chirac, said Turkey's position on Cyprus 'poses political and legal problems'.

Turkey, which is lobbying hard for EU membership, refuses to recognise the Greek Cypriot government in Nicosia."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | EU hears fresh doubts over Turkey

calendarlive.com: The real Turkey, as if in a dream

"The real Turkey, as if in a dream
*Sinan Unel's well-received 'Pera Palas' is an enlightening portrait of Turkey's high-wire act of balancing European and Islamic influences.
By Don Shirley, Times Staff Writer

When the San Francisco-born but Turkish-reared playwright Sinan Ünel attended the University of Kansas, he found that most Americans knew very little about Turkey.

The predominantly Islamic country's proximity to many Arab states makes people "think it's an Arab country," he says. "It's like confusing America with Mexico because they're both Christian countries in the same area."
"

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United States Eulogizes Turkey's Efforts

"United States Eulogizes Turkey's Efforts

WASHINGTON D.C. - The U.S. State Department stated on Tuesday that Turkey had made impressive strides in recent years on democratization and human rights issues, and eulogized the Turkish authorities and the Turkish people on their determined effort."

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Turkey Defines New Tactics in Combat With PKK (SETimes.com)

"Turkey Defines New Tactics in Combat With PKK

26/08/2005

While reiterating their determination to crack down on terrorist violence, Turkish authorities also say democratisation and reducing economic inequity are key to defusing the militant Kurdistan Workers' Party."

More:Turkey Defines New Tactics in Combat With PKK (SETimes.com)

Turkish Daily News - Turks don't like carrying coins

"Turks don't like carrying coins
Friday, August 26, 2005
A Mastercard study on the new Turkish lira indicated that Turks complained mostly about having to carry around coins.

According to results of the survey, which has been repeated three times in the past year, Turks have adapted fairly easily to the new lira, the Anatolia news agency reported on Thursday."

More:Turkish Daily News - Turks don't like carrying coins

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Greek Cyprus searching for allies against Turkey’s non-recognition stance

"Turkey: Greek Cyprus searching for allies against Turkey’s non-recognition stance

14:59 - 26 August 2005 - The Greek Cypriot administration is about to launch a “diplomatic marathon” through European Union capitals in an apparent last-minute effort to find collaborators for raising Turkey's recognition of Greek Cyprus as a new condition for the start of Turkey's accession talks, Turkish Daily News reports. "

More:REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Greek Cyprus searching for allies against Turkey’s non-recognition stance

FT.com / Arts & Weekend - Faith, hope and parity

"Faith, hope and parity
By Vincent Boland
Published: August 26 2005 15:15 | Last updated: August 26 2005 15:15

One recent Saturday afternoon, in the enervating heat and noise of Istanbul, the holiest man in the Orthodox Christian Church joined a queue to catch a ferry. His All Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I stood in line with about 200 others, mostly tourists, bound for the little island of Heybeliada, about an hour’s ride from the city. For many of those boarding the boat, a visit to the island is part of the experience of being in Istanbul, something recommended in the guidebooks. It has excellent beaches, a naval high school and a watersports club popular with Istanbul’s rich."

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Turkish Daily News - Turks to be informed of their rights

"Turks to be informed of their rights
Friday, August 26, 2005
The Prime Ministry’s human rights department prepares a booklet on the rights of individuals suspected and accused of committing crimes, around 3 percent of the population each year, to teach Turks what their rights actually are"

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Chirac wants EU talks on Turkey's refusal to recognise Cyprus UPDATE - Forbes.com

"AFX News Limited
Chirac wants EU talks on Turkey's refusal to recognise Cyprus

PARIS (AFX) - French President Jacques Chirac wants to discuss with European Union partners Turkey's refusal to recognise Cyprus, a presidential spokesman said.

The French leader 'reminded the president of the (European) Commission that this declaration poses political and legal problems and that it's not in the spirit of what one expects from a candidate to join the Union,' the spokesman said."

More:AFX News Limited-Chirac wants EU talks on Turkey's refusal to recognise Cyprus

PKK a problem for Turkey, US and Iraq: Bryza

"PKK a problem for Turkey, US and Iraq: Bryza
There should also be greater co-operation between Turkish and Iraqi police and the judiciary to combat terrorism, Bryza said.

ANKARA - The terrorist organisation the PKK is a matter of concern for Turkey, the United States and Iraq, a senior US official said Thursday."

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Turkey’s unemployment rate falls

"Turkey’s unemployment rate falls
Just over 700,000 persons left the ranks of the unemployed in the April to June quarter, the DIE figures showed.

ANKARA - Turkey’s unemployment rate has fallen below 10 percent, according to figures released by the State Statistics Institute (DIE) Thursday."

More:Turkey’s unemployment rate falls

Blind faith - Australia is watching keenly as Europe's great multicultural experiment seems to be unravelling

"Blind faith
August 27, 2005
Australia is watching keenly as Europe's great multicultural experiment seems to be unravelling.
....By 2000 60 per cent of Moroccan and Turkish men older than 40 in the Netherlands were jobless. In France, 40 per cent of young men of Algerian background are unemployed, four times the national rate.

Eran Bucak, 36, thinks the Netherlands is a 'fantastic country' and has risen to run a trucking company in west Amsterdam since he came from Turkey as a baby. But he sees second-generation migrants, especially Moroccans, battling unemployment, drugs and crime. He thinks the immigration experience is largely to blame.

"They came like lambs," he says of his father's generation. "They worked hard, they did their best, but they weren't educated. They didn't know how to teach their children Dutch language or Dutch ways. So they left the children on the street. The second generation, they get lost. They don't have work, they don't have anything."

Despite his success, Bucak can also feel lost between two worlds. To please his family he made an arranged marriage with a woman from Turkey. "I am grown up here, she is grown up there. It is not a good way to put people together.""

More:Blind faith - World - smh.com.au

Xinhua -Germany's Merkel urges EU to block Turkey's membership

"Germany's Merkel urges EU to block Turkey's membership
www.chinaview.cn 2005-08-26 21:34:43

BERLIN, Aug. 26 (Xinhuanet) -- Germany's conservative opposition leader has written a letter to her European counterparts calling for a joint block of Turkey's entry into the European Union, the German press agency (DPA) reported Friday.

'We are firmly convinced that Turkey's accession would strain the EU politically, economically and socially, and endanger the European integration process,' the opposition leader Angela Merkel said in a letter written to her counterparts, obtained by DPA."

More:Xinhua - Germany's Merkel urges EU to block Turkey's membership

ContraCostaTimes.com- Construction of subway line may leave remnants in ruins

"Construction of subway line may leave remnants in ruins

By Mark Landler

NEW YORK TIMES

ISTANBUL, Turkey - The dusty pit next to the governor's office here looks like any other archaeological dig. Workers chip away gingerly at a half-buried stone wall, carting off the crumbling bricks in a wheelbarrow.

The walls were originally the cellars of houses built 50 to 70 years ago in the early years of the Turkish Republic.

Beneath them, archaeologists have uncovered a staircase dating from the late Ottoman Empire, perhaps a century or two old. And lurking beneath that is a genuine treasure: a stone arch that forms part of a cistern from the late-Byzantine period, which ended in 1453."

More:ContraCostaTimes.com | 08/26/2005 | Construction of subway line may leave remnants in ruins

JTW News - U.S.: PKK TV Channel Broadcasts from Brussels

"U.S. PKK TV Channel Broadcasts from Brussels
• US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Matthew J. Bryza says that Roj TV was a PKK TV and it broadcasts from the European Union’s capital city Brussels. Mr. Bryza said “the US understands Turkey’s sensitiveness about the PKK terrorism and both Turkey and the US should persuade the EU partners to cut the PKK’s financial and propaganda sources in Europe”"

More:JTW News - U.S.: PKK TV Channel Broadcasts from Brussels

JTW News - Joseph Daul: Turkey's EU membership is inevitable due to its geostrategic location

"Joseph Daul: Turkey's EU membership is inevitable due to its geostrategic location
EDIRNE - Joseph Daul, head of the Committee on Agriculture of the European Parliament, said late Wednesday that Turkey's membership in the European Union is inevitable owing to its geostrategic location.

Speaking to the Anatolia news agency during his visit in Edirne, Daul said he had organized the visit to monitor the situation and developments in Turkey during its preparations for its negotiation process with the EU.

Daul stated that he had met with Turkish Agriculture and Rural Affairs Minister Mehmet Mehdi Eker and that the development of Turkey's agrarian economy was a source of amazement to him. "

More:JTW News - Joseph Daul: Turkey's EU membership is inevitable due to its geostrategic location

Foreign Ministry Warns: Return of 8th Article Blocks EU Process

"Foreign Ministry Warns: Return of 8th Article Blocks EU Process
By Suleyman Kurt
Published: Friday, August 26, 2005
The Turkish Foreign Ministry, which voiced its opinion regarding the arrangements in the Fight against Terrorism Bill (TMK) to the Ministry of Justice, gave some warnings prior to October 3rd, the day when Turkey’s negotiations with the European Union (EU) begins."

More:Foreign Ministry Warns: Return of 8th Article Blocks EU Process

Thursday, August 25, 2005

GE buys big stake in major Turkish bank

"GE buys big stake in major Turkish bank
Aug 25, 2005, 14:21 GMT

ISTANBUL, Turkey (UPI) -- General Electric Co.`s consumer finance unit will pay $1.56 billion for a 26 percent stake in Turkey`s third-biggest publicly listed bank.

The Dogus group, which is selling half its majority stake in Turkiye Garanti Bankasi AS, under the accord, said the deal values TGB at $6.1 billion, the Financial Times reported Thursday.

The deal marks a win for GE over competitors including ABN Amro of the Netherlands, Deutsche Bank and France`s Societe Generale.

Dogus said that GE will pay an additional $250 million to acquire 49 percent of Garanti`s founder`s shares, a special class of stock that confers additional dividend rights.

GE owns banks in 19 countries."
GE buys big stake in major Turkish bank

FT.com / Home UK - Interview transcript: Jean-Louis Bruguiere

"....FT: Were there warning signs of a growing threat to Europe before the London bombs?

J-L B: In my opinion the most interesting attack for analysis is the one in Istanbul. The symbolism is a fundamental element that we neglect in the overall problem. The issue is not just about the number of victims, it is also the value of the event in a media, political and geopolitical context.

Istanbul is a European target, all about Turkey’s application for European Union membership. It is incontestable that the real target was British, with the consulate and HSBC being hit. It was a direct warning. The state visit of President Bush to the UK on that day should also be taken into account. It is the first time that al-Qaeda interfered with the political agenda of states."

More:FT.com / Home UK - Interview transcript: Jean-Louis Bruguiere

TURKEY: HUMAN TRAFFICKING UNDER SCRUTINY

"TURKEY: HUMAN TRAFFICKING UNDER SCRUTINY
Istanbul, 25 August (AKI) - M - her full name was not released for security reasons - is one of the lucky ones. Her ordeal started when she arrived in Turkey from the Ukraine after a friend told her about a vacancy for a job as a waitress. Instead, she was held by human traffickers who kept her locked in a house in the town Silivri, near Istanbul, except when they forced her out on the streets to work as a prostitute. She was rescued in police operation.

M's plight is similar to that of many other would-be immigrants that arrive in Turkey and it is the subject of an international three-day conference at Instanbul's Bahcesehir University that began on Thursday. “Trafficking in Persons in Southeast Europe -- a Threat to Human Security” is a joint initiative of the Regional Stability in South East Europe (RSSEE) Study Group, the International Organization on Migration (IOM) and the Center for Strategic Research at the Turkish foreign affairs ministry."

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No clear answer in debate on values - National - theage.com.au

"....However, a more appropriate story to teach in Muslim schools would be that of the Turkish leader Kemal Ataturk, who fought against the Australians at Gallipoli. He was a secular leader and the evolution of modern democratic Turkey might be an example that students could learn from...."

More:No clear answer in debate on values - National - theage.com.au

Turkey is no exception when it comes to terrorism (by Mensur Akgun) - Media Monitors Network (MMN)

"Turkey is no exception when it comes to terrorism
by Mensur Akgun
(Thursday August 25 2005)

'US involvement in Iraq and the American strategic alliance with the Iraqi Kurds strengthen the PKK's belief in the inevitability of a row between the US and Turkey. The temporary freeze in bilateral relations in the aftermath of the Turkish Parliament's decision not to allow the stationing of US troops on Turkish soil in March 2003 could also be taken as support for this thesis.'"

More:Turkey is no exception when it comes to terrorism (by Mensur Akgun) - Media Monitors Network (MMN)

Will the PKK Renounce Violence?

"Will the PKK Renounce Violence?
By Soner Cagaptay
Bitterlemons-international.org, August 25, 2005

If the US-Turkish relationship is the single most important unintended victim of the Iraq war, then disarming the PKK is a sure way of restoring the partnership to good health. The PKK presence in northern Iraq has thus far escaped US occupation untouched, and the organization has relaunched attacks inside Turkey. Stopping the PKK now will ensure that Iraq-related issues do not damage the US-Turkish relationship further. Indeed, this is the common logic in Washington and Ankara. The question is how to do it."

More:Will the PKK Renounce Violence?
By Soner Cagaptay

''The Fire Of Anatolia'' To Perform In United States

"''The Fire Of Anatolia'' To Perform In United States
Published: 8/25/2005

ANKARA - ``The Fire of Anatolia``, prominent Turkish dance group, will perform in the United States.

The group will greet American people at the Chicago Theater on October 4th and at the Madison Square Garden on October 11th.

The group is also expected to take stage in several cities such as Boston, Washington D.C., Philadelphia and Miami."

More:''The Fire Of Anatolia'' To Perform In United States

U.S.-Turkey “Strategic Partnership” Still Shaky After Bush-Erdogan Meeting

"U.S.-Turkey “Strategic Partnership” Still Shaky After Bush-Erdogan Meeting
By Jon Gorvett

When Prime Minister Recip Tayyip Erdogan touched down in Washington in early June for a meeting with President George W. Bush, the list of disputes to be addressed was longer than it had been in decades. With the U.S.-Turkish “strategic partnership” in serious trouble since the breakdown over Iraq back in 2003, it was no surprise that the two leaders’ encounter ran well over the alloted time. For all the backslapping that followed their emergence from the one-hour meeting, however, more seemingly was patched up in spirit than in substance.

“I am happy that we were able to confirm that our strategic relationship will move along the same path as it has in the past,” Erdogan told reporters."

More:U.S.-Turkey “Strategic Partnership” Still Shaky After Bush-Erdogan Meeting

Bryza Due In Ankara

"Bryza Due In Ankara
Published: 8/25/2005

ANKARA - U.S. State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary Matt Bryza will arrive in Ankara on Thursday on a two-day visit.

The U.S. Embassy in Ankara said on Wednesday that Bryza would hold talks at Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Energy & Natural Resources and Turkish army's General Staff HQ."

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REPORTER.GR:Turkey: Papadopoulos pressing for Turkish recognition of Cyprus

"Turkey: Papadopoulos pressing for Turkish recognition of Cyprus

15:25 - 25 August 2005 - Greek Cypriot leader Tassos Papadopoulos pledged not to sit idle if Turkey continues to refuse to recognize his administration but declined to say if he would use veto rights as a European Union member to block the opening of Turkey's EU accession talks on Oct. 3, Turkish Daily News reports."

More:REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Papadopoulos pressing for Turkish recognition of Cyprus

In Ankara, an American Official Discusses the Existence of the Kurdistani Workers Party in Iraq

"In Ankara, an American Official Discusses the Existence of the Kurdistani Workers Party in Iraq

In Ankara, an American Official Discusses the Existence of the Kurdistani Workers Party in Iraq Ankara – In Ankara, an American official said that the Mat Breza, US undersecretary of state, would arrive in Ankara tomorrow to conduct talks on the mutual relations and the issue of Kurdish insurgents in Turkey, who are fortified in camps in the north of Iraq."

More:In Ankara, an American Official Discusses the Existence of the Kurdistani Workers Party in Iraq

Financial Mirror:Cyprus wants a counter-statement to Turkey on recognition

"Cyprus wants a counter-statement to Turkey on recognition

Cyprus Minister of Foreign Affairs George Iacovou said on Wednesday that Cyprus should seek a counter-statement by the EU to Turkey’s unilateral declaration that it does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus.

Briefing the oversees Cypriots who are holding their fourteenth conference in Limassol, Iacovou said that 'we must obtain an EU counterstatement which will overturn the Turkish declaration and will not leave anything unanswered and there must be improvements of the EU-Turkey negotiating framework.'

On July 29, Turkey signed a protocol expanding the Ankara Agreement (Customs Union) to cover the Union's ten new member-states, but issued a simultaneous declaration that said it does not recognise the Republic of Cyprus.

Turkey is due to start accession negotiations on October 3 and signing the protocol was the last official hurdle."

More:Financial Mirror

JTW News - Ertug: Treatment of Turkey and TRNC Unfair

"Ertug: Treatment of Turkey and TRNC Unfair
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Washington Representative Osman Ertug on Sunday sent a letter to U.S. daily The Washington Times saying that the European Union's failure to treat Turkey and Turkish Cypriots fairly was the real impediment blocking the way to Turkey's EU membership.

Ertug's letter was sent in response to an article by Andrew Borowiec entitled 'Cyprus: A Roadblock to Union' published in the daily on Aug. 14.

Ertug argued against Borowiec's view, writing, 'The main handicap to Turkey's membership in the EU is neither the Cyprus question nor Turkey's stance on the divided island.' "

More:JTW News - Ertug: Treatment of Turkey and TRNC Unfair

Turkish Daily News - Will Europe act honorably?

"Will Europe act honorably?
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Turkey is entering a critical period in terms of relations with the EU. There is a tangible effort spearheaded by Paris to try and somehow block the start of negotiations with Ankara on Oct. 3. Trying to force Turkey to recognize the Republic of Cyprus is not proving that useful a device, however, since Athens and the Greek Cypriot administration have made it clear that vetoing the start of talks with Ankara on the basis of this argument is not in their interest."

More:Turkish Daily News - Will Europe act honorably?

Turkish Daily News - Tourism 'master plan' to be developed for Antalya

"Tourism 'master plan' to be developed for Antalya
Thursday, August 25, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

The Antalya Governor's Office has undertaken a joint initiative with Akdeniz University to develop a 45-year tourism master plan, the Anatolia news agency reported on Wednesday.

Governor Alaaddin Yuksel emphasized that good planning was the gateway to success in tourism and that acting in an ad hoc fashion is ineffective."

More:Turkish Daily News - Tourism 'master plan' to be developed for Antalya

Wednesday, August 24, 2005

Legal Week Global-Legal Development: (Turkey) Turkey aligns its laws with the EU

"Legal Development: (Turkey) Turkey aligns its laws with the EU
Reformed legislation introduces business-related crimes in Turkish criminal law

The new Turkish Criminal Law entered into force on 1 June, 2005, mainly as a result of Turkey’s efforts toward harmonising its legislation with European Union (EU) law. The new law replaced the Turkish Criminal Law of 1 March, 1926.

The most interesting feature of the new law with respect to companies is the applicability of security measures ( guvenlik tedbirleri) to legal entities. Criminal liability of legal entities is a new concept in Turkish law. Pursuant to the new law, security measures apply not only to individuals, but also to legal entities, the representatives of which committed a crime, or which benefited from the commitment of a crime. "

More:Legal Week Global-Legal Development: (Turkey) Turkey aligns its laws with the EU

Bangkok Post Thursday 25 August 2005 - Fountain of legends

"Fountain of legends

The town that hosted the Universiade 2005 is Turkey's best-kept secret

Story and photos by LEKHA J SHANKAR & C. JAYASANKAR

Turkey does not begin and end with Istanbul. There's ancient, exotic, historical Izmir, the third largest city in the country which recently hosted the 23rd World University Games.

Izmir, with its five universities and 50,000 students, is not just the biggest university town in the country. It has the second most important port, which makes it a vibrant hub for trade. Most exciting however, is its long and incredible history."

More:Bangkok Post Thursday 25 August 2005 - Fountain of legends

The Daily Star - Politics - Conference examining massacre of Armenians to go ahead in Turkey

"Conference examining massacre of Armenians to go ahead in Turkey

By Agence France Presse (AFP)

Thursday, August 25, 2005

ISTANBUL: A conference questioning the official line on massacres of Armenians under the Ottoman Empire, aborted after Turkey's justice minister branded it an act of treason, will go ahead in September, organizers said. The event dubbed 'Ottoman Armenians of an Empire in Decline' has been scheduled for September 23-25 at Istanbul's Bogazici university."

More:The Daily Star - Politics - Conference examining massacre of Armenians to go ahead in Turkey

Baykal: Recently Terrorism Is Tried To Be Revived In Turkey

"Baykal: Recently Terrorism Is Tried To Be Revived In Turkey
Published: 8/24/2005

ANTALYA - ''In spite of radical changes, terrorism did not end in current stage. Recently, terrorism is tried to be revived in Turkey.'' main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Deniz Baykal said on Tuesday."

More:Baykal: Recently Terrorism Is Tried To Be Revived In Turkey

Financial Mirror-President Papadopoulos wants substantial changes to UN plan

"President Papadopoulos wants substantial changes to UN plan


24/08/2005
www.financialmirror.com

No hint on Turkey stance

Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos repeated his view that substantial changes are needed to the UN plan when he addressed representatives of the two main overseas organizations, POMAK (World Federation of Overseas Cypriots) and PSEKA (International Coordinating Committee - Justice for Cyprus) on Tuesday.

The “only thing we are pursuing and want is to contribute to a mutually acceptable functional and viable solution. And such solution will not be achieved with decorative changes to the Annan plan,” he said.

The Turkish side “completely refuses to discuss changes to a plan which suits her perfectly.”

However, he admitted that the solution to the Cyprus problem will “necessarily be a compromise, meaning a bizonal, bicommunal federation.”"

More:Financial Mirror-President Papadopoulos wants substantial changes to UN plan