"Turkey's future lies in EU, says Blair
Mark Oliver and agencies
Friday September 30, 2005
Tony Blair today insisted Turkey's future was in the EU as British officials in Brussels worked to dispel a looming crisis over next week's talks on its membership.
In an interview with Turkey's Hurriyet newspaper, the prime minister said he would work hard to help Turkey realise its EU ambitions.
'I sincerely believe that EU membership is Turkey's future,' Mr Blair - a long-time supporter of Ankara joining the 25-nation bloc - told the paper. 'We shall work towards achieving that."
More:Guardian Unlimited | Special reports | Turkey's future lies in EU, says Blair
Friday, September 30, 2005
EUPolitix.com - EU-Turkey talks hit fresh crisis
"EU-Turkey talks hit fresh crisis
Turkey has threatened to call off the start of EU entry talks following Austria's continuing insistence that Ankara be offered less than full membership.
Turkish foreign minister Abdullah Gul announced on Thursday that he will not attend talks in Luxembourg on Monday if he has not seen the final negotiating framework text beforehand.
“Everyone knows there is no point going to Luxembourg without seeing this document,” Gul said, warning that talks may not go ahead as planned on Monday.
EU Presidency holders, Britain are hoping an extraordinary foreign ministers' summit on Sunday will help clear the latest hurdle."
More:EUPolitix.com - EU-Turkey talks hit fresh crisis
Turkey has threatened to call off the start of EU entry talks following Austria's continuing insistence that Ankara be offered less than full membership.
Turkish foreign minister Abdullah Gul announced on Thursday that he will not attend talks in Luxembourg on Monday if he has not seen the final negotiating framework text beforehand.
“Everyone knows there is no point going to Luxembourg without seeing this document,” Gul said, warning that talks may not go ahead as planned on Monday.
EU Presidency holders, Britain are hoping an extraordinary foreign ministers' summit on Sunday will help clear the latest hurdle."
More:EUPolitix.com - EU-Turkey talks hit fresh crisis
The Times & The Sunday Times, Malta
"Malta drawn into spat between EU and Turkey
Ivan Camilleri in Brussels
Members of the European Parliament vote after a debate on the start of accession negotiations with Turkey on Wednesday.
EU ambassadors yesterday again failed to agree on the way forward on the opening of accession talks with Turkey which should commence on Monday.
The British presidency had no option but to convene an emergency meeting of EU foreign ministers on Sunday, hours prior to the opening of accession negotiations.
Negotiations with Turkey cannot start unless an agreement is reached on Sunday."
More:The Times & The Sunday Times, Malta
Ivan Camilleri in Brussels
Members of the European Parliament vote after a debate on the start of accession negotiations with Turkey on Wednesday.
EU ambassadors yesterday again failed to agree on the way forward on the opening of accession talks with Turkey which should commence on Monday.
The British presidency had no option but to convene an emergency meeting of EU foreign ministers on Sunday, hours prior to the opening of accession negotiations.
Negotiations with Turkey cannot start unless an agreement is reached on Sunday."
More:The Times & The Sunday Times, Malta
Opinion: EU-Turkey Project Hardly Realistic | Press Reviews & Opinion | Deutsche Welle |
"Opinion: EU-Turkey Project Hardly Realistic
Turkey and the EU: Two incompatible constellations?
Turkey and the EU: Two incompatible constellations?
Negotiations for Turkey's possible entry to the European Union are rocky even before they have started. Deutsche Welle's Baha Güngör believes that the EU-Turkey project doesn't have a realistic chance.
Whether membership talks with Turkey can begin, as planned, on Monday will be decided at the last minute. After ambassadors from the 25 member states failed to agree on a negotiating mandate at their meeting on Thursday, EU foreign ministers now have to attend a special session in Luxembourg on Sunday, since unanimous approval is mandatory for the negotiations to start."
More:Opinion: EU-Turkey Project Hardly Realistic | Press Reviews & Opinion | Deutsche Welle |
Turkey and the EU: Two incompatible constellations?
Turkey and the EU: Two incompatible constellations?
Negotiations for Turkey's possible entry to the European Union are rocky even before they have started. Deutsche Welle's Baha Güngör believes that the EU-Turkey project doesn't have a realistic chance.
Whether membership talks with Turkey can begin, as planned, on Monday will be decided at the last minute. After ambassadors from the 25 member states failed to agree on a negotiating mandate at their meeting on Thursday, EU foreign ministers now have to attend a special session in Luxembourg on Sunday, since unanimous approval is mandatory for the negotiations to start."
More:Opinion: EU-Turkey Project Hardly Realistic | Press Reviews & Opinion | Deutsche Welle |
War and peace - Los Angeles Times
"War and peace
Re 'Women in Turkey Assail U.S. Envoy,' Sept. 29
In Ankara, Turkey, Undersecretary of State Karen Hughes stated to a group of Turkish women: 'You're concerned about war, and no one likes war.' But, she said, 'to preserve the peace, sometimes my country believes war is necessary.'
I beg to differ. The Bush administration believes war is necessary, but not all U.S. citizens. We, like the women in Ankara, know that war is not necessary for peace, nor can it ever achieve peace after destroying the citizens and the culture of a country."
More:War and peace - Los Angeles Times
Re 'Women in Turkey Assail U.S. Envoy,' Sept. 29
In Ankara, Turkey, Undersecretary of State Karen Hughes stated to a group of Turkish women: 'You're concerned about war, and no one likes war.' But, she said, 'to preserve the peace, sometimes my country believes war is necessary.'
I beg to differ. The Bush administration believes war is necessary, but not all U.S. citizens. We, like the women in Ankara, know that war is not necessary for peace, nor can it ever achieve peace after destroying the citizens and the culture of a country."
More:War and peace - Los Angeles Times
TheStar.com - Democratic Turks face EU hurdle: Democracy
"Democratic Turks face EU hurdle: Democracy
RICHARD GWYN
If Turkey is ever to join the European Union, it can only do so if it is a democracy just like all of the long-established democracies of Europe."
More:TheStar.com - Democratic Turks face EU hurdle: Democracy
RICHARD GWYN
If Turkey is ever to join the European Union, it can only do so if it is a democracy just like all of the long-established democracies of Europe."
More:TheStar.com - Democratic Turks face EU hurdle: Democracy
Business Day - Europe needs to rebut the Polish plumber myth
"Europe needs to rebut the Polish plumber myth
BARRING a last-ditch stand at the gates of Vienna, the member states of the European Union (EU) will launch negotiations next week for Turkey to join their club. Austria is the only one still looking for reassurance.
It should be a historic moment for the EU and Turkey, a symbolic recognition that centuries of struggle between the Ottoman Empire and its European rivals have been set aside. Sadly, it will not be an occasion for whole-hearted celebration."
More:Business Day -Europe needs to rebut the Polish plumber myth
BARRING a last-ditch stand at the gates of Vienna, the member states of the European Union (EU) will launch negotiations next week for Turkey to join their club. Austria is the only one still looking for reassurance.
It should be a historic moment for the EU and Turkey, a symbolic recognition that centuries of struggle between the Ottoman Empire and its European rivals have been set aside. Sadly, it will not be an occasion for whole-hearted celebration."
More:Business Day -Europe needs to rebut the Polish plumber myth
Bloody past and racist present stand between Turkey and EU - World - Times Online
"Brutality, poverty and religion stand between Turkey and EU
By Ben Macintyre
Talks on Turkey's membership of the EU are due to begin on Monday, with the issue dividing both the country and Europe. Today, in the first of two articles, our correspondent looks at the case against letting it join
ON A tiny island in the middle of Lake Van, on the far eastern edge of Turkey, a team of architects is working feverishly to restore one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the world."
More:Bloody past and racist present stand between Turkey and EU - World - Times Online
By Ben Macintyre
Talks on Turkey's membership of the EU are due to begin on Monday, with the issue dividing both the country and Europe. Today, in the first of two articles, our correspondent looks at the case against letting it join
ON A tiny island in the middle of Lake Van, on the far eastern edge of Turkey, a team of architects is working feverishly to restore one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the world."
More:Bloody past and racist present stand between Turkey and EU - World - Times Online
In Turkey, a Clash of Nationalism and History
"In Turkey, a Clash of Nationalism and History
Exhibit Marking Anniversary of Istanbul Pogrom Breaks Taboos and Kindles Anger
By Karl Vick
Washington Post Foreign Service
Friday, September 30, 2005; Page A15
ISTANBUL -- The exhibit opened 50 years to the day after the mayhem it chronicled in the cobblestone street right outside the gallery.
Captured on black-and-white glossies was a modern-day pogrom, a massive, state-sponsored assault on a foreign community that awoke on the morning of Sept. 6, 1955, still feeling safe in Istanbul. By sunset a day later, a mob of perhaps 100,000 Turks had attacked foreigners' homes, schools and churches, and filled whole streets with the contents of the ruined shops that lined them. In the aftermath of the attack, a city for centuries renowned for its diversity steadily purged itself of almost everyone who could not claim to be Turkish."
More:In Turkey, a Clash of Nationalism and History
Exhibit Marking Anniversary of Istanbul Pogrom Breaks Taboos and Kindles Anger
By Karl Vick
Washington Post Foreign Service
Friday, September 30, 2005; Page A15
ISTANBUL -- The exhibit opened 50 years to the day after the mayhem it chronicled in the cobblestone street right outside the gallery.
Captured on black-and-white glossies was a modern-day pogrom, a massive, state-sponsored assault on a foreign community that awoke on the morning of Sept. 6, 1955, still feeling safe in Istanbul. By sunset a day later, a mob of perhaps 100,000 Turks had attacked foreigners' homes, schools and churches, and filled whole streets with the contents of the ruined shops that lined them. In the aftermath of the attack, a city for centuries renowned for its diversity steadily purged itself of almost everyone who could not claim to be Turkish."
More:In Turkey, a Clash of Nationalism and History
Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
"Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
By Fatih Atik
Published: Thursday, September 29, 2005
zaman.com
Anatolia, with its rich cultural heritage, had been an important resource for those who smuggle historical artifacts. Thousands of artifacts ranging from the silver cigarette case of modern Turkey’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to the Zeugma mosaics have been smuggled abroad."
More:Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
By Fatih Atik
Published: Thursday, September 29, 2005
zaman.com
Anatolia, with its rich cultural heritage, had been an important resource for those who smuggle historical artifacts. Thousands of artifacts ranging from the silver cigarette case of modern Turkey’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to the Zeugma mosaics have been smuggled abroad."
More:Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
European Union Still Split on Turks - New York Times
"European Union Still Split on Turks
By GRAHAM BOWLEY
Published: September 30, 2005
By GRAHAM BOWLEY
LONDON, Sept. 29 - The European Union, seeking a consensus on terms for membership talks with Turkey that are set to begin Monday, failed to reach one Thursday.
A meeting of European Union ambassadors in Brussels broke up after Austria insisted the talks could open only if they were to include the offer of an alternative to full membership. Britain, which holds the rotating European presidency, called a meeting of foreign ministers of the 25 member states for Sunday to try again. The failure to reach consensus reveals tensions in Europe about starting talks with Turkey, a large, poor country that would be the first largely Muslim member."
More:European Union Still Split on Turks - New York Times
By GRAHAM BOWLEY
Published: September 30, 2005
By GRAHAM BOWLEY
LONDON, Sept. 29 - The European Union, seeking a consensus on terms for membership talks with Turkey that are set to begin Monday, failed to reach one Thursday.
A meeting of European Union ambassadors in Brussels broke up after Austria insisted the talks could open only if they were to include the offer of an alternative to full membership. Britain, which holds the rotating European presidency, called a meeting of foreign ministers of the 25 member states for Sunday to try again. The failure to reach consensus reveals tensions in Europe about starting talks with Turkey, a large, poor country that would be the first largely Muslim member."
More:European Union Still Split on Turks - New York Times
Turkey After The Armenian Genocide Conference
"Turkey After The Armenian Genocide Conference
(AINA) -- After efforts of deterrence by the executive in May and obstruction of the 4th Istanbul Administrative Court on September 23rd, the conference entitled, 'Ottoman Armenians in the Final Period of the Empire: Scientific Responsibility and Problems of Democracy' has been successfully completed on the 25th of September. The venue of the event had to be changed from one university to the other and a three-day conference had to be telescoped to two days. The participants and audience had to pass through a barrier of slandering nationalist protestors throwing eggs and tomatoes. Yet two and half institutions deserve credit for standing behind academic autonomy, freedom of expression and culture of deliberation. The first is the government who spoke through the Prime Minister. His resolve dwarfed the initial resistance of the Minister of Justice who called the initiative 'treason' and 'back stabbing the nation' in May. The second is the university as an institution who defended the rights and liberties that make it a center and advocate of freedom. The third institution is the media; of course some of it, which is conscious of the fact that, this conference was not all about the Armenian issue that needs to be discussed impartially but it is rather a matter of democracy."
More:Turkey After The Armenian Genocide Conference
(AINA) -- After efforts of deterrence by the executive in May and obstruction of the 4th Istanbul Administrative Court on September 23rd, the conference entitled, 'Ottoman Armenians in the Final Period of the Empire: Scientific Responsibility and Problems of Democracy' has been successfully completed on the 25th of September. The venue of the event had to be changed from one university to the other and a three-day conference had to be telescoped to two days. The participants and audience had to pass through a barrier of slandering nationalist protestors throwing eggs and tomatoes. Yet two and half institutions deserve credit for standing behind academic autonomy, freedom of expression and culture of deliberation. The first is the government who spoke through the Prime Minister. His resolve dwarfed the initial resistance of the Minister of Justice who called the initiative 'treason' and 'back stabbing the nation' in May. The second is the university as an institution who defended the rights and liberties that make it a center and advocate of freedom. The third institution is the media; of course some of it, which is conscious of the fact that, this conference was not all about the Armenian issue that needs to be discussed impartially but it is rather a matter of democracy."
More:Turkey After The Armenian Genocide Conference
Scotsman.com News - Latest News - Turkish EU talks 'may not start'
"Turkish EU talks 'may not start'
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul has said that Turkey will not send its delegation to Luxembourg to open European Union accession talks before officials see the document detailing the EU's negotiating positions.
'No one expects us to go to Luxembourg before seeing the negotiation framework document,' said Gul, who is scheduled to head the delegation.
'Of course there is a possibility that negotiations will not start,' Gul said, but he added that 'there are intense efforts' to bridge differences."
More:Scotsman.com News - Latest News - Turkish EU talks 'may not start'
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul has said that Turkey will not send its delegation to Luxembourg to open European Union accession talks before officials see the document detailing the EU's negotiating positions.
'No one expects us to go to Luxembourg before seeing the negotiation framework document,' said Gul, who is scheduled to head the delegation.
'Of course there is a possibility that negotiations will not start,' Gul said, but he added that 'there are intense efforts' to bridge differences."
More:Scotsman.com News - Latest News - Turkish EU talks 'may not start'
Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | Leader: Time to talk to Turkey
"Time to talk to Turkey
Leader
Friday September 30, 2005
The Guardian
Turkey has already waited more than 40 years to join the European mainstream, but there are still a few more tense days left before there can be certainty that its ambition will eventually be realised. The hope is that last-minute hitches will be resolved by EU foreign ministers on Sunday, allowing the accession talks to begin the following day, as promised. Since the rules require such big decisions to be agreed by all 25 member states, Austria alone has been able to block this one, demanding that instead of negotiating full membership like every other country seeking to join the club, Turkey should be offered only a 'special partnership'. Ankara rejects such an approach as discriminatory. So, to their credit, does everyone else, including the governments of France, the Netherlands and Germany, despite the strong anti-Turkish feeling that played a big role in the paralysing rejection of the EU constitution this summer."
More:Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | Leader: Time to talk to Turkey
Leader
Friday September 30, 2005
The Guardian
Turkey has already waited more than 40 years to join the European mainstream, but there are still a few more tense days left before there can be certainty that its ambition will eventually be realised. The hope is that last-minute hitches will be resolved by EU foreign ministers on Sunday, allowing the accession talks to begin the following day, as promised. Since the rules require such big decisions to be agreed by all 25 member states, Austria alone has been able to block this one, demanding that instead of negotiating full membership like every other country seeking to join the club, Turkey should be offered only a 'special partnership'. Ankara rejects such an approach as discriminatory. So, to their credit, does everyone else, including the governments of France, the Netherlands and Germany, despite the strong anti-Turkish feeling that played a big role in the paralysing rejection of the EU constitution this summer."
More:Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | Leader: Time to talk to Turkey
Telegraph | News | Austria sabotages Turkish EU talks
"Austria sabotages Turkish EU talks
By David Rennie in Brussels
(Filed: 30/09/2005)
Efforts to salvage one of the most ambitious and controversial projects in European Union history - the opening of talks to admit Turkey - ended in failure yesterday.
Turkish membership talks are due to begin on Monday. But Austria left the process deadlocked by sticking to demands that Turkey be offered something less than full membership."
More:Telegraph | News | Austria sabotages Turkish EU talks
By David Rennie in Brussels
(Filed: 30/09/2005)
Efforts to salvage one of the most ambitious and controversial projects in European Union history - the opening of talks to admit Turkey - ended in failure yesterday.
Turkish membership talks are due to begin on Monday. But Austria left the process deadlocked by sticking to demands that Turkey be offered something less than full membership."
More:Telegraph | News | Austria sabotages Turkish EU talks
Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
"Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
By Fatih Atik
Published: Thursday, September 29, 2005
Anatolia, with its rich cultural heritage, had been an important resource for those who smuggle historical artifacts. Thousands of artifacts ranging from the silver cigarette case of modern Turkey’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to the Zeugma mosaics have been smuggled abroad."
More:Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
By Fatih Atik
Published: Thursday, September 29, 2005
Anatolia, with its rich cultural heritage, had been an important resource for those who smuggle historical artifacts. Thousands of artifacts ranging from the silver cigarette case of modern Turkey’s founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk to the Zeugma mosaics have been smuggled abroad."
More:Search for Turkish Historical Artifacts Smuggled Abroad
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Letters-Economist.com:Letters to the editor of the Economist on: Turkey in Europe?
Letters-Economist.com
Letters to the editor of the Economist on: Turkey in Europe?
SIR – Charlemagne assumes that the steps Turkey is taking towards human-rights reform (so it can join the European Union) are more than simple promises (September 17th). However, Turkey must also enforce these laws if it is serious in proving it has taken the reform path. Recent events suggest otherwise: the Greek Orthodox Halki seminary remains shut; Hrant Dink, the Istanbul publisher of the Armenian newsletter Agos, faces up to three years in jail for telling an audience that he is “an Armenian of Turkey”; and in March, the government defended Turkish police who attacked women during a peaceful protest. The latter event caused Gerhard Schröder to remark that Turkey's value system is “incompatible with [Europe's] common values”. To promise human-rights reform is one thing, but to put it into effect is something quite different.
James Pro, New York
SIR – The idea that the ideology of Islam and its adherents in Turkey can be democratised is a pipe dream. Just look around you in any major city in Europe these days for a reality check. If Turkish immigrants cannot integrate, and voluntarily segregate into Islamic “parallel” societies, why the hopes for Turkey modernising itself? Why risk getting stuck with more such immigrants? If one is confronted with the problem of a bomb with a burning fuse the proper solution is not to swallow the bomb in order to stabilise it—one might get blown to bits that way—but rather to keep the bomb at bay.
Bas van den Beld
Utrecht, The Netherlands
SIR – Despite so-called reforms, Turkey's military maintains a decisive voice in politics, making real democracy questionable. Its military and foreign policy is slavishly pro-American and the EU does not need another Trojan horse like Britain or Italy in its midst preventing it from being a reasonable counterweight to America's unilateral interventionism. Because of its large population Turkey will insist on a decisive role, pushing founding countries like Germany and France aside.
H.S. Weiler
Cairo
FT.com / Europe / Brussels briefing - Young Turks choose Atatürk over Europe
"Young Turks choose Atatürk over Europe
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: September 29 2005 16:58 | Last updated: September 29 2005 16:58
Turkey EUAbove the blackboard in every classroom at the Hasan-Ali Yucel high school there is a poster of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of Turkey, alongside the words of the national anthem and a statement by the former leader addressed to the nation's children. There are pictures of him on the corridor walls and his bust greets visitors at the door.
So when a British member of the European Parliament was reported this week to have said that Turkey should abandon its cult of Atatürk before it joins the European Union, it generated a heated response among Turks, including youngsters such as the 526 pupils who attend this school in the fast-developing Ankara suburb of Balgat."
More:FT.com / Europe / Brussels briefing - Young Turks choose Atatürk over Europe
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: September 29 2005 16:58 | Last updated: September 29 2005 16:58
Turkey EUAbove the blackboard in every classroom at the Hasan-Ali Yucel high school there is a poster of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of Turkey, alongside the words of the national anthem and a statement by the former leader addressed to the nation's children. There are pictures of him on the corridor walls and his bust greets visitors at the door.
So when a British member of the European Parliament was reported this week to have said that Turkey should abandon its cult of Atatürk before it joins the European Union, it generated a heated response among Turks, including youngsters such as the 526 pupils who attend this school in the fast-developing Ankara suburb of Balgat."
More:FT.com / Europe / Brussels briefing - Young Turks choose Atatürk over Europe
café babel-EU, a Christian club?
"EU, a Christian club?
The European Union, though secular, is essentially an association of Christian countries. Would the addition of Turkey and its large Muslim population will better reflect the changing demography of the EU?
Mosque in Istanbul (Abdullah Sabit)
Should Turkey eventually join the European Union, Brussels will be welcoming yet another secular democracy. However, the addition of over seventy million citizens, of whom 98% are Muslims, would also significantly alter the religious dynamic of the Union. Would this establishment of an ‘official’ Muslim voice in the EU usher a greater sense of tolerance and understanding of the Muslim faith in what has traditionally been a Christian Union?"
More:café babel-EU, a Christian club?
The European Union, though secular, is essentially an association of Christian countries. Would the addition of Turkey and its large Muslim population will better reflect the changing demography of the EU?
Mosque in Istanbul (Abdullah Sabit)
Should Turkey eventually join the European Union, Brussels will be welcoming yet another secular democracy. However, the addition of over seventy million citizens, of whom 98% are Muslims, would also significantly alter the religious dynamic of the Union. Would this establishment of an ‘official’ Muslim voice in the EU usher a greater sense of tolerance and understanding of the Muslim faith in what has traditionally been a Christian Union?"
More:café babel-EU, a Christian club?
Too soon for Turkish delight | Economist.com
"Too soon for Turkish delight
Sep 29th 2005
From The Economist Global Agenda
Formal talks are about to begin on Turkish membership of the European Union. Within Turkey and outside it, there are questions about the predominantly Muslim country’s readiness for Europe—but also encouraging signs"
More:Too soon for Turkish delight | Economist.com
Sep 29th 2005
From The Economist Global Agenda
Formal talks are about to begin on Turkish membership of the European Union. Within Turkey and outside it, there are questions about the predominantly Muslim country’s readiness for Europe—but also encouraging signs"
More:Too soon for Turkish delight | Economist.com
CNN.com - Turkey's equal education challenge - Sep 28, 2005
"Turkey's equal education challenge
Nation's tradition, religion impede efforts to bring girls to school
Wednesday, September 28, 2005; Posted: 9:35 p.m. EDT (01:35 GMT)
VAN, Turkey (AP) -- It's the second week of school, and Mehmet Sadik Altin, the local imam, charges up to a lopsided concrete home with a mud roof and demands to know why the five girls inside aren't in class."
More:CNN.com - Turkey's equal education challenge - Sep 28, 2005
Nation's tradition, religion impede efforts to bring girls to school
Wednesday, September 28, 2005; Posted: 9:35 p.m. EDT (01:35 GMT)
VAN, Turkey (AP) -- It's the second week of school, and Mehmet Sadik Altin, the local imam, charges up to a lopsided concrete home with a mud roof and demands to know why the five girls inside aren't in class."
More:CNN.com - Turkey's equal education challenge - Sep 28, 2005
Foreign Policy news : Straw warns EU: Don't 'betray' Turkey
"Straw warns EU: Don't 'betray' Turkey
Wednesday, 28 Sep 2005 14:23
Straw: Europe will lose out if the EU says no to Turkey
Straw: Europe will lose out if the EU says no to Turkey
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Jack Straw today said it would be a 'huge betrayal' if Turkey was refused membership of the European Union.
The foreign secretary said it would be the EU's loss if foreign ministers voted against Turkey joining the EU when they met next Monday.
In a wide-ranging speech to the Labour conference, he urged Iran to stop developing nuclear weapons 'in clear violation' of international law.
And despite heckling from within the conference hall, he reaffirmed Britain's commitment to ensuring democracy flourishes in Iraq.
"
More:Foreign Policy news : Straw warns EU: Don't 'betray' Turkey
Wednesday, 28 Sep 2005 14:23
Straw: Europe will lose out if the EU says no to Turkey
Straw: Europe will lose out if the EU says no to Turkey
Send Us Feedback
Email this to a friend
Printer friendly version
Jack Straw today said it would be a 'huge betrayal' if Turkey was refused membership of the European Union.
The foreign secretary said it would be the EU's loss if foreign ministers voted against Turkey joining the EU when they met next Monday.
In a wide-ranging speech to the Labour conference, he urged Iran to stop developing nuclear weapons 'in clear violation' of international law.
And despite heckling from within the conference hall, he reaffirmed Britain's commitment to ensuring democracy flourishes in Iraq.
"
More:Foreign Policy news : Straw warns EU: Don't 'betray' Turkey
NewsFromRussia.Com Turkish premier refused to join EU resolution considering Armenian killings as genocide
"Turkish premier refused to join EU resolution considering Armenian killings as genocide
20:29 2005-09-28
Turkey's prime minister on Wednesday rejected a European Parliament resolution calling on Ankara to recognize the mass killings of Armenians around the time of World War I as genocide.
The EU lawmakers said in their resolution that recognition of the 1915-1923 killings as genocide should be a prerequisite for Turkey to join the European Union.
Armenians say that 1.5 million Armenians were killed by Ottoman Turks around the time of World War I, which Armenians and several nations around the world recognize as the first genocide of the 20th century.
Turkey denies that the massacres were genocide, saying the death toll is inflated and Armenians were killed in civil unrest as the Ottoman Empire collapsed, the AP reports. "
More:NewsFromRussia.Com Turkish premier refused to join EU resolution considering Armenian killings as genocide
20:29 2005-09-28
Turkey's prime minister on Wednesday rejected a European Parliament resolution calling on Ankara to recognize the mass killings of Armenians around the time of World War I as genocide.
The EU lawmakers said in their resolution that recognition of the 1915-1923 killings as genocide should be a prerequisite for Turkey to join the European Union.
Armenians say that 1.5 million Armenians were killed by Ottoman Turks around the time of World War I, which Armenians and several nations around the world recognize as the first genocide of the 20th century.
Turkey denies that the massacres were genocide, saying the death toll is inflated and Armenians were killed in civil unrest as the Ottoman Empire collapsed, the AP reports. "
More:NewsFromRussia.Com Turkish premier refused to join EU resolution considering Armenian killings as genocide
www.defacto.am-URKEY BROKEN OFF BETWEEN LIBERALS AND CONSERVATORS
"TURKEY BROKEN OFF BETWEEN LIBERALS AND CONSERVATORS
Armenian Genocide conference has revealed contradictions in the Turkish government.
In spite of all the obstacles a scientific conference devoted to the Armenian Genocide of early XX century took place in Istanbul on September 24 – 25.
The conference was conducted against the background of mass protests; however the conference’s participants wish to understand their own country’s history. “We cannot allow the discussions to be limited to mutually contradicting opinions: whether the genocide took place or not. We should try to realize what happened in 1915”, stated a famous historian Halil Bektay."
More:www.defacto.am-URKEY BROKEN OFF BETWEEN LIBERALS AND CONSERVATORS
Armenian Genocide conference has revealed contradictions in the Turkish government.
In spite of all the obstacles a scientific conference devoted to the Armenian Genocide of early XX century took place in Istanbul on September 24 – 25.
The conference was conducted against the background of mass protests; however the conference’s participants wish to understand their own country’s history. “We cannot allow the discussions to be limited to mutually contradicting opinions: whether the genocide took place or not. We should try to realize what happened in 1915”, stated a famous historian Halil Bektay."
More:www.defacto.am-URKEY BROKEN OFF BETWEEN LIBERALS AND CONSERVATORS
NewsCentralAsia - Turkey is not Europe
"Turkey is not Europe
Date: Wednesday, September 28 @ 17:23:35 PDT
Topic: Articles and Reports
nCa Commentary
It is quite embarrassing the way Turkey keeps trying to get into the European Union. The only thing more embarrassing is the way Europe keeps shifting the goal posts.
Turkey doesn’t seem to understand the basic fact that it is not Europe and Europe doesn’t know how to convey it to Turkey.
From a former president of France to the current Pope, everyone has aired their own set of arguments but the point doesn’t seem to register. The reason why these arguments are not sticking is that they are based on fear and not on camaraderie."
More:NewsCentralAsia - Turkey is not Europe
Date: Wednesday, September 28 @ 17:23:35 PDT
Topic: Articles and Reports
nCa Commentary
It is quite embarrassing the way Turkey keeps trying to get into the European Union. The only thing more embarrassing is the way Europe keeps shifting the goal posts.
Turkey doesn’t seem to understand the basic fact that it is not Europe and Europe doesn’t know how to convey it to Turkey.
From a former president of France to the current Pope, everyone has aired their own set of arguments but the point doesn’t seem to register. The reason why these arguments are not sticking is that they are based on fear and not on camaraderie."
More:NewsCentralAsia - Turkey is not Europe
Meeting of Civilizations: From Hatay to Brussels
"Meeting of Civilizations: From Hatay to Brussels
There are many people who write about conflict. For instance, American [Samuel] Huntington has a popular book on this subject. On the other hand, there are also those who insistently talk about a dialogue of civilizations and call for an atmosphere of tolerance, whereby different religions and ideologies will have a chance to express themselves.
There are representatives of both hate and love in the world…"
More:Meeting of Civilizations: From Hatay to Brussels
There are many people who write about conflict. For instance, American [Samuel] Huntington has a popular book on this subject. On the other hand, there are also those who insistently talk about a dialogue of civilizations and call for an atmosphere of tolerance, whereby different religions and ideologies will have a chance to express themselves.
There are representatives of both hate and love in the world…"
More:Meeting of Civilizations: From Hatay to Brussels
BBC NEWS | Europe | EU hesitation vexes Turkish press
"EU hesitation vexes Turkish press
The Turkish press is voicing disquiet and doubt as Turkey prepares for long-awaited EU accession talks to begin in Luxembourg on 3 October.
Commentators speak of an 'insatiable' EU making ever greater demands on Turkey.
Pressure to recognise Cyprus and the European Parliament's call for Ankara to recognise as genocide the mass killing of Armenians in 1915 are seen as the latest examples of this."
More:BBC NEWS | Europe | EU hesitation vexes Turkish press
The Turkish press is voicing disquiet and doubt as Turkey prepares for long-awaited EU accession talks to begin in Luxembourg on 3 October.
Commentators speak of an 'insatiable' EU making ever greater demands on Turkey.
Pressure to recognise Cyprus and the European Parliament's call for Ankara to recognise as genocide the mass killing of Armenians in 1915 are seen as the latest examples of this."
More:BBC NEWS | Europe | EU hesitation vexes Turkish press
Euro-reporters.com - Brussels journalists on Wider Europ
"EU talks Turkey again
Written by Brussels journalist David Ferguson
Thursday, 29 September 2005
EU diplomats meeting in Brussels failed on Thursday to reach agreement on a framework for negotiations with Turkey, set to start on Monday 3 October. Austria wants a more specific mention of an alternative 'privileged partnership' with Ankara, if negotiations do not lead to membership. Austrian prime minister Wolfgang Schussel has also called for Croatia to benefit from the same 'goodwill' as Turkey."
More:Euro-reporters.com - Brussels journalists on Wider Europe
Written by Brussels journalist David Ferguson
Thursday, 29 September 2005
EU diplomats meeting in Brussels failed on Thursday to reach agreement on a framework for negotiations with Turkey, set to start on Monday 3 October. Austria wants a more specific mention of an alternative 'privileged partnership' with Ankara, if negotiations do not lead to membership. Austrian prime minister Wolfgang Schussel has also called for Croatia to benefit from the same 'goodwill' as Turkey."
More:Euro-reporters.com - Brussels journalists on Wider Europe
Focus English News-Politis, Cyprus: EU Gives Severe Slap in Turkey's Face
"Politis, Cyprus: EU Gives Severe Slap in Turkey's Face
29 September 2005 | 12:06 | FOCUS News Agency
Strasbourg. The EU Parliament discovered two problems of Turkey after yesterday's session of the EU Parliament. This comes only five days before the start of the accession talks between Turkey and Cyprus on 3rd October, Politis newspaper reports.
The EU Parliament reminded for the Turkish duties concerning Cyprus in connection with the recognition of the country and Turkey's acknowledgement of the genocide against Armenian people. “If Ankara doesn’t recognize Nicosia as soon as possible, that will have serious consequences on the pre-accession procedures between Turkey and the EU that could lead even to their ceasing”, the newspaper adds."
More:Focus English News-Politis, Cyprus: EU Gives Severe Slap in Turkey's Face
29 September 2005 | 12:06 | FOCUS News Agency
Strasbourg. The EU Parliament discovered two problems of Turkey after yesterday's session of the EU Parliament. This comes only five days before the start of the accession talks between Turkey and Cyprus on 3rd October, Politis newspaper reports.
The EU Parliament reminded for the Turkish duties concerning Cyprus in connection with the recognition of the country and Turkey's acknowledgement of the genocide against Armenian people. “If Ankara doesn’t recognize Nicosia as soon as possible, that will have serious consequences on the pre-accession procedures between Turkey and the EU that could lead even to their ceasing”, the newspaper adds."
More:Focus English News-Politis, Cyprus: EU Gives Severe Slap in Turkey's Face
EUPolitix.com - Austria obstructs EU Turkey talks
"Austria obstructs EU Turkey talks
Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schussel is blocking an EU deal on Turkey – by insisting that the ‘negotiating mandate’ with Ankara should spell out the option of less than full membership.
EU–Turkey negotiations are currently ‘open-ended’ but work to the ultimate goal of full membership.
Vienna argues that Brussels should provide a ‘privileged partnership’ option if Turkey fails to make the grade.
“We need an alternative that would ensure Turkey would remain bonded as strongly as possible to the EU,” Schussel told FT Europe."
More:EUPolitix.com - Austria obstructs EU Turkey talks
Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schussel is blocking an EU deal on Turkey – by insisting that the ‘negotiating mandate’ with Ankara should spell out the option of less than full membership.
EU–Turkey negotiations are currently ‘open-ended’ but work to the ultimate goal of full membership.
Vienna argues that Brussels should provide a ‘privileged partnership’ option if Turkey fails to make the grade.
“We need an alternative that would ensure Turkey would remain bonded as strongly as possible to the EU,” Schussel told FT Europe."
More:EUPolitix.com - Austria obstructs EU Turkey talks
Turkish Reaction to Hughes on US Media
"Turkish Reaction to Hughes on US Media
By Anadolu News Agency (aa)
Published: Thursday, September 29, 2005
zaman.com
US media have reported that representatives of women organizations in Turkey reacted against US State Undersecretary for Public Diplomacy Karen Hughes during her meetings in the country.
The Washington Post wrote Hughes faced heavy criticisms of Turkish women over US policies in Iraq.
As long as the US attitude in Iraq remains the same, an article by Glenn Kessler said, cooperation between Turkish and American women is really difficult."
More:Turkish Reaction to Hughes on US Media
By Anadolu News Agency (aa)
Published: Thursday, September 29, 2005
zaman.com
US media have reported that representatives of women organizations in Turkey reacted against US State Undersecretary for Public Diplomacy Karen Hughes during her meetings in the country.
The Washington Post wrote Hughes faced heavy criticisms of Turkish women over US policies in Iraq.
As long as the US attitude in Iraq remains the same, an article by Glenn Kessler said, cooperation between Turkish and American women is really difficult."
More:Turkish Reaction to Hughes on US Media
Bloomberg.com: Europe-EU to Hold Emergency Meeting to Save Turkish Entry-Talks Plans
"EU to Hold Emergency Meeting to Save Turkish Entry-Talks Plans
Sept. 29 (Bloomberg) -- The European Union will hold an emergency meeting Oct. 2 to break a deadlock over Turkish entry talks that is threatening Turkey's bid to become the EU's first predominantly Muslim member.
EU foreign ministers will seek agreement on a negotiating plan for Turkey so talks can start Oct. 3 as scheduled. Austria wants the blueprint to include goals that fall short of membership, depriving the 25-nation EU of the unanimity needed to authorize the opening of decade-long negotiations."
More:Bloomberg.com: Europe-EU to Hold Emergency Meeting to Save Turkish Entry-Talks Plans
Sept. 29 (Bloomberg) -- The European Union will hold an emergency meeting Oct. 2 to break a deadlock over Turkish entry talks that is threatening Turkey's bid to become the EU's first predominantly Muslim member.
EU foreign ministers will seek agreement on a negotiating plan for Turkey so talks can start Oct. 3 as scheduled. Austria wants the blueprint to include goals that fall short of membership, depriving the 25-nation EU of the unanimity needed to authorize the opening of decade-long negotiations."
More:Bloomberg.com: Europe-EU to Hold Emergency Meeting to Save Turkish Entry-Talks Plans
Reuters AlertNet - ANALYSIS-EU dream has already turned sour for some Turks
"ANALYSIS-EU dream has already turned sour for some Turks
29 Sep 2005 10:20:27 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Jon Hemming
ISTANBUL, Sept 29 (Reuters) - It may take 10 years before Turkey joins the European Union, but even at this nascent stage of negotiations EU demands have inflamed Turkish nationalism.
The constant stream of criticism from the European Union has revived memories of Western meddling in the 19th and early 20th centuries that put an end to Turkey's empire and, but for a nationalist uprising, would have dismembered Turkey itself.
'The whole issue of nationalism represents the most difficult and the deepest gap between Turkey and the EU,' said one Turkey-based EU diplomat."
More:Reuters AlertNet - ANALYSIS-EU dream has already turned sour for some Turks
29 Sep 2005 10:20:27 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Jon Hemming
ISTANBUL, Sept 29 (Reuters) - It may take 10 years before Turkey joins the European Union, but even at this nascent stage of negotiations EU demands have inflamed Turkish nationalism.
The constant stream of criticism from the European Union has revived memories of Western meddling in the 19th and early 20th centuries that put an end to Turkey's empire and, but for a nationalist uprising, would have dismembered Turkey itself.
'The whole issue of nationalism represents the most difficult and the deepest gap between Turkey and the EU,' said one Turkey-based EU diplomat."
More:Reuters AlertNet - ANALYSIS-EU dream has already turned sour for some Turks
Turks challenge Hughes on Iraq - washingtonpost.com Highlights - MSNBC.com
"Turks challenge Hughes on Iraq
Female activists decry U.S. policy in meeting with U.S. official
By Glenn Kessler
The Washington Post
Updated: 1:02 a.m. ET Sept. 29, 2005
ISTANBUL, Sept. 28 - A group of Turkish women's rights activists confronted Undersecretary of State Karen Hughes on Wednesday with emotional and heated complaints about the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, turning a session designed to highlight the empowering of women into a raw display of the anger at U.S. policy in the region."
More:Turks challenge Hughes on Iraq - washingtonpost.com Highlights - MSNBC.com
Female activists decry U.S. policy in meeting with U.S. official
By Glenn Kessler
The Washington Post
Updated: 1:02 a.m. ET Sept. 29, 2005
ISTANBUL, Sept. 28 - A group of Turkish women's rights activists confronted Undersecretary of State Karen Hughes on Wednesday with emotional and heated complaints about the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, turning a session designed to highlight the empowering of women into a raw display of the anger at U.S. policy in the region."
More:Turks challenge Hughes on Iraq - washingtonpost.com Highlights - MSNBC.com
Making the Muslims love us - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper
"Making the Muslims love us
By Suzanne Fields
September 29, 2005
Karen Hughes has her work cut out for her. She's the undersecretary of state assigned to persuade foreigners, particularly Muslims, to love us. On her 'maiden voyage' to the Middle East this week, she's in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, trying to win friends and influence people. This requires a sail through the Scylla and Charybdis of multicultural paradox. "
More:Making the Muslims love us - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper
By Suzanne Fields
September 29, 2005
Karen Hughes has her work cut out for her. She's the undersecretary of state assigned to persuade foreigners, particularly Muslims, to love us. On her 'maiden voyage' to the Middle East this week, she's in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey, trying to win friends and influence people. This requires a sail through the Scylla and Charybdis of multicultural paradox. "
More:Making the Muslims love us - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper
Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | European Parliament Postpones Turkey Vote
"European Parliament Postpones Turkey Vote
Wednesday September 28, 2005 2:31 PM
By JAN SLIVA
Associated Press Writer
STRASBOURG, France (AP) - The European Parliament postponed a vote to ratify Turkey's customs union with the European Union on Wednesday, citing frustration over Ankara's continued refusal to recognize Cyprus.
In another step certain to anger the Turkish government days ahead of scheduled EU membership talks, lawmakers called on Ankara to recognize the 1915-23 killings of Armenians as genocide."
More:Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | European Parliament Postpones Turkey Vote
Wednesday September 28, 2005 2:31 PM
By JAN SLIVA
Associated Press Writer
STRASBOURG, France (AP) - The European Parliament postponed a vote to ratify Turkey's customs union with the European Union on Wednesday, citing frustration over Ankara's continued refusal to recognize Cyprus.
In another step certain to anger the Turkish government days ahead of scheduled EU membership talks, lawmakers called on Ankara to recognize the 1915-23 killings of Armenians as genocide."
More:Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | European Parliament Postpones Turkey Vote
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Dow Jones News-EU Parliament Delays Vote On Turkey-EU Customs Union
"EU Parliament Delays Vote On Turkey-EU Customs Union
EU Parliament Delays Vote On Turkey-EU Customs Union
STRASBOURG, France (AP)--The European Parliament postponed its vote Wednesday on the ratification of Turkey's customs union with the E.U. following opposition from conservative lawmakers.
The Parliament voted 311-285 to postpone the vote because of Ankara's refusal to recognize Cyprus.
Sixty-five MEPs abstained. The adjournement of the ballot has no effect on the starting date for Turkey's accession negotiations with the E.U., scheduled for Oct. 3."
Dow Jones News-EU Parliament Delays Vote On Turkey-EU Customs Union
EU Parliament Delays Vote On Turkey-EU Customs Union
STRASBOURG, France (AP)--The European Parliament postponed its vote Wednesday on the ratification of Turkey's customs union with the E.U. following opposition from conservative lawmakers.
The Parliament voted 311-285 to postpone the vote because of Ankara's refusal to recognize Cyprus.
Sixty-five MEPs abstained. The adjournement of the ballot has no effect on the starting date for Turkey's accession negotiations with the E.U., scheduled for Oct. 3."
Dow Jones News-EU Parliament Delays Vote On Turkey-EU Customs Union
Turkish Daily News - Turkish movies in New York
"Turkish movies in New York
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
The 7th Annual New York Turkish Film Festival kicked off on Saturday and runs through Sunday, offering contemporary works of Turkish cinema. Different categories such as �short movies,� �contemporary Turkish cinema� and �directors abroad� will serve as platforms for a total of 33 movies, some of which won top awards at international festivals."
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkish movies in New York
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
The 7th Annual New York Turkish Film Festival kicked off on Saturday and runs through Sunday, offering contemporary works of Turkish cinema. Different categories such as �short movies,� �contemporary Turkish cinema� and �directors abroad� will serve as platforms for a total of 33 movies, some of which won top awards at international festivals."
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkish movies in New York
EUpolitix.com - Press Review-London offers Croatian deal to save Turkey talks
"London offers Croatian deal to save Turkey talks
Le Figaro reports that with just five days to go before EU talks are supposed to open with Turkey, the UK presidency has turned to Croatia’s bid to open talks in an attemp"t to quell any remaining resistance.
Ankara's entry talks have stalled over the precise wording of where the talks could eventually lead.
The Austrian government, under pressure from the right wing populist politician, Jorg Haider, has still not given its consent to a sentence that says that the “common objective of the negotiations with Turkey is accession”.
But Vienna is keen for the EU to begin accession talks with Croatia, even though Zagreb is believed to be harbouring indicted war criminals reports the Telegraph."
More:EUpolitix.com - Press Review-London offers Croatian deal to save Turkey talks
Le Figaro reports that with just five days to go before EU talks are supposed to open with Turkey, the UK presidency has turned to Croatia’s bid to open talks in an attemp"t to quell any remaining resistance.
Ankara's entry talks have stalled over the precise wording of where the talks could eventually lead.
The Austrian government, under pressure from the right wing populist politician, Jorg Haider, has still not given its consent to a sentence that says that the “common objective of the negotiations with Turkey is accession”.
But Vienna is keen for the EU to begin accession talks with Croatia, even though Zagreb is believed to be harbouring indicted war criminals reports the Telegraph."
More:EUpolitix.com - Press Review-London offers Croatian deal to save Turkey talks
Duff clarifies statement on Ataturk
"Duff clarifies statement on Ataturk
The European Parliament MP said his comments targeted the interpretation of Ataturk’s philosophy, not his achievements or place in history.
Güncelleme: 11:33 TSİ 28 Eylül 2005 Çarşamba
ANKARA - A member of the European Parliament has denied reports that he had called for pictures of Turkey’s founding father to be removed from the walls of offices in official buildings."
More:Duff clarifies statement on Ataturk
The European Parliament MP said his comments targeted the interpretation of Ataturk’s philosophy, not his achievements or place in history.
Güncelleme: 11:33 TSİ 28 Eylül 2005 Çarşamba
ANKARA - A member of the European Parliament has denied reports that he had called for pictures of Turkey’s founding father to be removed from the walls of offices in official buildings."
More:Duff clarifies statement on Ataturk
The China Post-Turkey confronts tradition, religion as it pushes to bring girls to school
"Turkey confronts tradition, religion as it pushes to bring girls to school(Updated 4:12 p.m.)
2005/9/28
VAN, Turkey (AP)
It's the second week of school, and Mehmet Sadik Altin, the local imam, charges up to a lopsided concrete home with a mud roof and demands to know why the five girls in the house aren't in class.
'We don't have money for bread,' Meryem Benek shouts at Altin, surrounded by three of her children who were wearing torn plastic shoes and worn-out mudcaked sweaters. 'How can I send my girls to school?'"
More:The China PostTurkey confronts tradition, religion as it pushes to bring girls to school
2005/9/28
VAN, Turkey (AP)
It's the second week of school, and Mehmet Sadik Altin, the local imam, charges up to a lopsided concrete home with a mud roof and demands to know why the five girls in the house aren't in class.
'We don't have money for bread,' Meryem Benek shouts at Altin, surrounded by three of her children who were wearing torn plastic shoes and worn-out mudcaked sweaters. 'How can I send my girls to school?'"
More:The China PostTurkey confronts tradition, religion as it pushes to bring girls to school
Financial Mirror-Countdown to Turkey EU talks
"Countdown to Turkey EU talks
28/09/2005
www.financialmirror.com
Barring any last minute hiccups, Turkey will start accession negotiations on October 3 that are expected to last for at least ten years and are unlikely to be smooth sailing.
One of the trickiest aspects will be transport, following Turkey's declaration that it does not recognise Cyprus and indications by politicians that it has no intention of opening air and transport routes to Cyprus.
A draft political declaration that will be studied by the COREPER meeting of EU foreign ministers this week with the aim of presenting it to Turkey when it starts EU accession negotiations next Monday, will emphasise that Turkey’s progress in the negotiations will depend in implementing its commitments.
According to CNA, part of the declaration says 'The monitoring of your commitments will become a key element for taking, in the Council context, the necessary decisions on the conduct of negotiations with you. Particular attention will be paid to the implementation of the Protocol regarding the adaptation of the Ankara Agreement, on which the EU’s position was set out in its Declaration of 20 September 2005'."
More:Financial Mirror-Countdown to Turkey EU talks
28/09/2005
www.financialmirror.com
Barring any last minute hiccups, Turkey will start accession negotiations on October 3 that are expected to last for at least ten years and are unlikely to be smooth sailing.
One of the trickiest aspects will be transport, following Turkey's declaration that it does not recognise Cyprus and indications by politicians that it has no intention of opening air and transport routes to Cyprus.
A draft political declaration that will be studied by the COREPER meeting of EU foreign ministers this week with the aim of presenting it to Turkey when it starts EU accession negotiations next Monday, will emphasise that Turkey’s progress in the negotiations will depend in implementing its commitments.
According to CNA, part of the declaration says 'The monitoring of your commitments will become a key element for taking, in the Council context, the necessary decisions on the conduct of negotiations with you. Particular attention will be paid to the implementation of the Protocol regarding the adaptation of the Ankara Agreement, on which the EU’s position was set out in its Declaration of 20 September 2005'."
More:Financial Mirror-Countdown to Turkey EU talks
Christian Today - UK & World News Every Day > Human Rights Issue Highlighted in Turkey as EU Membership Talks Approach
"Human Rights Issue Highlighted in Turkey as EU Membership Talks Approach
Ahead of the historical European Union accession talks with Turkey next month, the human rights situation of the predominantly Muslim nation has again been highlighted as a major obstacle.
Posted: Wednesday, September 28 , 2005, 9:59 (UK)
Ahead of the historical European Union accession talks with Turkey next month, the human rights situation of the predominantly Muslim nation has again been highlighted as a major obstacle. Most recently, the President of Greece openly urged Turkey to respect religious freedom.
Human Rights Issue Highlighted in Turkey as EU Membership Talks Approach
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. (as.wn.com)
'If Turkey hopes to sincerely and substantially enter into the EU on the basis of its principles and values, it should adopt the fundamental principles of democracy,' the Greek President Carolos Papoulias said as he greeted the visiting Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I on Thursday, according to the Middle East Times. "
More:Christian Today - UK & World News Every Day > Human Rights Issue Highlighted in Turkey as EU Membership Talks Approach
Ahead of the historical European Union accession talks with Turkey next month, the human rights situation of the predominantly Muslim nation has again been highlighted as a major obstacle.
Posted: Wednesday, September 28 , 2005, 9:59 (UK)
Ahead of the historical European Union accession talks with Turkey next month, the human rights situation of the predominantly Muslim nation has again been highlighted as a major obstacle. Most recently, the President of Greece openly urged Turkey to respect religious freedom.
Human Rights Issue Highlighted in Turkey as EU Membership Talks Approach
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. (as.wn.com)
'If Turkey hopes to sincerely and substantially enter into the EU on the basis of its principles and values, it should adopt the fundamental principles of democracy,' the Greek President Carolos Papoulias said as he greeted the visiting Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I on Thursday, according to the Middle East Times. "
More:Christian Today - UK & World News Every Day > Human Rights Issue Highlighted in Turkey as EU Membership Talks Approach
Washington Times Suggests EU to Say 'No' to 'Islamist Turkey'
"Washington Times Suggests EU to Say 'No' to 'Islamist Turkey'
By Foreign News Desk
Published: Wednesday, September 28, 2005
zaman.com
As the date for accession talks with the European Union (EU) is getting closer, the Washington Times lashed at Turkey by publishing an article titled, ''No' to Islamist Turkey', that includes various accusations and arguments."
More:Washington Times Suggests EU to Say 'No' to 'Islamist Turkey'
By Foreign News Desk
Published: Wednesday, September 28, 2005
zaman.com
As the date for accession talks with the European Union (EU) is getting closer, the Washington Times lashed at Turkey by publishing an article titled, ''No' to Islamist Turkey', that includes various accusations and arguments."
More:Washington Times Suggests EU to Say 'No' to 'Islamist Turkey'
IOL: EU seek guarantees from Turkey
"EU seek guarantees from Turkey
28/09/2005 - 10:11:06 The conservative group in the European Parliament will today ask the assembly to postpone the planned ratification of Turkey’s customs union with the European Union if it doesn’t get immediate guarantees the Turkish parliament will not link its own ratification of the pact to non-recognition of Cyprus.
The conservative group in the European Parliament will today ask the assembly to postpone the planned ratification of Turkey’s customs union with the European Union if it doesn’t get immediate guarantees the Turkish parliament will not link its own ratification of the pact to non-recognition of Cyprus."
More:IOL: EU seek guarantees from Turkey
28/09/2005 - 10:11:06 The conservative group in the European Parliament will today ask the assembly to postpone the planned ratification of Turkey’s customs union with the European Union if it doesn’t get immediate guarantees the Turkish parliament will not link its own ratification of the pact to non-recognition of Cyprus.
The conservative group in the European Parliament will today ask the assembly to postpone the planned ratification of Turkey’s customs union with the European Union if it doesn’t get immediate guarantees the Turkish parliament will not link its own ratification of the pact to non-recognition of Cyprus."
More:IOL: EU seek guarantees from Turkey
Turkish Daily News - Turkey confronts history
"Turkey confronts history
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Opinion by Suat KINIKLIOGLU
Two weeks ago I was fortunate enough to visit a photo exhibition of the Sept. 6-7, 1955, street riots in Istanbul. For me it was truly an experience and cause for reflection. Seeing such graphic evidence of those events made me genuinely uncomfortable. The exhibition and the debate it sparked was a great leap forward in the quest towards confronting some of the unpleasant episodes of our recent history. Although the opening of the exhibition was marred by a protest of a small group of nationalists, the exhibition marked an important change in Turkey. Fifty years later, Turks on both sides of the debate intensely deliberated the Sept. 6-7 events. The debate allowed Turks to become aware of some of the unknown aspects of those events."
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey confronts history
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Opinion by Suat KINIKLIOGLU
Two weeks ago I was fortunate enough to visit a photo exhibition of the Sept. 6-7, 1955, street riots in Istanbul. For me it was truly an experience and cause for reflection. Seeing such graphic evidence of those events made me genuinely uncomfortable. The exhibition and the debate it sparked was a great leap forward in the quest towards confronting some of the unpleasant episodes of our recent history. Although the opening of the exhibition was marred by a protest of a small group of nationalists, the exhibition marked an important change in Turkey. Fifty years later, Turks on both sides of the debate intensely deliberated the Sept. 6-7 events. The debate allowed Turks to become aware of some of the unknown aspects of those events."
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey confronts history
Ynetnews - Travel - Istanbul: great food, mad cabbies
"Istanbul: great food, mad cabbies
They know how to prepare all kinds of fish and seafood, the cab drivers got their licenses in the circus, and in the time it takes to wait in line at the Topkapi Palace you can return to Israel.
Noah Kliger, Istanbul
ISTANBUL - Forget about the grand bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and the Bosporus. This time I came to Turkey to eat."
More:Ynetnews - Travel - Istanbul: great food, mad cabbies
They know how to prepare all kinds of fish and seafood, the cab drivers got their licenses in the circus, and in the time it takes to wait in line at the Topkapi Palace you can return to Israel.
Noah Kliger, Istanbul
ISTANBUL - Forget about the grand bazaar, Topkapi Palace, and the Bosporus. This time I came to Turkey to eat."
More:Ynetnews - Travel - Istanbul: great food, mad cabbies
Anatolian Tolerance Example to the World
"Anatolian Tolerance Example to the World
By Abdullah Ozyurt, Osman Balci
Published: Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Calls of brotherhood marked the First Hatay Meeting of Civilizations where the leading representatives from different religions participated.
Ecclesiastics who spoke at the meeting emphasized that Anatolia has hosted several civilizations and tolerance calls spreading from these lands can embrace the whole world."
More:Anatolian Tolerance Example to the World
By Abdullah Ozyurt, Osman Balci
Published: Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Calls of brotherhood marked the First Hatay Meeting of Civilizations where the leading representatives from different religions participated.
Ecclesiastics who spoke at the meeting emphasized that Anatolia has hosted several civilizations and tolerance calls spreading from these lands can embrace the whole world."
More:Anatolian Tolerance Example to the World
FT.com / Markets / Capital markets - Turkey weighs up benefit of Islamic bond
"Turkey weighs up benefit of Islamic bond
By Farhan Bokhari
Published: September 27 2005 19:41 | Last updated: September 27 2005 19:41
TurkeyThe Turkish government intends to propose a law to parliament that would allow the country to begin to issue bonds that comply with Islamic norms.
Such bonds would not be specifically called sukuk [Islamic bond], to avoid precipitating a clash with the constitution of the secular republic, Kemal Unakitan, the Turkish Finance minister, said on Tuesday."
More:FT.com / Markets / Capital markets - Turkey weighs up benefit of Islamic bond
By Farhan Bokhari
Published: September 27 2005 19:41 | Last updated: September 27 2005 19:41
TurkeyThe Turkish government intends to propose a law to parliament that would allow the country to begin to issue bonds that comply with Islamic norms.
Such bonds would not be specifically called sukuk [Islamic bond], to avoid precipitating a clash with the constitution of the secular republic, Kemal Unakitan, the Turkish Finance minister, said on Tuesday."
More:FT.com / Markets / Capital markets - Turkey weighs up benefit of Islamic bond
Civilizations Meet in Hatay for Dialogue
"Civilizations Meet in Hatay for Dialogue
By Erdal Sen, Abdullah Ozyurt
Published: Monday, September 26, 2005
zaman.com
The First Hatay Meeting of Civilizations has started in the southern city of Hatay, Turkey attended by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The meeting was organized by the Society for the Protection of Universal Values, which was founded by spiritual dignitaries in Hatay."
More:Civilizations Meet in Hatay for Dialogue
By Erdal Sen, Abdullah Ozyurt
Published: Monday, September 26, 2005
zaman.com
The First Hatay Meeting of Civilizations has started in the southern city of Hatay, Turkey attended by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The meeting was organized by the Society for the Protection of Universal Values, which was founded by spiritual dignitaries in Hatay."
More:Civilizations Meet in Hatay for Dialogue
Will Europe Make a Historic Mistake?
"Will Europe Make a Historic Mistake?
As October 3, the start date for Turkey’s membership negotiations approaches, contradictory demands by the European Union (EU) are being made one after the other. On Thursday, the EU issued a counter declaration on Cyprus, ignoring all the legal processes so far.
In fact, Cyprus is just an excuse to slow down Turkey’s accession process or hinder it when necessary. Some member states, France in particular, continue worrying about the negative impact Turkey’s membership would bring. According to the circumstances, if there wasn’t a Cyprus problem, they would definitely have produced another artificial crisis issue."
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005092724441)
As October 3, the start date for Turkey’s membership negotiations approaches, contradictory demands by the European Union (EU) are being made one after the other. On Thursday, the EU issued a counter declaration on Cyprus, ignoring all the legal processes so far.
In fact, Cyprus is just an excuse to slow down Turkey’s accession process or hinder it when necessary. Some member states, France in particular, continue worrying about the negative impact Turkey’s membership would bring. According to the circumstances, if there wasn’t a Cyprus problem, they would definitely have produced another artificial crisis issue."
More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER (2005092724441)
European Union is Playing with Fire
"European Union is Playing with Fire
As the date of October 3 approaches, the political maneuvers between the European Union (EU) and Turkey increase. While the Turkish government struggles against anti-EU forces inside, it has to wage a war of nerves outside against the anti-Turkey members of the EU.
Neither the anti-EU Turks nor the anti-Turkey Europeans are aware of the impending danger. Turkey getting away from the EU constitutes a great risk, not just for Turkey, but for Europe as well."
More:European Union is Playing with Fire
As the date of October 3 approaches, the political maneuvers between the European Union (EU) and Turkey increase. While the Turkish government struggles against anti-EU forces inside, it has to wage a war of nerves outside against the anti-Turkey members of the EU.
Neither the anti-EU Turks nor the anti-Turkey Europeans are aware of the impending danger. Turkey getting away from the EU constitutes a great risk, not just for Turkey, but for Europe as well."
More:European Union is Playing with Fire
Aytmatov: Turkish will be World Language
"Aytmatov: Turkish will be World Language
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Monday, September 26, 2005
zaman.com
Kyrgyz author Cengiz Aytmatov, who attended a conference by the Turkish Religious Affairs Turk-Islam Association (DITIB) in Cologne, Germany, said, 'Turkish will be the conveyor of big civilizations.'"
More:Aytmatov: Turkish will be World Language
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Monday, September 26, 2005
zaman.com
Kyrgyz author Cengiz Aytmatov, who attended a conference by the Turkish Religious Affairs Turk-Islam Association (DITIB) in Cologne, Germany, said, 'Turkish will be the conveyor of big civilizations.'"
More:Aytmatov: Turkish will be World Language
Guardian Unlimited Politics | Special Reports | Torture claims threaten Turkey's bid to join EU
"Torture claims threaten Turkey's bid to join EU
Ian Traynor and Ewen MacAskill
Wednesday September 28, 2005
The Guardian
Opponents of Turkish accession to the EU were given fresh ammunition yesterday with revelations of human rights abuses, torture and starvation in the country's psychiatric institutions, and a move to ban a gay rights organisation.
The blow to Turkey's attempts to present itself as a modern, reforming state came in advance of a ceremony in Brussels on Monday to begin the formal accession process to the EU. Austria, as well as France and Cyprus, have expressed reservations about Turkish entry."
More:Guardian Unlimited Politics | Special Reports | Torture claims threaten Turkey's bid to join EU
Ian Traynor and Ewen MacAskill
Wednesday September 28, 2005
The Guardian
Opponents of Turkish accession to the EU were given fresh ammunition yesterday with revelations of human rights abuses, torture and starvation in the country's psychiatric institutions, and a move to ban a gay rights organisation.
The blow to Turkey's attempts to present itself as a modern, reforming state came in advance of a ceremony in Brussels on Monday to begin the formal accession process to the EU. Austria, as well as France and Cyprus, have expressed reservations about Turkish entry."
More:Guardian Unlimited Politics | Special Reports | Torture claims threaten Turkey's bid to join EU
Reuters AlertNet - Violence in southeast Turkey overshadows EU drive
"Violence in southeast Turkey overshadows EU drive
27 Sep 2005 14:26:31 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Daren Butler
DIYARBAKIR, Turkey, Sept 27 (Reuters) - Anticipation is mounting in Turkey ahead of next week's start of European Union membership talks. Even Kurdish guerrillas have caught the fever.
Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) commanders holed up in the northern Iraqi mountains have marked the date in their diaries, extending a ceasefire until Oct. 3 and pledging support for a democratic solution to the Kurdish problem."
More:Reuters AlertNet - Violence in southeast Turkey overshadows EU drive
27 Sep 2005 14:26:31 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Daren Butler
DIYARBAKIR, Turkey, Sept 27 (Reuters) - Anticipation is mounting in Turkey ahead of next week's start of European Union membership talks. Even Kurdish guerrillas have caught the fever.
Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) commanders holed up in the northern Iraqi mountains have marked the date in their diaries, extending a ceasefire until Oct. 3 and pledging support for a democratic solution to the Kurdish problem."
More:Reuters AlertNet - Violence in southeast Turkey overshadows EU drive
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Turkey Pledges to Cut Public Debt (SETimes.com)
"ISTANBUL, Turkey -- The government is set to reduce public debt to 60 per cent of GDP in 2005 from 63.5 per cent in 2004, the country's finance minister told investors Tuesday (27 September). Kemal Unakitan promised that taxes would not be raised to collect revenue. Instead, the government will work to improve tax collection by going after the so-called "grey" sector of the economy. Privatisation will be the other main source of income, he said."
Turkey Pledges to Cut Public Debt (SETimes.com)
Turkey Pledges to Cut Public Debt (SETimes.com)
The Messenger-Political Analysis: Survey of analysts on Armenian issues
"Political Analysis: Survey of analysts on Armenian issues
By M. Alkhazashvili
The non-profit group Armenian Assembly of America recently conducted a survey in which 24 American and Western European experts, former statesmen and analysts took part. An analysis of the survey shows that in the opinion of these specialists, the situation in the frozen Azeri-Armenian conflict may undergo a tidal shift to the benefit of Azerbaijan in the coming years.
Since 2004, the Armenian Assembly's Office of Research & Information has conducted an annual survey in an effort to gauge analysts' opinions of how Armenian issues are perceived in the United States and Western Europe.According to the paper AZG Armenian Daily, the survey was conducted by Tim Manook at St. Andrews University, UK, and supervised by Emil Sanamyan at the Armenian Assembly."
More:The Messenger
By M. Alkhazashvili
The non-profit group Armenian Assembly of America recently conducted a survey in which 24 American and Western European experts, former statesmen and analysts took part. An analysis of the survey shows that in the opinion of these specialists, the situation in the frozen Azeri-Armenian conflict may undergo a tidal shift to the benefit of Azerbaijan in the coming years.
Since 2004, the Armenian Assembly's Office of Research & Information has conducted an annual survey in an effort to gauge analysts' opinions of how Armenian issues are perceived in the United States and Western Europe.According to the paper AZG Armenian Daily, the survey was conducted by Tim Manook at St. Andrews University, UK, and supervised by Emil Sanamyan at the Armenian Assembly."
More:The Messenger
Turkish Daily News - EU sets tougher road map for entry talks, Ankara on tenterhooks
"EU sets tougher road map for entry talks, Ankara on tenterhooks
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
ANKARA – Turkish Daily News
The British presidency of the European Union has proposed an amended version of the negotiating framework document, incorporating a Greek Cypriot demand that Turkey lift its blockage of Greek Cypriot participation in international organizations and agreements, the most notable example of which is a Turkish veto of Greek Cypriot access to NATO assets under terms covered by Berlin Plus arrangements between NATO and the EU."
More:Turkish Daily News - EU sets tougher road map for entry talks, Ankara on tenterhooks
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
ANKARA – Turkish Daily News
The British presidency of the European Union has proposed an amended version of the negotiating framework document, incorporating a Greek Cypriot demand that Turkey lift its blockage of Greek Cypriot participation in international organizations and agreements, the most notable example of which is a Turkish veto of Greek Cypriot access to NATO assets under terms covered by Berlin Plus arrangements between NATO and the EU."
More:Turkish Daily News - EU sets tougher road map for entry talks, Ankara on tenterhooks
Reuters.co.uk-Austria on EU collision course over Turkey talks
"Austria on EU collision course over Turkey talks
Tue Sep 27, 2005 1:39 PM BST167
By Paul Taylor
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Austria appears to be on a collision course with its European Union partners over the terms for starting accession talks with Turkey next week, raising the risk of a last-minute cliffhanger unless Vienna backs down.
With 80 percent of his electorate opposed to Turkish entry, Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel is holding out for a face-saving formula spelling out the prospect of less than full membership in the EU negotiating mandate, diplomats said."
More:World News Article | Reuters.co.uk-Austria on EU collision course over Turkey talks
Tue Sep 27, 2005 1:39 PM BST167
By Paul Taylor
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Austria appears to be on a collision course with its European Union partners over the terms for starting accession talks with Turkey next week, raising the risk of a last-minute cliffhanger unless Vienna backs down.
With 80 percent of his electorate opposed to Turkish entry, Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel is holding out for a face-saving formula spelling out the prospect of less than full membership in the EU negotiating mandate, diplomats said."
More:World News Article | Reuters.co.uk-Austria on EU collision course over Turkey talks
Eye on Europe: Turkey`s PR battle
"Eye on Europe: Turkey`s PR battle
Sep 27, 2005, 14:24 GMT
BRUSSELS, Belgium (UPI) -- After the rejection of the European Union`s first-ever constitution by French and Dutch voters over the summer, reconnecting with Europe`s grumpy, fearful and disillusioned electorate has become the No. 1 goal of the Brussels-based bloc. Yet on Monday, barring any last-minute hiccups, the Union is set to open membership talks with Turkey, a move flatly opposed by most EU citizens.
According to a recent opinion poll carried out by the European Commission, 52 percent of Europeans are averse to Turkey joining the club, with only 35 percent in favor. In some of the EU`s core countries, opposition is even more entrenched -- 70 percent of French voters and almost three quarters of Germans are against Ankara`s membership bid."
More:Eye on Europe: Turkey`s PR battle
Sep 27, 2005, 14:24 GMT
BRUSSELS, Belgium (UPI) -- After the rejection of the European Union`s first-ever constitution by French and Dutch voters over the summer, reconnecting with Europe`s grumpy, fearful and disillusioned electorate has become the No. 1 goal of the Brussels-based bloc. Yet on Monday, barring any last-minute hiccups, the Union is set to open membership talks with Turkey, a move flatly opposed by most EU citizens.
According to a recent opinion poll carried out by the European Commission, 52 percent of Europeans are averse to Turkey joining the club, with only 35 percent in favor. In some of the EU`s core countries, opposition is even more entrenched -- 70 percent of French voters and almost three quarters of Germans are against Ankara`s membership bid."
More:Eye on Europe: Turkey`s PR battle
albawaba.com middle east news information::Bond and Fire of Anatolia play live at Fastlink 10th anniversary celebration
"Bond and Fire of Anatolia play live at Fastlink 10th anniversary celebration
As part of celebrations marking the tenth anniversary since its establishment, Fastlink, one of Mobile telecommunication group the largest operator in the Middle East and Africa, hosted an evening of music and entertainment at the Dead Sea by the British “Bond Band” and the Turkish Folklore Group “Fire of Anatolia”.
In remarks welcoming the guests, Fastlink CEO Mohammad Saqer alluded to the Company’s contribution to the development of the information and communications sector in Jordan through the provision of a variety of services and an advanced network, which offers service to 1.7 subscribers."
More:albawaba.com middle east news information::Bond and Fire of Anatolia play live at Fastlink 10th anniversary celebration
As part of celebrations marking the tenth anniversary since its establishment, Fastlink, one of Mobile telecommunication group the largest operator in the Middle East and Africa, hosted an evening of music and entertainment at the Dead Sea by the British “Bond Band” and the Turkish Folklore Group “Fire of Anatolia”.
In remarks welcoming the guests, Fastlink CEO Mohammad Saqer alluded to the Company’s contribution to the development of the information and communications sector in Jordan through the provision of a variety of services and an advanced network, which offers service to 1.7 subscribers."
More:albawaba.com middle east news information::Bond and Fire of Anatolia play live at Fastlink 10th anniversary celebration
Turkish Daily News - Turkey and its neighbors (I)
"Turkey and its neighbors (I)
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
I attended a meeting/brainstorming session in Washington D.C. with American bureaucrats, analysts, academics and diplomats on 'Turkey and Its Neighbors Outside of the European Union.' I would like to share with readers some of the opinions voiced during the meeting and in subsequent private conversations. "
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey and its neighbors (I)
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
I attended a meeting/brainstorming session in Washington D.C. with American bureaucrats, analysts, academics and diplomats on 'Turkey and Its Neighbors Outside of the European Union.' I would like to share with readers some of the opinions voiced during the meeting and in subsequent private conversations. "
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey and its neighbors (I)
Turkish Daily News - Country of tolerance
"Country of tolerance
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Yusuf KANLI
We often boast that Turkey is a country of tolerance. We say it is a country where the mosque of the Muslims, the church of the Christians and the synagogue of the Jews can coexist in one neighborhood of Istanbul, the cultural and business capital of the country.
Sometimes, however, we demonstrate in a very cruel manner our obsessions and lack of tolerance; we put aside a culture of democracy that requires one to be capable of at least listening to ideas that he may not share."
More:Turkish Daily News - Country of tolerance
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Yusuf KANLI
We often boast that Turkey is a country of tolerance. We say it is a country where the mosque of the Muslims, the church of the Christians and the synagogue of the Jews can coexist in one neighborhood of Istanbul, the cultural and business capital of the country.
Sometimes, however, we demonstrate in a very cruel manner our obsessions and lack of tolerance; we put aside a culture of democracy that requires one to be capable of at least listening to ideas that he may not share."
More:Turkish Daily News - Country of tolerance
Turkish Daily News - Modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces and national defense industries
"Modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces and national defense industries
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Gen. Hilmi ÖZKÖK
Turkey is at the epicenter of a geography in which three continents meet and which controls crucial waterways connecting two important bodies of water, namely the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, with each other and with the world. Located in an area where Central Asian and Middle Eastern energy basins open up to the world market, Turkey is also very close to areas surrounded by multifaceted asymmetric threats and risks affecting national and international security. Naturally, this unique geography places Turkey in an advantageous position in terms of crisis management in its region and renders Turkey one of the most significant countries in the world in terms of geostrategic importance."
More:Turkish Daily News - Modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces and national defense industries
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Gen. Hilmi ÖZKÖK
Turkey is at the epicenter of a geography in which three continents meet and which controls crucial waterways connecting two important bodies of water, namely the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, with each other and with the world. Located in an area where Central Asian and Middle Eastern energy basins open up to the world market, Turkey is also very close to areas surrounded by multifaceted asymmetric threats and risks affecting national and international security. Naturally, this unique geography places Turkey in an advantageous position in terms of crisis management in its region and renders Turkey one of the most significant countries in the world in terms of geostrategic importance."
More:Turkish Daily News - Modernization of the Turkish Armed Forces and national defense industries
EUobserver.com-Danish PM expresses doubt over Turkish EU membership
"Danish PM expresses doubt over Turkish EU membership
27.09.2005 - 10:35 CET | By Teresa Küchler
The Danish prime minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen has expressed doubt about the prospect of Turkish EU membership calling into question whether the country has met the EU's political criteria for joining the EU.
In a column in Danish daily Politiken, Mr Rasmussen writes 'In the EU we are now hurrying towards further talks on new enlargements - with Turkey for instance. This is something that a lot of ordinary Europeans question.' "
More:EUobserver.com-Danish PM expresses doubt over Turkish EU membership
27.09.2005 - 10:35 CET | By Teresa Küchler
The Danish prime minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen has expressed doubt about the prospect of Turkish EU membership calling into question whether the country has met the EU's political criteria for joining the EU.
In a column in Danish daily Politiken, Mr Rasmussen writes 'In the EU we are now hurrying towards further talks on new enlargements - with Turkey for instance. This is something that a lot of ordinary Europeans question.' "
More:EUobserver.com-Danish PM expresses doubt over Turkish EU membership
Turkish Daily News - Turkey strives for global peace
"Turkey strives for global peace
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
ANKARA – Turkish Daily News
Hatay and Nevşehir are playing host to international gatherings for peace this week, with hundreds of guests from across the globe reaching out for harmony in a world divided by differences.
Leading spiritual leaders of Anatolia attended a panel discussion yesterday held as part of the 1st Hatay Meeting of Civilizations, while a three-day International Local Governments' Peace Conference kicked off in Nevşehir."
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey strives for global peace
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
ANKARA – Turkish Daily News
Hatay and Nevşehir are playing host to international gatherings for peace this week, with hundreds of guests from across the globe reaching out for harmony in a world divided by differences.
Leading spiritual leaders of Anatolia attended a panel discussion yesterday held as part of the 1st Hatay Meeting of Civilizations, while a three-day International Local Governments' Peace Conference kicked off in Nevşehir."
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey strives for global peace
Turkish Daily News - Turkish designer Suer mesmerizes Japan with her 2006 Spring collection
"Turkish designer Suer mesmerizes Japan with her 2006 Spring collection
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
The main theme of Suer’s collection is based on the works of 150 Japanese painters and calligraphers who will be participating in an exhibition to be held in Istanbul in October "
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkish designer Suer mesmerizes Japan with her 2006 Spring collection
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
The main theme of Suer’s collection is based on the works of 150 Japanese painters and calligraphers who will be participating in an exhibition to be held in Istanbul in October "
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkish designer Suer mesmerizes Japan with her 2006 Spring collection
Armenian Conference At Istanbul University In March 2006
"Armenian Conference At Istanbul University In March 2006
Published: 9/26/2005
ISTANBUL - An ''Armenian Conference'' will take place at the Istanbul University in March 2006, said university sources today.
In a press release, the IU Rector's office said that Istanbul University will hold a conference on the Armenian problem by wide international participation and on basis of international criteria."
More:Armenian Conference At Istanbul University In March 2006
Published: 9/26/2005
ISTANBUL - An ''Armenian Conference'' will take place at the Istanbul University in March 2006, said university sources today.
In a press release, the IU Rector's office said that Istanbul University will hold a conference on the Armenian problem by wide international participation and on basis of international criteria."
More:Armenian Conference At Istanbul University In March 2006
The Anatolia Times-Hughes: Turkey's E.U. Membership Is Something Which We Strongly Support
"Hughes: Turkey's E.U. Membership Is Something Which We Strongly Support
WASHINGTON D.C. - ''Turkey is a key ally and a very important democratic state straddling Europe and Asia,'' the Under Secretary of State for public diplomacy Karen Hughes said, expending his strong support to Turkey's European Union (EU) membership.
Hughes, who was assigned by U.S. President George Bush to restore degrading image of the United States in the world, is expected to visit Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey between September 24th and 29th."
More:The Anatolia Times-Hughes: Turkey's E.U. Membership Is Something Which We Strongly Support
WASHINGTON D.C. - ''Turkey is a key ally and a very important democratic state straddling Europe and Asia,'' the Under Secretary of State for public diplomacy Karen Hughes said, expending his strong support to Turkey's European Union (EU) membership.
Hughes, who was assigned by U.S. President George Bush to restore degrading image of the United States in the world, is expected to visit Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey between September 24th and 29th."
More:The Anatolia Times-Hughes: Turkey's E.U. Membership Is Something Which We Strongly Support
A1plus News-TERRY DAVIS: “BOTH TURKEY AND EUROPE MUST HONOUR THEIR WORD”
"TERRY DAVIS: “BOTH TURKEY AND EUROPE MUST HONOUR THEIR WORD”
Following a conference on the fate of Turkish Armenians at the end of the Ottoman Empire, which was held at Bilgi University in Istanbul this weekend, Terry Davis, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, made the following statement: {BR}
'I want to congratulate the organisers of the conference on their courage and determination. Those believing in a modern, democratic and tolerant Turkey refused to be intimidated and silenced by extreme nationalists on the streets of Istanbul."
More:A1plus News from Armenia-TERRY DAVIS: “BOTH TURKEY AND EUROPE MUST HONOUR THEIR WORD”
Following a conference on the fate of Turkish Armenians at the end of the Ottoman Empire, which was held at Bilgi University in Istanbul this weekend, Terry Davis, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, made the following statement: {BR}
'I want to congratulate the organisers of the conference on their courage and determination. Those believing in a modern, democratic and tolerant Turkey refused to be intimidated and silenced by extreme nationalists on the streets of Istanbul."
More:A1plus News from Armenia-TERRY DAVIS: “BOTH TURKEY AND EUROPE MUST HONOUR THEIR WORD”
Kurdish problem should be solved in Turkey: mayor
"Kurdish problem should be solved in Turkey: mayor
The place to solve the Kurdish question was within Turkey itself, according to the mayor of the south eastern Turkish city of Diyarbakir.
DIYARBAKIR - Baydemir said that he was a strong supporter of Turkey joining the European Union."
More:Kurdish problem should be solved in Turkey: mayor
The place to solve the Kurdish question was within Turkey itself, according to the mayor of the south eastern Turkish city of Diyarbakir.
DIYARBAKIR - Baydemir said that he was a strong supporter of Turkey joining the European Union."
More:Kurdish problem should be solved in Turkey: mayor
People's Daily Online -- Turkey's EU talks cannot end without opening ports to Cyprus: EU
"Turkey's EU talks cannot end without opening ports to Cyprus: EU
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut
European Commission Vice President Jacques Barrot, who is also the European Union Transport Commissioner, said on Monday that Turkey's entry negotiations cannot be concluded with the EU unless Turkey opens its ports and airports to the Greek Cypriots.
Barrot made the remarks at a joint press conference with Cypriot Minister of Communications and Works Charis Thrasou on the sidelines of the 'Maritime Cyprus 2005' shipping conference in the southern Cypriot coastal town of Limassol."
More:People's Daily Online -- Turkey's EU talks cannot end without opening ports to Cyprus: EU
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut
European Commission Vice President Jacques Barrot, who is also the European Union Transport Commissioner, said on Monday that Turkey's entry negotiations cannot be concluded with the EU unless Turkey opens its ports and airports to the Greek Cypriots.
Barrot made the remarks at a joint press conference with Cypriot Minister of Communications and Works Charis Thrasou on the sidelines of the 'Maritime Cyprus 2005' shipping conference in the southern Cypriot coastal town of Limassol."
More:People's Daily Online -- Turkey's EU talks cannot end without opening ports to Cyprus: EU
FISA - The Official World Rowing Web Site - News - Latest - Full Story
"Highlighting Rowing in Turkey
26/9/05 7:24 PM
The World Rowing Forum is just over a month away in Istanbul, Turkey, and World Rowing.com takes a look at Turkish rowing through the eyes of Gursel Sen, Secretary General of the Forum’s organising committee. Sen is also a member of Turkey’s National Olympic Committee and Secretary General of the Balkan Rowing Association.
World Rowing: When did rowing start in Turkey?
Sen: Rowing started with seamanship and the progress was paralleled by the progress of the navy. The first regattas were held in the 16th Century on the Bosphorus (the strait that runs through Istanbul). Based on documents from Topkapi Palace 25 boats participated in a regatta in 1579."
More:FISA - The Official World Rowing Web Site - News - Latest - Full Story
26/9/05 7:24 PM
The World Rowing Forum is just over a month away in Istanbul, Turkey, and World Rowing.com takes a look at Turkish rowing through the eyes of Gursel Sen, Secretary General of the Forum’s organising committee. Sen is also a member of Turkey’s National Olympic Committee and Secretary General of the Balkan Rowing Association.
World Rowing: When did rowing start in Turkey?
Sen: Rowing started with seamanship and the progress was paralleled by the progress of the navy. The first regattas were held in the 16th Century on the Bosphorus (the strait that runs through Istanbul). Based on documents from Topkapi Palace 25 boats participated in a regatta in 1579."
More:FISA - The Official World Rowing Web Site - News - Latest - Full Story
Erdogan Meets French Senate E.U. Delegation Chairman Haenel
"Erdogan Meets French Senate E.U. Delegation Chairman Haenel
Published: 9/26/2005
ANKARA - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that they expected France to extend support to Turkey's EU membership process.
Prime Minister Erdogan received French Senate's EU Delegation Chairman Hubert Haenel and the accompanying delegation in Ankara."
More:Erdogan Meets French Senate E.U. Delegation Chairman Haenel
Published: 9/26/2005
ANKARA - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that they expected France to extend support to Turkey's EU membership process.
Prime Minister Erdogan received French Senate's EU Delegation Chairman Hubert Haenel and the accompanying delegation in Ankara."
More:Erdogan Meets French Senate E.U. Delegation Chairman Haenel
Monday, September 26, 2005
Framework to displease Ankara
"Framework to displease Ankara
The draft of the European Union talks with Ankara will be again at Wednesday’s meeting of the Permanent Representatives.
Güncelleme: 04:29 ET 26 Eylül 2005 Pazartesi
BRUSSELS - The framework for the opening of Turkey’s accession negotiations with the European Union EU has been further refined, with many points that will not please Ankara."
More:Framework to displease Ankara
The draft of the European Union talks with Ankara will be again at Wednesday’s meeting of the Permanent Representatives.
Güncelleme: 04:29 ET 26 Eylül 2005 Pazartesi
BRUSSELS - The framework for the opening of Turkey’s accession negotiations with the European Union EU has been further refined, with many points that will not please Ankara."
More:Framework to displease Ankara
Why Europe is talking (quietly) to Turkey - Opinion - theage.com.au
"Why Europe is talking (quietly) to Turkey
By Madeleine Bunting
September 27, 2005
Much of Europe opposes the accession of Turkey to the EU.
Next Monday, barring a last-minute upset, there will be a small, quiet signing ceremony, probably in Strasbourg. Not even the British Foreign Office seems entirely sure of the venue or its format. But no one is questioning the scale of the ambition or the risks that underpin this event - the opening of the accession process for Turkey's membership of the European Union. Welcome to regime change, European-style."
More:Why Europe is talking (quietly) to Turkey - Opinion - theage.com.au
By Madeleine Bunting
September 27, 2005
Much of Europe opposes the accession of Turkey to the EU.
Next Monday, barring a last-minute upset, there will be a small, quiet signing ceremony, probably in Strasbourg. Not even the British Foreign Office seems entirely sure of the venue or its format. But no one is questioning the scale of the ambition or the risks that underpin this event - the opening of the accession process for Turkey's membership of the European Union. Welcome to regime change, European-style."
More:Why Europe is talking (quietly) to Turkey - Opinion - theage.com.au
Helsingin Sanomat - Commissioner Rehn: Call for Turkish 'second class' EU membership is strange
"Commissioner Rehn: Call for Turkish 'second class' EU membership is strange
'Enlargement of Union is used as scapegoat for member states' internal problems'
Commissioner Rehn: Call for Turkish 'second class' EU membership is strange
The European Commissioner for Enlargement, Finland's Olli Rehn, is astonished by Austria's demands that negotiations with Turkey be limited to talks of 'privileged partnership' rather than full EU membership.
'Certainly I'll be keeping an open mind to what this could mean. But Turkey already has tight relationships with the Union in the form of a comprehensive customs union', Rehn wonders when interviewed in Brussels by the Scandinavian media, the Finnish Helsingin Sanomat, the Danish Politiken, and the Swedish Dagens Nyheter "
More:Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition -Commissioner Rehn: Call for Turkish 'second class' EU membership is strange
'Enlargement of Union is used as scapegoat for member states' internal problems'
Commissioner Rehn: Call for Turkish 'second class' EU membership is strange
The European Commissioner for Enlargement, Finland's Olli Rehn, is astonished by Austria's demands that negotiations with Turkey be limited to talks of 'privileged partnership' rather than full EU membership.
'Certainly I'll be keeping an open mind to what this could mean. But Turkey already has tight relationships with the Union in the form of a comprehensive customs union', Rehn wonders when interviewed in Brussels by the Scandinavian media, the Finnish Helsingin Sanomat, the Danish Politiken, and the Swedish Dagens Nyheter "
More:Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition -Commissioner Rehn: Call for Turkish 'second class' EU membership is strange
Hürriyetim-Swedish state radio cancels Turkish broadcasts
"Swedish state radio cancels Turkish broadcasts
Following close on the heels of a decision by Danish state radion, Swedish state radio has announced a plan to take Turkish language broadcasts off the air. The planning board for the Swedish state radio had this to say about the cancellation of the Turkish language broadcasts: 'For certain Arab and Kurdish groups living in Sweden, Turkish is a very politically sensitive language. Broadcast in Turkish can have a negative affect over these people. For this reason, it is necessary to cancel these broadcasts.'"
More::Hürriyetim-Swedish state radio cancels Turkish broadcasts
Following close on the heels of a decision by Danish state radion, Swedish state radio has announced a plan to take Turkish language broadcasts off the air. The planning board for the Swedish state radio had this to say about the cancellation of the Turkish language broadcasts: 'For certain Arab and Kurdish groups living in Sweden, Turkish is a very politically sensitive language. Broadcast in Turkish can have a negative affect over these people. For this reason, it is necessary to cancel these broadcasts.'"
More::Hürriyetim-Swedish state radio cancels Turkish broadcasts
The Anatolia Times-Kaslowski: Privatization Strengthens Turkey's Image For Foreign Investors
"Kaslowski: Privatization Strengthens Turkey's Image For Foreign Investors
ANKARA - Turkish Industrialists & Businessmen Association (TUSIAD) International Chairman Aldo Kaslowski said, ''important privatization initiatives in Turkey strengthen Turkey's image in the aspect of foreign investors.''
''Continuation of privatization process may increase investments in Turkey,'' added Kaslowski.
Speaking to A.A on Sunday, Kaslowski said, ''privatization also increases Turkey's credibility.''
''During our meetings with government officials in Ankara, we took up Turkey-EU relations, new markets for foreign trade, incentives and investment issues. We think that sectoral incentives will be more effective instead of regional incentives,'' he said.
Kaslowski said, ''speeding up privatization is important for the future of Turkish economy. But, same thing cannot be said in the aspect of employment. Privatization will increase new investments regarding technology. Foreign capital within the scope of privatization becomes beneficial in the aspects of income and technology, but it can decrease employment level.''"
More:The Anatolia Times
ANKARA - Turkish Industrialists & Businessmen Association (TUSIAD) International Chairman Aldo Kaslowski said, ''important privatization initiatives in Turkey strengthen Turkey's image in the aspect of foreign investors.''
''Continuation of privatization process may increase investments in Turkey,'' added Kaslowski.
Speaking to A.A on Sunday, Kaslowski said, ''privatization also increases Turkey's credibility.''
''During our meetings with government officials in Ankara, we took up Turkey-EU relations, new markets for foreign trade, incentives and investment issues. We think that sectoral incentives will be more effective instead of regional incentives,'' he said.
Kaslowski said, ''speeding up privatization is important for the future of Turkish economy. But, same thing cannot be said in the aspect of employment. Privatization will increase new investments regarding technology. Foreign capital within the scope of privatization becomes beneficial in the aspects of income and technology, but it can decrease employment level.''"
More:The Anatolia Times
‘Abandoned by the EU’
"‘Abandoned by the EU’
By Simon Bahceli
IN April 2004 Turkish Cypriots were flavour of the month in the EU, having just overwhelmingly backed the UN’s Annan plan in a referendum to which the Greek Cypriots said ‘no’.
If the plan had been approved by both communities, a new Cyprus would have emerged after three decades of division. And both communities would have, just days after the referendum, begun enjoying the benefits of EU membership.
When this did not happen, the EU acted quickly to reassure the Turkish Cypriot community it would not be left out in the cold. In the days that followed, the Commission rushed to devise programmes that would help relieve the community of some of the more negative effects of living in an unrecognised, isolated statelet. To do this, the Commission immediately proposed the Green Line Regulation allowing the free passage of EU citizens across the UN-controlled buffer zone between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot sides. The regulation also allowed for Turkish Cypriot traders to bring their produce into the Greek Cypriot south to sell or export via ports in the south into EU markets. Although at first only a very limited range of products were allowed to cross, the plan was gradually to increase the product range. Then came the proposal of two packages, one on aid, and one on trade, for the Turkish Cypriots. The trade package would allow the Turkish Cypriots to export produce and products directly into the EU from ports in the north without paying customs duties. The aid would come in the form of 259 million Euros which would be spent on helping the north’s economy and infrastructure get closer to EU norms. There was also talk of opening an EU office in the north. "
More:‘Abandoned by the EU’
By Simon Bahceli
IN April 2004 Turkish Cypriots were flavour of the month in the EU, having just overwhelmingly backed the UN’s Annan plan in a referendum to which the Greek Cypriots said ‘no’.
If the plan had been approved by both communities, a new Cyprus would have emerged after three decades of division. And both communities would have, just days after the referendum, begun enjoying the benefits of EU membership.
When this did not happen, the EU acted quickly to reassure the Turkish Cypriot community it would not be left out in the cold. In the days that followed, the Commission rushed to devise programmes that would help relieve the community of some of the more negative effects of living in an unrecognised, isolated statelet. To do this, the Commission immediately proposed the Green Line Regulation allowing the free passage of EU citizens across the UN-controlled buffer zone between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot sides. The regulation also allowed for Turkish Cypriot traders to bring their produce into the Greek Cypriot south to sell or export via ports in the south into EU markets. Although at first only a very limited range of products were allowed to cross, the plan was gradually to increase the product range. Then came the proposal of two packages, one on aid, and one on trade, for the Turkish Cypriots. The trade package would allow the Turkish Cypriots to export produce and products directly into the EU from ports in the north without paying customs duties. The aid would come in the form of 259 million Euros which would be spent on helping the north’s economy and infrastructure get closer to EU norms. There was also talk of opening an EU office in the north. "
More:‘Abandoned by the EU’
Kilims of Hakkari
"Kilims of Hakkari
Long ago kilim weaving was a purely domestic handicraft practised in the remote mountain villages of Hakkari in southeastern Turkey.
Kilims were not only functional textiles used as bedspreads in cold weather, but also showpieces illustrating the weaving skills of young girls who made them for their trousseaus. A girl who did not know how to spin and weave intricately patterned kilims had little hope of finding a husband, so as soon as they were old enough to hold a shuttle girl children were seated beside their mothers at the loom and taught these age-old skills."
More:Kilims of Hakkari
Long ago kilim weaving was a purely domestic handicraft practised in the remote mountain villages of Hakkari in southeastern Turkey.
Kilims were not only functional textiles used as bedspreads in cold weather, but also showpieces illustrating the weaving skills of young girls who made them for their trousseaus. A girl who did not know how to spin and weave intricately patterned kilims had little hope of finding a husband, so as soon as they were old enough to hold a shuttle girl children were seated beside their mothers at the loom and taught these age-old skills."
More:Kilims of Hakkari
In Turkey, a first-ever debate about Armenian mass killings | csmonitor.com
"In Turkey, a first-ever debate about Armenian mass killings
On eve of EU accession talks, a conference on the World War I massacres stirs controversy.
By Scott Peterson | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – Opposition to a conference about mass killings of Armenians moved from Turkish courtrooms to the street over the weekend as scholars discussed the World War I massacres publicly for the first time on Turkish soil.
Turkish nationalists, who back the official line that there was no Armenian genocide, sought to make their views embarrassingly plain by hurling eggs and tomatoes outside Istanbul Bilgi University, a back-up venue used to skirt a court order Thursday that sought to shut down the conference at another location."
More:In Turkey, a first-ever debate about Armenian mass killings | csmonitor.com
On eve of EU accession talks, a conference on the World War I massacres stirs controversy.
By Scott Peterson | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – Opposition to a conference about mass killings of Armenians moved from Turkish courtrooms to the street over the weekend as scholars discussed the World War I massacres publicly for the first time on Turkish soil.
Turkish nationalists, who back the official line that there was no Armenian genocide, sought to make their views embarrassingly plain by hurling eggs and tomatoes outside Istanbul Bilgi University, a back-up venue used to skirt a court order Thursday that sought to shut down the conference at another location."
More:In Turkey, a first-ever debate about Armenian mass killings | csmonitor.com
FT.com / Europe / Brussels briefing - Turkish justice doubts weigh on EU talks
"Turkish justice doubts weigh on EU talks
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: September 25 2005 21:32 | Last updated: September 25 2005 21:32
Nobody yet knows whether the progressives or the reactionaries have won the battle over free speech that has raged in Turkey for the past few days. One thing is clear, however: despite years of reforms, the country's justice system is riddled with loopholes. The result, observers say, is arbitrary justice, which undermines people's faith in judges, prosecutors and police.
Although it is making changes as it seeks to join the European Union, Turkey still endures a justice system that puts the rights of the state above those of the individual. Recent events suggest that reforms made last year to the fascist-era penal code, which were supposed to make the system fairer and less punitive, are not working."
More:FT.com / Europe / Brussels briefing - Turkish justice doubts weigh on EU talks
By Vincent Boland in Ankara
Published: September 25 2005 21:32 | Last updated: September 25 2005 21:32
Nobody yet knows whether the progressives or the reactionaries have won the battle over free speech that has raged in Turkey for the past few days. One thing is clear, however: despite years of reforms, the country's justice system is riddled with loopholes. The result, observers say, is arbitrary justice, which undermines people's faith in judges, prosecutors and police.
Although it is making changes as it seeks to join the European Union, Turkey still endures a justice system that puts the rights of the state above those of the individual. Recent events suggest that reforms made last year to the fascist-era penal code, which were supposed to make the system fairer and less punitive, are not working."
More:FT.com / Europe / Brussels briefing - Turkish justice doubts weigh on EU talks
Guardian Unlimited | The Guardian | Turkish protest over genocide conference
"Turkish protest over genocide conference
Nicholas Watt, European editor
Monday September 26, 2005
The Guardian
Turkey avoided a damaging row with the EU on free speech at the weekend when a conference on the Armenian genocide was finally held in Istanbul after the organisers circumvented a court ban.
With a week to go until Turkey opens formal membership talks with the EU, academics broke new ground by discussing the extent of the killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turkish troops from 1915-23."
More:Guardian Unlimited | The Guardian | Turkish protest over genocide conference
Nicholas Watt, European editor
Monday September 26, 2005
The Guardian
Turkey avoided a damaging row with the EU on free speech at the weekend when a conference on the Armenian genocide was finally held in Istanbul after the organisers circumvented a court ban.
With a week to go until Turkey opens formal membership talks with the EU, academics broke new ground by discussing the extent of the killings of Armenians by Ottoman Turkish troops from 1915-23."
More:Guardian Unlimited | The Guardian | Turkish protest over genocide conference
New Vision Online : Turkey, door still open
"Turkey, door still open
Monday, 26th September, 2005
THE WRITER: Gwyne Dyer
The near-tie in the German election, in which Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder came from 13% points behind conservative challenger Angela Merkel in late August to less than one point behind her by the vote on September 18, has thrown German politics into turmoil, but one thing is clear. The door through which Turkey hopes to enter the European Union (EU), which Merkel had promised to slam, is still open. The entry negotiations begin on October 3, and Turkey is still a candidate for full membership. "
More:New Vision Online : Turkey, door still open
Monday, 26th September, 2005
THE WRITER: Gwyne Dyer
The near-tie in the German election, in which Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder came from 13% points behind conservative challenger Angela Merkel in late August to less than one point behind her by the vote on September 18, has thrown German politics into turmoil, but one thing is clear. The door through which Turkey hopes to enter the European Union (EU), which Merkel had promised to slam, is still open. The entry negotiations begin on October 3, and Turkey is still a candidate for full membership. "
More:New Vision Online : Turkey, door still open
Bloomberg.com: Germany-Turkey's Oppression of Schoolgirls May Be Barrier to EU Entry
"Turkey's Oppression of Schoolgirls May Be Barrier to EU Entry
Sept. 26 (Bloomberg) -- Thirteen-year-old Zeynep Kocak says she gave up hope of returning to school when her mother got her a job sewing buttons at a textile factory. She had all the schooling a Turkish girl needed, her mother told her.
Her chances to get an education were revived after Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government, under pressure from the European Union, began handing out monthly grants of 39 liras ($26) to encourage parents to keep girls in school. Erdogan's government starts European Union entry talks on Oct. 3."
More:Bloomberg.com: Germany-Turkey's Oppression of Schoolgirls May Be Barrier to EU Entry
Sept. 26 (Bloomberg) -- Thirteen-year-old Zeynep Kocak says she gave up hope of returning to school when her mother got her a job sewing buttons at a textile factory. She had all the schooling a Turkish girl needed, her mother told her.
Her chances to get an education were revived after Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's government, under pressure from the European Union, began handing out monthly grants of 39 liras ($26) to encourage parents to keep girls in school. Erdogan's government starts European Union entry talks on Oct. 3."
More:Bloomberg.com: Germany-Turkey's Oppression of Schoolgirls May Be Barrier to EU Entry
Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | Regime change, European-style, is a measure of our civilisation
"Regime change, European-style, is a measure of our civilisation
European self-interest must not be trumped by the politics of identity on the road to Turkey's accession to the EU
Madeleine Bunting
Monday September 26, 2005
The Guardian
A week from today, barring a last-minute upset, there will be a small, quiet signing ceremony, probably in Strasbourg. Not even the UK Foreign Office seems entirely sure of the venue or its format. But no one is questioning the scale of the ambition nor the risks which underpin this event - the opening of the accession process for Turkey's membership of the European Union. Welcome to regime change, European-style."
More:Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | Regime change, European-style, is a measure of our civilisation
European self-interest must not be trumped by the politics of identity on the road to Turkey's accession to the EU
Madeleine Bunting
Monday September 26, 2005
The Guardian
A week from today, barring a last-minute upset, there will be a small, quiet signing ceremony, probably in Strasbourg. Not even the UK Foreign Office seems entirely sure of the venue or its format. But no one is questioning the scale of the ambition nor the risks which underpin this event - the opening of the accession process for Turkey's membership of the European Union. Welcome to regime change, European-style."
More:Guardian Unlimited Politics | Comment | Regime change, European-style, is a measure of our civilisation
Daily Times - Turkey EU talks to shift UN focus back on Cyprus
"Turkey EU talks to shift UN focus back on Cyprus
NICOSIA: Turkey’s talks to join the European Union will trigger a fresh UN effort to break the stalemate over ethnically divided EU member Cyprus, the Cypriot foreign minister said on Sunday. UN efforts to reunite Cyprus’s Greek and Turkish Cypriots collapsed in 2004 when Greek Cypriots rejected a reunification plan accepted by the island’s Turkish Cypriots. But without a peace deal on Cyprus, chances of Turkey joining the EU in the next 10 to 15 years are slim."
More:Daily Times - Site Edition-Turkey EU talks to shift UN focus back on Cyprus
NICOSIA: Turkey’s talks to join the European Union will trigger a fresh UN effort to break the stalemate over ethnically divided EU member Cyprus, the Cypriot foreign minister said on Sunday. UN efforts to reunite Cyprus’s Greek and Turkish Cypriots collapsed in 2004 when Greek Cypriots rejected a reunification plan accepted by the island’s Turkish Cypriots. But without a peace deal on Cyprus, chances of Turkey joining the EU in the next 10 to 15 years are slim."
More:Daily Times - Site Edition-Turkey EU talks to shift UN focus back on Cyprus
People's Daily Online -- US reiterates support for Turkey's fight against PKK
"US reiterates support for Turkey's fight against PKK
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut
Stephen Hadley, national security advisor to US President George W. Bush, has reiterated support for Turkey's fight against the outlawed Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) in north of Iraq, Turkey's semi-official Anatolia news agency reported on Sunday.
Hadley, who is currently visiting Turkey, met with Turkish Foreign Ministry and military officials on Saturday following a meeting with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan late Friday."
More:People's Daily Online -- US reiterates support for Turkey's fight against PKK
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Stephen Hadley, national security advisor to US President George W. Bush, has reiterated support for Turkey's fight against the outlawed Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) in north of Iraq, Turkey's semi-official Anatolia news agency reported on Sunday.
Hadley, who is currently visiting Turkey, met with Turkish Foreign Ministry and military officials on Saturday following a meeting with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan late Friday."
More:People's Daily Online -- US reiterates support for Turkey's fight against PKK
Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
"Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
When travelling in any part of Turkey careful observation will reveal many traditional artifacts developed over hundreds of years of daily life. Sometimes you will find them still in use in a remote mountain cottage, on sale in oldfashioned shops in a small town, or behind glass in a museum. If all these artifacts could be gathered in a single collection they would form a large and significant exhibition of creative development over a very long period of time. The list is endless: carpets, baskets, textiles, jewellery, pottery, glass, metalwork, woodwork, tools, windmills, carts, boats and much more."
More:Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
When travelling in any part of Turkey careful observation will reveal many traditional artifacts developed over hundreds of years of daily life. Sometimes you will find them still in use in a remote mountain cottage, on sale in oldfashioned shops in a small town, or behind glass in a museum. If all these artifacts could be gathered in a single collection they would form a large and significant exhibition of creative development over a very long period of time. The list is endless: carpets, baskets, textiles, jewellery, pottery, glass, metalwork, woodwork, tools, windmills, carts, boats and much more."
More:Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
"Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
When travelling in any part of Turkey careful observation will reveal many traditional artifacts developed over hundreds of years of daily life. Sometimes you will find them still in use in a remote mountain cottage, on sale in oldfashioned shops in a small town, or behind glass in a museum. If all these artifacts could be gathered in a single collection they would form a large and significant exhibition of creative development over a very long period of time. The list is endless: carpets, baskets, textiles, jewellery, pottery, glass, metalwork, woodwork, tools, windmills, carts, boats and much more."
More:Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
When travelling in any part of Turkey careful observation will reveal many traditional artifacts developed over hundreds of years of daily life. Sometimes you will find them still in use in a remote mountain cottage, on sale in oldfashioned shops in a small town, or behind glass in a museum. If all these artifacts could be gathered in a single collection they would form a large and significant exhibition of creative development over a very long period of time. The list is endless: carpets, baskets, textiles, jewellery, pottery, glass, metalwork, woodwork, tools, windmills, carts, boats and much more."
More:Creative Craftsmen of Anatolia
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Forum examining Armenian massacre is a first for Turkey
"Forum examining Armenian massacre is a first for Turkey
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Benjamin Harvey
Associated Press
Istanbul, Turkey- Scholars held the first-ever public discussions in Turkey on Saturday about the early 20th-century massacre of Armenians, choosing words carefully, avoiding emotional language and picking apart history year by year at a gathering that nationalists denounced as traitorous.
The European Union called the academic conference a test of freedom of expression in Turkey, which is hoping to begin talks for membership in the bloc next month.
The participants were all Turkish speakers and included members of Turkey's Armenian minority like Hrant Dink, the editor-in-chief of Agos, a weekly Armenian newspaper in Istanbul. Some 70,000 Armenians are living in Istanbul."
More:Forum examining Armenian massacre is a first for Turkey
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Benjamin Harvey
Associated Press
Istanbul, Turkey- Scholars held the first-ever public discussions in Turkey on Saturday about the early 20th-century massacre of Armenians, choosing words carefully, avoiding emotional language and picking apart history year by year at a gathering that nationalists denounced as traitorous.
The European Union called the academic conference a test of freedom of expression in Turkey, which is hoping to begin talks for membership in the bloc next month.
The participants were all Turkish speakers and included members of Turkey's Armenian minority like Hrant Dink, the editor-in-chief of Agos, a weekly Armenian newspaper in Istanbul. Some 70,000 Armenians are living in Istanbul."
More:Forum examining Armenian massacre is a first for Turkey
The Seattle Times: Nation & World: Debate on Armenians still painful for Turks
"Debate on Armenians still painful for Turks
By Amberin Zaman
Los Angeles Times
ISTANBUL, Turkey — A controversial conference on the mass killings of ethnic Armenians during the last days of the Ottoman Empire opened amid heavy security yesterday in defiance of a court ban.
The forum was hailed by participants and Western observers as a groundbreaking event where Turkish academics for the first time publicly could challenge their country's official version of the events leading to the Armenian tragedy."
More:The Seattle Times: Nation & World: Debate on Armenians still painful for Turks
By Amberin Zaman
Los Angeles Times
ISTANBUL, Turkey — A controversial conference on the mass killings of ethnic Armenians during the last days of the Ottoman Empire opened amid heavy security yesterday in defiance of a court ban.
The forum was hailed by participants and Western observers as a groundbreaking event where Turkish academics for the first time publicly could challenge their country's official version of the events leading to the Armenian tragedy."
More:The Seattle Times: Nation & World: Debate on Armenians still painful for Turks
BakuTODAY.net - Turkish, German and Azeri Businessmen Keen on Co-Op
"Turkish, German and Azeri Businessmen Keen on Co-Op
AssA-Irada 25/09/2005 19:13
The Union of Azerbaijani and Turkish Businessmen (UATB) and the Germany-Azerbaijan Union of Economic Assistance (GAUEA) signed a protocol on cooperation on Friday. "
More:BakuTODAY.net - Turkish, German and Azeri Businessmen Keen on Co-Op
AssA-Irada 25/09/2005 19:13
The Union of Azerbaijani and Turkish Businessmen (UATB) and the Germany-Azerbaijan Union of Economic Assistance (GAUEA) signed a protocol on cooperation on Friday. "
More:BakuTODAY.net - Turkish, German and Azeri Businessmen Keen on Co-Op
Turkish Daily News - Turkish-Greek friendship concert: 'Oresteia'
"Turkish-Greek friendship concert: 'Oresteia'
Sunday, September 25, 2005
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News
ARTICLE SUMMARY
The Borusan Istanbul Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Gürer Aykal is performing 'Oresteia,' a work by Xenakis, the most important Greek composer of the 20th century, backed by Greek "
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkish-Greek friendship concert: 'Oresteia'
Sunday, September 25, 2005
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News
ARTICLE SUMMARY
The Borusan Istanbul Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Gürer Aykal is performing 'Oresteia,' a work by Xenakis, the most important Greek composer of the 20th century, backed by Greek "
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkish-Greek friendship concert: 'Oresteia'
Turkish Daily News - Turkey's EU path: How solid is it to walk along
"Turkey's EU path: How solid is it to walk along
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Despite all the problems that many fear could block negotiations in the short and medium term, the process of accession, once it formally starts on Oct. 3, will create the spontaneous momentum for their solution, says Sanberk"
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey's EU path: How solid is it to walk along
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Despite all the problems that many fear could block negotiations in the short and medium term, the process of accession, once it formally starts on Oct. 3, will create the spontaneous momentum for their solution, says Sanberk"
More:Turkish Daily News - Turkey's EU path: How solid is it to walk along
Bloomberg.com: Europe-Sarkozy Sees Turkey as EU Partner, Calls for End to U.K. Rebate
"Sarkozy Sees Turkey as EU Partner, Calls for End to U.K. Rebate
Sept. 24 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey should be a partner of the European Union and not a member, and Britain should stop receiving an annual rebate from the EU budget, French Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy said.
Sarkozy, who heads President Jacques Chirac's Union for a Popular Movement, told a party conference in Paris today that the U.K. rebate, worth as much as 5.7 billion euros ($7 billion) this year, is an ``anomaly.'' He also said the EU can't accept more members until the bloc overhauls its institutions, and nations such as Turkey and Russia should be privileged partners."
More:Bloomberg.com: Europe
Sept. 24 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey should be a partner of the European Union and not a member, and Britain should stop receiving an annual rebate from the EU budget, French Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy said.
Sarkozy, who heads President Jacques Chirac's Union for a Popular Movement, told a party conference in Paris today that the U.K. rebate, worth as much as 5.7 billion euros ($7 billion) this year, is an ``anomaly.'' He also said the EU can't accept more members until the bloc overhauls its institutions, and nations such as Turkey and Russia should be privileged partners."
More:Bloomberg.com: Europe
Turkish People Is At Peace With Its History, Gul
"Turkish People Is At Peace With Its History, Gul
Published: 9/24/2005
ISTANBUL - ''The Turkish people is at peace with itself and with its history,'' said Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul.
Sending a message to the opening session of the Conference entitled ''The Armenians during the Collapse of the Ottoman Empire'', Gul said, ''the approaches of our government and our people towards our past, including Turkish-Armenian relations, constitute an indication of our confidence in ourselves and our future.''"
More:Turkish People Is At Peace With Its History, Gul
Published: 9/24/2005
ISTANBUL - ''The Turkish people is at peace with itself and with its history,'' said Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul.
Sending a message to the opening session of the Conference entitled ''The Armenians during the Collapse of the Ottoman Empire'', Gul said, ''the approaches of our government and our people towards our past, including Turkish-Armenian relations, constitute an indication of our confidence in ourselves and our future.''"
More:Turkish People Is At Peace With Its History, Gul
French Senate's E.U. Delegation Due In Turkey
"French Senate's E.U. Delegation Due In Turkey
Published: 9/24/2005
ANKARA - Members of French Senate's EU delegation will visit Turkey upon the invitation of Turkish parliament, press & public relations department of the parliament said.
Releasing a statement, the press & public relations department said that the French delegation would be in Turkey on Sunday."
More:French Senate's E.U. Delegation Due In Turkey
Published: 9/24/2005
ANKARA - Members of French Senate's EU delegation will visit Turkey upon the invitation of Turkish parliament, press & public relations department of the parliament said.
Releasing a statement, the press & public relations department said that the French delegation would be in Turkey on Sunday."
More:French Senate's E.U. Delegation Due In Turkey
The Register-Guard, Eugene, Oregon, USA
"Twirling, whirling dervishes' dream
By Jeff Wright
The Register-Guard
Published: Saturday, September 24, 2005
Turn, turn, turn.
And then, if you're a whirling dervish, turn some more.
Five area women who engage in the ancient meditative practice are about to turn a page in history - invited to be among the first women to whirl, or 'turn,' in public in Turkey, homeland of the 13th-century poet and mystic Rumi."
More:The Register-Guard, Eugene, Oregon, USA
By Jeff Wright
The Register-Guard
Published: Saturday, September 24, 2005
Turn, turn, turn.
And then, if you're a whirling dervish, turn some more.
Five area women who engage in the ancient meditative practice are about to turn a page in history - invited to be among the first women to whirl, or 'turn,' in public in Turkey, homeland of the 13th-century poet and mystic Rumi."
More:The Register-Guard, Eugene, Oregon, USA
AP Wire | 09/24/2005 | Protesters denounce conference in Turkey
"Protesters denounce conference in Turkey
BENJAMIN HARVEY
Associated Press
ISTANBUL, Turkey - Scholars held the first-ever public discussions in Turkey on Saturday about the early 20th-century massacre of Armenians, choosing words carefully, avoiding emotional language and picking apart history year by year at a gathering that nationalists denounced as traitorous."
More:AP Wire | 09/24/2005 | Protesters denounce conference in Turkey
BENJAMIN HARVEY
Associated Press
ISTANBUL, Turkey - Scholars held the first-ever public discussions in Turkey on Saturday about the early 20th-century massacre of Armenians, choosing words carefully, avoiding emotional language and picking apart history year by year at a gathering that nationalists denounced as traitorous."
More:AP Wire | 09/24/2005 | Protesters denounce conference in Turkey
Scotland on Sunday - International - Turkey split by ban on Armenian massacre conference
"Turkey split by ban on Armenian massacre conference
JON HEMMING
IN ISTANBUL
HUNDREDS of Turkish nationalists chanting slogans and waving flags protested yesterday against a controversial academic conference on the First World War massacre of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey.
The conference had been due to open on Friday at two universities in Istanbul but a last-minute court order blocked it, causing acute embarrassment to the Turkish government just days before the start of its EU membership talks."
More:Scotland on Sunday - International - Turkey split by ban on Armenian massacre conference
JON HEMMING
IN ISTANBUL
HUNDREDS of Turkish nationalists chanting slogans and waving flags protested yesterday against a controversial academic conference on the First World War massacre of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey.
The conference had been due to open on Friday at two universities in Istanbul but a last-minute court order blocked it, causing acute embarrassment to the Turkish government just days before the start of its EU membership talks."
More:Scotland on Sunday - International - Turkey split by ban on Armenian massacre conference
Saturday, September 24, 2005
A Photo Show on a Pogrom 50 Years Ago Is Itself Attacked by a Mob - New York Times
"A Photo Show on a Pogrom 50 Years Ago Is Itself Attacked by a Mob
By STEVE KETTMANN
Published: September 24, 2005
ISTANBUL - Tucked away for more than 40 years, the 120 black-and-white photographs hanging in a gallery here have the stark appearance and potential emotional impact of evidence presented in a legal proceeding.
Skip to next paragraph
Karsi Gallery
One of the photographs from the Karsi Gallery collection, from 1955.
This article is exclusive to the Web.
And that, it turns out, is what they are.
One image shows a mob outside a row of storefronts, with some people watching passively and others cheering as a shop is ransacked. A young man stands with his half-clenched fist raised in the air, as if he is egging on the vandals; his other hand rests passively on his hip, suggesting nonchalance. A boy stares up numbly, as if looking in vain for answers. Above him, a man in the shell of the shop's wrecked building heaves a baby carriage to the street below."
More:A Photo Show on a Pogrom 50 Years Ago Is Itself Attacked by a Mob - New York Times
By STEVE KETTMANN
Published: September 24, 2005
ISTANBUL - Tucked away for more than 40 years, the 120 black-and-white photographs hanging in a gallery here have the stark appearance and potential emotional impact of evidence presented in a legal proceeding.
Skip to next paragraph
Karsi Gallery
One of the photographs from the Karsi Gallery collection, from 1955.
This article is exclusive to the Web.
And that, it turns out, is what they are.
One image shows a mob outside a row of storefronts, with some people watching passively and others cheering as a shop is ransacked. A young man stands with his half-clenched fist raised in the air, as if he is egging on the vandals; his other hand rests passively on his hip, suggesting nonchalance. A boy stares up numbly, as if looking in vain for answers. Above him, a man in the shell of the shop's wrecked building heaves a baby carriage to the street below."
More:A Photo Show on a Pogrom 50 Years Ago Is Itself Attacked by a Mob - New York Times
Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Scholars in Turkey Change Conference Venue
"Scholars in Turkey Change Conference Venue
Saturday September 24, 2005 5:01 AM
ISTANBUL, Turkey (AP) - A group of academics planning to hold a conference on the massacre of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire has decided to skirt a court order banning the event by changing the venue, an academic official said Friday."
More:Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Scholars in Turkey Change Conference Venue
Saturday September 24, 2005 5:01 AM
ISTANBUL, Turkey (AP) - A group of academics planning to hold a conference on the massacre of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire has decided to skirt a court order banning the event by changing the venue, an academic official said Friday."
More:Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Scholars in Turkey Change Conference Venue
Gul: Turkish Own Goal
"Gul: Turkish Own Goal
Published: Friday, September 23, 2005
zaman.com
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul, reacting to the decision of the court to cancel an Armenian Conference to the last minute, said: “You can rarely find a country which does itself so much harm.”
Those who want to prevent Turkey’s membership of the European Union (EU) from inside or outside are making their last attempts, Gul claimed, adding it would not be a surprise for him if there are more similar events."
More:Gul: Turkish Own Goal
Published: Friday, September 23, 2005
zaman.com
Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul, reacting to the decision of the court to cancel an Armenian Conference to the last minute, said: “You can rarely find a country which does itself so much harm.”
Those who want to prevent Turkey’s membership of the European Union (EU) from inside or outside are making their last attempts, Gul claimed, adding it would not be a surprise for him if there are more similar events."
More:Gul: Turkish Own Goal
Independent Online Edition > Armenian rebuke deals blow to Turks' EU ambition
"Armenian rebuke deals blow to Turks' EU ambition
By Stephen Castle in Brussels
Published: 24 September 2005
Turkey received a direct rebuke from the European Commission yesterday after a court ruling prompted the cancellation of a conference of historians to discuss the massacre of Armenians early in the last century.
Coming just 10 days before Ankara is due to open EU membership negotiations the judgement prompted an unusually blunt condemnation from the Commission, which described it as 'yet another provocation'.
Last night efforts were under way to salvage the conference and bypass the legal ruling by holding it today at a new location."
More:Independent Online Edition > Europe : app1
By Stephen Castle in Brussels
Published: 24 September 2005
Turkey received a direct rebuke from the European Commission yesterday after a court ruling prompted the cancellation of a conference of historians to discuss the massacre of Armenians early in the last century.
Coming just 10 days before Ankara is due to open EU membership negotiations the judgement prompted an unusually blunt condemnation from the Commission, which described it as 'yet another provocation'.
Last night efforts were under way to salvage the conference and bypass the legal ruling by holding it today at a new location."
More:Independent Online Edition > Europe : app1
Turkish Daily News - Top US advisor arrives in Ankara for talks
"Top US advisor arrives in Ankara for talks
Saturday, September 24, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
U.S. National Security Advisor Stephen J. Hadley, upon his arrival in Ankara yesterday for a day of talks with top Turkish officials, said his visit should be perceived as part of the 'strategic relationship' between Turkey and the United States, the Anatolia news agency reported."
More:Turkish Daily News - Top US advisor arrives in Ankara for talks
Saturday, September 24, 2005
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News
U.S. National Security Advisor Stephen J. Hadley, upon his arrival in Ankara yesterday for a day of talks with top Turkish officials, said his visit should be perceived as part of the 'strategic relationship' between Turkey and the United States, the Anatolia news agency reported."
More:Turkish Daily News - Top US advisor arrives in Ankara for talks
A City of Many Pasts Embraces the Future - New York Times
"A City of Many Pasts Embraces the Future
Lynsey Addario for The New York Times
By RICK LYMAN
Published: September 25, 2005
IN the recently published first volume of memoirs, 'Istanbul: Memories and the City,' Orhan Pamuk describes how a 1950's childhood among Europe-yearning cosmopolitans in the crumbling ruins of the Ottoman Empire helped to shape him as a writer. The key, he said, is to understand the concept of huzun."
More:A City of Many Pasts Embraces the Future - New York Times
Lynsey Addario for The New York Times
By RICK LYMAN
Published: September 25, 2005
IN the recently published first volume of memoirs, 'Istanbul: Memories and the City,' Orhan Pamuk describes how a 1950's childhood among Europe-yearning cosmopolitans in the crumbling ruins of the Ottoman Empire helped to shape him as a writer. The key, he said, is to understand the concept of huzun."
More:A City of Many Pasts Embraces the Future - New York Times
BBC-Gallup Poll: Turks Have Strong Ties with Family
BBC-Gallup Poll: Turks Have Strong Ties with Family
"BBC-Gallup Poll: Turks Have Strong Ties with Family
By AA
Published: Friday, September 23, 2005
The results of a public survey, conducted by the BCC and Gallup with 51,417 people in 68 countries, shows that Turkish people’s loyalty to their families is very strong.
Seventy-seven percent of the Turkish participants take their crucial decisions together with their families, compared to an average of 61 percent within the European countries."
"BBC-Gallup Poll: Turks Have Strong Ties with Family
By AA
Published: Friday, September 23, 2005
The results of a public survey, conducted by the BCC and Gallup with 51,417 people in 68 countries, shows that Turkish people’s loyalty to their families is very strong.
Seventy-seven percent of the Turkish participants take their crucial decisions together with their families, compared to an average of 61 percent within the European countries."
Friday, September 23, 2005
swisspolitics.org | Turkey's EU entry would halt integration-Giscard
"Turkey's EU entry would halt integration-Giscard
23.09.2005 - 18:21
By Jon Boyle
PARIS (Reuters) - The architect of the European Union constitution warned the 25-nation bloc on Friday against starting accession talks with Turkey next month, saying Ankara's entry would kill off hopes of tighter political integration.
Speaking just 10 days before the EU launches membership talks with Ankara on October 3, former French President Valery Giscard d'Estaing said most French voters opposed Turkish membership."
More:swisspolitics.org | Turkey's EU entry would halt integration-Giscard
23.09.2005 - 18:21
By Jon Boyle
PARIS (Reuters) - The architect of the European Union constitution warned the 25-nation bloc on Friday against starting accession talks with Turkey next month, saying Ankara's entry would kill off hopes of tighter political integration.
Speaking just 10 days before the EU launches membership talks with Ankara on October 3, former French President Valery Giscard d'Estaing said most French voters opposed Turkish membership."
More:swisspolitics.org | Turkey's EU entry would halt integration-Giscard
EUobserver.com-Brussels clashes with Turks on free speech and Cyprus
"Brussels clashes with Turks on free speech and Cyprus
23.09.2005 - 17:42 CET | By Mark Beunderman
EUOBSERVER / BRUSSELS - Harsh words were fired from Brussels on Friday as the commission reacted strongly to a Turkish court's suspension of a conference on the Armenian massacre. Meanwhile Turkey has slammed an EU counter declaration on Cyprus.
The decision yesterday (22 September) by an Istanbul court to cancel a conference on the mass killings of Armenians by the Ottoman empire in 1915, sparked a commission spokeswoman to speak of 'yet another provocation'. "
More:EUobserver.com-Brussels clashes with Turks on free speech and Cyprus
23.09.2005 - 17:42 CET | By Mark Beunderman
EUOBSERVER / BRUSSELS - Harsh words were fired from Brussels on Friday as the commission reacted strongly to a Turkish court's suspension of a conference on the Armenian massacre. Meanwhile Turkey has slammed an EU counter declaration on Cyprus.
The decision yesterday (22 September) by an Istanbul court to cancel a conference on the mass killings of Armenians by the Ottoman empire in 1915, sparked a commission spokeswoman to speak of 'yet another provocation'. "
More:EUobserver.com-Brussels clashes with Turks on free speech and Cyprus
Focus English News-Turkey’s Special Forces Declare Cyber War to Separatists and Fundamentalists
"Turkey’s Special Forces Declare Cyber War to Separatists and Fundamentalists
Ankara. Turkey’s Special Forces declared cyber war to separatists and fundamentalists, RIA Novosti reported. A special subdivision called Digi-Security-Turkey has been established. It includes representatives of the General Staff, the National Intelligence Services and Chief Security Department.
The war in virtual space began four months ago and has already showed results, the newspaper Aksam reads today. According to the issue, at the present moment about 100 Internet sites with terrorist, separatist and fundamentalist purpose have been revealed. The Turkish services use several methods for counteraction: they send letters of warning to the owners of the Internet sites. If the letters show no result, the Internet sites are blocked and Turkey’s flag, map of Turkey and a portrait of Kemal Ataturk are being displayed online."
More:Focus English News-Turkey’s Special Forces Declare Cyber War to Separatists and Fundamentalists
Ankara. Turkey’s Special Forces declared cyber war to separatists and fundamentalists, RIA Novosti reported. A special subdivision called Digi-Security-Turkey has been established. It includes representatives of the General Staff, the National Intelligence Services and Chief Security Department.
The war in virtual space began four months ago and has already showed results, the newspaper Aksam reads today. According to the issue, at the present moment about 100 Internet sites with terrorist, separatist and fundamentalist purpose have been revealed. The Turkish services use several methods for counteraction: they send letters of warning to the owners of the Internet sites. If the letters show no result, the Internet sites are blocked and Turkey’s flag, map of Turkey and a portrait of Kemal Ataturk are being displayed online."
More:Focus English News-Turkey’s Special Forces Declare Cyber War to Separatists and Fundamentalists
The rise of the Turkish film empire
"The rise of the Turkish film empire
By Vanessa Hilary Larson
“Once upon a time, we had one of the biggest film industries in the world,” said Mevlut Akkaya, reminiscing on the heyday of Turkish film in the 1960s and 70s. Now, Turkish film is rising again, thanks to an explosion of new talent over the last decade among Turkish filmmakers living both in and outside of Turkey. The 7th Annual New York Turkish Film Festival, of which Akkaya is the director, brings some of that vibrant, young talent to American audiences. Held at Anthology Film Archives, the festival will present 26 films, a dozen of them features and the rest documentaries and shorts—most of them not previously shown in the U.S."
More:The rise of the Turkish film empire
By Vanessa Hilary Larson
“Once upon a time, we had one of the biggest film industries in the world,” said Mevlut Akkaya, reminiscing on the heyday of Turkish film in the 1960s and 70s. Now, Turkish film is rising again, thanks to an explosion of new talent over the last decade among Turkish filmmakers living both in and outside of Turkey. The 7th Annual New York Turkish Film Festival, of which Akkaya is the director, brings some of that vibrant, young talent to American audiences. Held at Anthology Film Archives, the festival will present 26 films, a dozen of them features and the rest documentaries and shorts—most of them not previously shown in the U.S."
More:The rise of the Turkish film empire
GAZA: 6,000 JOBS FOR PALESTINIANS THANKS TO TURKISH INVESTMENTS
"GAZA: 6,000 JOBS FOR PALESTINIANS THANKS TO TURKISH INVESTMENTS
Ankara, 23 Sept. (AKI) - Some 200 Turkish businesses are set to open shop at an industrial zone in the Gaza Strip, a venture which will create some 6,000 jobs for Palestinians. News of the investment plan emerged at this week's Ankara Forum which gathers Turkish, Israeli and Turkish business representatives. The Forum discussed the development of the Eres Industrial Area in Gaza and a memorandum of understanding will be signed in the coming days, the Turkish daily Zaman reported. "
More:GAZA: 6,000 JOBS FOR PALESTINIANS THANKS TO TURKISH INVESTMENTS
Ankara, 23 Sept. (AKI) - Some 200 Turkish businesses are set to open shop at an industrial zone in the Gaza Strip, a venture which will create some 6,000 jobs for Palestinians. News of the investment plan emerged at this week's Ankara Forum which gathers Turkish, Israeli and Turkish business representatives. The Forum discussed the development of the Eres Industrial Area in Gaza and a memorandum of understanding will be signed in the coming days, the Turkish daily Zaman reported. "
More:GAZA: 6,000 JOBS FOR PALESTINIANS THANKS TO TURKISH INVESTMENTS
Reuters AlertNet - Turkey, EU rap court stopping Armenia conference
"Turkey, EU rap court stopping Armenia conference
23 Sep 2005 15:10:51 GMT
Source: Reuters
(Adds conference to be held Saturday)
By Jon Hemming
ISTANBUL, Sept 23 (Reuters) - An Istanbul court's decision to block a conference on the World War One massacre of Armenians has embarrassed Turkey at a sensitive moment and angered EU states just 10 days before the planned start of EU entry talks.
But conference organisers moved on Friday to circumvent the ruling, which banned it from two universities. A spokeswoman for a third Istanbul university said they would host the event."
More:Reuters AlertNet - Turkey, EU rap court stopping Armenia conference
23 Sep 2005 15:10:51 GMT
Source: Reuters
(Adds conference to be held Saturday)
By Jon Hemming
ISTANBUL, Sept 23 (Reuters) - An Istanbul court's decision to block a conference on the World War One massacre of Armenians has embarrassed Turkey at a sensitive moment and angered EU states just 10 days before the planned start of EU entry talks.
But conference organisers moved on Friday to circumvent the ruling, which banned it from two universities. A spokeswoman for a third Istanbul university said they would host the event."
More:Reuters AlertNet - Turkey, EU rap court stopping Armenia conference
BBC NEWS | Europe | Armenian forum ban splits Turks
"Armenian forum ban splits Turks
Armenian girls holding torches
Turkey's prime minister and the EU have criticised a court ruling ordering the cancellation of a conference about the 1915 killing of thousands of Armenians.
The conference of academics was to debate Turkey's official approach to the disputed events of 90 years ago.
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said stopping a meeting, when it was not clear what would be discussed, had nothing to do with democracy.
An EU spokeswoman said it was a bid to stop Turkey discussing its history."
More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Armenian forum ban splits Turks
Armenian girls holding torches
Turkey's prime minister and the EU have criticised a court ruling ordering the cancellation of a conference about the 1915 killing of thousands of Armenians.
The conference of academics was to debate Turkey's official approach to the disputed events of 90 years ago.
Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said stopping a meeting, when it was not clear what would be discussed, had nothing to do with democracy.
An EU spokeswoman said it was a bid to stop Turkey discussing its history."
More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Armenian forum ban splits Turks
Newswise | American Professor Takes Part in Turkey's Quest for EU Membership
"American Professor Takes Part in Turkey's Quest for EU Membership
Libraries
Life News (Social and Behavioral Sciences) Keywords
EUROPEAN UNION, TURKEY, KURDS, EU
With all 25 European Union member states agreeing to start entry talks with Turkey on Oct. 3, political science professor Michael Gunter says one great lie may be laid to rest and 'the greatest hope to solve the Kurdish problem in Turkey in 100 years' is poised to emerge.
TTU Photo Services
Dr. Michael Gunter
previous image Image 1 of 1 next image
Newswise — As the only American among a few hundred participants in this week's Second International Conference on EU, Turkey and the Kurds, Gunter spoke as one of a dozen advisors to the EU Turkey Civic Commission seeking to encourage EU members to allow the Muslim state into the union.
'There are two overwhelming reasons why Turkey should be allowed to join the EU,' said Gunter, ranked by Campus Watch as one of the top university-based specialists on the Middle East. 'First, it would solve the Kurdish problem because Turkey would have to meet the EU standards of democracy. Second, it would put to rest the lie that Christian and Muslim nations will always be in conflict."
More:Newswise | American Professor Takes Part in Turkey's Quest for EU Membership
Libraries
Life News (Social and Behavioral Sciences) Keywords
EUROPEAN UNION, TURKEY, KURDS, EU
With all 25 European Union member states agreeing to start entry talks with Turkey on Oct. 3, political science professor Michael Gunter says one great lie may be laid to rest and 'the greatest hope to solve the Kurdish problem in Turkey in 100 years' is poised to emerge.
TTU Photo Services
Dr. Michael Gunter
previous image Image 1 of 1 next image
Newswise — As the only American among a few hundred participants in this week's Second International Conference on EU, Turkey and the Kurds, Gunter spoke as one of a dozen advisors to the EU Turkey Civic Commission seeking to encourage EU members to allow the Muslim state into the union.
'There are two overwhelming reasons why Turkey should be allowed to join the EU,' said Gunter, ranked by Campus Watch as one of the top university-based specialists on the Middle East. 'First, it would solve the Kurdish problem because Turkey would have to meet the EU standards of democracy. Second, it would put to rest the lie that Christian and Muslim nations will always be in conflict."
More:Newswise | American Professor Takes Part in Turkey's Quest for EU Membership
EU criticises Turkish court decision to ban massacre conference - Forbes.com
"EU criticises Turkish court decision to ban massacre conference
09.23.2005, 08:59 AM
BRUSSELS (AFX) - The European Commission criticised a Turkish court ban on a conference on the massacre of Armenians under the Ottoman empire, only days before the planned start of EU entry talks with Ankara.
In a strongly-worded response to the court ruling, the European Union's executive arm also warned that if not overturned, the judgment would impact an annual EU assessment of Ankara's readiness to join the bloc. "
More:EU criticises Turkish court decision to ban massacre conference - Forbes.com
09.23.2005, 08:59 AM
BRUSSELS (AFX) - The European Commission criticised a Turkish court ban on a conference on the massacre of Armenians under the Ottoman empire, only days before the planned start of EU entry talks with Ankara.
In a strongly-worded response to the court ruling, the European Union's executive arm also warned that if not overturned, the judgment would impact an annual EU assessment of Ankara's readiness to join the bloc. "
More:EU criticises Turkish court decision to ban massacre conference - Forbes.com
Herald.com:Cultivating leaders in the Mediterranean
Herald.com
Cultivating leaders in the Mediterranean
BODRUM, Turkey -- In this beautiful Aegean port, on a piece of land with a view across the wine-dark sea from Turkish cliffs to the Greek islands, Akin Ongor envisions establishing an international institute for emerging leaders of the Eastern Mediterranean. For Americans, ''Eastern Mediterranean'' encompasses a sweeping strategic swath from the Balkans to the Gulf, from Bosnia to Baghdad to Bethlehem -- sites of our post-Cold War wars and conflagrations.
This region's path to peace and prosperity is cluttered with ongoing obstacles. But Ongor, a former Turkish national basketball star whose leadership skills were honed at General Electric, is not afraid of challenges. As CEO of Garanti Bank from 1991 to 2000, he built it into ''the best small bank in the world'' (Euromoney magazine) and one of Europe's ''50 most respected companies'' (Financial Times) by emphasizing technology, teamwork and talent development. Ongor's leadership during Turkish monetary crises generated offers for him to become his country's Alan Greenspan after leaving the bank. He preferred to pursue his dream of training the next generation of leaders to build bridges between Islam and the West, and doing it in a strategically-positioned country.
On October 3, negotiations are scheduled to begin for Turkey's bid to join the European Union in 2015. Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice has expressed strong support for Turkey's EU membership -- an ''epoch-making change, a merger of Christian Europe with the major Muslim power on its doorstep,'' said the BBC's William Horsley.
Negotiations start at a delicate moment. Tension is growing in the soul of many Turks between the Westernized world and Islamic fundamentalism, as depicted in Snow, Orhan Pamuk's widely acclaimed novel. Snow symbolizes the religious veil (secular Turkey opposes head scarves in schools while fundamentalists use head-scarf-wearing girls as political weapons) and also a periodic barrier isolating Turkey from Europe. Many Turks flirt with the West but feel degraded, Pamuk's book indicates. ''Most of the time it's not the Europeans who belittle us. What happens when we look at them is that we belittle ourselves,'' a character says.
It's in America's interest that Turks feel valued and embraced by Europe, especially if Turkey then encourages the development of cosmopolitan leaders able to build bridges against warring factions within and across Muslim nations. That's why Turkey's president and prime minister endorse Ongor's vision of a leadership institute for the whole region.
A beautiful piece of land, even one over international waters, cannot by itself heal centuries of conflict. But if we keep Turkey on our mental maps, cheer on its European aspirations next month and applaud its private-sector leaders such as Ongor who offer visions for change, then there is hope for ending terrorism and finding peace.
Turkish Daily News - Ankara to see senior-level visits from Washington
"Ankara to see senior-level visits from Washington
Friday, September 23, 2005
US National Security Advisor Hadley’s visit is regarded by EU diplomats as a 'solid message of solidarity from Washington' during a phase of tension between the EU and Turkey "
More:Turkish Daily News - Ankara to see senior-level visits from Washington
Friday, September 23, 2005
US National Security Advisor Hadley’s visit is regarded by EU diplomats as a 'solid message of solidarity from Washington' during a phase of tension between the EU and Turkey "
More:Turkish Daily News - Ankara to see senior-level visits from Washington
FT.com / World / Europe - Turkish academics grasp nettle on Armenians
Turkish academics grasp nettle on Armenians
By Vincent Boland
Published: September 23 2005 03:00 | Last updated: September 23 2005 03:00
There is no moresensitive issue in Turkey's 20thcentury history. The country's most celebrated writer faces jail for mentioning it. But this weekend Bosphorus University plans to go ahead with a conference, on the fate of Turkish Armenians at the end of the Ottoman empire, that has been delayed for months after a government minister accused the university of treason.
More:FT.com / World / Europe - Turkish academics grasp nettle on Armenians
By Vincent Boland
Published: September 23 2005 03:00 | Last updated: September 23 2005 03:00
There is no moresensitive issue in Turkey's 20thcentury history. The country's most celebrated writer faces jail for mentioning it. But this weekend Bosphorus University plans to go ahead with a conference, on the fate of Turkish Armenians at the end of the Ottoman empire, that has been delayed for months after a government minister accused the university of treason.
More:FT.com / World / Europe - Turkish academics grasp nettle on Armenians
The Statesman- Turkey’s failure on the Kurds front
"Turkey’s failure on the Kurds front
world view
JONATHAN POWER
This is the edge of tomorrow’s Europe, at least if Turkey gets its way. A desolate, mud-built, village, close to the Syrian border, reduced to rubble by the Turkish army battling the terrorists of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), is slowly being repopulated by a brave few."
More:The Statesman-Turkey’s failure on the Kurds front
world view
JONATHAN POWER
This is the edge of tomorrow’s Europe, at least if Turkey gets its way. A desolate, mud-built, village, close to the Syrian border, reduced to rubble by the Turkish army battling the terrorists of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), is slowly being repopulated by a brave few."
More:The Statesman-Turkey’s failure on the Kurds front
VOA News - Turkish Court Blocks Conference on Armenian Massacre
"Turkish Court Blocks Conference on Armenian Massacre
By Amberin Zaman
Ankara
22 September 2005
An Istanbul court on Thursday ordered the cancellation of a conference at which Turkish academics were widely expected to challenge the official version of events surrounding the mass slaughter of Armenians during the Ottoman Empire. The ruling was condemned by the country's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan."
More:VOA News - Turkish Court Blocks Conference on Armenian Massacre
By Amberin Zaman
Ankara
22 September 2005
An Istanbul court on Thursday ordered the cancellation of a conference at which Turkish academics were widely expected to challenge the official version of events surrounding the mass slaughter of Armenians during the Ottoman Empire. The ruling was condemned by the country's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan."
More:VOA News - Turkish Court Blocks Conference on Armenian Massacre
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