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Tuesday, January 31, 2006

Alternatives to violence: A comparison of the Muslims of the Southern Philippines and the Kurds of Turkey - II

"Alternatives to violence: A comparison of the Muslims of the Southern Philippines and the Kurds of Turkey - II
1/31/2006 KurdishMedia.com - By Aland Mizell
Economic and Educational Development

Role of Education

Education can alleviate violence almost immediately if the conflict has arisen because of economic, social, or political disparity. Yet, one of the clearest indicators of disparity between the majority and the minority populations is the level of education. In both southeastern Turkey and in the Philippines the illiteracy rate is substantially higher, the quality of education is poorer, and the gender difference is greater. According to the Republic of Turkey’s Prime Ministry Southeastern Anatolia Project Regional Development Administration 2000, most Kurdish villages do not have a primary school. Where one exists, a single teacher is responsible for teaching in Turkish to five classes. The following chart shows the percentages of illiteracy in southeastern Turkey compared to the whole country and the rural to the urban areas. Approximately 80% of the 69,660,559 population are Turks and 20% are Kurds (World Factbook 2005). "

More:Alternatives to violence: A comparison of the Muslims of the Southern Philippines and the Kurds of Turkey - II

Kurdish Info - EU representative Kretschmer: Alevi problem should be solved in EU standards

"EU representative Kretschmer: Alevi problem should be solved in EU standards

ANKARA (DIHA) - The council of Alevi Bektasi Federation (ABF) visited the EU Turkey representative Hans Jörg Kretschmer. Kretschmer who said that they did not find it true not to recognise the Alevis by the AK Party government in terms of freedom of faith said that the problems of Alevis should be solved in EU standards. "

More:Kurdish Info - EU representative Kretschmer: Alevi problem should be solved in EU standards

Today.Az - Turkish MP of Belgium parliament Fatma Pahlavan: "Belgian Parliament doesn't have enough information about Karabakh problem"

"Turkish MP of Belgium parliament Fatma Pahlavan: 'Belgian Parliament doesn't have enough information about Karabakh problem'
01 February 2006 [01:37] - Today.Az
'Belgian Parliament is aware of Nagorno Karabakh conflict. But MPs do not have enough information about this conflict'.

As APA reports, the member of the Belgian parliament, member of Belgium-Azerbaijan parliament friendship group, member of Belgian parliament to Parliamentary Assembly of Council of Europe Fatma Pehlevan told that Armenians achieve to get the community to believe them: 'I don't have enough information about this issue, I plan to visit Baku, and then I will try to get all-round information'."

More:Today.Az - Turkish MP of Belgium parliament Fatma Pahlavan: "Belgian Parliament doesn't have enough information about Karabakh problem"

Helping Turkey find the way forward - Editorials & Commentary - International Herald Tribune

"Helping Turkey find the way forward


WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2006
The judge in the free-speech trial of the Turkish novelist Orhan Pamuk dismissed all charges last week, sparing Turkey further international scorn. But the case was thrown out on a technicality. Turkey still needs to change the repressive law under which Pamuk was arrested and drop similar cases against dozens of other lesser-known Turks.

The most powerful motivation for making such changes has always been Turkey's desire to join the European Union. But public support for joining is now waning, down from a high of 85 percent to 65 percent recently. In part, that reflects a lingering bitterness over 11th-hour issues that tainted the start of Turkey's membership talks."


More:Helping Turkey find the way forward - Editorials & Commentary - International Herald Tribune

Turkey: Between the West and the Middle East

"Turkey: Between the West and the Middle East
Featuring Yigit Alpogan
January 31, 2006

On January 24, 2006, Yigit Alpogan, secretary-general of Turkey’s National Security Council, addressed The Washington Institute’s Special Policy Forum. Ambassador Alpogan, who assumed his current post in August 2004 as the first civilian head of the Turkish National Security Council, previously served as the Turkish ambassador to Greece and Turkmenistan as well as deputy undersecretary of foreign affairs. The following is a rapporteur’s summary of his remarks."

More:

inadaily.com | Turkey's maneuver on the Cyprus issueCommentary

"Turkey's maneuver on the Cyprus issue
Commentary

Kathimerini Greece | Costis I. Fafoutis - Kathimerini

ATHENS

Turkey's new proposal on the Cyprus problem has provoked intense concern in Greek and Cypriot government circles. Unfortunately, it is of little significance whether the 10-point plan projected by Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul is compatible with international law or even honest.

There is no doubt that it is merely a reiteration, in different terms, of Turkey's established stance on Cyprus, one aimed at undermining the position of the Greek Cypriots. Thus it is little more than a maneuver. It also clarifies Ankara's intention to win time in order to evade its commitments to the EU and make a show of its desire to secure the swiftest possible solution to the island's ongoing political problem. Furthermore, it shows that Turkey wants to set the Cyprus issue outside the EU framework."

More:inadaily.com | Article service

Europeanizing the Cyprus issue? - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

"Europeanizing the Cyprus issue?
Tuesday, January 31, 2006

Turkey took a new step on the Cyprus issue on Jan. 24. The day in 2004 in Davos that Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan told U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan to fill in those blanks in the Annan plan that the sides failed to reach agreement on was also Jan. 24."

More:Europeanizing the Cyprus issue? - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

Young German Turks Protest Honor Killings and Feel the Heat | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 31.01.2006

"Young German Turks Protest Honor Killings and Feel the Heat

Two young Berlin Turks protested publicly against so-called honor killings. Besides positive reactions and media interest, they also reaped tense responses from family members and schoolmates.

Journalist Güner Y. Balci initiated a postcard campaign against so-called honor killings in the Berlin girls' club 'MaDonna,' in early 2005, after a young Turkish woman was killed on the streets of Berlin by her brother. Balci asked young people to let themselves be photographed for it. Seventeen-year-old Sinan and his one year younger friend Saithan immediately agreed."

More:Young German Turks Protest Honor Killings and Feel the Heat | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 31.01.2006

Giorgi Khaindrava: Azerbaijan Is Second Homeland For Muslim Turks

"Giorgi Khaindrava: Azerbaijan Is Second Homeland For Muslim Turks

Tbilisi. January 31 (Prime-News) – About 70 000 of Muslim Turks (Turk Meskhs) are living in Azerbaijan that became the second homeland for them."

More:Giorgi Khaindrava: Azerbaijan Is Second Homeland For Muslim Turks

British Embassy, Oslo Foreign Policy News

"....We expect both Turkey and Croatia to be ready to open accession negotiations on some individual chapters early in 2006. During his visit to Turkey and Cyprus last week, my Right Honourable Friend, the Foreign Secretary, reiterated the need for Turkey to ratify and implement the Protocol to the Ankara agreement. We are also committed to ending the isolation of the Turkish Cypriot community and finding a way in which they can trade with European Union member states."

More:British Embassy, Oslo Foreign Policy News

BakuTODAY.net - Georgian Minister, Officials Discuss Repatriation of Meskhet Turks

"Georgian Minister, Officials Discuss Repatriation of Meskhet Turks

AssA-Irada 31/01/2006 10:52

Georgian state minister Georgi Khaindrava, in Azerbaijan on a three-day visit, has discussed the issue of deportation of Meskhet Turks and their return to their historic territories with officials in Baku. "

More:BakuTODAY.net - Georgian Minister, Officials Discuss Repatriation of Meskhet Turks

THY to establish Tabriz-Istanbul flight Feb. 15

"THY to establish Tabriz-Istanbul flight Feb. 15
TEHRAN, Jan. 31 (MNA) -– Three direct flights per week will connect Tabriz to Istanbul beginning February 15, the Persian service of IRNA quoted Tuesday director of Turkish Airlines (THY) Fatih Kaptan as announcing.

The flights will take place on Saturdays, Mondays and Thursdays and may allow passengers boarding in Tabriz to travel to any destination in Europe in less than two hours. “Three years ago, we opened negotiations with Iranian officials in this regard, however, due to some existing barriers back then our initiation was not materialized. Nevertheless, Tabriz Airport now enjoys a new domestic terminal, and the plan to build one for international flights would enhance its standards,” Kaptan stated."

More:THY to establish Tabriz-Istanbul flight Feb. 15

JTW News - Reaction towards EU immigrant populations rising

"Reaction towards EU immigrant populations rising
A number of EU countries are grabbing the spotlight lately for what is perceived as being an increase in intolerance towards foreign immigrants within their borders. Some of the stranger implementations seen lately are as follows:

'What do you think of September 11?'

In the German state of Baden-Wurttemberg, immigrants applying for citizenship are being given a 'conscience test' which includes such questions as 'What do you think about the September 11 attacks?' Many perceive such questions as being important signals of the recent rise in hostility towards both Islam and foreigners in the country. Other questions included in the Baden-Wurttemberg test are 'What would your reaction be if your daughter wanted to marry a non-Muslim?' and 'Do you find honor killings justifiable?' "

More:JTW News - Reaction towards EU immigrant populations rising

Muslim Profiling: A German State Quizes Muslim Immigrants on Jews, Gays and Swim Lessons - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"A German State Quizes Muslim Immigrants on Jews, Gays and Swim Lessons

By Charles Hawley

Since the beginning of the year, the German state of Baden-Württemberg has been testing would-be citizens on their attitudes to the constitution. The only problem? The quiz itself might be unconstitutional."

More:Muslim Profiling: A German State Quizes Muslim Immigrants on Jews, Gays and Swim Lessons - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

The strongest opposition in the world: Corruption - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

"The strongest opposition in the world: Corruption
Tuesday, January 31, 2006

There is one opposition force no government in the world can resist, and that is corruption.

Cüneyt Ülsever

There is one opposition force no government in the world can resist, and that is corruption.

Corruption, just like bribery, has no written receipts or documentation, Only a single criterion needs to be satisfied for to be effective.

The moment it becomes acceptable it becomes effective."

More:The strongest opposition in the world: Corruption - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

Thirty people were enough to make some people uncomfortable! - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

"Thirty people were enough to make some people uncomfortable!
Tuesday, January 31, 2006

The aspect that amazes me most about an incident in which women whose heads were uncovered were praying in the company of men is that a group of 25-30 people is enough to rock Turkey's religious world. This situation must be tied not to their strength per se but to the confusion in the minds of our religious community.
"

More:Thirty people were enough to make some people uncomfortable! - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

Turkish-Russian relations: partnership by alienation - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

"Turkish-Russian relations: partnership by alienation
Tuesday, January 31, 2006

In the late 19th century Ottoman statesmen used to say that Turkey does not have a policy toward Russia. They would add that Turkey does the exact opposite whatever Ambassador Ignatiev would be saying. On Dec. 9, 2005, at the 85th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Soviet Union and the Turkish Republic, Ambassador Piotr Stegniy presented Russia’s prestigious medals to prominent Turkish politicians, academics and businessmen. Indeed, given the violent and bitter history of Turkish-Russian relations, the Russian role in the Eastern Question and the dismemberment of Ottoman Turkey, as well as the Cold War, the ceremony signified in itself a remarkable turnaround in bilateral relations between the two countries.
"

More:Turkish-Russian relations: partnership by alienation - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

AKP and the status of women - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

"AKP and the status of women
Tuesday, January 31, 2006

AYŞE ÖZGÜN

I had the privilege of attending a meeting arranged by the General Directorate of the Status of Women held in Istanbul last weekend at the Conrad Hotel. Steered by State Minister Nimet Çubukçu and featuring an international panel of speakers along with an opening address by Prime Minister Erdoğan, the meeting and its organization by Zarakol was faultless. The hall was jam-packed with women when I entered and there wasn't a chair to be had. Strangely enough, though, as soon as the prime minister completed his speech and left the premises, the hall became half empty."

More:AKP and the status of women - Turkish Daily News Jan 31, 2006

The Anatolia Times-Erdogan: Hamas Should Recognize Israel

"Erdogan: Hamas Should Recognize Israel
ERDOGAN: ''ORHAN PAMUK TOPIC ENDED IN TURKEY''

DAVOS - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday that ''the charges against Turkish novelist Orhan Pamuk dropped so there is no need to elaborate on a topic that has ended in Turkey.''

-ISRAEL-PALESTINE PEACE-

Responding to questions of Turkish and foreign journalists about current issues in Davos, Erdogan said in his meeting with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan they both stressed the importance of respecting the preference of the Palestinian people. Erdogan hinted that the existence of the Israeli state should be accepted by the new government in Palestine.

Erdogan said that Turkey, as a regional country would do its utmost both to help ensure an Israeli-Palestinian peace and to contribute to democratization process in the region."

More:The Anatolia Times

Sail World: Seaside Summer Restaurants–Turkey’s Cruising Icon

"Seaside Summer Restaurants–Turkey’s Cruising Icon.

Mon, 30 Jan 2006

There is nothing more typical of cruising life in Turkey than the ubiquitous summer restaurant found in bays and anchorages throughout the cruising grounds.

Of course, the further west you go, the more sophisticated and expensive they are, and conversely, the further east, the more likely you are to encounter the ad hoc, summer-only, eating places – ‘restaurant’ is maybe too grand a name - by the shore. Sometimes these are tumbledown farms, with a small shack on the shore, sometime it’s just a hastily erected summer pergola with white plastic chairs and rickety tables, sometimes the cooking is outdoor and the cook sleeps in a tent nearby for the summer months."

More:Sail World: Sail and sailing, cruising, boating news

New policies, old attitudes - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"New policies, old attitudes

TODAY'S COLUMNIST
By Tulin Daloglu
January 31, 2006

In 2004, Greek Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos urged his people to vote 'no' on a settlement plan for Cyprus proposed by United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan -- and that action has brought about unprecedented results. First, it helped Turkey improve its negative image on the issue. Turkey had been viewed as an obstacle to unification, but when it proposed a plan last week to lift economic restrictions on Cyprus, the United States, the European Union and the United Nations supported it. Ankara's plan includes opening Turkish Cypriot air and seaports to international trade while allowing the Greek Cypriot ships and planes the access to the Turkish territory. "

More:New policies, old attitudes - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

The Anatolia Times-Turkish - American Relations Improving Since June 2005, Alpogan

"Turkish - American Relations Improving Since June 2005, Alpogan
WASHINGTON D.C. - Turkish National Security Council (MGK) Secretary General Yigit Alpogan remarked that Turkish-American relations have passed through a tough period as of the end of 2004.

''There were some circles who wanted to create an atmosphere of crisis between the two countries. However, Turkish-American relations have been improving since June 2005,'' told Alpogan.

Alpogan is in Washington D.C. upon an invitation from U.S. National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley.

Alpogan talked to Turkish journalists in Washington D.C."

More:The Anatolia Times

The Anatolia Times-Work On Turkey's New National Program Underway

"Work On Turkey's New National Program Underway
ANKARA - Turkey has started to work on its new National Program regarding its EU bid.

Diplomatic sources told today that the new National Program, which will be a road map for Turkey's EU process, will be shorter and different from the previous ones.

The new National Program will not be very detailed and it will rather focus on assessment of administrative capacity.

The new program will be completed in short time and can be sent to EU in spring, sources added."

The Anatolia Times

Monday, January 30, 2006

The Anatolia Times-Women In Alliance Of Civilizations Congress

"Women In Alliance Of Civilizations Congress
ERDOGAN: ''LEAVING PRE-CONCEIVED NOTIONS AND PROMOTING CULTURAL, SOCIAL, POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC RELATIONS ARE THE KEY FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE AND STABILITY''

ISTANBUL - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has indicated today that the lack of dialogue between civilizations and cultures is one of the most serious problems of the current generation.

''Leaving pre-conceived notions and promoting cultural, social, political and economic relations are the key for international peace and stability,'' said Erdogan.

Erdogan delivered opening remarks at a congress on ''Women in the Alliance of Civilizations'' in Istanbul."

More:The Anatolia Times

JTW News - French Ambassador to Yerevan Accuses Turkey

"French Ambassador to Yerevan Accuses Turkey
* French Ambassador to Armenia Henry Cuny: Turkey Should Enter Europe with Open Borders

* Turkish Expert Davut Sahiner: 'French politicians and diplomats are biased against the Turks and Turkey. They muddle the Cuaucasus'"

More:JTW News - French Ambassador to Yerevan Accuses Turkey

NewsCentralAsia - Turkish, American Ambassadors Meet President of Turkmenistan

"Turkish, American Ambassadors Meet President of Turkmenistan

NewsnCa News and Commentary

Ashgabat, 31 January 2006 (nCa) --- Ambassadors of Turkey and the United States had a meeting Monday with President Niyazov. The core issue of the talks was energy cooperation. The meeting was important in many ways and could possibly be the starting point of a new phase in energy diplomacy.

President Niyazov listened to the points of view of Ambassador Hakki Akil of Turkey and Ambassador Tracey Jacobson of the United States. He assured that Turkmenistan remains committed to the strategic dimension of energy cooperation."

More:NewsCentralAsia - Turkish, American Ambassadors Meet President of Turkmenistan

IOL: Agca asks his family to end hunger strike

"Agca asks his family to end hunger strike

January 30 2006 at 08:09PM

Ankara - Mehmet Ali Agca, the Turk who tried to kill Pope John Paul II in 1981, has asked his relatives to end a hunger strike protesting against his reimprisonment and the family will comply, Agca's brother said on Monday."

More:IOL: Agca asks his family to end hunger strike

BUCHAREST DAILY NEWS-Inter-war Romanian foreign minister to have statue in Ankara

"Inter-war Romanian foreign minister to have statue in Ankara
Dana Milea

An effigy of Romanian politician and diplomat Nicolae Titulescu will be unveiled tomorrow on the Ataturk boulevard in Ankara, Turkey, in the presence of Prime Minister Calin Popescu Tariceanu. The event takes place in the context of the commemoration of 65 years since Titulescu's death, and is organized by the Romanian Embassy in Turkey. "

More:BUCHAREST DAILY NEWS

Expatica's Dutch news in English: Immigrant bosses 'must provide work placements'

"Immigrant bosses 'must provide work placements'
30 January 2006

AMSTERDAM — Business people from non-native Dutch backgrounds - described as allochtonen in Dutch - must make work placements available to young allochtonen, Social Affairs Minister Art Jan de Geus said on Monday.

The former trade union leader made his statement at the launch of a new Turkish business association in Rotterdam. He said he hoped businesses run by members of the Turkish community will have created 200 work placements by the end of the year."

More:Expatica's Dutch news in English: Immigrant bosses 'must provide work placements'

Iraqi Women Seek Survival not Science

"...The Scientific and Technical Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) Acting Chairwoman Professor Nuket Yetis made a speech titled, 'The woman's place in science in Turkey,' in the same panel. Yetis said, as the institution, they have started using the word 'scientist' instead of 'man of science”.

She stressed Turkish women rapidly rose in science, 'Forty percent of the lecturers for science courses at our universities are women. This is higher than the European Union average.'"

More:Iraqi Women Seek Survival not Science

Turkish exports to top $79 billion: TIM

"Turkish exports to top $79 billion: TIM
Turkey exported goods and services worth nearly $73.5 billion in 2005, setting a new record.

ISTANBUL - Turkey exporters are confident that they can exceed a government prediction of $79 billion in overseas sales in 2006.
Though Turkish exports are being hampered by the present strong lira, overseas sales for the year should top the $79 billion mark set by the government, according to Oguz Satici, the head of the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM)."

More:Turkish exports to top $79 billion: TIM

Microsoft announces low cost Windows for Turkey

"Microsoft announces low cost Windows for Turkey
Jan 30, 2006, 15:06 GMT

Ankara - Microsoft chairman Bill Gates announced Monday details of a joint project to produce a Turkish-language version of Windows XP Starter Edition, an inexpensive, stripped down version of the standard operating software aimed at schoolchildren."

More:Microsoft announces low cost Windows for Turkey

..:: ABHABER.COM : Douste-Blazy to discuss Iran, Middle East with Turkey

"Douste-Blazy to discuss Iran, Middle East with Turkey

French FM in Ankara Wednesday to discuss Iranian nuclear crisis, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Cyprus. European diplomats say EU expects Turkish govt to join Western pressure against Tehran to convince Iran to halt nuclear enrichment program

French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy will pay a two-day official visit to Turkey on Wednesday, during which, according to diplomats, the Iranian nuclear crisis, developments in the Middle East and the Cyprus issue will dominate the agenda. "

More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..

'Turkey is Ahead of Greeks in Moves for Cyprus Peace'

"'Turkey is Ahead of Greeks in Moves for Cyprus Peace'
By Cihan News Agency
Published: Monday, January 30, 2006
zaman.com

Turkey's Cyprus action plan put Turkey ahead of the Greek Cypriot side to reach a solution in the island, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Sunday.

The United Nations Security Council should take the initiative in finding a solution for the problem."

More:'Turkey is Ahead of Greeks in Moves for Cyprus Peace'

REPORTER.GR-Romania: Turkish Parliamentary Delegation Visits Bucharest

"Romania: Turkish Parliamentary Delegation Visits Bucharest

16:05 - 30 January 2006 - A delegation of the Turkish Parliamentary Commission for Harmonisation with the European Union started a three-day visit to Bucharest, ACT Media news agency reports. "

More:REPORTER.GR

Turkey, Malta and Cyprus >> .:thebusinessonline.com:.

"Turkey, Malta and Cyprus


By Cheryl Taylor - Property editor
29 January 2006

THE property market is Turkey is already taking off, despite uncertainty about EU membership. With prices a fraction of those on the Costa del Sol, British investors are rushing to buy property along Turkey’s Turquoise coast, which ex-tends from Bodrum to Antalaya, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean.

Property prices in many coastal areas have doubled over the past two years and show no sign of stopping. When the low-cost airlines arrive in due course, property values will soar. The region is served by airports at Izmir and Bodrum on the Aegean, and Dalaman and Antalya on the Mediterranean, offering direct flights to many UK destinations in four hours."

More:Turkey, Malta and Cyprus >> .:thebusinessonline.com:.

Talabani: Autonomy for Turkmens in Kurdistan

"Talabani: Autonomy for Turkmens in Kurdistan
1/30/2006 The New Anatolian
President Jalal Talabani
Ilnur Cevik - The New Anatolian / Baghdad/Erbil

'Kurds working on plan to give Turkmens autonomy in areas they're a majority in new constitution they're drafting for Kurdistan Region of Iraq'

Talabani: Terrorism, Shiite and Arab nationalist extremism are threats. Without US, civil war between Shiite Arabs and Sunnis could be real possibility "

More:Talabani: Autonomy for Turkmens in Kurdistan

Luchtzak Aviation - Izmir Airlines to get A319 - A crazy site about aviation!!

"Izmir Airlines to get A319
Posted on Sunday, January 29, 2006 @ 9:34 AM CET by sn26567

Latest Aviation hakan writes 'The new Turkish start up Izmir Airlines will get their first of three A319 on 15.February.2006.
The airline is planning to fly to domestic and international destinations this spring from their base in Izmir-Turkey with three A 319 which were leased from International Leasing Financial Corporation (ILFC).

According to CEO of Izmir Airlines Mr. Demirtas the airline will increase the A319 aircraft number to five by the end of 2006. ' "

Luchtzak Aviation - Izmir Airlines to get A319 - A crazy site about aviation!!

Smoking overtakes ‘traffic monster’ as cause of death - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

"Smoking overtakes ‘traffic monster’ as cause of death
Monday, January 30, 2006
Smoking killed approximately 37 times more people than car accidents in 2005

ANKARA – Turkish Daily News

Smoking-related ailments caused some 112,000 deaths in 2005 in Turkey, a figure far ahead of the number of people who died in car accidents.

Smoking, a popular habit in Turkey, is blamed for a number of diseases, including several types of cancer, which in turn kill millions of people every year across the world. Alarmed by the high rate of deaths from smoking-related reasons, Turkish lawmakers are working on a bill to extend a smoking ban, an effort that has hardly been welcomed by Turkey's millions of smokers."

More:Smoking overtakes ‘traffic monster’ as cause of death - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

..:: ABHABER.COM :Borrell: Turkey EU talks decision should have been consulted with public

"Borrell: Turkey EU talks decision should have been consulted with public

The decision on opening European Union accession negotiations with Turkey without asking the public's opinion was a mistake, according to European Parliament President Josep Borrell.

“The EU governments should have asked the people's opinion regarding the latest enlargement and especially the opening of accession negotiations with Turkey,” Borrell said at the closing session of a panel held over the weekend in Salzburg, Austria, which currently holds the EU term presidency.
"

More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..

Greek Cyprus on a road of no return - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

"Greek Cyprus on a road of no return
Monday, January 30, 2006
Orhan Kilercioğlu

We know about our neighbor Greece and Greek Cyprus well, because we lived together with them for 400 years. They have always displayed an intransigent stance during efforts to resolve problems. There are many instances throughout history that prove this.Our neighbor, who is unwilling to resolve the problems in the Aegean Sea in accordance with international agreements, follows the same attitude concerning the Cyprus issue. One must also note the fact that it was Greece that was to blame for the problem in the first place. Unfortunately, some countries that don't understand the fanatical Greek Cypriot policy continue to support them blindly.One of the worst European Union policies was the admittance of Greek Cyprus as a member, which has made the problem even more intractable. Nowadays, the EU is paying the price for its mistaken policies. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' (KKTC) approval of the Annan plan at the referendum surprised both the EU and the international community and made the Greek Cypriots games plain for all to see.Right now the EU and other countries are trying to find ways to solve the problem and end the unfair isolation of the KKTC: British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw's entering the KKTC and visiting President Mehmet Ali Talat at his office is just the latest development in this respect.Despite the fact that Britain, together with Turkey, signed the London-Zurich Treaty as guarantor states, Britain always failed to perform its responsibilities."

More:Greek Cyprus on a road of no return - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

A new assessment of the Kurdish issue - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

"A new assessment of the Kurdish issue
Monday, January 30, 2006

Opinion by Doğu ERGİL
The essay I will be referring to in two consecutive articles is 'Kurds in Turkey: The Big Change,' written by Stephen Kinzer. The excerpts I use here are taken from The New York Review of Books, Volume 53, No. 1, from Jan. 12. "

More:A new assessment of the Kurdish issue - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

Iran hopes Cyprus dispute can be settled through talks - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

"Iran hopes Cyprus dispute can be settled through talks
Monday, January 30, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Iran expressed hope yesterday that the decades-old Cyprus deadlock could be resolved through negotiations.

�As Iran, we are taking steps with regard to the Cyprus issue within the framework of U.N. rules and approved resolutions,� said Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Hamid-Reza Asefi during a press conference yesterday, in response to a question about a package of proposals announced by Turkey last week for a resolution of the Cyprus problem."

More:Iran hopes Cyprus dispute can be settled through talks - Turkish Daily News Jan 30, 2006

Focus -British Foreign Minister Wants Quick Solving of Cyprus Issue

"British Foreign Minister Wants Quick Solving of Cyprus Issue

Athens. Great Britain Foreign Minister Jack Straw said in an interview with Greek newspaper Vima that the new Turkish action plan in connection to Cyprus is open for discussion but that he wants to find a solution to the Cyprus issue as soon as possible, online edition of Internethaber reads.
In the interview Straw talked about the Cyprus issue, Turkish EU perspective and Turkish-Greek relations. He pointed out that Turkey’s new initiative on Cyprus pleases him and European Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn. "

More:Focus English News

MENAFN - Middle East North Africa . Financial Network News: Zu'bi urges partnerships between Jordanians, Turks

"Zu'bi urges partnerships between Jordanians, Turks
Jordan Times - 30/01/2006

AMMAN (Petra) — Industry and Trade Minister Sharif Zu'bi on Sunday called on Jordanian contractors to cooperate and build partnerships with their Turkish counterparts in order to participate in business ventures, particularly Iraq rebuilding projects.
While inaugurating the meetings of the Jordanian Turkish Businessmen Council, Zu'bi indicated that the Kingdom and Turkey should sign a free trade agreement this year to achieve integration with rules of origin and to allow local products to reach European markets. "

More:MENAFN - Middle East North Africa . Financial Network News: Zu'bi urges partnerships between Jordanians, Turks

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: HSBC Plans Investments Increase in Turkey

"Turkey: HSBC Plans Investments Increase in Turkey

13:53 - 30 January 2006 - HSBC bank of Britain increases its investments in Turkey as the number of HSBC Turkish branches will be increased from 159 to 350 within the next five years, leading to a double increase in the number of employees as well, said Sir John Bond, the Chief Executive Officer of the HSBC Holding, Zaman Daily reports."

More:REPORTER.GR

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Buyuk Tarabya Hotel Sale Underway

"Turkey: Buyuk Tarabya Hotel Sale Underway

12:35 - 30 January 2006 - The Turkish Privatization Administration )OIB) will extend a tender invitation for the privatization sale of Buyuk Tarabya Hotel in Istanbul, which is owned by the Emekli Sandigi, the Pension Fund of Public Servants. "

More:REPORTER.GR

REPORTER.GR-New Turkish Lira Gains Value Against 65 Currencies

"Turkey: New Turkish Lira Gains Value Against 65 Currencies

15:15 - 30 January 2006 - The new Turkish Lira went up 65 notches in the ranking of currencies of the world and according to the official notification published by the Turkish Finance Ministry, the New Turkish Lira (YTL), which started circulating as of January 1st 2005, after the removal of 6 zeros, overcame the currency of 65 countries.

The currencies that are more valuable than YTL are: the American, Canadian and Bahaman dollars, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and Libyan dinars, British pound, euro, Swiss franc, Japanese yen, Cypriot lira, Latvia lat, Panaman balboa and Omani riyal."

REPORTER.GR

Reuters AlertNet - Blast injures 3 at U.S.-Turkish association

"Blast injures 3 at U.S.-Turkish association
30 Jan 2006 13:56:01 GMT
Source: Reuters
(Adds more details, background)

ANKARA, Jan 30 (Reuters) - Three people were injured on Monday in an explosion at a building housing a Turkish-U.S. association in the southern Turkish city of Adana, the state Anatolian news agency said.

Two of the injured were women, the agency said. No further information on the blast was immediately available."

More:Reuters AlertNet - Blast injures 3 at U.S.-Turkish association

Gates Arrives in Turkey to Meet Local Businessmen

"Gates Arrives in Turkey to Meet Local Businessmen
By Zelis Yildiral, Istanbul
Published: Monday, January 30, 2006
zaman.com

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted a dinner on Sunday evening in Istanbul giving Turkish businessmen the opportunity to meet Bill Gates, Microsoft CEO, and talk over the Techno-City project."

More:Gates Arrives in Turkey to Meet Local Businessmen

Sunday, January 29, 2006

Globes [online] - Turkish restaurant opens Israeli franchise

"Turkish restaurant opens Israeli franchise
The Tike chain has 12 branches in Turkey, Greece, Russia, and Kuwait.
Sapir Peretz 29 Jan 06 17:15
In two weeks, a group of Turkish and Israeli business people will open a branch of the Tike restaurant chain of Turkish restaurants in the Bayside Land Corp building in Herzliya Pituah. $1 million was invested in the restaurant.

The Tike chain has 12 branches in Turkey, Greece, Russia, and Kuwait. Additional outlets are planned in the US and Western Europe."

More:Globes [online] - Turkish restaurant opens Israeli franchise

The Daily Star - Arts & Culture - Something about 'Nissa' min Turkiyya'

"Something about 'Nissa' min Turkiyya'
Lebanese-Turkish filmmaker Olga Nakkash offers a personal evaluation on Kemalist Turkey

By Jim Quilty
Daily Star staff
Monday, January 30, 2006

Something about 'Nissa' min Turkiyya'

BEIRUT: 'Nissa' min Turkiyya' ('Women from Turkey') is an innocuous title for a film. When director Olga Nakkash took the commission from al-Arabiyya's O3 Productions to make the documentary, it's not quite the title she had in mind. It may not be the most inviting title but neither is it misleading. Taking a selection of Turkish women who pursue active professional careers - some muhajiabat, some not - 'Nissa' min Turkiyya' asks them how they negotiate their lives between secularism and religion."

More:The Daily Star - Arts & Culture - Something about 'Nissa' min Turkiyya'

JTW News - Turkey Questions Iran Gas Deal

"Turkey Questions Iran Gas Deal
* No Gas to Residential Areas if Iran Fails to Deliver

Nese DURAK (JTW)

Iran reduced the gas to Turkey with no warning.

Now Turkey’s biggest cities and industry under the threat of shortage of energy. Iranian officials say ‘this is the God’s thing, and not their mistake’ Sabah daily noted.

According to the written agreements Iran had no right to reduce or cut the gas to Turkey and Turkey could end the agreements under these conditions. The problem is Turkey does not want to rely only on the Russian gas. However it is reported that Ankara seeks other options including Central Asia, Caucasus, Middle East and Africa to replace the Iranian gas. Turkish authorities say that Iran and Russia are not reliable suppliers. “They use gas as a political tool. They are not sincere and reliable” said one of the Turkish official."

More:JTW News - Turkey Questions Iran Gas Deal

Alpogan: Kerkuk Referendum may Change

"Alpogan: Kerkuk Referendum may Change
By Ali H. Aslan, Washington
Published:
zaman.com

Turkish National Security Council Secretary-General, Yigit Alpogan, returned to Turkey after concluding his a week long official contacts in Washington. Alpogan informed the US addressees about Turkey’s new Cyprus opening, and he said, he asked for their support, receiving positive reactions from them."

More:Alpogan: Kerkuk Referendum may Change

Bill Gates to Introduce New Product of Windows

"Bill Gates to Introduce New Product of Windows
By Zaman, Istanbul
Published: Sunday, January 29, 2006
zaman.com

Microsoft Chief, Bill Gates came to Istanbul from Zurich on his private plane and was met by officials from the Police department and The State Air Navigation Department (DHMI)."

More:Bill Gates to Introduce New Product of Windows

Experts caution lower Turkish death rate doesn't mean bird flu is less dangerous - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

"Experts caution lower Turkish death rate doesn't mean bird flu is less dangerous
Sunday, January 29, 2006
ALEXANDER G. HIGGINS

DAVOS - Associated Press

The United Nations' bird flu chief on Friday cautioned against thinking that the virus was becoming less dangerous because of the lower death rate among people in Turkey than was seen in Asia."

More:Experts caution lower Turkish death rate doesn't mean bird flu is less dangerous - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

Gourmand’s corner - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

"Gourmand’s corner
Sunday, January 29, 2006
Nazuktan (Aubergine Purée with Mint and Almonds):

From Central Anatolia, nazuktan is a crunchy sweet-and-sour dish made from the soft, smoky pulp of charcoal-grilled aubergines, toasted almonds, pekmez and fresh mint. It is delicious served on its own, with bread or as part of an appetizer spread."

More:Gourmand’s corner - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

Mt. Ilgaz: 'The dream island' of Anatolia - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

"Mt. Ilgaz: 'The dream island' of Anatolia
Sunday, January 29, 2006

Swimming in an ocean of green
It was an ideal weekend for me to get away from the routine of big-city life as well as the foggy black-and-white atmosphere of the city and to throw myself at the green of Ilgaz. We found ourselves at Ilgaz as a group of nature lovers. Karaçam, Sarıçam and a deep forest full of fir trees were standing before us. There was no reason not to taste what nature offered to us. Thus, we accepted the pleasures of nature and found ourselves in a fairy tale... "

More:Mt. Ilgaz: 'The dream island' of Anatolia - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

The ‘stale and moribund’ Cyprus offers (II) - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

"The ‘stale and moribund’ Cyprus offers (II)
Sunday, January 29, 2006

TDN editorial by Yusuf KANLI

Yusuf KANLI

Since nothing new can be said on the Cyprus problem, what's needed for a resolution of this quagmire? Political will and the people's education for peace."

More:The ‘stale and moribund’ Cyprus offers (II) - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

Turkey discovers the Americas - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

"Turkey discovers the Americas
Sunday, January 29, 2006

Wasn't it Christopher Columbus who discovered the Americas in 1492? Or was it the Chinese who now claim that they discovered the New World some 65 years before Columbus? The Ottoman Empire discovered Brazil in 1858 when they signed a Trade and Friendship Agreement with Brazil. It's now high time for Turkey to rediscover this great continent, starting with Latin America in the south. "

More:Turkey discovers the Americas - Turkish Daily News Jan 29, 2006

EAC considering Turkish request for more power

"EAC considering Turkish request for more power
By Leo Leonidou

THE ELECTRICITY Authority of Cyprus (EAC) yesterday confirmed that they had received a request to extend their supply to the north past the 10 days that were initially agreed.

On January 18, the north requested purchasing electricity from the EAC for 10 days after the breakdown of two of its 60 KW turbines in the Kyrenia area. The EAC responded positively by saying it would supply the north from reserves, as long as it did not create a shortfall in the south’s own supplies.

But on January 23, the Turkish Cypriot authorities said the north would need to continue importing electricity from the Republic for a further two weeks – 10 days more than initially agreed.

EAC spokesman Costas Gavrielides explained that the utility giant hadn’t responded yet. “We held a board of directors meeting on Thursday, with the Transmission System Operator also present, and a report will be given to the government. A decision will be made early next week. Until then, at least, we will continue to supply them with electricity.”"

More:

Hürriyet-These are the Swiss President’s responses to Hürriyet questions

"These are the Swiss President’s responses to Hürriyet questions:

Was it possible to clear-up any barriers regarding the relationship between the two countries during your meeting with Prime Minister Erdogan? “I will be very honest. We established that there were no barriers blocking the relationship between the two countries. There is no reason why we should not continue the well-founded ties between Turkey and Switzerland, be it economically or socially. We spoke very openly, and brought forward questions about how we could deepen and renew these ties, in particular with regards to trade.” "

More:Hürriyet

Hürriyet-Forbidden to meet with Talat

"Forbidden to meet with Talat
Foreign Secretary Jack Straw’s visit to Mehmet Ali Talat, President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, has infuriated Cypriot Greek leader Papadopulos who, it was revealed, sent a secret letter to foreign countries’ representatives, forbidding them to hold meetings in buildings carrying the name Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). It was revealed that Greek Cypriot leader Tasos Papadopulos sent a secret document to foreign Ambassadors and put in place a ‘ban on visiting’ Mehmet Ali Talat, President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. "

More:Hürriyet

Reuters AlertNet - EU Commission confirms H5N1 virus in N. Cyprus

"EU Commission confirms H5N1 virus in N. Cyprus
29 Jan 2006 12:59:25 GMT
Source: Reuters
BRUSSELS, Jan 29 (Reuters) - The deadly H5N1 strain of avian flu has been confirmed in a sample taken from a bird from northern Cyprus, the European Commission said on Sunday."

More:Reuters AlertNet - EU Commission confirms H5N1 virus in N. Cyprus

Saturday, January 28, 2006

Turkish Currency Regains its Former Esteem

"Turkish Currency Regains its Former Esteem
By Anadolu News Agency (aa)
Published: Saturday, January 28, 2006
zaman.com

After six zeros were discarded from the Turkish monetary unit, the lira has jumped over 85 steps in foreign exchange rankings.

In the communiqué, published by the Finance Ministry on 28 January 2005 for the evaluation of 2004, the Turkish lira was at the bottom of the list of currencies for 100 countries,"

More:Turkish Currency Regains its Former Esteem

The Grand Bazaar: as grand as can be - Deccan Herald - Internet Edition

"The Grand Bazaar: as grand as can be
Ranjita Biswas visits the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, known as the largest covered market in the world with 4000 shops and 15,000 tradesmen.

A young, handsome boy ran out from a shop and pointed to the ‘bindi’ on my forehead, asking, “What does it mean? I have an Indian girlfriend. She wears it too.” A little taken aback, I explained it anyway, wondering inwardly how the world has become so seamless. Here I was in Istanbul’s famous Grand Bazaar, thousands of miles away from home and somebody asks to explain about our traditional Indian ‘bindi’!"

More:The Grand Bazaar: as grand as can be - Deccan Herald - Internet Edition

IMF's Rato: Bright Days Ahead of Turkey

"IMF's Rato: Bright Days Ahead of Turkey
By Economy News Desk, Istanbul
Published: Saturday, January 28, 2006
zaman.com

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan met with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Chief Rodrigo De Rato in the Swiss town of Davos, where there is currently a series of meetings for the World Economic Forum.

Erdogan had a 30-minute talk with De Rato at the Belvedere Hotel, ending with a statement by the IMF's chief saying the Turkish economy has been doing relatively well over the past couple of years. The accumulated arrears of Turkey were making up 90 percent of the gross national revenues in 2001, but they have been reduced to around 50 percent nowadays."

More:IMF's Rato: Bright Days Ahead of Turkey

Scotsman.com News - International - World leaders join to remember Holocaust

"...In Turkey, the foreign ministry said: 'We respectfully commemorate the deaths of all people who died in the Holocaust. We hope all humanity will learn the necessary lessons of this horrifying period with no match in history, so that similar events will not be repeated.'

Turkish Sultan Beyazid II let Jews into the Ottoman Empire after their expulsion from Spain in 1492. Turkey also aided Jews fleeing the Holocaust.

'The Jewish academics who took refuge in our country took positions at universities and made important contributions to the education of our children,' the statement said."

More:Scotsman.com News - International - World leaders join to remember Holocaust

USA : Turkey-US hold 4th TIFA - Textile Fashion News Fibre2Fashion

"USA : Turkey-US hold 4th TIFA
January 28, 2006

Turkey - US Government officials met on January 24 in Ankara, Turkey, with their Turkish Government counterparts for the fourth meeting under the United States-Turkey Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA).

The meeting was led by Assistant US Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East Shaun Donnelly and Turkish Under-Secretary for Foreign Trade Tuncer Kayalar.

During these productive meetings, the two sides discussed the full range of bilateral issues as well as coordination on multilateral issues. "

More:USA : Turkey-US hold 4th TIFA - Textile Fashion News Fibre2Fashion

Hürriyet-US and Italy support Turkey's Cyprus action plan

"US and Italy support Turkey's Cyprus action plan

The US and Italy have both voiced their support for Turkey's action plan for Cyprus. The administration said this week that the new plan is a positive step contributing to solution efforts. Spokesperson of the US Embassy in Ankara Joseph Pennington said, 'We welcome the proposal affirmative. The proposal is an initiative which will contribute the UN secretary-general to renew his plans. We ask parties to take up these ideas seriously. The US is ready to support the UN in this effort'.

Italian Ambassador to Ankara Carlo Marsilio said that Foreign Minister Gianfranco Fini appreciated Turkey’s stance on Cyprus issue."

Hürriyet

Today.Az - Ankara considers Oskanian’s objection to inclusion of Turkish forces in the staff of peacekeepers as destructive

"Ankara considers Oskanian’s objection to inclusion of Turkish forces in the staff of peacekeepers as destructive
28 January 2006 [09:09] - Today.Az
'Turkish government considers proposal of Yerevan on transport of freights belonging to Georgia and Turkey via Armenia without any expenditure through Kars-Gumru railway as impossible.'"

More:Today.Az - Ankara considers Oskanian’s objection to inclusion of Turkish forces in the staff of peacekeepers as destructive

New regulations needed for conscientious objection - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

"New regulations needed for conscientious objection
Saturday, January 28, 2006

The European court’s decision on compulsory military service needs to be taken seriously. Actually, the decision favored Turkey, but if we don’t take the appropriate measures, we could get into trouble in the future."

More:New regulations needed for conscientious objection - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

An error in Cyprus? - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

"An error in Cyprus?
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Gündüz Aktan

Since the Greek Cypriot side has rejected the Annan plan in a referendum, it is only natural for us to put forward certain proposals from time to time in order to force them into a difficult position. The important thing is that, as both Gul and Erdogan have stated repeatedly, Turkish harbors and airports will not be opened to Greek Cypriot ships and planes as long as the embargoes causing the isolation of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC) are not lifted. The validity of these statements depends on non-approval by Turkey of the additional protocol to the European Union customs union under which Turkey would have to open its harbors and airports. Yet, (British Foreign Secretary Jack) Straw has reportedly told Murat Yetkin that a failure to ratify the annex protocol would adversely affect accession talks with the EU (Radikal, Jan.27). In other words, unless we ratify and implement the additional protocol, the Greek Cypriots will exercise their veto and suspend Turkey-EU talks, and the EU will be unable to do anything about it."

More:An error in Cyprus? - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

'New generation of Turks' era in Davos - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

"'New generation of Turks' era in Davos
Saturday, January 28, 2006
At this year’s World Economic Forum at Davos, the 'new generation of Turks' era has begun.

Gila Benmayor

At this year's World Economic Forum at Davos, the �new generation of Turks� era has begun.

Turkish businessmen like Tarık Şara, who used to accompany former Prime Minister Turgut Özal to Davos, has been replaced by a new generation of Turkish businessmen."

More:'New generation of Turks' era in Davos - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

When in Rome, do as the Romans do! - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

"When in Rome, do as the Romans do!
Saturday, January 28, 2006
AYŞE ÖZGÜN

I was talking to my Dutch friend Donkenenkon the other day at a coffee shop, and I'd like to share our conversation with you.

'So, I hear the Dutch parliament has passed a law to 'test' all foreign-born applicants who want to acquire Dutch citizenship?'

'Yes, that law was passed, and I think it is a good thing.'"

More:When in Rome, do as the Romans do! - Turkish Daily News Jan 28, 2006

Top News Article | Reuters.co.uk

"HSBC says to double its Turkish business by 2010
Sat Jan 28, 2006 11:42 AM GMT162

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - HSBC plans to double its branch network and staffing in Turkey by 2010 and introduce new services, Chairman Sir John Bond said on Saturday.

'We intend to make a substantial investment in our business in Turkey, doubling its size over the next five years,' Bond, in Istanbul for a meeting of the bank's board of directors, told a news conference."

More:Top News Article | Reuters.co.uk

ekathimerini.com | Annan to mull Ankara Cyprus plan

"Annan to mull Ankara Cyprus plan
Nicosia expects talks by June

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan has said he will study Ankara’s new proposals for a Cyprus settlement but has not committed the UN to mediating in a new round of talks between Greek- and Turkish-Cypriot leaders, UN officials said yesterday.

Meanwhile, Nicosia said Annan has expressed his intention to relaunch peace negotiations after May parliamentary elections in the island’s south. Annan sent a letter to Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos and Turkish-Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat last month, saying he intended to appoint an envoy to Cyprus after the elections, Cypriot government spokesman George Lillikas told reporters."

More:ekathimerini.com | Annan to mull Ankara Cyprus plan

Friday, January 27, 2006

FT.com / World Reports / The Future of Europe 2006 - Turkey: Ankara’s candidature poses unique questions for EU

"Turkey: Ankara’s candidature poses unique questions for EU
By Vincent Boland
Published: January 26 2006 18:10 | Last updated: January 26 2006 18:10

ImageEvery day, at European embassies all over Ankara, groups of young people can be seen queuing for visas.

While European visitors to Turkey can usually get a visa on arrival at the airport for a small fee, Turks can visit most European countries but sometimes this is after lengthy interviews with consular officials and the production of sheaves of documents.

According to some young Turkish people, it is easier to get to the US, than to the European Union."

More:FT.com / World Reports / The Future of Europe 2006 - Turkey: Ankara’s candidature poses unique questions for EU

VOA News - Turkish Cypriot Leader: EU Key to Cyprus Settlement

"Turkish Cypriot Leader: EU Key to Cyprus Settlement
By Amberin Zaman
Nicosia
27 January 2006

Turkish Cypriot community leader Mehmet Ali Talat says the European Union can and must play a major role in pushing for a settlement to re-unite the Greek and Turkish-controlled sides of Cyprus. Talat spoke with VOA shortly before Turkey unveiled its new plan to help end over three decades of division on the island."

More:VOA News - Turkish Cypriot Leader: EU Key to Cyprus Settlement

Turkish MFA On Palestinian Elections

"Turkish MFA On Palestinian Elections
Published: 1/27/2006

ANKARA - ``We hope that the outcome of general elections held in Palestine will contribute to prevail a fair, comprehensive and lasting peace and stability in the region,`` indicated Turkish MFA.

Releasing a statement, the MFA appreciated efforts of the Palestinian authorities to hold elections in a peaceful and calm atmosphere."

More:Turkish MFA On Palestinian Elections

Expatica's German news in English: 'Language is the key to integration'

"'Language is the key to integration'
Spiegel Online's Anna Reimann interviews Armin Laschet, North Rhine-Westfalia's Minister for Generations, Family, Women and Integration.

Mr Laschet, do you believe that being compelled to speak German, as has been introduced at a school in Berlin, helps foreigners to integrate?

I believe that knowledge of the German language is the key to integration and to success both at school and in a future profession. The advantages of the Berlin school's rule are that it was developed by pupils, teachers and parents working together, and that the pupils themselves are very satisfied with it, because they know that speaking correct German increases their opportunities. Therefore I find this approach very good."

More:Expatica's German news in English: 'Language is the key to integration'

Unistyle Turkish Fashion Fair Opened In Russia

"Unistyle Turkish Fashion Fair Opened In Russia
Published: 1/27/2006

MOSCOW - The 10th UNISTYLE Turkish Fashion Fair was inaugurated in Moscow on Thursday.

The fair, which is organized by Turkel Fair Company, will remain open till January 28th."

More:Unistyle Turkish Fashion Fair Opened In Russia

The Anatolia Times-E.U. Delegation In Turkish Health Ministry

"E.U. Delegation In Turkish Health Ministry
ANKARA - Turkish Health Minister Recep Akdag met Markos Kyprianou, European Commissioner for Health & Consumer Protection, and an accompanying delegation in Ankara on Thursday.

Following the meeting, Akdag told reporters, ``we discussed the process regarding bird flu cases seen in Turkey as well as Turkish government`s efforts to contain the disease. Also we took up Turkey`s relations with international organizations (like World Health Organization and European Commission).``"

More:The Anatolia Times

The Anatolia Times-An Overwhelmingly Muslim Country Can Reach European Standards, Gul

"An Overwhelmingly Muslim Country Can Reach European Standards, Gul
ISTANBUL - ''Considering our experiences, we can say that an overwhelmingly Muslim country can reach democratic standards of Europe, and keep its own cultural characteristics at the same time,'' Turkish FM Abdullah Gul said late on Wednesday.

Turkish Industrialists' & Businessmen's Association (TUSIAD) presented ''TUSIAD Bosphorus Prize for European Understanding 2005'' to British Secretary of Foreign & Commonwealth Affairs Jack Straw in a ceremony held at Istanbul's Rahmi M. Koc Museum. ''Straw deserves this award for his extraordinary diplomatic efforts to help Turkey start its entry talks with the EU, in the EU summit held in Luxembourg on October 3rd, 2005'', said TUSIAD in an earlier statement."

More:The Anatolia Times

Turkey consults with US government on South Caucasus conflicts - Russian News - REGNUM

"Turkey consults with US government on South Caucasus conflicts

A statement of Armenian Foreign Minister Vardan Oskanyan on inadmissibility of Turkish participation in peacekeeping contingent in the Nagorno Karabakh conflict zone is considered by Turkey as a “non-constructive position of Armenia,” stated Secretary General of the National Security Council of Turkey Mehmet Yigit Alpogan."

More:Turkey consults with US government on South Caucasus conflicts - Russian News - REGNUM

PanARMENIAN.Net: Armenia Still Cherishes Hopes

"Armenian-Turkish Relations: Armenia Still Cherishes Hopes
27.01.2006 21:12 GMT+04:00 Print version Send to mail
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ “Today Armenia has a good opportunity to press upon Turkey, which depends on Europe and the United States, but we do not take the advantage of it,” Director of Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Bureau's Hay Dat and Political Affairs Office Kiro Manoian. When addressing a conference dedicated to the Armenian-Turkish relations he noted that they do not exist as such, “there are lame attempts to normalize them.” The experience shows that the Armenia’s approach – talks and compromise – is not efficient at all. Turkey long ago rejected the possibility of establishing diplomatic relations with our country but we still cherish hopes”, Kiro Manoian considers. He also added that today “neither the Armenian nor the Turkish society is ready for the resolution of the longstanding conflict.” "

More:PanARMENIAN.Net: Armenian News - Armenian-Turkish Relations: Armenia Still Cherishes Hopes

Harkening for Turkish delight - Opinions - www.pcauthority.com.au

"Harkening for Turkish delight
PC Authority, Online | Opinions
By David Kidd, PC Authority

The editorial office is buzzing right now. It could be that it’s Friday, it could be that it’s sunny, but most of all, it’s that sitting on our desks right now are copies of FEAR, Civ 4, Black and White 2, and Myst 5. It’s truly a great time for anyone with even a passing interest in having fun with a computing device. And gamers, well, you already know what you’re in for.

But, that’s not what I want to talk about. Hidden among the highest ticket games of all time coming out right now, there’s a game that has consumed more time for me than most in recent memory: Mount&Blade.

Developed by a Turkish husband and wife team, M&B is a crossover between Pirates! and a traditional RPG. It attempts to be historically accurate (no potions or spells), which, combined with its freeform gameplay, harkens back to one of my all-time favourite games, Darklands."

More:Harkening for Turkish delight - Opinions - www.pcauthority.com.au

Turkish Tourists Invaded Poiana Brasov Ski Resort | Jurnalul National

"Turkish Tourists Invaded Poiana Brasov Ski Resort

de Sorin Anghel

Some 1,200 Turkish tourists chose Poiana Brasov mountain resort for their Bayram vacation, over Austrian or Swiss resorts, given lower prices in Romania.

'For a seven-day vacation I paid 400 euros; this included plane tickets and ski training sessions,” said Adinan Turgay, one of the Turkish tourists in Poiana Brasov."

More:Turkish Tourists Invaded Poiana Brasov Ski Resort | Jurnalul National

The NT Daily - Turkish police study at NT

"Turkish police study at NT
NT institute modernizes policing tactics

By Nazli Prisk
Intern

January 27, 2006

illy Hayes tried smuggling drugs out of Turkey in 1970 and landed in a Turkish prison for five years. The Oscar-winning movie, based on Haye’s account of his time in prison, “Midnight Express” depicted a barbaric and brutal Turkish police.
“After seeing the movie, I said that we are not like that,” said Samih Teymur, head of the Turkish National Police in the United States. “And although we have had some problems in the past, we have changed them to become the moderate and powerful law enforcement agency we are today.” "

More:The NT Daily - Turkish police study at NT

Students hit political hotspots - News

"Students hit political hotspots
By: Robert Silverblatt

..... The 12-person trip to Turkey was organized by the New Initiative for Middle East Peace (NIMEP), which seeks to develop new means of dialogue in and about the conflict-ridden Middle East. Like the Amahoro project, NIMEP is a program of Tufts' Institute for Global Leadership

(IGL).

Previous NIMEP delegations have conducted similarly structured fact-finding trips to Israel and the West Bank, Iran, and Egypt.

The group decided on Turkey due to the complex developments in its domestic politics.

The purpose of the trip was to "allow students to get a hands-on, birds-eye view of the complexity of Turkish politics," said Matan Chorev, a first-year student at the Fletcher School for Law and Diplomacy and one of the trip's organizers. "

More:Students hit political hotspots - News

Army sees no bar to Erdogan as president - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

"Army sees no bar to Erdogan as president
Friday, January 27, 2006
ANKARA - TDN with Reuters

Turkey's powerful military has signaled it will not oppose Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan if he runs for president next year, despite the military's concerns over his Islamist past, Radikal newspaper said on Thursday.

Turkey's Parliament, where Erdoğan's center-right Justice and Development Party (AKP) has a large majority, is due to elect a president in May 2007 to replace staunchly secular Ahmet Necdet Sezer. Turkish media have speculated Erdoğan will seek the top job."

More:Army sees no bar to Erdogan as president - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

Cyprus seeks international court recourse of British guarantor duties

"Cyprus seeks international court recourse of British guarantor duties

CYPRUS has proposed to Britain to file a joint recourse to the International Court of Justice in The Hague to resolve the differences between the two countries on the interpretation of the international law that derives from the Treaty of Establishment, which Britain signed as a guarantor power.

Speaking after his meeting with Archbishop of America Demetrios, Foreign Minister George Iacovou said the reasons which Cyprus proposed to Britain for the joint recourse to the Court were Britain’s obligations to the Republic of Cyprus as a guarantor power, the fact that it did not avert the Turkish invasion of Cyprus, the loss which the island suffered from the invasion, the Turkish settlement as well as the different interpretation of the Treaty of Establishment.

However, he said Britain would likely hide behind a reservation it had submitted to the Court, whereby it prohibits members and former members of the Commonwealth from recourse to The Hague against the former colonial power."

More:Cyprus seeks international court recourse of British guarantor duties

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: S&P Positive on seven Banks

"Turkey: S&P Positive on seven Banks

10:11 - 27 January 2006 - Standard & Poor's Ratings Services revised its outlook to positive from stable on seven Turkish banks: T.C. Ziraat Bankasi A.S., Türkiye Is Bankasi A.S.(Isbank), Türkiye Garanti Bankasi A.S. (Garanti), Garanti Finansal Kiralama A.S. (Garanti Leasing), Koçbank, Türkiye Vakiflar Bankasi T.A.O. ( VakifBank), and OYAK Bank A.S."

More:REPORTER.GR

Importance of Turkish companies increasing: Sahenk

"Importance of Turkish companies increasing: Sahenk
The chairman of the Dogus Group said that unemployment was a global problem.

DAVOS - The importance of Turkish companies in the global economy had increased greatly, according to Ferit Sahenk, the chairman of Turkey’s Dogus Group."

More:Importance of Turkish companies increasing: Sahenk

Why are Foreigners not in Media Deals?

"Why are Foreigners not in Media Deals?

In one African tribe, women are not given names, they all dress alike and all have the same hairstyles.

These women put into the same mould,recognize each other at first sight through smell. I am not curious about the odor, nonetheless, I cannot deny the fact that this is an excellent example of the indispensability of communication. If communication among people is indispensable, the media is one of the factors. The world’s economy czars are in Davos today to discuss one of the most interesting items on the agenda -- the role of the business world in natural disasters. The chief executives of Turkish economy will also convene at the Turkish Industrialists’ and Businessmen’s Association (TUSIAD) general assembly. We will follow the agenda together. In fact, both summits are not of paramount importance to the Turkish media. The cold weather is enough to fill the pages."

More:Why are Foreigners not in Media Deals?

'Istanbul a center of gravity for all' - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

"'Istanbul a center of gravity for all'
Friday, January 27, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Istanbul's designation as the �European Capital of Culture� (ECC) for 2010 would be a significant step forward in improving understanding between cultures because Europe will then be able to discover the roots of its own culture in the Turkish city, said Turkish parliamentarian Egemen Bağış."

More:'Istanbul a center of gravity for all' - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

TURKISH BIRD FLU SUBSIDING?

"TURKISH BIRD FLU SUBSIDING?
Friday, January 27, 2006 - FreeMarketNews.com

The amount of humans with avian flu in Turkey continues to rise slowly. However, the percentage of cases resulting in death – or even prolonged disease – is dropping much faster than that. While 'bird flu' infections and deaths in Turkey were widely reported in the US, the apparent vitiation of the flu bug has for some reason received less attention by mainstream, domestic media. Yet according to a report from Agence France Press, two more Turkish children have been released from the hospital after entering with bird flu symptoms. It is even beginning to look as though a combination of early treatment after infection, and a weakening mutation of the virus, may lead to less dire predictions of global pandemic."

More:TURKISH BIRD FLU SUBSIDING?

Turkish mergers and acquisitions top $31 billion, says Ernst and Young - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

"Turkish mergers and acquisitions top $31 billion, says Ernst and Young
Friday, January 27, 2006

Turk Telekom topped the year's acquisitions with $6.5 billion last fall.

ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

According to a report on 2005's mergers and acquisitions prepared by the Ernst and Young Finance Group, Turkey has reached its highest point in both number and amount of business transactions, putting the year's total revenue from M&A at $31 billion. The year's largest acquisition was the purchase of Turk Telekom, which sold for $6.5 billion last fall."

More:Turkish mergers and acquisitions top $31 billion, says Ernst and Young - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

Turkish Cypriots arrest six in moves on immigration ring

"Turkish Cypriots arrest six in moves on immigration ring
By Simon Bahceli

SIX people have appeared in court in the north charged with forging Republic of Cyprus and Turkish Cypriot travel documents allegedly been used to smuggle numerous illegal immigrants into Europe.

The six were arrested after what the police described as “a lengthy operation” aimed at smashing an “international ring” of human traffickers. So far, the ongoing operation has led to six people being charged, while three more suspects are still wanted by Turkish Cypriot police.

According to a statement given by the police to the Cyprus Mail yesterday, the ring is believed to have successfully smuggled numerous people into EU countries via Turkey and the Republic of Cyprus by providing them with sophisticated copies of both ‘TRNC’ and Republic of Cyprus identity cards and passports. Printers, computers, official seals and documents were seized by police in the operation."

More:Turkish Cypriots arrest six in moves on immigration ring

Government protest at EU welcome of Turkish offer

"Government protest at EU welcome of Turkish offer
By Jean Christou

STRONG representations have been made by the government to Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn over his statements welcoming the initiative on Cyprus announced by Turkey on Tuesday.

In a written statement, Rehn said the Commission welcomed efforts to achieve progress in the current deadlock with regard to the Cyprus problem. “Turkey's initiative deserves careful examination,” Rehn said.

According to Cyprus News Agency (CNA), sources in Brussels said yesterday that Rehn was already in possession of Nicosia’s representations, which have also been circulated to the other 24 member states.

“The representations point out that Ankara’s so-called action plan on Cyprus is a worse version of previous Turkish positions and is in the framework of Turkey’s efforts to avoid its obligations,” the sources told CNA."

More:Government protest at EU welcome of Turkish offer

Mehmet Ali Birand: This time, the EU should understand Ankara well

"Mehmet Ali Birand: This time, the EU should understand Ankara well

(Turkish Daily News Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge)I know a lot about international relations.

It's my job. No one takes any prisoners in the international arena. Promises made, past debts and friendship mean nothing. Only interests are important. In Demirel's words, "Yesterday is yesterday and today is today."

Knowing all these facts, I have written the article you're reading now.

My purpose is to reach individuals involved in Turkey-EU relations in the 25 capitals of the union and in Brussels. My intention is to call on them to be realistic and not to take Turkey too lightly."

More:Mehmet Ali Birand: This time, the EU should understand Ankara well

Cappadocia becomes global center of attraction for film producers - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

"Cappadocia becomes global center of attraction for film producers
Friday, January 27, 2006

A total of 265 state and private TV stations from 45 countries have shot either documentaries of films in Cappadocia in the last 15 years

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

The Cappadocia region in central Anatolia, famous for natural wonders such fairy chimneys and caves, has become the focus of attraction for both international and Turkish TV producers."

More:Cappadocia becomes global center of attraction for film producers - Turkish Daily News Jan 27, 2006

Stock Market News and Investment Information | Reuters.com

"Turkish union tries to overturn Tupras deal
Fri Jan 27, 2006 5:24 AM ET

ISTANBUL, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Turkish union Petrol-Is said on Friday it would present new evidence to Turkey's top administrative court to try to reverse the takeover of refiner Tupras (TPRS.IS: Quote, Profile, Research) by Koc Holding (KCHOL.IS: Quote, Profile, Research) and Royal Dutch Shell (RDSa.L: Quote, Profile, Research).

The company was handed over on Thursday to the consortium, which bid $4.14 billion last year for the refiner."

Stock Market News and Investment Information | Reuters.com

Hürriyet-Star newspaper sold to Turkish Cypriot

"Star newspaper sold to Turkish Cypriot

A Turkish Cypriot business man, Ozmen Safa, has bought Star newspaper after putting in a winning bid of $5.15 million. The newspaper was sold off by the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (TMSF) to the Turkish Cypriot businessman, after he outbid the Ipek Broadcasting group. Safa, who has worked in tourism, real estate and energy sectors in Cyrpus, has some 100 million pounds sterling invested in real estates in the UK. Speaking to the press he said that he planned to bring his experience of doing business in the UK to Turkey.

Star Media Group General Manager Edip Sözen told the Turkish Daily News, 'It is not clear yet as to whether the current staff will remain at the paper,' but added, 'it can only help the paper's situation.'"

More:Hürriyet

Reuters.com-UN studies lower mortality rate in Turkish bird flu

"UN studies lower mortality rate in Turkish bird flu
Fri Jan 27, 2006 5:41 AM ET14
By Thomas Atkins

DAVOS, Switzerland (Reuters) - Scientists are investigating whether a lower mortality rate for people infected with bird flu in Turkey signals that the virus is becoming less deadly in humans, a top U.N. official said on Friday."

More:Science News Article | Reuters.com

The Hindu News -Kurdish rebels free Turkish policeman after more than three months' captivity

"Kurdish rebels free Turkish policeman after more than three months' captivity

Ankara, Jan. 27 (AP): Turkish Kurdish rebels released a Turkish policeman in northern Iraq on Friday after keeping him hostage for more than three months, human rights activists said.

Hakan Acil was released in the Iraqi border town of Zakho, said Kiraz Bicici, deputy head of Turkey's Human Rights Association.

Kurdish guerrillas abducted Acil on Oct. 9 after stopping his car at a roadblock near the southeastern town of Midyat, near the Syrian and Iraqi borders.

Turkish troops had been searching for him for months."

More:The Hindu News Update Service

Greece Rejects Turkish Plan to Revive Cyprus Talks

"Greece Rejects Turkish Plan to Revive Cyprus Talks
By Cihan, Istanbul
Published: Friday, January 27, 2006
zaman.com

Greece has rejected Turkey's action plan to revive the stalled peace talks to settle the three-decade old Cyprus problem.

Greek Foreign Minister Petros Molivyatis told a press conference on Thursday that his country rejects the Turkish proposal for it did not bring anything new."

More:Greece Rejects Turkish Plan to Revive Cyprus Talks

Boston - Turkey commemorates Holocaust victims

"
Turkey commemorates Holocaust victims

Associated Press
01/27/2006


ISTANBUL, Turkey - The Holocaust during World War II, in which Nazis rounded up and killed millions of Jews, was a 'horrifying period with no match in history,' Turkey's Foreign Ministry said Friday.

The statement was made to mark the United Nations' first international day commemorating the victims of the Holocaust.

Turkey, which is 99 percent Muslim, is Israel's closest regional ally, but is in a tricky geographical position bordering Muslim countries openly hostile to the Jewish state, including Iran, whose president has denied the Holocaust and called for Israel's elimination."

More:Boston - Turkey commemorates Holocaust victims

Thursday, January 26, 2006

EU warns Turkey's neighbours over bird flu transparency - EUbusiness

"EU warns Turkey's neighbours over bird flu transparency
26/01/2006

The European Commission on Thursday warned countries bordering Turkey not to hush up possible bird flu cases following accusations by Ankara that some of its neighbors are concealing the disease.

European Union Health Commissioner Markos Kyprianou also said the EU would soon release 8.5 million euros (10.4 million dollars) to help Turkey fight the outbreak that has claimed four lives, the first human bird flu fatalities outside Southeast Asia and China."

More:EU warns Turkey's neighbours over bird flu transparency - EUbusiness

Foreign Policy Association - Turkey: on Europe's verge?

"Turkey: on Europe's verge?
Source: Great Decisions 2006
Author: Henri J. Barkey and Omer Taspinar

Turkey: on Europe's verge? Turkey, poised at the nexus of the Balkans, the Caucasus and the Middle East, takes on new strategic roles in the post-9/11 'clash of civilizations.'


Excerpt:

'On October 3,2005,a Turkish Foreign Ministry jet was idling on the tarmac in the capital city of Ankara waiting to see if Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül would show up for a historic ceremony in Luxembourg. The question was whether Turkey would finally start accession talks with the 25-member European Union (EU) after more than 40 years of trials and tribulations. The stakes were very high, not just for the EU and Turkey, but also for the U.S. Washington had been a strong supporter of Turkey's European vocation from early on. There were pertinent strategic reasons for this. As a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) ally neighboring the Balkans, the Caucasus and America 's greatest challenges in the Middle East, namely Syria, Iraq and Iran, Turkey 's geo-strategic location is invaluable. Equally important, Turkey is a Muslim country with a democratic and secular system, a true rarity in the Islamic world. Particularly in the post-9/11 world, where many saw a “clash of civilizations” between Islam and the West, Turkey's European quest had therefore gained unprecedented significance for Washington.'"

More:Foreign Policy Association - Resource Library

JTW Comment by Nermin Aydemir : : Naturalization in Germany: Not Easy to Become German

"Naturalization in Germany: Not Easy to Become German

Naturalization can be generally defined as changing the nationality and getting accustomed to the way of life in the new country. In the context of increasing tension between migrant groups and their host societies, it became one of the most problematic issues nowadays. At first, naturalization was not handled as a problematic concept and the official requirements were not so much difficult to fulfil. However, the policies towards migration have been strictly tightened and are becoming much more restrictive every single day. Nonetheless, the recent implementation of the province of Baden-Wurttemberg, in Germany seems to be the triumph of all such attitudes. "

More:JTW Comment by Nermin Aydemir : : Naturalization in Germany: Not Easy to Become German

The Muslim News - From another shore - The right side of human rights

"From another shore - The right side of human rights

By Shehla Khan

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a Muslim woman living in an overwhelmingly Muslim country should not seek to dress in an obviously Muslim manner if she wishes to pursue higher education.
The above statement could feature routinely in British policy-making circles if the country were to adopt, as many suggest, a legal-constitutional commitment to secularism. It has already featured, however, in the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights, which in November 2005, ruled on the case brought by Leyla Shahin against the prohibition on the hijab in Turkish universities."

More:The Muslim News - From another shore - The right side of human rights

JAZZ: Mehmet Okur Chat Transcript: Jan, 26, 2006

"Mehmet Okur Chat Transcript: Jan, 26, 2006

Okur chatted on Jan. 26.
NBAE/Getty Images
Mehmet Okur is in his fourth NBA season and second with the Utah Jazz after signing with the team as a free agent prior to the 2004-05 season. The only Jazz player to see action in all 82 games last season, Okur set career highs in games in virtually every category, including points scored, rebounds, assists and blocks. Okur finished as the team?s fourth leading scorer, averaging a career-high 12.9 points, while shooting .468 percent from the field and a team best .850 percent from the line. He scored in double-figures in 60 of the 82 games, including 14 games of +20 points, tallying a career-high tying 27 points vs. the Lakers on March 22, 2005."

More:JAZZ: Mehmet Okur Chat Transcript: Jan, 26, 2006

The Muslim News - Turkey in EU: Tugs of war

"Turkey in EU: Tugs of war

By Elif Aydin

It’s been a rough twelve months for European Muslims. The close of 2004 with the decision of the European Council to agree on the opening of accession negotiations with Turkey, though deferring the actual date of the opening to October 3, 2005, was heralded as a new chapter for the future of Europe and its largest Muslim neighbour and a spectacular debunking of the ‘Clash of Civilisations’ thesis. "

More:The
Muslim News - Turkey in EU: Tugs of war

Reuters AlertNet - EU urges Turkey to keep up guard against bird flu

"EU urges Turkey to keep up guard against bird flu
26 Jan 2006 17:03:44 GMT
Source: Reuters

By Mustafa Yukselbaba

ANKARA, Jan 26 (Reuters) - The European Commission urged Turkey on Thursday not to drop its guard against the bird flu virus which has killed four Turkish children this month."

More:Reuters AlertNet - EU urges Turkey to keep up guard against bird flu

Journalists on Journalism - Turks Get Some of the News, Not All - Worldpress.org

"Turks Get Some of the News, Not All

Nilay Karaelmas
WPR Correspondent
Ankara

This article appeared in the December 2001 World Press Review (VOL. 48, No. 12)

The lack of total press freedom in Turkey is one of the main reasons that the general circulation of print publications is a mere 3 million in a country whose population is 65 million.

There is a wide variety of media outlets in the country: some 30 national dailies (nearly 15 mainstream), five national weeklies, 25 local papers in the Turkish language, and two English-language national dailies. There are also about 18 national radio stations, hundreds of local radio stations, nearly 25 national TV channels, and 20 local TV channels."

More:Journalists on Journalism - Turks Get Some of the News, Not All - Worldpress.org

Turkish banks will open in Iraq

"Turkish banks will open in Iraq

January 26, 2006

Ziraat Bank, another Turkish bank, obtained the first permission to operate in Iraq last year, but it was unable to begin operating because it is a public bank and for security reasons. However, Ziraat Bank's initiative paved the way for other Turkish banks."

More:Turkish banks will open in Iraq

A New Era In Turkish-u.S. Trade Relations

"A New Era In Turkish-u.S. Trade Relations
Published: 1/25/2006

DONNELLY: ''WE WISH TO FOLD UP TOTAL TRADE VOLUME WHICH IS CURRENTLY 10 BILLION USD''

ANKARA - Assistant United States Trade Representative for Europe & the Mediterranean Shaun Donnelly has indicated that the U.S. wishes to ''fold up'' total trade volume with Turkey, which is currently 10 billion USD."

More:A New Era In Turkish-u.S. Trade Relations

Xinhua - Turkey to host Under-17 European Football Championship

"Turkey to host Under-17 European Football Championship
www.chinaview.cn 2006-01-26 19:19:43

ANKARA, Jan. 26 (Xinhuanet) -- Turkey will host the Under-17 European Football Championship in 2008, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported on Thursday.

The report said that the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) decided at its executive board meeting in Nyon, Switzerland, to organize the championship in Turkish Meditrranean coastal city of Antalya.

National teams of eight European countries will participate in the championship, the report said. Enditem"

More:Xinhua - English

FT.com / Home UK - Turkey seeks to seize initiative over Cyprus

"Turkey seeks to seize initiative over Cyprus
By Vincent Boland in Istanbul and Daniel Dombey in Brussels
Published: January 26 2006 02:00 | Last updated: January 26 2006 02:00

Mention of Cyprus - rather like Northern Ireland - tends to elicit a groan of irritation even from those who profess an interest in its historical and contemporary complexities.
ADVERTISEMENT

The divisions between the Greek and Cypriot inhabitants of this beautiful Mediterranean island have stymied the best minds at the United Nations for decades, most recently in 2004 when a reunification plan that appeared to address every grievance was rejected in a referendum."

More:FT.com / Home UK - Turkey seeks to seize initiative over Cyprus

People's Daily Online -- Cyprus rejects Turkish proposal

"Cyprus rejects Turkish proposal
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut

Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs George Iacovou on Wednesday told British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw that Nicosia rejected Ankara's proposal to end the division of the island.

Iacovou made the announcement in a press statement after hosting an official lunch in Straw's honor.

'I told Straw to convey to Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Gul that his suggestions mean nothing,' said Iacovou.

'They add nothing at all and leave us at the same point as May last year, when Turkey made similar suggestions,' Iacovou said."

More:People's Daily Online -- Cyprus rejects Turkish proposal

'Hittite Sun' to rise over Bursa - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"'Hittite Sun' to rise over Bursa
Thursday, January 26, 2006

The play, written by Turgay Nar, will make its world professional premiere in Bursa as producers work on plans to go on a world tour"

More:'Hittite Sun' to rise over Bursa - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Archbishop: Pope to visit Turkey in November - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"Archbishop: Pope to visit Turkey in November
Thursday, January 26, 2006
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Pope Benedict XVI is scheduled to pay a visit to Turkey in late November, said the metropolitan of the Greek Orthodox in Italy.

�The pope will be in Turkey in November. At present, there is no signal from government circles aimed at hindering the visit. This means there is a green light for the pope's visit,� Archbishop Gennadios di Massima said at a press conference in Rome on Tuesday."

More:Archbishop: Pope to visit Turkey in November - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Rehn gives green light for EU talks in spring - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"Rehn gives green light for EU talks in spring
Thursday, January 26, 2006

ANKARA - TDN with Reuters

Turkey and Croatia should enter detailed membership negotiations with the European Union this spring, EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn was quoted as saying yesterday."

More:Rehn gives green light for EU talks in spring - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Turkey charges Belgium on Erdal trial - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"Turkey charges Belgium on Erdal trial
Thursday, January 26, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Turkish parliamentarians on Wednesday presented a verbal inquiry to the Council of Europe and complained about Belgium's refusal to extradite a woman wanted in Turkey for the murder of a prominent businessman."

More:Turkey charges Belgium on Erdal trial - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Outcome of Straw’s visit - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"Outcome of Straw’s visit
Thursday, January 26, 2006

Yusuf KANLI

Ignoring all the protests and cries of our dear friend Tassos Papadopoulos, British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw on Wednesday crossed the Nicosia buffer zone into the Turkish Cypriot state and met with President Mehmet Ali Talat at his presidential office."

More:Outcome of Straw’s visit - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Turkey is doing the right thing - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"Turkey is doing the right thing
Thursday, January 26, 2006

Something is happening in Turkey. We used to just watch in the past, but now we are the ones taking the initiative. A right move was made on Cyprus. What’s important is the fact that the United States and the EU are supporting it, even if the Greek Cypriots aren't. "

More:Turkey is doing the right thing - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Brace yourself America, Polat is on the way! - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"Brace yourself America, Polat is on the way!
Thursday, January 26, 2006

Americans beware! It’s payback time and Polat Alemdar is on the way. What’s more, he means business. Serious business. He’s clean, but mean -- not to mention merciless. James Bond, Arnie and Bruce all in one. And to top it all he was kissed by Sharon Stone recently, so his manhood is not in question. That makes him 'a Turk' through and through."

More:Brace yourself America, Polat is on the way! - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Turkey warns US, Iraq on Kirkuk - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

"Turkey warns US, Iraq on Kirkuk
Thursday, January 26, 2006

If Kirkuk goes to Kurds, Iraq also goes, says top security official

WASHINGTON - TDN Defense Desk

Turkey warned Washington and Baghdad that a formal inclusion of the multiethnic city of Kirkuk, an oil center in northern Iraq, into the semi-autonomous Kurdish region would effectively destroy efforts to create a unified and stable Iraq following the country's U.S.-led invasion three years ago."

More:Turkey warns US, Iraq on Kirkuk - Turkish Daily News Jan 26, 2006

Asia Times Online ::Turkey warms to talk, not action, in Iraq

"Turkey warms to talk, not action, in Iraq
By Bashdar Pusho Ismaeel

Turkey suddenly finds itself in the limelight as international concern over Iran's nuclear program grows, and the chances of Tehran being hauled before the United Nations Security Council increase.

Porter Goss, director of the US Central Intelligence Agency, visited Turkey on December 12 and informed Prime Minister

Redep Tayyip Erdogan that the US was seriously considering striking Iran some time in 2006, and he asked the Turks to share intelligence on Iran. "

More:Asia Times Online

Bloomberg.com: Turkey Counsels Patience in Dispute on Iran's Nuclear Ambitions

"Turkey Counsels Patience in Dispute on Iran's Nuclear Ambitions

Jan. 25 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey is counseling patience in diplomatic efforts to ensure that Iran complies with international rules and doesn't develop a nuclear weapon, Turkey's national security adviser said.

The initiative backed by U.S. President George W. Bush will take time, and ``room'' should be made for that, Yigit Alpogan, general secretary of Turkey's National Security Council, said in an interview in Washington yesterday."

More:Bloomberg.com: Top Worldwide

..:: ABHABER.COM : US, EU welcome Turkey's new Cyprus plan

"US, EU welcome Turkey's new Cyprus plan

Although US and EU welcome Turkey's new Cyprus plan proposed by Turkish FM Gul to help resolve Cyprus dispute, Greek Cypriots and Greeks appear to have negative attitudes to plan

Greek Cypriot FM Iacovou describes plan as 'empty one that aims at showing off' and says therefore they don't take it seriously. However both Greece and Greek Cypriots don't rule out examining it

The U.S. and European Union welcomed late Tuesday Turkey's new Cyprus plan which was put forward by Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul to help resolve the Cyprus dispute."

More:..:: ABHABER.COM ::..

Ice warning for Istanbul

"Ice warning for Istanbul
Motorists in Istanbul and Ankara have been warned to exercise extreme caution when on the roads due to icy conditions resulting from below zero temperatures and this week’s heavy snowfalls."

More:Ice warning for Istanbul

EU Enlargement and Institutional Reforms

"EU Enlargement and Institutional Reforms

26 January 2006 | 10:19
Le Monde

Wolfgang Schüssel, Austria’s Chancellor and President of the European Council, in an interview with French daily Le Monde

...Wolfgang Schüssel: It is obvious that the expansion cannot continue forever. However, we must keep the commitments we have already given. Bulgaria and Romania have already been admitted. The countries on the Balkans have a clear European perspective. They belong to the European context without any doubt - from the point of view of geography, politics, and mentality. Turkey, however, is a “case apart”. It gained a status of a candidate state and we will start the talks. We should not go further because the EU's absorption capacity is also an important criterion. To stretch further the EU needs to seriously develop neighborhood policy. It will be a key element among the actions of the Commission'."

More:Focus English News

Lobbying Against Bird Flu Fears Effective, Tourism Relieved

"Lobbying Against Bird Flu Fears Effective, Tourism Relieved
By Isa Sezen, Istanbul
Published: Thursday, January 26, 2006
zaman.com

As reservation annulments took place due to the bird flu, Turkey's tourism sector members and state officials took action. A statement reading 'There is no danger in Turkey' released by the World Health Organization proved to be the remedy needed. Attempts to spread the word abroad produced results and tour operators have started to make new reservation deals: 'If this goes on, we can reach the target for 2006,' they said."

More:Lobbying Against Bird Flu Fears Effective, Tourism Relieved