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Friday, March 31, 2006

DefenseNews.com - Turkey Starts NATO Patrol of Baltic Skies - 03/31/06 10:33

"Turkey Starts NATO Patrol of Baltic Skies
By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE, VILNIUS, Lithuania

Four Turkish F-16 fighters took over NATO patrols of Baltic air space on March 31, the Lithuanian defense ministry said.
The Turks, who took over the air police mission from Poland, will be the first NATO country to patrol Baltic air space for four months as opposed to three.
”It was decided that longer missions will save time which we spend on preparations and becoming acquainted with the mission’s territory,” Arturas Leita, commander of the Lithuanian air force, told AFP."

More:DefenseNews.com - Turkey Starts NATO Patrol of Baltic Skies - 03/31/06 10:33

Solar Eclipse Benefits Turkish Tourism

"Solar Eclipse Benefits Turkish Tourism
By Unal Livaneli
Published: Friday, March 31, 2006
zaman.com

The clear view of the century's first total solar eclipse from Turkey has made an enormous contribution to the country's promotion and economy."

More:Solar Eclipse Benefits Turkish Tourism

Xinhua - Turkish PM vows to protect country's unity

"Turkish PM vows to protect country's unity

ANKARA, March 31 (Xinhua) -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed on Friday to protect Turkey's unity following riots in a southeastern province, which left at least seven people dead.

Erdogan made the vow when delivering an opening speech in the capital Ankara at a meeting attended by provincial directors of his ruling Justice and Development Party.

He said that the purpose of the terrorists was to destroy Turkey's unitary system of government and the unity of the Republic of Turkey."

More:Xinhua - English

Turkish Hospital Limits Electric Shock

"Turkish Hospital Limits Electric Shock
Staff and agencies
31 March, 2006

ANKARA, Turkey - A human rights group on Friday praised a top Turkish mental health hospital for ending its much criticized practice of giving electric shock treatment without anesthesia, and urged the Turkish government to ban the practice nationwide.

The MDRI however, wrote to Turkey‘s Health Ministry, asking that a law be introduced to prevent abuses in other parts of the country, Layikel said.

The group also has urged the European Union — which Turkey hopes to join — to demand an end to the practice."

Turkish Hospital Limits Electric Shock

EU commissioner Verheugen discusses further enlargement on Prague visit - 31-03-2006 - Radio Prague

"...What about Turkey?
'We're already negotiating with Turkey. The strategic and geopolitical reasons for that are obvious. And we will see after a certain period of time whether Turkey can meet our standards or not.
'The political point here is that a Turkey which would eventually join the European Union would be a completely different Turkey, would be a Turkey that nobody must be afraid of.
'My advice in that case is - let them negotiate. Let the Turks do their homework, let them continue with the far-reaching reform process in their institutional system, in their judicial system and in the economy that they have started. And then at the end of the day we will decide.'"

More:EU commissioner Verheugen discusses further enlargement on Prague visit - 31-03-2006 - Radio Prague

Yo Dude, What about the Turks? An Introduction to Germany's Real Fast Food Joints - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"An Introduction to Germany's Real Fast Food Joints

Bratwurst and pommes may be the traditional fast food favorites in Germany, but if you take a closer look, you're more likely to see people gorging on döner kebabs.

Survival Bible, Shmurvival Bible. The German fast food guide posted by a reader in SPIEGEL ONLINE's Germany Survival Bible may be authentic, but it's not really representative. According to the New York Times, 2.3 million Turks live in Germany. And I would bet you dollars to döners that you're more likely to come across a Turkish kebab Imbiss in major German cities than a sausage stand. Döners are just as cheap as Würste and several times more palatable. In most cities, they're on every block -- and the currywurst guys are just living on their scraps. A lot of Turkish Imbisse will hook you up with a currywurst anyway, if you must have one."

More:Print - Yo Dude, What about the Turks? An Introduction to Germany's Real Fast Food Joints - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

Rajni to speak German, Turkish! - Sify.com

"Rajni to speak German, Turkish!
By Moviebuzz | Thursday, 30 March , 2006, 18:56
Sanjay Wadhwa the overseas distributor of Rajnikanth’s Chandramukhi has done the impossible. He has successfully sold to the Cologne based ‘Rapid Eye’, the German and Turkish dubbing rights of Chandramukhi which will be screened in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Turkey!

Chandramukhi is the first ever Tamil film to be dubbed into German and Turkish. Earlier Karan Johar’s Kabhi Kushi Kabhi Gham was dubbed into German and Turkish and it was a huge success.

Remember that it will be 100 percent white German audience who do not understand English or Hindi who will be watching and enjoying our superstar Rajnikanth as a psychiatrist!

They are surely going to say- “Achtung….” (The war cry of Nazis which means, Look out! Take care!) Rajni is here!"

Rajni to speak German, Turkish! - Sify.com

Journalists discuss media and rights in Turkey - Turkish Daily News

"Journalists discuss media and rights in Turkey
Friday, March 31, 2006

ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

ARTICLE SUMMARY
Hansjörg Kretschmer, the head of the European Commission delegation to Turkey, assembled some 18 journalists from European Union countries and Turkey yesterday at Istanbul’s Four Seasons "

More:Journalists discuss media and rights in Turkey - Turkish Daily News

..:: ABHABER.COM : Turkey backs technical committees on Cyprus

"Turkey backs technical committees on Cyprus

Ankara welcomed efforts by the United Nations' secretary general for the establishment of technical committees between the Turkish and Greek Cypriots.

“It was Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus [TRNC] President Mehmet Ali Talat who first suggested the establishment of such committees to make daily life easier for both sides of the island,” a Turkish Foreign Ministry source said on condition of anonymity. The official referred to Talat’s proposition of establishing joint Turkish-Greek Cypriot committee to contain the expansion of THE bird flu epidemic after the outbreak of bird flu in Turkey at the end of last year. The issue was also embraced by the UN's Under-Secretary General Ibrahim Gambari who referred to the establishment of such technical committees in a recent letter to the TRNC."

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

The New Anatolian-The EU's share in deteriorating relations with Turkey

"The EU's share in deteriorating relations with Turkey
Cengiz Candar

ccandar@superonline.com
31 March 2006

Can we in Turkey say we have any feeling of steadily moving towards accession to the European Union? When confronted with the question as to whether EU integration is our primary national policy, can any one of us, without any hesitation, respond in the affirmative?

More than Turkey's accession, its motivation is looking more doubtful with every passing day. We Turks seem to be no longer focusing on our march towards the EU, nor is the issue high on the ever-changing political agenda, and neither are European leaders paying deserved attention to these facts."

More:The New Anatolian

The New Anatolian-Israel determined to strengthen relations with Ankara

"Israel determined to strengthen relations with Ankara

The New Anatolian / Ankara

Israel, fresh out of this week's general elections, wants to arrange a swift visit of its future foreign minister to Ankara, even before the formation of the new Cabinet, Israeli sources said yesterday.

The swift nature of the visit underlines the intention of Israel to seek steadier relations with Turkey, according to the same sources.

'Whoever becomes foreign minister, one of their first foreign visits will be definitely to Ankara,' said an Israeli official. 'We already agreed with Ankara about this visit.' "

More:The New Anatolian

Reuters AlertNet - EU concerned by violence in Turkey

"EU concerned by violence in Turkey
31 Mar 2006 13:21:19 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Ingrid Melander

BRUSSELS, March 31 (Reuters) - The European Union expressed serious concern on Friday over violent clashes which have killed six people, including two children, in southeast Turkey and urged Ankara to improve the rights of Kurds in the region.

Stone-throwing Kurds have been clashing with riot police in Diyarbakir since Tuesday, turning the city of one million people on the River Tigris into a battle zone."

More:Reuters AlertNet - EU concerned by violence in Turkey

«Trend» news agency: News from Azerbaijan and South Caucasus

"Azerbaijani president commemorates victims of Azerbaijani genocide
Source: Trend
Author: E.Huseynova
31.03.2006

On 31 March Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev visited a monument to victims of Azerbaijani genocide. Fresh wreathes were put at the memorial and prayers were given. Attending the ceremony were state and government officials, MPs, representatives of the diplomatic mission accredited in Azerbaijan."

More:«Trend» news agency: News from Azerbaijan and South Caucasus

The New Anatolian-Desperate Turkish students

"Desperate Turkish students
Nursun Erel

erel@thenewanatolian.com
31 March 2006

Recently there's been a series of reports on violence in schools on TV and on the front pages of newspapers. Young boys and girls are now suspects in horrible murders. First people asked each other, 'How come they're allowed to carry guns and knives and bring them into school?' but then we heard our education minister and prime minister both commenting in the same way on these violence incidents, with one saying, 'They're just rare, minor cases but the mass media is trying to make them seem like everyday occurrences. This is untrue. We're asking members of the press not to run such stories on their front pages because it's becoming an incentive to do such things.'"

More:The New Anatolian

..:: ABHABER.COM :Armenia hopes EU will pressure Turkey to open its border

"Armenia hopes EU will pressure Turkey to open its border

Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian expressed Yerevan's hope that Turkey will be pressured by the European Union to open its border with Armenia during the EU membership process.

Oskanian made the remarks at a press conference in Washington on Wednesday following his contacts in the U.S.

Underlining that Armenia has no pre-conditions for the opening of the border, Oskanian said, 'Turkish-Armenian border is the only closed border gate in Europe. We hope Turkey will be pressured to open it during its bid to join the bloc.' "

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

Greek Cypriots boasted of EU warning to Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"Greek Cypriots boasted of EU warning to Turkey
Friday, March 31, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

The Greek Cypriot administration expressed satisfaction yesterday over remarks by European Union Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn, who warned Turkey of an impending �train crash� in its relations with the 25-nation bloc if it continues to keep its ports and airports closed to traffic from Greek Cyprus."

More:Greek Cypriots boasted of EU warning to Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

İpekçi’s suspected murderer held in Belgium - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"İpekçi’s suspected murderer held in Belgium
Friday, March 31, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

The Brussels Prosecutor's Office said yesterday that a Turk accused by Turkey of being involved in the murder of prominent Turkish journalist Abdi İpekçi has been arrested for crimes committed in Belgium."

More:İpekçi’s suspected murderer held in Belgium - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

Ankara urges giving a chance to Hamas-led gov’t - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"Ankara urges giving a chance to Hamas-led gov’t
Friday, March 31, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Turkey has urged the international community to adopt an unprejudiced approach towards the new Hamas-led Palestinian government and called for it to be offered the opportunity to fulfill its responsibilities."

More:Ankara urges giving a chance to Hamas-led gov’t - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

JTW News - Wilson: No Need for Turkey’s Mediation for Iranian Issue

"Wilson: No Need for Turkey’s Mediation for Iranian Issue
The US Ambassador to Ankara, Ross Wilson, said Turkey's mediation in the Iran issue is not necessary.

In Washington to join the 25th annual conference of the American-Turkish Council and Turkish-US Business Council, Wilson answered questions from a group of Turkish reporters yesterday. "

More:JTW News - Wilson: No Need for Turkey’s Mediation for Iranian Issue

The New Anatolian-Foreign diplomats urge common sense

"Foreign diplomats urge common sense

The New Anatolian/ Ankara

Two key diplomats based in Ankara urged, restraint both to state officials and people in the region in the wake of violent incidents in Diyarbakir and the explosive southeast, calling for concrete improvements in the region.

U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Ross Wilson urged both state officials and people in the region to use their common sense. He said that the U.S. Consulate in Adana is following developments, adding that the demonstrations are one of the most critical incidents in the region for years."

More:The New Anatolian

The New Anatolian-European values: Global or local?

"European values: Global or local?
Huseyin Bagci

bagci@metu.edu.tr
27 March 2006

The Germans are the most pessimistic nation in Europe, according to a recent survey conducted in six leading nations. The most important question is, however, why the Germans are so pessimistic while they are the leading export nation in the world and one of the richest. According to the survey analysis, because the German demographic structure is shrinking and getting older and older, there is a great deficit of children. Where there are no children, as an Arab proverb says, there is no optimism. Germany is exactly in this situation. The Germans of today actually have nothing to cry about except they have to work longer. It is true that the Germans are fighting for a better social structure and the German state is cutting off some pension rights etc., but the German state is still providing the most acceptable social security for its citizens."

More:The New Anatolian

EUobserver.com-Sarkozy calls for definition of 'borders of Europe'

"Sarkozy calls for definition of 'borders of Europe'
31.03.2006 - 09:55 CET | By Lucia Kubosova
EUOBSERVER / ROME - Nicolas Sarkozy, a presidential hopeful in next year's French elections, has suggested the EU should become clear about where its borders lie and what other types of partnerships it can offer to countries aspiring to join the club.

Several high-profile speakers at the congress of the centre-right European People's Party gathered in Rome on Thursday (30 March) made comments about limiting EU enlargement plans."

More:EUobserver.com

PKK playing a very dangerous game - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"PKK playing a very dangerous game
Friday, March 31, 2006

In the past, I had written about the possibility of flareups like what is currently happening in Diyarbakır. It's just a show of force by the PKK. It is trying to prevent military operations by exploiting the people. The security forces are calm, but what’s happening is beyond their control. Also, the DTP is unable to make the PKK listen to reason or is unwilling to say anything. "

More:PKK playing a very dangerous game - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

We won't be entering Europe, we'll be becoming European - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"We won't be entering Europe, we'll be becoming European
Friday, March 31, 2006

Both in Europe and here, the country’s European Union process is described as 'Turkey entering Europe.' However, this expression has negative connotations for both sides in terms of the current state of Turkey’s relations with the EU. The expression is misleading from all angles. "

More:We won't be entering Europe, we'll be becoming European - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

Understanding our times backward while innovating forward - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"Understanding our times backward while innovating forward
Friday, March 31, 2006

Nobel-winning physicist and thinker Niels Bohr once added an observation as well to metaphysics: 'The opposite of a true statement is a false statement. But the opposite of a profound truth may well be another profound truth.' This riddle-like comment holds value for our efforts to grasp the essence of our age. I found myself quoting Bohr this week when visiting foreign businessman asked me the straightforward question, 'Where is the Turkish economy headed?' "

More:Understanding our times backward while innovating forward - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

Turkey imposes biggest tax wedge, says OECD - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"Turkey imposes biggest tax wedge, says OECD
Friday, March 31, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Turkey imposes the biggest �tax wedge� on a single-earner married couple with two children on average earnings, while Ireland, Iceland and the United States take the smallest slice in tax, said the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)."

More:Turkey imposes biggest tax wedge, says OECD - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

Productivity revival protects Turkey from emerging market volatility - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

"Productivity revival protects Turkey from emerging market volatility
Friday, March 31, 2006

ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

Global capital markets have faced a burst of volatility in recent times, partly because of higher interest rates in developed countries channeling portfolio allocations away from �riskier� assets like emerging markets."

More:Productivity revival protects Turkey from emerging market volatility - Turkish Daily News Mar 31, 2006

Death toll rises to 6 in SE Turkey clashes

"Death toll rises to 6 in SE Turkey clashes

By Mert Ozkan
Reuters
Friday, March 31, 2006; 5:22 AM

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey (Reuters) - Six people have been killed so far in days of clashes between Kurdish protesters and police in Diyarbakir, the main town of Turkey's troubled southeast, its mayor said on Friday."

More:Death toll rises to 6 in SE Turkey clashes

Turkish Cypriot truckers call off checkpoint blockade

"Turkish Cypriot truckers call off checkpoint blockade

TURKISH Cypriot truck drivers yesterday called off a blockade planned for today in which they had threatened to close all crossing points if the Turkish Cypriot authorities did not act to prevent Greek Cypriot trucks entering the north.

A spokesman for the truck drivers’ union told the Cyprus Mail that it was decided the blockade would not take place. “We don’t want to cause chaos. We just want to work,” the spokesman said.

The threat came earlier in the week after the unions learned that a fleet of Greek Cypriot lorries would be entering the north today to pick up a consignment of citrus fruits from the Morphou region.

Currently, Turkish Cypriot goods vehicles and public transport vehicles, including taxis and rented cars, are prevented from entering the south unless drivers carry a Republic of Cyprus licence. Unions are calling on the Turkish Cypriot authorities to impose similar restrictions on Greek Cypriot commercial vehicles.

However, the union spokesman said yesterday they had decided to hold off on their action after the ‘government’ in the north agreed to meet with them next Tuesday."

More:Turkish Cypriot truckers call off checkpoint blockade

Thursday, March 30, 2006

Largest Turkish conglomerate joins UN Global Compact for ethical businesses

"Largest Turkish conglomerate joins UN Global Compact for ethical businesses

30 March 2006 – Turkey’s largest industrial conglomerate, Koç Holding A.S., with more than 87,000 employees, today joined the United Nations Global Compact, a six-year-old initiative launched by Secretary-General Kofi Annan to advance good corporate citizenship and responsible globalization, including promoting human rights and fighting corruption."

More:Largest Turkish conglomerate joins UN Global Compact for ethical businesses

Economic protectionism troubles Barroso

Business Week

"Economic protectionism troubles Barroso
MAR. 30 3:06 P.M. ET European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said that a recent bout of economic protectionism represented a 'threat' to the European Union, and vowed Thursday to combat any attempt to favor national interests in the single market.

Energy companies have been at the center of disputes among EU nations in recent weeks, sparking accusations of protectionism against France and Spain for seeking to prevent takeovers of national power companies by rivals from Italy and Germany.

'My commission will fight all kinds of economic nationalism,' Barroso said. 'I believe economic nationalism is a threat to our European values.'"

Crazy weekend fares from Germanwings

"Crazy weekend fares from Germanwings

Book by 11pm (midnight CET) on Sunday, April 2: Germanwings’ latest crazy weekend promotion has 50,000 flights from €1 (about £0.70) one-way excluding taxes and charges.

The offer covers the following routes:

From/to Cologne: Alicante, Antalya, Gdansk, Dublin, Edinburgh, Gothenborg, Izmir, Krakow, London, Oslo, Paris, Prague, Stockholm, Warsaw, Vienna, Zurich.

From/to Stuttgart: Antalya, Izmir, Krakow, London, Paris, Prague, Warsaw, Vienna.

From/to Berlin: Oslo, Stockholm, Izmir.

From/to Hamburg: Izmir, Krakow, London, Oslo, Stockholm, Warsaw.

First come, first served.

Travel between April 15 and May 31. "

Crazy weekend fares from Germanwings

Turkey's wobble | A crescent that could also wane | Economist.com

"A crescent that could also wane

Mar 30th 2006 | ANKARA
From The Economist print edition
Even admirers of Turkey's mildly Islamist prime minister are beginning to worry about his increasingly reckless political tactics

Reuters

“I DON'T see what all the worry is about.” With those breezy words, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish prime minister, flew to an Arab League summit in Sudan this week, after failing to defuse a spat about who should be the next central-bank governor—a row, moreover, which has rattled the markets badly."

More:Turkey's wobble | A crescent that could also wane | Economist.com

Back Page - North County Times - North San Diego and Southwest Riverside County News - NCTimes.com - Californian.com

"Thousands gather in temple of the sun god to witness global eclipse

By: Associated Press

SIDE, Turkey -- Thousands of skygazers gathered in an ancient temple of Apollo and let out cheers Wednesday as a total solar eclipse turned day into twilight, casting an eerie blue glow across the sky and the Mediterranean Sea."

More:Back Page - North County Times - North San Diego and Southwest Riverside County News - NCTimes.com - Californian.com

Turks increasingly tired of some in Europe - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"Turks increasingly tired of some in Europe
Thursday, March 30, 2006

There appears to be more honesty in European Union circles these days. I say this because more and more EU Commission officials and officials from member states are prepared to expose the less-than-honorable steps being taken by the likes of Austria and France to throw fresh thumbtacks on Turkey’s path to accession. "

More:Turks increasingly tired of some in Europe - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

First labor films festival in Turkey to kick off in May - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"First labor films festival in Turkey to kick off in May
Thursday, March 30, 2006

The festival, to be held in both Ankara and Istanbul, will feature 40 films and documentaries by Turkish and international directors focusing on the problems of laborers worldwide "

More:First labor films festival in Turkey to kick off in May - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

The Tophane-i Amire -- an Ottoman building restored for exhibitions - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"The Tophane-i Amire -- an Ottoman building restored for exhibitions
Thursday, March 30, 2006
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

An Ottoman building sits on the hillside above the shore stretching from Karaköy to Dolmabahçe. It's remarkable in the sense that it resembles buildings you would expect to find in Istanbul's �old city� near Topkapı Palace or the Covered Bazaar -- definitely out of place. Many Turks don't know anything about the building, and for many years it was simply considered a military installation of some sort. Others made a point of learning that the building had been used as a foundry in which the majority of the Ottoman Empire's cannon were cast. This building is known as the Tophane-i Amire."

More:The Tophane-i Amire -- an Ottoman building restored for exhibitions - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

Turkish business calls for consensus over central bank chief - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"Turkish business calls for consensus over central bank chief
Thursday, March 30, 2006

ANKARA - Reuters

Turkey's top business group, the Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen's Association (TUSIAD), has called on the government to pick a consensus central bank candidate who can provide confidence to domestic and foreign markets, a newspaper said on Wednesday."

More:Turkish business calls for consensus over central bank chief - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

inadaily.com | Athens cool on Ankara rhetoricKathimerini Greece

"Athens cool on Ankara rhetoric
Kathimerini Greece

ATHENS

Athens is intent on maintaining a low-key approach to its relations with Ankara and will not respond to what it feels are jibes from the Turkish side aimed at provoking a reaction from Greece, diplomatic sources told Kathimerini.

This decision comes as the European Union's enlargement commissioner admitted that the union may face 'a period of political tension' in its relations with Turkey and that the Commission was 'working to avoid a train crash at the end of the year.'

Athens believes that Ankara has become more outspoken in its recent comments, as demonstrated by a statement on Sunday by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan that the Greek government did not allow the Muslim minority in Thrace to elect their own representatives."

More:inadaily.com | Article service

Turkish-American scientific competence may generate prosperity - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"Turkish-American scientific competence may generate prosperity
Thursday, March 30, 2006

If Turkish-American scientists return to Turkey, they could contribute to a 1 percent increase in the gross national income, claims Merck Group director "

More:Turkish-American scientific competence may generate prosperity - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

www.defacto.am-SENATORS SANTORUM, MENENDEZ INTRODUCE BILL TO BLOCK U.S. FUNDING FOR PROPOSED CAUCASUS RAILWAY PROJECT EXCLUDING ARMENIA

"SENATORS SANTORUM, MENENDEZ INTRODUCE BILL TO BLOCK U.S. FUNDING FOR PROPOSED CAUCASUS RAILWAY PROJECT EXCLUDING ARMENIA

Similar Measure in House Has Garnered 77 Cosponsors
WASHINGTON, DC ­ Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) and newly appointed New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) introduced legislation this week that would prohibit U.S. assistance for the building of railroads traversing the Caucasus that circumvent Armenia, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) [Ho. He. Dashanaktsutyan Washington-ee Hai Tahd-ee Krasenyag]."

More:www.defacto.am

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: rules out possible collision with EU over Cyprus

"Turkey: rules out possible collision with EU over Cyprus

09:42 - 30 March 2006 - Namik Tan, foreign ministry spokesman, commented that Ankara did not see any reason for a serious collision with the EU this year. Tan’s comment came shortly after the statement of EU enlargement commissioner Olli Rehn, who said that the relations between the Union and Turkey may face serious problems this year over Cyprus. "

More:REPORTER.GR

Erdogan's Foreign Policy Adviser Bagis In Washington

"Erdogan's Foreign Policy Adviser Bagis In Washington
Published: 3/29/2006

WASHINGTON - Egemen Bagis, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's foreign policy adviser and Justice & Development Party (AKP) deputy, met Congress members and representatives of Turkish community in Washington on Wednesday."

More:Erdogan's Foreign Policy Adviser Bagis In Washington

The New Anatolian-The rise of 'ummah' ideology in Turkey

"The rise of 'ummah' ideology in Turkey
Zeynep Gurcanli

gurcanli@thenewanatolian.com
30 March 2006

Nationalism has seemed to be on the rise amongst the Turkish public.

Novels like 'Metal Storm,' 'World War III' and the popular movie 'Valley of the Wolves Iraq,' all of which are about brave Turks fighting against the U.S and other Western powers, were interpreted as signals of this rise in nationalism.

However, behind the scenes there is another and certainly more dangerous tendency fueled by the current government, the 'ummah' ideology. "

More:The New Anatolian

Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Opinion

"Lessons from the ghosts of Gallipoli
Published: Thursday, 30 March, 2006, 09:29 AM Doha Time

By Robert Fisk

LONDON: Wellington reminds me of Maidstone, Kent, when I was a little boy; the 1912 facades of so many New Zealand shops, the narrow streets, the trolley buses, the giant coins, the slightly old-fashioned English, the demand for doughnuts and hot-cross buns. Everyone in Maidstone used to call each other “mate” – yes, I know this is an Australian expression as well – and older men in Wellington wear ties, just as my Dad did back in the 1950s."

More:Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Opinion

Hürriyet-Denktas: History of Cyprus must be analyzed

"Denktas: History of Cyprus must be analyzed

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Foreign Minister Serdar Denktas said on Wednesday that the Cyprus problem has not been solved because the two communities do not want to reach the goal of a common future and be brought together purely under international pressure."

More:Hürriyet

Turkish Foreign Ministry To Train Foreign Diplomats

"Turkish Foreign Ministry To Train Foreign Diplomats
Published: 3/29/2006

ANKARA - Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs will train young foreign diplomats between April 3rd - May 12th, 2006 in Ankara.

In a weekly press conference today, Foreign Ministry spokesman Namik Tan told that 43 young diplomats from 43 countries will arrive in Ankara next month and will be trained by experts in international relations and Turkey`s foreign diplomacy."

More:Turkish Foreign Ministry To Train Foreign Diplomats

The New Anatolian-Arinc praises people of Diyarbakir for closing ears to PKK agitation

"Arinc praises people of Diyarbakir for closing ears to PKK agitation

The New Anatolian / Ankara

Commenting on this week's violent incidents in Diyarbakir, Parliament Speaker Bulent Arinc yesterday praised the security forces for suppressing demonstrations the terrorist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) worked to turn into mass riots.

Kurdish protesters rampaged on Tuesday and Wednesday after a funeral for PKK members killed by troops in the east over the weekend, hurling firebombs at armored police vehicles, smashing the windows of a police station and stabbing two police officers."

More:The New Anatolian

Turkey against nuclear weapons in its region - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"Turkey against nuclear weapons in its region
Thursday, March 30, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Lt. Gen. Hilmi Akın Zorlu, head of the General Staff Planning and Principles Department, said yesterday that Turkey does not want any country in its region possessing nuclear weapons.

�We do not want a country in our region with nuclear weapons. We are in need of a region that does not have nuclear weapons,� Zorlu was quoted as saying during the annual American-Turkish Council (ATC) conference in Washington."

More:Turkey against nuclear weapons in its region - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

Turkey admits hitch with EU - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"Turkey admits hitch with EU
Thursday, March 30, 2006

Talks dispute persists

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

Foreign Ministry spokesman Namık Tan said a dispute with the European Union on how accession negotiations should proceed has not been resolved, something that is casting a shadow on Ankara's EU membership bid at an early stage of the accession process. Tan also responded to a warning made by EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn that there might be a �train accident� between Turkey and the EU over Cyprus, saying Turkey saw no reason for such an accident to happen."

More:Turkey admits hitch with EU - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

Turkey pressures Denmark to close down Roj TV - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

"Turkey pressures Denmark to close down Roj TV
Thursday, March 30, 2006

ANKARA - Turkish Daily news

The Turkish government expects Danish authorities to finalize an ongoing legal process over Ankara's demand for closure of a television station based in Denmark that Ankara believes has links to the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), Foreign Ministry spokesman Namık Tan has emphasized."

More:Turkey pressures Denmark to close down Roj TV - Turkish Daily News Mar 30, 2006

Istanbul to toughen controls on internet cafes

"Istanbul to toughen controls on internet cafes
The Istanbul governor said the internet cafes would be checked on whether they are still meeting the conditions of their licenses and if not would be given some time to fix the problems."

More:Istanbul to toughen controls on internet cafes

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

A Saddening View In Washington D.C.-

"A Saddening View In Washington D.C.-
Published: 3/29/2006

Asli Aydintasbas, a columnists of the Sabah daily who was in attendance at the annual meeting of the American-Turkish Council (ATC) in Washington D.C., explained her impressions in her column on Wednesday.

''For the first time in my life, I engulfed in sadness when I entered the conference hall. ATC meetings are not ordinary events. In fact, those meetings were used to be held with the participation of leading figures from the Turkish government, business circles and the General Staff. American senators, military officials, bureaucrats and executives of giant companies were used to attend the ball prior to the meetings. Baku-Ceyhan oil pipeline project was shaped during those meetings. But this year, the conference hall was half empty."

More:A Saddening View In Washington D.C.-

14th EU-turkey Journalists' Conference To Start In Istanbul

"14th EU-turkey Journalists' Conference To Start In Istanbul
Published: 3/29/2006

ISTANBUL - The 14th EU-Turkey Journalists` Conference, held by Delegation of European Commission to Turkey, will start in Istanbul on Thursday."

More:14th EU-turkey Journalists' Conference To Start In Istanbul

The Anatolia Times-Fakili: We Invite Kuwaiti Investors To Turkey

"Fakili: We Invite Kuwaiti Investors To Turkey
KUWAIT CITY - ``We invite Kuwaiti entrepreneurs to invest in growing Turkish real estate and tourism market,`` said Turkey`s Ambassador in Kuwait City Sakir Fakili on Wednesday.

A conference, titled ``Investment in Turkey`` and sponsored by the Turkish Embassy in Kuwait City and Kuwaiti-Turkish Bank, took place at the Sheraton Hotel in Kuwait City today.

The conference began with a recitation from the Holy Quran and was attended by almost 100 investors."

More:The Anatolia Times

JTW News - Denmark-based Roj TV Calls for Violence and Riots in Turkey

"Denmark-based Roj TV Calls for Violence and Riots in Turkey
•Denmark-based Roj TV has called for violent uprisings in southeastern Turkey. After the call, the PKK militants and sympathizers terrorized the biggest city Diyarbakir in the region. Roj TV has been the focus of recent controversy, as Turkey has made a series of high level diplomatic requests that it be shut down in Denmark, where it continues to broadcast uninterrupted by the Danish government."

More:JTW News - Denmark-based Roj TV Calls for Violence and Riots in Turkey

Dunya Online -Bryza: Turkey’s EU membership has key role in countering radical Islam

"Bryza: Turkey’s EU membership has key role in countering radical Islam

A top US diplomat late Monday stressed democratic, secular Turkey’s crucial role in countering the rise of radical Islam, and stated that Washington’s support for its European Union membership stems from Ankara’s stance in the ideological divide within the Muslim world.

US Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs Matt Bryza made the remarks at the 25th Annual Conference of the Turkish American Business Council (TAIK) and American Turkish Council (ATC), where Turkey’s EU bid was at the forefront of the discussions. The conference was held in Washington."

More:Dunya Online Haber Sayfası

LONDRA - TOPLUM POSTASI-Mangled Turkish or advantageous bilingualism

"Mangled Turkish or advantageous bilingualism

Code switching or the alternating use of two or more languages (English & Cypriot-Turkish) at a single time is increasingly common among second generation Turkish Cypriots both in the UK and in other diaspora communities, such as those in Australia, Canada, South Africa and New Zealand. But code switching carries a lot of stigma, as it often negatively regarded as an incorrect or misuse of language, or a double failure to express oneself in two or more languages. Code switchers are faced with opprobrium and ridicule."

More:LONDRA - TOPLUM POSTASI

Middle East Times-Fears of post-eclipse quake send Turks flocking outdoors

"Fears of post-eclipse quake send Turks flocking outdoors
March 29, 2006

ANKARA -- Hundreds of people in northern Turkey are camping in tents, gripped by panic over rumors that a major quake will hit the region after Wednesday's total solar eclipse, local officials said.

Seismologists flocked to the town of Niksar, in Tokat province, to debunk the rumors and calm the population, but many are determined to stay outdoors, Niksar's deputy mayor Abdullah Yildiz said.

An obscure academic sparked the panic earlier this month when he wrote a letter to local authorities, warning that Wednesday's solar eclipse would be followed by an earthquake measuring up to 7.2 on the Richter scale with its epicenter in Niksar, according to media reports. "

More:Middle East Times

Privatizations draw investors' gaze to Turkey - Marketplace by Bloomberg - International Herald Tribune

"Privatizations draw investors' gaze to Turkey
By Ben Holland Bloomberg News

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29, 2006
ISTANBUL When Metin Kilci was hired by the Turkish prime minister in 2003 to find buyers for state-run companies, his first task was to persuade investors to take him seriously.

'The predominant attitude was suspicion,' said Kilci, president of the Privatization Administration. 'Turkey had been saying for 20 years that it was going to sell these companies, then not doing it. Investors didn't believe us.'"

More:Privatizations draw investors' gaze to Turkey - Marketplace by Bloomberg - International Herald Tribune

People's Daily Online -- Turkey worries over safety of carrying crude oil through its straits

"Turkey worries over safety of carrying crude oil through its straits

Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Hilmi Guler said in Ankara Tuesday that carrying oil through the Turkish Straits has reached to a very critical and dangerous level regarding environmental, social, physical and economic reasons.

Guler made the comments in a message sent to the 4th Turkey- Caspian-Black Sea Oil-Natural Gas Conference hosted by his ministry in Ankara, semi-official Anatolia News Agency reported.

'Amount of crude oil carried through the Turkish Straits increases gradually each year. This situation poses a serious environmental threat to Turkey,' Guler was quoted as saying in the message."

More:People's Daily Online -- Turkey worries over safety of carrying crude oil through its straits

Examiner-Turkish question and enlargement may ultimately define EU’s destiny

"Turkish question and enlargement may ultimately define EU’s destiny
By Ann Cahill, Europe Correspondent
THE US would not have gone into Iraq if the EU had been united against it; Europe did not intervene in Bosnia to prevent the genocide because the US didn’t care about it enough to spur NATO into action; Turkey, and not pushing growth and jobs, is what will define ultimately the European Union. "

More:Examiner

E.U. Made Big Mistakes On Cyprus Issue, Lagendijk

"E.U. Made Big Mistakes On Cyprus Issue, Lagendijk
Published: 3/28/2006

WASHINGTON D.C. - EU-Turkey Joint Parliamentary Commission Co-President Joost Lagendijk has indicated that EU has made big mistakes regarding the Cyprus issue."

More:E.U. Made Big Mistakes On Cyprus Issue, Lagendijk

The Manitoban Online - Cyprus unveiled

"Cyprus unveiled
Speaker attempts to address Cyprus conflict, but not without defensive rebukes from a U of M crowd
Chelsea Moore staff

Ethnic tensions in Cyprus are still deeply felt, according to a lecturer hosted by the Mauro Centre for Peace and Justice at the U of M last week.

On March 20, Dr. Esra Çuhadar Gürkaynak, a conflict resolution assistant professor from Sabanç University in Istanbul, Turkey, gave a presentation entitled, “An Assessment of Mediation Attempts in Cyprus.” The lecture, however, quickly transformed into a heated debate between the speaker and the audience."

More:The Manitoban Online - Cyprus unveiled

Kretschmer: Turkey Has A Lot More To Do

"Kretschmer: Turkey Has A Lot More To Do
Published: 3/29/2006

MUGLA - ''Turkey has done a lot in political and economic areas. However, Turkey still has a lot more to do,'' said Hans Jorg Kretschmer, European Union Commission's Representative to Turkey."

More:Kretschmer: Turkey Has A Lot More To Do

Center For European Reform: Rightists In The EU Wants To Exclude Muslim Turkey For Cultural Reasons And Leftists Fear That Cheap Labor Will Put Blue-c

"Center For European Reform: Rightists In The EU Wants To Exclude Muslim Turkey For Cultural Reasons And Leftists Fear That Cheap Labor Will Put Blue-collar Workers On The Dole
Published: 3/28/2006

BRUSSELS - A report released by the Center for European Reform (CER) indicated that a large portion of the rightists in the EU wanted to exclude Muslim Turkey for cultural reasons while much of the leftists wanted to exclude Turkey for economical reasons."

More:Center For European Reform: Rightists In The EU Wants To Exclude Muslim Turkey For Cultural Reasons And Leftists Fear That Cheap Labor Will Put Blue-collar Workers On The Dole

Turkey's dream of EU meets with hesitancy - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"Turkey's dream of EU meets with hesitancy

WORLD BRIEFINGS
By Andrew Borowiec
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
March 29, 2006

NICOSIA, Cyprus
Turkey's search for a new European identity casts a long shadow over eastern Mediterranean countries, where there is considerable confusion as to Ankara's intentions. Until now, Turkey has rarely bothered to explain to the international community the reasons for its decisions, thus causing misunderstandings.
For Europeans, Turkey's traditional Islamic roots and its quest for a modern outlook contradict each other. On this divided island, a third of which is patrolled by Turkish troops, Ankara's hopes to join the European Union are viewed with misgivings. "

More:Turkey's dream of EU meets with hesitancy - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

E.U. Appreciates Turkey's Reforms, Kretschmer

"E.U. Appreciates Turkey's Reforms, Kretschmer
Published: 3/28/2006

IZMIR - ''EU appreciated the reforms Turkey has fulfilled in recent years,'' said Hans Joerg Kretschmer, EU Commission's Representative to Turkey, on Tuesday.

Taking the floor at an international conference entitled ''EU Accession: Perspectives for Agriculture Sector and Rural Areas in Turkey'' held at Hilton Hotel in western city of Izmir, Kretschmer noted that Turkey fulfilled significant reforms in areas of politics and economy, but there are many other things -- especially in the agriculture sector -- to be fulfilled regarding the EU acquis."

More:E.U. Appreciates Turkey's Reforms, Kretschmer

..:: ABHABER.COM : Arab Summit: Erdogan warns EU of dangers of anti-Muslim laws

"Arab Summit: Erdogan warns EU of dangers of anti-Muslim laws

In move to warn US and EU about implementing anti-Muslim laws, in a key speech to support Alliance of Civilizations initiative Erdogan says such legislation creates dangerous fault line that threatens peace in societies

Touching on Muhammed cartoon crisis, Erdogan stresses freedom of expression should have some limits and urges all members of different religions to stop struggling to dominate the other

Warning the U.S. and the European Union about the consequences of formulating new laws against Muslims, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday said that such legislation creates a dangerous fault line which threatens peace in societies."

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

Only Europe can save the AKP - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2006

"Only Europe can save the AKP
Wednesday, March 29, 2006

There have been some problems between the Justice and Development Party and the public in recent weeks. The current situation will only increase in severity as we head towards elections, and, in fact, will even continue after the elections. The only escape from this vicious cycle is to speed up the train towards Europe."

More:Only Europe can save the AKP - Turkish Daily News Mar 29, 2006

Hürriyet-Roj TV strikes again; Diyarbakir turned into war zone yesterday

"Roj TV strikes again; Diyarbakir turned into war zone yesterday

The funerals for 4 of the 14 terrorist PKK members killed in clashes in the Southeast of Turkey were held yesterday in Diyarbakir, where broadcasts by Kurdish-backed Roj TV led to violent rioting on the streets of the city. Roj TV has been the focus of recent controversy, as Turkey has made a series of high level diplomatic requests that it be shut down in Denmark, where it continues to broadcast uninterrupted by the Danish government. "

More:Hürriyet

Is Europe Becoming Introverted?

"Is Europe Becoming Introverted?

Let’s list the developments in recent months:

France and The Netherlands rejected the European Union Constitution, fearing the expansion drive. The French, in particular, held Turkey’s probable and prospective EU membership responsible for this rejection. Criticisms mounted throughout the expansion phase."

More:Is Europe Becoming Introverted?

Can Turkey bridge the gap between Islam and the West? | csmonitor.com

"Can Turkey bridge the gap between Islam and the West?
By improving ties with Iran and Syria, Turkey aims to help mediate tensions.
By Yigal Schleifer | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor
ISTANBUL, TURKEY – After decades of keeping the Arab and Muslim countries of the Middle East at arm's length, Turkey is trying to strengthen relations with its neighbors while at the same time recasting itself as a mediator in the region.

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan delivered a speech at the opening of the Arab League summit in Khartoum, Sudan, where Turkey for the first time was given the status of 'permanent guest' by the organization."

More:Can Turkey bridge the gap between Islam and the West? | csmonitor.com

REPORTER.GR-Turkey sentenced by ECHR

"Turkey sentenced by ECHR

11:56 - 29 March 2006 - The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) sentenced Turkey to pay a €945 thousand in compensation to 317 Turkish applicants over case concerns the granting of permits to operate a goldmine in Ovacık, in the district of Bergama (Izmir). "

More:REPORTER.GR

REPORTER.GR-Turkey to buy 100 fighter aircrafts worth $10 bln

"Turkey to buy 100 fighter aircrafts worth $10 bln

10:07 - 29 March 2006 - Turkey's Air Force plans to buy 100 new generation combat aircraft worth $10 billion and will decide by the end of 2006 which aircraft to purchase, the Anatolian state news agency said."

More:REPORTER.GR

The New Anatolian-According to industrialists, the biggest problem is unemployment

"According to industrialists, the biggest problem is unemployment

A research made by the Kayseri Chamber of Industry (KAYSO) on �2005 evaluation and expectations for the future� put forth that the industrialists are hopeful with the performance of the government and for the future to a great extent. When 2004 and 2005 are compared, it was seen that out of the firms which participated in the research, 47 pct stated that there were positive changes regarding their production amount. Others were as follows: 42 pct � number of employees � 47.6 pct domestic sales � 27.3 pct foreign sales and 40.6 pct investments. "

More:The New Anatolian

EU’s Rehn sees tension ahead with Turkey

"EU’s Rehn sees tension ahead with Turkey
By Paul Taylor and Marcin Grajewski

‘European Commission is working to avoid a train crash at the end of the year’

RELATIONS BETWEEN the European Union and Turkey face turbulence later this year over Cyprus and it will take deft diplomacy to avoid a 'train crash', EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn said yesterday.

The EU has said Turkey, with which it began membership talks last October, must open its ports and airports to traffic from Cyprus this year under an agreement extending its customs union to the 10 new countries that joined the 25-nation bloc in 2004.

Turkey has so far refused, linking the issue to an ending of an economic blockade of the Turkish-occupied north, which the government has prevented Brussels from easing."

More:EU’s Rehn sees tension ahead with Turkey

Chron.com | Kurdish Protesters Rampage in Turkey

"Kurdish Protesters Rampage in Turkey

By SELCAN HACAOGLU Associated Press Writer
© 2006 The Associated Press

ANKARA, Turkey — Thousands of Kurdish protesters rampaged after funerals for Kurdish guerrillas killed by Turkish troops, hurling firebombs at armored police vehicles and smashing windows at a police station. Forty people were injured.

The fighting Tuesday was among the worst street battles in overwhelmingly Kurdish southeastern Turkey in years. Turkish authorities took the unusual step of calling in paramilitary police to help police restore order."

More:Chron.com | Kurdish Protesters Rampage in Turkey

Middle East Times-Turkey's EU talks already running up against obstacles

"Turkey's EU talks already running up against obstacles
March 29, 2006

BRUSSELS -- Although Turkey's negotiations on joining the European Union are only in an early stage, they are already running into obstacles due to some members' reticence about the vast Muslim country joining.

Turkey began EU membership talks in October, but only after frantic last-minute wrangling to overcome objections by Austria, which had argued for Ankara to be offered something less than full EU membership."

More:Middle East Times

Ilham Aliyev: Armenians were moved to Azerbaijan territory from Iran and Turkey in 20th century - Politics - REGNUM

"Ilham Aliyev: Armenians were moved to Azerbaijan territory from Iran and Turkey in 20th century

“Armenian nationalistic policy of genocide and aggression against Azerbaijan people is 200 years old,” is said in President Ilham Aliyev’s address to Azerbaijani people on the occasion of March 31 – Day of the Azeri Genocide, published by press office of the presidential administration. Aliyev continues: “Such policy is aimed at expatriating of Azerbaijanis and establishing Great Armenia in their native territories, invented by Armenian ideologists”."

More:Ilham Aliyev: Armenians were moved to Azerbaijan territory from Iran and Turkey in 20th century - Politics - REGNUM

Turks Take over Germans' Golden Era

"Turks Take over Germans' Golden Era
By Esat Semiz, Frankfurt
Published: Wednesday, March 29, 2006
zaman.com

The Allensbach Idea Research Institute has measured the concerns of Germans and Turks regarding the future by conducting a study in both countries.

The study compared responses given by a thousand citizens from both countries. Germans revealed they are concerned about the future, fearing they will be unable to keep up with the rhythm of social, economic and political moderations, while Turks welcome the future with hope, despite their desperate past."

More:Turks Take over Germans' Golden Era

REPORTER.GR-Romania: Turkish Sabanci Holding Co. Sets up Company

"Romania: Turkish Sabanci Holding Co. Sets up Company

14:08 - 29 March 2006 - Turkish Sabanci Holding Co. finalized its unit in Romania, said company officials as the confirmation of the move comes after Turkish media quoted Ymaz Kulcu, general manager of Cimsa, as saying the cement producer was conducting studies for setting up a business unit on the Romanian market and was interested in European expansion as well, ACT Media news agency reports."

More:REPORTER.GR

'Turkey has Every Right to Ask EU to Keep its Promise'

"'Turkey has Every Right to Ask EU to Keep its Promise'
By Anadolu News Agency (aa), Washington
Published: Wednesday, March 29, 2006
zaman.com

Turkey-EU Joint Parliamentary Commission Co-Chair Joost Lagendijk said the European Union made crucial mistakes regarding Cyprus.

Lagendijk in his speech at a panel discussing Turkey-EU relations for the 25th anniversary conference of the American-Turkish Council and Turkish American Labor Council cited: “The EU has made crucial mistakes on Cyprus. It is therefore difficult to obtain a ground. Turkey is right to ask the EU ‘to keep its promise’.”"

More:'Turkey has Every Right to Ask EU to Keep its Promise'

A Quiz for Would-Be Citizens Tests Germans' Attitudes - New York Times

"A Quiz for Would-Be Citizens Tests Germans' Attitudes
By RICHARD BERNSTEIN
Published: March 29, 2006

BERLIN, March 28 — What's the capital of Germany? Well, pretty much everybody knows that one. It's Berlin, of course.

But how about these questions: 'Which convention gathered at St. Paul's Church in Frankfurt in 1848?' 'Name three mountains in Germany.' 'Which German physicist revolutionized medical diagnosis in 1895?'

If you are a foreigner living in Germany and do not know that the National Assembly was the convention that gathered in 1848, or that the 1895 scientist was Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, you might not be able to become a German citizen — not, at least, if a new citizenship test for foreigners is adopted by the national government."

More:A Quiz for Would-Be Citizens Tests Germans' Attitudes - New York Times

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

U.S. Envoy Seeks Azerbaijan-Armenian Peace Settlement in 2006- U.S. Department Of State

"U.S. Envoy Seeks Azerbaijan-Armenian Peace Settlement in 2006

Mediators urge parties to prepare their publics 'for peace, not for war'

By Vince Crawley
Washington File Staff Writer

Washington -- The top U.S. negotiator for the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict says 2006 is a favorable year to reach a peace agreement, but an independent group says cease-fire violations appear to be growing after inconclusive peace talks in February.

“This is not a frozen conflict. There are still people being killed regularly,” Sabine Freizer, Caucasus project director for the International Crisis Group, said March 28 in Washington.

Armenians and Azerbaijanis both appear to believe that delaying a peace settlement over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region makes their positions stronger, Freizer said. As many as 19 people, including eight civilians, have been killed in cease-fire violations over the past month, following inconclusive peace talks in Rambouillet, France, she said during a briefing at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). As many as 90 people were killed in 2005."

More:U.S. Envoy Seeks Azerbaijan-Armenian Peace Settlement in 2006- U.S. Department Of State

Turkey: Women confronting family violence - Amnesty International

"Turkey: Women confronting family violence
Introduction

Güldünya Tören named her new baby 'Hope'. She knew that the two of them might not have long to live. After she became pregnant, she had refused to marry her cousin and was sent to her uncle’s house in Istanbul. There, one of her brothers gave her a rope and told her to hang herself. She escaped and begged for police protection, but was assured that her uncle and brother promised not to kill her. In February 2004, weeks after the birth, her brothers reportedly shot and wounded her in the street. From her hospital bed, she pleaded for the police to save her. She was left to face her murderers alone. Late at night, her killers entered the unguarded hospital and shot her in the head. Her life support machine was later turned off.(1) "

More:Turkey: Women confronting family violence - Amnesty International

Examiner-Turkish question and enlargement may ultimately define EU’s destiny

"Turkish question and enlargement may ultimately define EU’s destiny
By Ann Cahill, Europe Correspondent
THE US would not have gone into Iraq if the EU had been united against it; Europe did not intervene in Bosnia to prevent the genocide because the US didn’t care about it enough to spur NATO into action; Turkey, and not pushing growth and jobs, is what will define ultimately the European Union. "

More:Examiner

People's Daily Online -- EU-Turkey integration important for regional, world peace: official

"EU-Turkey integration important for regional, world peace: official
font size ZoomIn ZoomOut

Ali Babacan, Turkish State Minister and chief negotiator for talks on Turkey's entry into the European Union (EU), said on Tuesday that Turkey-EU integration was of utmost importance for regional and world peace.

Babacan made the remarks when speaking at a conference on ' Administrative Structures Adopted in Line with EU Negotiations', which was held in Ankara and sponsored by the World Bank Institute.

He said that Turkey's entry into the pan-Europe bloc would contribute to the EU's stability and security."

More:People's Daily Online -- EU-Turkey integration important for regional, world peace: official

Orient express - IT Week

"Orient express

A new era of political and financial stability has dawned in Turkey, driving the country towards European integration.
Richard Willsher, Financial Director 27 Mar 2006

Should Turkey succeed in its aim of joining the EU, it will be the second most populous nation in the European bloc after Germany. But unlike Germany and the other ageing populations of western Europe, the majority of Turkey’s 73 million population is under the age of 35, representing a formidably large workforce."

More:Orient express - IT Week

..:: ABHABER.COM :EU begins screening Turkey's enterprises and industrial policy

"EU begins screening Turkey's enterprises and industrial policy

As part of Turkey's European Union bid, the Union started the introductory screening of Turkey's enterprises and industrial policies, on Monday in Brussels.

While the EU is satisfied with Ankara's continued privatization process and improvements in investment opportunities, Turkey might face difficulties at this stage as Brussels is urging the country to simplify its bureaucracy and tax system and increase credit opportunities for small- and medium-sized enterprises until the end of negotiations on this chapter."

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

THE SKEPTIC: Gravy In Turkey

"THE SKEPTIC: Gravy In Turkey

By Arindam Nag
A DOW JONES NEWSWIRES COLUMN

LONDON (Dow Jones)--The outright acquisition of Finansbank by the likes of Citigroup or any other international bank would be the strongest signal yet that the IMF-backed banking reforms in Turkey have paid off.

The three-year reforms were launched in 2001 following devaluation of the Turkish lira, and they knocked out several underperforming small and medium-sized banks. But what has emerged is a cleaner, more disciplined banking sector. The prospect of a full-fledged acquisition by a foreign player, as opposed to partial ownership, is a testimony to those changes."

More:THE SKEPTIC: Gravy In Turkey

Turkey and the EU: Dangerous frustration is creeping in - Print Version - International Herald Tribune

"Turkey and the EU: Dangerous frustration is creeping in
Sinan Ulgen International Herald Tribune
TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2006

ISTANBUL Turkey's talks to join the European Union began barely six months ago, but already the mood in Turkey has begun to sour. The initial jubilance has been replaced with alarm, and even anger, as skepticism about admitting a relatively poor, Muslim country into the bloc has spread across the continent.

Admitting Turkey into the EU was never going to be easy. The country is large, populous and borders on the Middle East."

More:Turkey and the EU: Dangerous frustration is creeping in - Print Version - International Herald Tribune

Armenia and Armenian News - PanARMENIAN.Net - Oskanian: Armenia and Armenian Diaspora Demand Recognition and Denouncing Events in 1915

"Oskanian: Armenia and Armenian Diaspora Demand Recognition and Denouncing Events in 1915
28.03.2006 20:03 GMT+04:00 Print version Send to mail In Russian In Armenian
/PanARMENIAN.Net/ If there were no events in 1915, there would have been no concept of “Armenian Diaspora”, Armenian FM Vartan Oskanian stated in an interview with Turkish Hyurriet newspaper. In his words, Armenia and the Diaspora demand that the events in 1915 be recognized and denounced. On the other hand, V. Oskanian added, the closing of the borders and absence of relations between Yerevan and Ankara deepens the gap between the two countries. “Thus Armenian and Turkish peoples do not have an opportunity to replace old memories by new ones. The Armenian Diaspora wishes the best to Armenia: establishment of good relations with neighbors. We hope that the Turkish people also wish to establish good relations with the neighboring country,” the Armenian FM said."

More:Armenia and Armenian News - PanARMENIAN.Net - Oskanian: Armenia and Armenian Diaspora Demand Recognition and Denouncing Events in 1915

The New Anatolian-Iraqi ambassador Sabah Omran speaks to TNA: 'PKK terror can't be solved by military means alone'

"Iraqi ambassador Sabah Omran speaks to TNA: 'PKK terror can't be solved by military means alone'

Nursun Erel

This week our guest for On the Record is Iraqi Ambassador Sabah Omran. On a beautiful Ankara morning, we visited him at the Iraqi Embassy. Since we were together with TNA Executive Coordinator and Chief Columnist Ilnur Cevik, the interview became one in which we discussed many issues in-depth. Accompanied with homemade date cookies and tea service, the most important part of the talk was certainly 'off-the-record' issues, but let me share the 'on-the-record' parts with you."

More:The New Anatolian

Khaleej Times Online-Turkish govt under fire in fresh row over Islamist leanings

"Turkish govt under fire in fresh row over Islamist leanings
(AFP)

28 March 2006

ISTANBUL — Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s government came under fresh attacks yesterday that it is harbouring Islamist ambitions after a failed attempt to appoint an Islamic capital expert to the crucial post of central bank governor.

The row broke at the weekend after the government announced that President Ahmet Necdet Sezer, a staunch secularist often at odds with the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), had vetoed the cabinet’s nominee to head the Central Bank over the next five years."

More:Khaleej Times Online

Shawe Memorial teacher travels to Turkey to learn ancient Turkish art form

"Shawe Memorial teacher travels to Turkey to learn ancient Turkish art form
International Studies

Pat Whitney
Courier Staff Writer

Art teacher Carole Williams refuses to confine her world to the classroom.

Instead, she has brought to her classroom the world.

Because of her extensive travels studying abroad during the summer breaks, she has not only given her students at Shawe Memorial High School a unique look at art, but has also introduced them to new cultures and an understanding of people —a chance many would never have gotten otherwise.

“Carole has gone the extra mile to apply for grants and take advantage of many opportunities to travel around the world,” said Shawe principal Jerry Bomholt. "

More:Shawe Memorial teacher travels to Turkey to learn ancient Turkish art form

“EU to Ask, What Is Europe?” - theTrumpet.com

"....Stoiber singled out Turkey for which, he has always believed (as does Germany’s chancellor), the EU does not have the “absorption capacity” to accept as a member.

Does the EU have the “capacity” to accept a Muslim nation—even a moderate one with a relatively secular government—as part of Europe?

Till now, politicians have tried to politely push aside the notion of Turkish membership in the EU using politically correct rationale—Turkey’s population is too big, it has structural problems, and so on. The “cultural chasm was deliberately downplayed so the EU could avoid criticism of making decisions on racial grounds,” writes Greek reporter Costas Iordanidis (Kathimerini, March 23). “But political correctness has its limits. Politicians must take people’s concerns into account.”"

More:“EU to Ask, What Is Europe?” - theTrumpet.com

‘Turkish Cypriots have not been leaving since 1974’

"‘Turkish Cypriots have not been leaving since 1974’
By Simon Bahceli

JUST WEEKS before a census takes place in the north, new research suggests that many more Turkish Cypriots than previously thought are still living in the breakaway state.
“The perceived wisdom is that between 150,000 and 200,000 live in the UK, and that many of them left the island after 1974, but figures from the UK and other host countries suggest something quite different,” the author of the research, Peace Research Institute of Oslo (PRIO) researcher Mete Hatay, told the Cyprus Mail yesterday.

Hatay says the UK’s 2001 census figures show that only around 78,000 Cypriot-born Cypriots live in Britain, of which around 20,000 are Turkish speaking.

“And if you add their children to these figures, we can estimate that between 40,000 and 45,000 people of Turkish Cypriot origin live in the UK. This is far fewer than what the Cypriot government claims,” he adds.

Similarly low figures exist for Australia, Hatay claims. "

More:‘Turkish Cypriots have not been leaving since 1974’

Tajikistan : First textile unit with Turkish aid - Textile Fashion News Fibre2Fashion

"Tajikistan : First textile unit with Turkish aid
March 28, 2006

Turkey is fast emerging as an important financier in the world as it is the largest investor in Turkmenistan's domestic textile sector.

A new textile manufacturing plant is being built in Tajikistan by a Turkish group, which will include spinning, weaving and cut -sew operation.

This is the first new textile plant to be planned here, in years.

Spinning operation is expected to consume 8,000 tons of cotton each year."

More:Tajikistan : First textile unit with Turkish aid - Textile Fashion News Fibre2Fashion

General addresses war concerns - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"General addresses war concerns

By Lolita C. Baldor
ASSOCIATED PRESS
March 28, 2006

ISTANBUL -- In the troubled region surrounding Iraq, a frequent question posed to the top U.S. military officer visiting the area was not when his troops will pull out of Iraq, but how long they will stay.
From the glittery king's palace in Saudi Arabia to the devastated slopes of the Pakistani mountainside and a staid Turkish symposium, Marine Corps Gen. Peter Pace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, sought last week to ease concerns about whether opposition to the war at home could pressure U.S. forces to leave Iraq before it is stable. "

More:General addresses war concerns - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Qatar

"From Turkey, with style
Published: Tuesday, 28 March, 2006, 10:45 AM Doha Time

From Turkey, with style

Blurb: Traditional embroidery with a modern touch made for two sparkling fashion shows by designer Zuhal Yorgancioglu this week, writes CHITRA DATTA

Turkish Ambassador to Qatar, Naci Saribas looks on as his wife Gulden presents a memento to Sheikha Amna bint Suhaim al-Thani
Zuhal Yorgancioglu (centre) seen with the models and design team of A Night of Turkish Delight
One of the participant perform the show

GT Photographs by: Naushad Thekkayil
IN OPULENT fashion shows billed as 'A night of Turkish Delight' held at the Diplomatic Club this week, well-known Turkish designer, Zuhal Yorgancioglu, simply left the audience spellbound.
In sharp contrast to most modern day fashion shows where everything contemporary comes to the fore, these shows were an emotional fusion of age-old Turkish hand embroidery deftly woven with contemporary cuts and designs to create a magical effect on stage.
Yorgancioglu also known as Madame Z, not only succeeded in bringing together the rich culture of old and modern Turkey under one banner, but presented a visual feast of apparel that simply crossed all barriers. "

More:Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Qatar

World Bank: Turkish education failing youth - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2006

"World Bank: Turkish education failing youth
Tuesday, March 28, 2006

A report on high schools notes that a fraction of the students are provided with a good education while the rest are poorly educated

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

A World Bank report slammed the Turkish education system on Monday, arguing that it fulfilled its mission adequately with only a fraction of the student population, leaving the remainder of youngsters lacking. It proposed that secondary school be made compulsory in stages along with an overhaul of the university entrance examination."

More:World Bank: Turkish education failing youth - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2006

EU news and information on the backburner - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2006

"EU news and information on the backburner
Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Last time I had noted the deficiencies of the European Union institutions’ communications and information efforts in our country. The main reason behind this is the fact that EU countries, which are already reluctant vis-à-vis Turkey’s membership, do not provide the necessary funds to the EU Commission. Let’s have a look today at how ready Turkey, which is negotiating for membership, is on awareness-building and communicating on EU matters. "

More:EU news and information on the backburner - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2006

Stoiber threatens to block AKP's access to European group - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2006

"Stoiber threatens to block AKP's access to European group
Tuesday, March 28, 2006

MUNICH - AP

A German state governor threatened yesterday to block Turkey's governing party from beginning an association with a European conservative group, reflecting his opposition to Turkish attempts to join the European Union."

More:Stoiber threatens to block AKP's access to European group - Turkish Daily News Mar 28, 2006

..:: ABHABER.COM :EU begins screening Turkey's enterprises and industrial policy

"EU begins screening Turkey's enterprises and industrial policy

As part of Turkey's European Union bid, the Union started the introductory screening of Turkey's enterprises and industrial policies, on Monday in Brussels.

While the EU is satisfied with Ankara's continued privatization process and improvements in investment opportunities, Turkey might face difficulties at this stage as Brussels is urging the country to simplify its bureaucracy and tax system and increase credit opportunities for small- and medium-sized enterprises until the end of negotiations on this chapter. "

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

..:: ABHABER.COM :Turkey angry with French 'sabotage' of EU accession talks

"Turkey angry with French 'sabotage' of EU accession talks

Turkey reacted yesterday France's move to complicate accession talks by including 'political criteria' in the negotiations on education and culture, which Ankara views a merely technical chapter.

Turkish Deputy Undersecretary Ahmet Acet conveyed Turkey's uneasiness with the French-sponsored suggestion during a regular meeting of the EU-Turkish Association Committee in Brussels yesterday. Ambassador Acet told his European counterparts that in the previous talks with other candidate countries, the EU did not apply such a rule, and an introduction of such a process now for Turkey will be a special treatment and regarded as unacceptable."

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

JTW News - EU launches online debate on its future

"EU launches online debate on its future

The EU launched an online debate Monday asking Europeans what 'sort of European Union they want,' after Dutch and French voters rejected the European Constitution last year.

The European Commission launched a web site enabling Europeans to contribute to the debate on the future of the European Union.

'This Web site is our invitation to you to discuss with us your ideas, hopes and worries for Europe's future,' said European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso and Margot Wallstrom, the EU's communications strategy commissioner said in a welcome note on the site's home page."

More:JTW News - EU launches online debate on its future

Stock Market News and Investment Information | Reuters.com

"Citigroup favoured to buy Turkish bank - sources
Tue Mar 28, 2006 6:02 AM ET

ISTANBUL, March 28 (Reuters) - Citigroup (C.N: Quote, Profile, Research) is the favourite to win a bid for Turkish financial group Finansbank (FINBN.IS: Quote, Profile, Research), sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday."

More:Stock Market News and Investment Information | Reuters.com

EU bid, Cyprus to top Bakoyannis US talks

"EU bid, Cyprus to top Bakoyannis US talks

(Turkish Daily News Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge)Newly appointed Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis was expected to depart on Wednesday for the United States for talks with top-level U.S. officials including President George W. Bush and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice."

More:EU bid, Cyprus to top Bakoyannis US talks

..:: ABHABER.COM : Soyer: Turkish Cypriots are ready for talks

"Soyer: Turkish Cypriots are ready for talks

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) Prime Minister Ferdi Sabit Soyer responded positively to Greek Cypriot administration leader Tassos Papadopoulos' call for dialogue with the Turkish Cypriots.

'The Turkish Cypriots are ready for talks as part of a process to find a solution to the Cyprus problem,' said Soyer during a Library Week celebration ceremony in Northern Cyprus on Monday."

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

The New Anatolian-From ETA to PKK: EU's test in combating terror

"From ETA to PKK: EU's test in combating terror
Ayhan Simsek

simsek@thenewanatolian.com
28 March 2006

The Basque militant group ETA's decision to declared a permanent cease-fire once again shows that the Europe's decades-old terrorist groups are coming closer to an end. The Irish Republican Army (IRA), National Front for the Liberation of Corsica (NFLN), the Red Army Faction, November 17 or the Red Brigades, all known for their activities since the '70s, are now becoming mainly pieces of history."

More:The New Anatolian

Monday, March 27, 2006

Colorado State University - Faculty and Staff Resources (e-Comment Daily)

"International Connections presents 'Turkish Delight' April 4

International Connections, CSU's Tuesday brown-bag lunch series, presents 'Turkish Delight: Teaching Plant Biotechnology at a Turkish University' by Dr. Patrick F. Byrne, Associate Professor in the Department of Soil and Crop Sciences at CSU. The event runs from 12:15-1 p.m. April 4 in Room 208 of the Lory Student Center.

Due to its ancient history, vibrant culture and East-meets-West ambiance, Turkey is a fascinating country to experience. As a Fulbright Lecturing Fellow in the city of Adana, Byrne taught graduate courses in plant biotechnology in the fall semester of 2005. He found that the biggest challenge to teaching was the low level of English language comprehension by the students, combined with his lack of Turkish language skills. He addressed this problem in various ways, including a structured e-mail exchange between Turkish and CSU students."

More:Colorado State University - Faculty and Staff Resources (e-Comment Daily)

People's Daily Online -- Turkish wrestlers shine at International Greco-Roman Grand Prix

"Turkish wrestlers shine at International Greco-Roman Grand Prix
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Turkish wrestling team were crowned the champions at the International Grand Prix Greco-Roman wrestling tournament held in Szekesfehervar, Hungary, semi-official Anatolia News Agency reported on Monday.

Turkey won four golds, two silvers and two bronzes in the tournament that featured 130 wrestlers from 21 countries and regions.

Turkey won the team title with 56 points, followed by Poland with 35 points. Hungary ranked third with 34 points."

More:People's Daily Online -- Turkish wrestlers shine at International Greco-Roman Grand Prix

BBC NEWS | Business | Turkey bank row worries investors

"Turkey bank row worries investors
Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer
President Sezer has rejected government appointments before
Turkey has sought to reassure investors that its economic policy remains unchanged despite a row over the appointment of its central bank chief.

President Ahmet Necdet Sezer rejected the Islamist government's choice for central bank governor on Saturday.

Investors have criticised the selection process and resultant uncertainty, fearing it will weaken the currency.

But Turkey's finance minister said that ensuring financial stability remained the government's main priority."

More:BBC NEWS | Business | Turkey bank row worries investors

World | Reuters.co.in-INTERVIEW - Pope to use Turkey trip to help West-Islam dialogue

"INTERVIEW - Pope to use Turkey trip to help West-Islam dialogue
Mon Mar 27, 2006 11:33 PM IST9
By Philip Pullella and Tom Heneghan

VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Benedict will use his trip to predominantly Muslim Turkey later this year to promote greater dialogue between Islam and the West, a senior Vatican cardinal said on Monday.

Cardinal Walter Kasper, a German like the Pope, also said in an interview with Reuters that he believed that a controversy over remarks made by Benedict before his election about Turkey's credentials to join the European Union had now been overcome."

More:World | Reuters.co.in

ARMINFO - independent armenian news agency

"ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF ARMENIAN GENOCIDE IN THE UNITED STATES WILL BE A SERIOUS BLOW TO TURKISH-U.S. RELATIONS

YEREVAN, MARCH 27. ARMINFO. Acknowledgement of the Armenian genocide in the United States will be a serious blow to Turkish-U.S. relations, retired Ambassador Gunduz Aktan affirmed on Friday, Turkish press reports.

G. Aktan, currently in the United States to give a series of conference pertaining to Armenian genocide, took the floor at a meeting organized by the Assembly of Turkish American Associations (ATAA)."

More:ARMINFO - independent armenian news agency

Turkey gets ready for the eclipse

"Turkey gets ready for the eclipse
Mar 27, 2006, 1:06 GMT
Ankara - Tourists on the beaches of Turkey's Mediterranean coast are in for a bonus on March 29 where they will be in the perfect position to experience a rare total eclipse of the sun.

The eclipse will actually start when the moon moves directly between the sun and the earth with the moon's shadow falling first on the eastern tip of Brazil and will then speed eastward across the Atlantic ocean, through northern Africa, across the Mediterranean, into Turkey and central Asia and ending at sunset in Mongolia."

More:Turkey gets ready for the eclipse

JTW News - Churches and synagogues in Turkey marked for restoration

"Churches and synagogues in Turkey marked for restoration
The Ankara-based General Directorate of Foundations has begun a widespread restoration process which includes some of the 18,500 historical buildings it holds on record in Turkey. Among the edifices marked for restoration this year are eight buildings including Greek Orthodox, Suriyani Catholic, Greek Catholic, and Jewish places of worship. "

More:JTW News - Churches and synagogues in Turkey marked for restoration

Around the Markets: Clouds form over India and Turkey - Marketplace by Bloomberg - International Herald Tribune

"Around the Markets: Clouds form over India and Turkey
By Michael R. Sesit Bloomberg News

MONDAY, MARCH 27, 2006
LONDON Investors in India and Turkey have learned all about reward during the past three years. They may be in for a costly lesson in risk if they stay in much longer.

Both countries are among the favored children of international investors. Their economies are booming and stocks like India's Bharat Heavy Electricals and Turkey's Ak Sigorta are flying high."


More:Around the Markets: Clouds form over India and Turkey - Marketplace by Bloomberg - International Herald Tribune

WT severely criticizes Ankara for Hamas visit - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

"WT severely criticizes Ankara for Hamas visit
Monday, March 27, 2006
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

A Washington Times columnist leveled harsh criticism at a visit by a delegation from Palestine's election-winner Hamas last month by saying that Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founding father of the modern Turkish Republic, would have thought twice before double-crossing a friendly power like Arab-beleaguered Israel."

More:WT severely criticizes Ankara for Hamas visit - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

JTW News - US Seeks Ankara's Help to Prevent Civil War in Iraq

"US Seeks Ankara's Help to Prevent Civil War in Iraq
US Senate Defense Commission Chairman John Warner said the threat of a potential civil war in Iraq from sectarian clashes continues, and asked the Ankara administration’s help in relieving tensions in the region.

In Ankara on official business, Warner and the delegation accompanying him met with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday. In a press conference following talks, the US Senator said he believes Iraq is not facing an impending civil war with the recent clashes in the country, but emphasized 'this does not mean it will not turn into a civil war in the future.'"

More:JTW News - US Seeks Ankara's Help to Prevent Civil War in Iraq

Turks in Germany: At the margins or at the periphery? - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

"Turks in Germany: At the margins or at the periphery?
Monday, March 27, 2006

Opinion by Talip KÜÇÜKCAN
Turks in Germany are no longer transitory gastarbeiter (guest worker) people but de facto settlers in Germany, despite the dominant official political discourse that constantly reiterates that Germany is not a country of immigration. The parameters of this political discourse are based on an ethnocentric interpretation of citizenship and nationhood in Germany, which emphasizes volknation, a cultural nation, and leads to the political exclusion of ethnic minorities. "

More:Turks in Germany: At the margins or at the periphery? - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

Haroula Alexiou: a special visitor to Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

"Haroula Alexiou: a special visitor to Turkey
Monday, March 27, 2006

ARIANA FERENTINOU

News related to Greece last week was dominated by women. Dora Bakoyannis, the new Greek foreign minister, met another woman, Condi Rice, in Washington and talked about Turkey. Ms. Bakoyannis repeated the Greek positions on Cyprus and the Chalki Theological School while reassuring the support for Turkey's EU target. It was the first visit of Bakoyannis as foreign minister to the United States and was not expected to produce any spectacular news, except that Ms. Rice promised to pay a visit to Greece."

More:Haroula Alexiou: a special visitor to Turkey - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

APA-Nizami Jafarov: “Creation of Turk States’ Parliamentary Assembly worries Armenia seriously”

"Nizami Jafarov: “Creation of Turk States’ Parliamentary Assembly worries Armenia seriously”

[ 27 Mar. 2006 11:36 ]

Talks on creation of Turk States’ Parliamentary Assembly worries Armenia seriously. Armenian media writes that Turk nations will create Turan State (Great Turkish State) and claims that and this state will be against Armenians,” Turkish-Azerbaijani Parliamentary Friendship Group chairman, Nizami Jafarov, told APA. "

More:APA

Stabroek News-A troubling trend

"A troubling trend
Monday, March 27th 2006

Turkey's legendary 'Deep State' has always attracted enormous interest for the manner in which it tends to shadow the legitimate state in Ankara and wield seminal influence and power in a variety of arenas. It operates outside and above the recognised state and its various arms at times of its own choosing and with potent effect. Shadowy, ill-defined and amorphous, Turkey's recipe for the 'Deep State' comprises sections of the powerful military forces, corrupt politicians, policemen, secretive para-military squads and tribal groups. It assumed greater significance recently when a former Turkish President and leader of seven governments in the 70s, 80s and 90s, Suleyman Demirel, spoke frankly about it following a show of force in the town of Semdinli by suspected 'Deep State' elements. In an interview with Turkish television, Demirel said 'It is fundamental principle that there is one state. In our country there are two… There is one deep state and one other state…The state that should be real is the spare one, the one that should be spare is the real one'. It is perhaps a gross exaggeration of the situation but succeeds in making the key point that at crucial moments the recognised state plays second fiddle when the 'Deep State' calls the shots."

More:Stabroek News

The New Anatolian-Turkey's gloomy EU perspectivesCengiz Candar

"Turkey's gloomy EU perspectives
Cengiz Candar

ccandar@superonline.com
27 March 2006

I was among the few people who had lunch with former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt in Istanbul on Friday. He gave a luncheon talk on the 'darkening' prospects of Turkish-European Union relations. After two hours of a presentation, questions and answers and candid conversation, the outcome was very gloomy indeed."

More:The New Anatolian

Black noon, an unforgettable experience - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

"Black noon, an unforgettable experience
Monday, March 27, 2006

Although solar eclipses happen approximately every 18 months or so, somewhere on Earth, at any given point on the ground, an eclipse may be visible on average once in half a thousand years. That average can be deceiving when you consider that here in Pacific Palisades, the next visible total solar eclipse will not occur until April 1 -- in the year 3290 "

More:Black noon, an unforgettable experience - Turkish Daily News Mar 27, 2006

The New Anatolian-Dialogue between religions (3)Recep Guvelioglu

"Dialogue between religions (3)
Recep Guvelioglu

rguvelioglu@thenewanatolian.com
27 March 2006

This will be my third and probably last piece about dialogue between religions, and this time I would like to write about what Islam says about the field of the dialogue which some of our friends like Hulki Cevizoglu strongly oppose.

First of all, according to the Koran, Jews and Christians are 'people of the book.� Jesus and Moses are, according to the Koran, prophets. They must have great importance in the eyes of a Muslim. They have books (the Jewish Tanakh and the Christian New Testament) but they are falsified, according to Islamic belief."

More:The New Anatolian

JTW News - Germans Fail Citizenship Quiz, Immigrants Skeptical

"Germans Fail Citizenship Quiz, Immigrants Skeptical
Many freshly-minted citizens, who have lived in Germany for long years as immigrants, doubt the effectiveness of a proposed 100-question citizenship test, with an opinion poll showing that the majority of native Germans have failed to answer the questions of the quiz."

More:JTW News - Germans Fail Citizenship Quiz, Immigrants Skeptical

Hürriyet-Cicek: 'Our population makes us the 'teenager' of the EU and the region'

"Cicek: 'Our population makes us the 'teenager' of the EU and the region'

Justice Minister Cemil Cicek has commented on the overwhelmingly young tilt to Turkey's population, saying that it is a 'teenager' when compared both to EU countries and the other countries in the region. Speaking at the Ataturk Sports Salon in Elazig, Cicek also compared work completed by the current AKP administration with the work completed by previous administration's, noting that the stability secured by the current administration would continue.

Recalling that Turkey's economy, out of 190 countries in the world, came in at 17th place, Cicek commented 'But this is not enough for us, we want to be in first place.' "

More:Hürriyet

Hürriyet-US General Peter Pace: I looked them in the eyes and told the truth

"US General Peter Pace: I looked them in the eyes and told the truth

US Chief of the Army General Staff, General Peter Pace, has spoken about his last week's visit to Ankara, noting 'I looked them in the eyes and told them the truth.' Comments by Pace in regards to his Turkey visit were published on the 'Defenselink' internet site, a Pentagon related information portal. "

More:Hürriyet

Babacan: Turkey screening progressing as planned | European Union Enlargement

"Babacan: Turkey screening progressing as planned

In Short:

The chapter-by-chapter screening of Turkey's laws and regulations against the EU acquis is 'proceeding like clockwork' and should be completed by October 2006, said chief negotiator Babacan. "

More:Babacan: Turkey screening progressing as planned | European Union Enlargement

The New Anatolian-24 pct of CHP's members are women

"24 pct of CHP's members are women

The New Anatolian / Ankara


The center-left main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) has a total 571,824 registered members, about a quarter of whom are women.

The CHP carried out research to prepare for the upcoming general elections, scheduled for next year, and drew up a profile of its registered members. The CHP is to provide training for its some 500,000-plus members who will be in charge at some 173,000 ballot boxes during the elections."

More:The New Anatolian

Textile News and Industry Analysis - Inteletex.com - News Stories

"U.S. associations back Turkey’s proposal

U.S. and Turkish textile associations have backed a call for a separate sectoral negotiation for textile and clothing products within the WTO's Non-Agricultural Market Access (NAMA) talks."

More:Textile News and Industry Analysis - Inteletex.com - News Stories

JTW News - Croatia Must Separate From Turkey In Eu Accession Process, Says Sanader

"Croatia Must Separate From Turkey In Eu Accession Process, Says Sanader
In the European Union accession process Croatia will have to separate from Turkey, which will negotiate many years, and Croatia's government and negotiating team have to work on that, Prime Minister Ivo Sanader said in Brussels on Thursday.
The accession process 'could go faster in some segments but at this moment everything is perhaps a little too encumbered with political aspects. Not everything has been lowered onto the technical level and this is what presently holds us back a little,' Sanader said after talks with EU Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn."

More:JTW News - Croatia Must Separate From Turkey In Eu Accession Process, Says Sanader

Reuters Business Channel | Reuters.com

"Turkish gold jewelry maker to expand overseas
Mon Mar 27, 2006 5:04 AM ET

By Clare Black and Humeyra Pamuk

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey's only listed gold jewelry retailer, Goldas (GOLDS.IS: Quote, Profile, Research), aims to quadruple its overseas presence as part of an ambitious strategy to build a strong brand image.

Cetin Binatli, board member of Goldart Holding, Goldas' mother company, told Reuters that Turkey's top jewelry exporter was planning to open new stores in Russia and China, as well as expanding its domestic outlets via funding from local and international banks."

More:Reuters Business Channel | Reuters.com

The New Anatolian-War of words heats up over new CB governor

"War of words heats up over new CB governor

The New Anatolian / Ankara

The political agenda over the weekend was dominated by a harsh exchange of words between the prime minister and the main opposition leader over the issue of the appointment of the next governor of the Central Bank.

Facing accusations of nepotism in key public posts, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan called on main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Deniz Baykal 'to mind his own business' and administer his own party first. "

More:The New Anatolian

«Trend» news agency: News from Azerbaijan and South Caucasus

"Visit of Turkish President to Azerbaijan planned for 4-5 Apr - Elmar Mammadyarov
Source: ‘Trend’
Author: R.Abdullayev
27.03.2006

The visit of Turkish President Ahmad Nejded Sezer to Azerbaijan is planned from 4 to 5 April, Trend reports quoting Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov, as saying at a meeting with journalists on Monday."

More:«Trend» news agency: News from Azerbaijan and South Caucasus

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Haydarpasha Station Project Tender Process Begins

"Turkey: Haydarpasha Station Project Tender Process Begins

10:59 - 27 March 2006 - Domestic and foreign companies are invited to participate in the international tender to be held for the selection of the company to design the project for the “transformation of Haydarpasha Station,” which calls for an investment of $5 billion."

More:REPORTER.GR

REPORTER.GR-Turkey: Citigroup Remains 'Positive' on Turkish Equities Long Term

"Turkey: Citigroup Remains 'Positive' on Turkish Equities Long Term

14:25 - 27 March 2006 - Citigroup, in its recently published report, maintains a positive stance on Turkish equities longer term even after a 500% rise in the past three years, however, its analysts advise locking-in profits now in light of near-term risks and waiting for a better entry point. Specifically, Citigroup analysts stated that there is not enough upside left in the near term to warrant the risks associated with the current account deficit and an overvalued lira. "

More:REPORTER.GR