Sunday, December 31, 2006

Hürriyet - National Security Council issues "warning" to EU on Cyprus

"National Security Council issues 'warning' to EU on Cyprus

The National Security Council (MGK) has for the first time ever relayed the message to the EU that in the event that the Cyprus issue continues to be put in front of Ankara as a condition for membership talks, the membership talks will not be able to continue. "

More:Hürriyet - National Security Council issues "warning" to EU on Cyprus

israelinsider: Views: The truth about Cyprus

"The truth about Cyprus
By Rachel Salomon December 31, 2006


Bookmark to del.icio.usDigg!Digg This Story

In the article 'What the world can learn from Cyprus,' published on December 19, 2006 in the Israel Insider, Joel Bainerman did an extreme disservice to the Israeli people by only portraying one side of the Cyprus conflict. Israelis are intelligent people. They deserve to hear the whole truth, not one-sided partial truths. Therefore, I feel that it is my duty to share with Israelis the other side of the story. "

More:israelinsider: Views: The truth about Cyprus

The EU at 27 - The Boston Globe

"The EU at 27

Much global attention is focused on whether Turkey will become a member of the European Union in the future. By comparison, relatively little attention has been given to the fact that tomorrow the EU will expand yet again, as Romania and Bulgaria join the bloc. By how much did the EU’s territory grow in size with the addition of these two new members?

A. 9 percent B. 12 percent C. 14 percent D. 31 percent

A. 9 percent is correct.
With its two new members, the European Union stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Black Sea. Its territory before this latest expansion was 1,535,286 square miles . With Romania and Bulgaria adding 134,522 square miles , the EU's territory has expanded by about 9 percent. If Turkey joins, the EU's land area would expand by 18 percent."

More:The EU at 27 - The Boston Globe

Uncertainty rules as Turkey enters 2007 - Turkish Daily News Dec 30, 2006

"Uncertainty rules as Turkey enters 2007
Saturday, December 30, 2006

The prime minister's highly anticipated run for the presidency in May should whip up a fair amount of economic instability in 2007. Structural reforms designed to advance finance, employment and healthcare are in a holding pattern until election-year risks subside and the European Union bid puts wind back in their sails."

More:Uncertainty rules as Turkey enters 2007 - Turkish Daily News Dec 30, 2006

[Turquie Européenne] - Seeking Kant in Turkey-EU relations

"Seeking Kant in Turkey-EU relations
Tesev

We believe European Union membership is in the interests of Turkey, the We believe European Union membership is in the interests of Turkey,EU, and the global community. We are deeply concerned at the way the European Union is failing to respect the principles of equal treatment in its relations with Turkey."

More:[Turquie Européenne] - Seeking Kant in Turkey-EU relations

Turkey Underlines Significance of Iraq's Stability SANA , Syria

"Turkey Underlines Significance of Iraq's Stability
Sunday, December 31, 2006 - 12:40 PM

ANKARA, (SANA) – Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyib Erdogan emphasized on Sunday that Turkey is ready to do the best and extend all support as to restore stability to Iraq.

In statements, Erdogan quoted by Turkish media as saying 'the situation in Iraq for turkey has become an issue more important than Turkey's joining the European Union.'"

Turkey Underlines Significance of Iraq's Stability SANA , Syria

Hürriyet - Gül: Turkey is not Iran

"Gül: Turkey is not Iran

During a television program, Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül gave his evaluation of a recent meeting in Istanbul that was attended by Iraqi Sunni groups.
"

More:Hürriyet - Gül: Turkey is not Iran

Hürriyet - Ankara keeps quiet while opposition speaks up

"Ankara keeps quiet while opposition speaks up

While officials in the capital keep silent regarding the hanging of Iraq’s ousted dictator Saddam Hussein, some leaders are starting to speak out."

More:Hürriyet - Ankara keeps quiet while opposition speaks up

Hundreds injured in Turkey while sacrificing animals on Muslim holiday - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"Hundreds injured in Turkey while sacrificing animals on Muslim holiday

ANKARA, Turkey: One man lost his toes, others cut their hands and legs.

Hundreds of Turks spent the first day of the Muslim feast of Eid al-Adha holiday in emergency wards on Sunday after stabbing themselves or suffering other injuries while sacrificing startled and agitated sheep and other animals."

More:Hundreds injured in Turkey while sacrificing animals on Muslim holiday - Europe - International Herald Tribune

Turkey celebrates New Year's and the Feast of the Sacrifice - Turkish Daily News Dec 30, 2006

"Turkey celebrates New Year's and the Feast of the Sacrifice
Saturday, December 30, 2006

While Turkey prepares to say farewell to one year and welcome a new one, one of the most important occasions of the Muslim calendar, the Feast of the Sacrifice, is upon us"


More:Turkey celebrates New Year's and the Feast of the Sacrifice - Turkish Daily News Dec 30, 2006

Gourmand's corner - Turkish Daily News Dec 30, 2006

"Gourmand's corner
Saturday, December 30, 2006

Turkey in Champagne with Potatoes:

Ingredients (Serves 4):

1 turkey 1.5 kg 75g butter 1 tsp flour 300ml champagne (or sparkling wine) salt and freshly ground black pepper.

1kg waxy potatoes 3 cloves garlic, crushed 1 bunch of parsley, chopped 3 tbsp goose/duck fat salt and freshly ground black pepper. "

More:Gourmand's corner - Turkish Daily News Dec 30, 2006

Saturday, December 30, 2006

The White Path: Rejoice in Kurban Bayramı—It's An Abrahamic Feast

"Rejoice in Kurban Bayramı—It's An Abrahamic Feast

[Originally published in Turkish Daily News]

Abraham's sacrifice according to the Islamic traditionThis Sunday is a special one for billions all over the world simply because it is the last day of good old 2006. At midnight, fireworks will glitter over cheerful crowds who will be singing, chanting and toasting for new hopes in the 2007th Gregorian year since the birth of Jesus Christ."

More:The White Path: Rejoice in Kurban Bayramı—It's An Abrahamic Feast

Obstacles in Turkey’s Path - New York Times

"Obstacles in Turkey’s Path

Published: December 30, 2006

It came as no surprise when the European Union recently suspended some of its planned membership talks with Turkey. The sticking points pertain to the strained relations between Turkey and Cyprus, which have long threatened to undermine Turkey’s membership bid. What is surprising — and dismaying — is that the union is treating this as primarily a legal problem. That’s a distortion."

More:Obstacles in Turkey’s Path - New York Times

HULIQ.com: Anatolia Emerging as Economic Power in Turkey

For the complete report in HULIQ.com click on this link

As the future of Turkey's efforts to join the European Union hangs in the balance, one part of the country in particular is anxiously focused on the relationship between Ankara and Brussels. As Turkey has developed, the region of Anatolia has become an economic powerhouse, doing extensive amounts of business with Western Europe and -- company executives say -- ready to do more.

The latest opinion polls bear that out. In November, a respected Istanbul think-tank published research showing that while a greater number of Turks now identify themselves primarily as Muslim, the number wanting to see an Islamic government is going down. And in Istanbul, where western brand names are now commonplace in the city's stylish neighborhoods, big business is telling the Turkish government to keep the country on its secular track, and continue negotiating membership in the European Union.

Guler Sabanci heads one of the country's largest conglomerates and is arguably the most powerful businesswoman in Turkey today. "We always [say] that Turkey is a bridge, and it is true, Turkey is a bridge," she says. "It's a bridge for energy sources. Turkey is a bridge for cultural sources, for a lot of things. So these are the reasons that I think, when once we look at them together, I think both Europe needs Turkey and I also think Turkey needs Europe."

Democracy Is A Regime Of Compromise, Sezer

"Democracy Is A Regime Of Compromise, Sezer
Published: 12/30/2006

ANKARA - 'Democracy is a regime of compromise. Taking constructive criticisms into consideration will prevent wrong steps,' said Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer."

More:Democracy Is A Regime Of Compromise, Sezer

Armenia to Establish Diplomatic Relations with Turkey and to Open Frontiers

"Armenia to Establish Diplomatic Relations with Turkey and to Open Frontiers
30.12.2006

Turkey has received proposal from Armenian government, being out of important projects realized in the region, on establishing of diplomatic relations and opening of frontiers.
Letter of Defense Minister of Armenia, Serge Sarkisyan, published in “The Wall Street Journal” reads: “We intend to establish diplomatic relations with Turkey not bringing up genocide as principal condition”. Saying that “we want to look at the future”, Armenian Minister hoped that Turkey’s talks with European Union opens such opportunity for Yerevan. At the same time, he stressed that remaining the issue of the so-called “genocide” in agenda is necessary from the point of view of memory on past and prevention of such crimes against humanity. Serge Sarkisyan also said: in case Turkey opens its frontiers Armenia will be closer to Europe from geopolitical point of view, and we don’t want to be enemies with Turkey forever.
Political observers of Turkey said that this proposal is backed by Armenian lobby of America and Europe, and basic proposal is that Armenians want to exploit railway Kars-Akhalkalaki-Gumru."

Democracy, Elections & Human Rights in Azerbaijan

A tie for Tassos from Talat

"A tie for Tassos from Talat

TURKISH Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat has came up with an innovative gift for President Tassos Papadopoulos for the New Year.

Last year, Talat sent the presidential couple a basket full of Turkish Cypriot products, such as Turkish Cypriot wine and sugar-coated walnuts. But on top of this present, Talat this year went out of his way and chose clothing accessories for both Tassos Papadopoulos and his wife Fotini. "

More:A tie for Tassos from Talat

Friday, December 29, 2006

Turkish Business: Turkey to export automobiles to the USA

"Turkey to export automobiles to the USA

By Sabah

Turkey turns over a new leaf in its automotive history. For the first time in Turkish history, Ford Otosan is to export Transit Connects produced at the Kocaeli facilities to the US, next year."

More:Turkish Business: Turkey to export automobiles to the USA

VOA News - Anatolia Emerging as Economic Power in Turkey

"Anatolia Emerging as Economic Power in Turkey
By Simon Marks
Kayseri, Turkey
29 December 2006

As the future of Turkey's efforts to join the European Union hangs in the balance, one part of the country in particular is anxiously focused on the relationship between Ankara and Brussels. As Turkey has developed, the region of Anatolia has become an economic powerhouse, doing extensive amounts of business with Western Europe and -- company executives say -- ready to do more. Correspondent Simon Marks visited the city of Kayseri, 500 miles east of Istanbul."

More:VOA News - Anatolia Emerging as Economic Power in Turkey

Istanbul's past writes its future as European Capital of Culture - Turkish Daily News Dec 29, 2006

"Istanbul's past writes its future as European Capital of Culture
Friday, December 29, 2006

Mayor Kadir Topbaş launches a new book, 'Kültür Başkenti Istanbul' by Tuna Köprülü, promoted as the most comprehensive volume on the city, in an effort to push Istanbul into the limelight"

More:Istanbul's past writes its future as European Capital of Culture - Turkish Daily News Dec 29, 2006

Demirbag: Agca Will Be Released After Feast Of Sacrifice

"Demirbag: Agca Will Be Released After Feast Of Sacrifice
ISTANBUL - 'Mehmet Ali Agca will be released from prison after Feast of Sacrifice,' Mustafa Demirbag, lawyer of Agca, asserted on Thursday.

Agca is currently in Istanbul`s Kartal H-type Prison on charges of murder of journalist-writer Abdi Ipekci."

More:The Anatolia Times

Turkish School Kids Invent Gas Detection Device

"Turkish School Kids Invent Gas Detection Device
ERZURUM - Two Turkish school kids in the eastern province of Erzurum have invented a device which detects gas leak and automatically shuts down the heating system.

Sixth grade students, Omer and Yalcin Laloglu, submitted their project to a competition held by the Ministry of National Education and the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK).

The device, which costs 15 YTL (10 USD), triggers an alarm siren in case of a leak and fans out the gas while at at the same time shuts down the heating system."

The Anatolia Times

EU Enlargement chief welcomes Turkish Cypriot move in dispute with Greek Cypriots - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"EU Enlargement chief welcomes Turkish Cypriot move in dispute with Greek Cypriots

BRUSSELS, Belgium: The European Union's enlargement chief on Friday welcomed a decision by the Turkish Cypriot leadership to tear down a controversial footbridge in Nicosia seen as an obstacle in efforts to reunite the Cypriot capital's commercial district."

More:EU Enlargement chief welcomes Turkish Cypriot move in dispute with Greek Cypriots - Europe - International Herald Tribune

The New Anatolian - Babacan: Don’t upset the aura of confidence

"Babacan: Don’t upset the aura of confidence

EkoTürk News Agency / Ankara
29 December 2006

State Minister Ali Babacan said that 166.5 billion YTL of debt servicing was planned to be made in 2007.
Babacan announced that the economic management would begin to use “inflation-indexed bonds” for domestic borrowing beginning with year 2007. Minister Babacan also stated that, while primary surplus predictions in early 2006 in cash terms was 30.2 billion YTL, the projected figure for year 2006 is now standing at 38.4 billion YTL. "

More:The New Anatolian - Babacan: Don’t upset the aura of confidence

International student completes Herculean load before returning home

"International student completes Herculean load before returning home

December 28, 2006 -- by Carol Schmidt

Gokce Adsiz did the near impossible by completing 27 hours in one semester at MSU recently. The international exchange student from Turkey wanted to complete her degree at MSU before returning home. Adsiz earned a 3.6 GPA for the semester, which was completed in her third language. MSU photo by Jay Thane.
Gokce Adsiz must use two hands to remember the courses she took during the recently completed semester at Montana State University.
"

More:International student completes Herculean load before returning home

‘Turkey Now’: Made in Turkey of pure music and art - it’s good for the soul!

"‘Turkey Now’: Made in Turkey of pure music and art - it’s good for the soul!

29.12.2006

The ‘Turkey Now’ Festival, which will take place from 29 January to 21 April 2007 in the cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam in the Nether­lands, intends to present a view of today’s modern Turkey with a rich and thorough program reflecting the country’s culture. Starting with ‘Simdi Now’ (Simdi means ‘now’ in Turkish) in Berlin and continuing with ‘Now Stuttgart’, the Festival continues its journey with ‘Turkey Now’ in Amsterdam and Rotterdam in 2007. "

More:‘Turkey Now’: Made in Turkey of pure music and art - it’s good for the soul!

Armenian genocide issue may top US-Turkish troubles in 2007 - Turkish Daily News Dec 29, 2006

"Armenian genocide issue may top US-Turkish troubles in 2007
Friday, December 29, 2006

ÜMİT ENGİNSOY

WASHINGTON - Turkish Daily News

Turkey and the United States have a lot of differences to talk about in 2007 including those related to the terrorist Kurdistan Workers' Party's presence in northern Iraq, the more general Iraq question and a crisis over Iran's nuclear program. But an unlikely matter, potential U.S. congressional recognition of the Armenian genocide, may be the actual cause of a rupture in the two nations' fledgling relationship. "

More:Armenian genocide issue may top US-Turkish troubles in 2007 - Turkish Daily News Dec 29, 2006

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish Cypriots move to end row

"Turkish Cypriots move to end row

Turkish Cypriots say they are due to start demolishing a controversial footbridge to try to end a row over the re-opening of a crossing in Nicosia."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish Cypriots move to end row

Turkish butchers sweat at Feast of Sacrifice exam

"Turkish butchers sweat at Feast of Sacrifice exam

Dozens of Turks take exam to obtain official butcher certificates ahead of Eid al-Adha slaughter.

ANKARA - Can a kangaroo or an ostrich be sacrificed? Can a woman be the butcher? Are children allowed to watch the ritual?

These were some of the questions that dozens of Turks had to answer at an exam here Thursday to obtain official butcher certificates ahead of Eid al-Adha, the four-day Muslim Feast of the Sacrifice."

More:Middle East Online

Poland supports Turkish EU entry

"Poland supports Turkish EU entry
29.12.2006

President Lech Kaczynski has said the times when Russia could exert influence on the countries of Central and Eastern Europe are a thing of the past. In an interview for the major Italian newspaper ‘Corriere della Sera’ the Polish President also spoke on several European issues."

More:Radio Polonia

Property Investment in Turkey in 2007 Will Soar

"Property Investment in Turkey in 2007 Will Soar
Property Investment in Turkey in 2007 Will Soar

Turkey is such an exciting nation with incredible potential for growth in many sectors - from automotive manufacturing to tourism for example – and this growth will most certainly enhance both the commercial and residential real estate industries for a number of significant and sustainable reasons. As a result of these facts Turkey is definitely one of our favourite emerging markets for 2007 and it is our belief that property investment in Turkey in 2007 will soar and the foundations will be laid by many for the attainment of substantial profits over at least the medium term. "

More:Property Investment in Turkey in 2007 Will Soar

Turkish Security Council criticizes EU double standards

"Turkish Security Council criticizes EU double standards
By Cihan News Agency
Friday, December 29, 2006
zaman.com

Turkey's National Security Council (MGK) convened on Thursday. On the last meeting of the year the council evaluated Turkey's EU bid, security in Iraq and counterterrorism."

More:Turkish Security Council criticizes EU double standards

Drug report shakes Turkish parliament

"Drug report shakes Turkish parliament
By Omer Sahin, Ankara
Friday, December 29, 2006
zaman.com

The rapidly increasing use of tobacco, alcohol and drugs is not only a threat to public health but also to the future of the society.

A Turkish parliamentary commission, charged with investigating violence at schools, has revealed shocking new information."

More:Drug report shakes Turkish parliament

Thursday, December 28, 2006

Turkey's civilian, military leaders reiterate commitment to EU membership bid - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"Turkey's civilian, military leaders reiterate commitment to EU membership bid

ANKARA, Turkey: Turkey's civilian and military leaders reiterated their commitment Thursday to Turkey's bid to join the European Union, but said the bloc should not impose additional conditions on Ankara."

More:Turkey's civilian, military leaders reiterate commitment to EU membership bid - Europe - International Herald Tribune

Secular Muslim states

"Secular Muslim states

Just like secular Muslims, a secular Muslim state is a twentieth century anomaly. It is a state in which Muslims are a majority, but state and its institutions do not recognise Islam as the source of law and governance. Turkey was the first secular Muslim state to emerge in modern times. The man who orchestrated this drastic change in the centuries-old pattern of Muslim statecraft was Mustafa Kemal, the self-styled father of Turks. At the beginning of 1924, he had gone to Izmir, ostensibly to preside over large-scale military maneuvers, but in reality to prepare for his next move against the Caliph. He stayed in Izmir for two months during which careful planning was done for the abolition of the Caliphate. By the time he opened the new session of the Grand National Assembly on March 1, 1924, he was ready to strike. The death stroke was delivered two days later when a series of resolutions were read to the Assembly which provided for the deposition of the Caliph, the abolition of the Caliphate, and the banishment of all members of the Ottoman house from Turkish territory. The next morning at daybreak, military generals escorted an unhappy Abdulmecid to a small railway station outside Istanbul to board the Orient Express; thus, the last of the Caliphs was sent into exile."

More:Secular Muslim states

Greek Cypriots insult Turks again

"Greek Cypriots insult Turks again

Synopsis: Greek Cypriots wrote slogans insulting Turks on a high building on the southern side of Ledra barricade in Nicosia. The slogans, once more, demonstrated Greek hostility towards the Turkish Cypriots. "

More:NewsPusher - Video content marketplace for media professionals

SABAH Newspaper English Edition - Economy - Foreigners stop buying properties in Turkey due to high prices

" Foreigners stop buying properties in Turkey due to high prices

Excess increase in real estate prices and legal difficulties, foreigners have switched to cheaper countries such as Hungary and Bulgaria."

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - Economy - Foreigners stop buying properties in Turkey due to high prices

Pope's prayer in Turkish mosque inspires Spanish Muslims

"Pope's prayer in Turkish mosque inspires Spanish Muslims
By Anka, Madrid
Thursday, December 28, 2006
zaman.com

Inspired by Pope Benedict XVI’s historic visit to the famous Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Spanish Muslims have asked to pray with Christians in the Cordoba Mosque, which was turned into a cathedral in the 13th century."

More:ZAMAN DAILY NEWSPAPER)

Thousands of roads blocked with snow - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Thousands of roads blocked with snow
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Snowfall in the east of the country has severed the only road links of thousands of villages in the region, with schools in some provinces closed for the duration of the cold weather. Snowfall is also affecting a wide region encompassing the Black Sea and Marmara regions."

More:Thousands of roads blocked with snow - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

Ottoman court records shed light on Ottoman social life - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Ottoman court records shed light on Ottoman social life
Thursday, December 28, 2006

The first volume of the Ottoman court records project, which was started in 1999 by a group of Ottoman historians and academics, has been published"

More:Ottoman court records shed light on Ottoman social life - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

Still resentful of mistreatment, Bedikyan dismisses Azeri excuses - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Still resentful of mistreatment, Bedikyan dismisses Azeri excuses
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Bedikyan, a successful pianist sharing the same stage with Turkey’s leading jazz musicians and who also plays in Sertab Erener’s band, says he is not planning to return to Baku for any concerts unless Azerbaijani authorities offer an official apology "

More:Still resentful of mistreatment, Bedikyan dismisses Azeri excuses - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

The New Anatolian - Minimum wage much lower than that in EU countries

"Minimum wage much lower than that in EU countries

28 December 2006

The minimum wage worth gross Euro 310.92 to be valid as of January 1, 2007, takes place among the lowest minimum wages in the European countries.
The gross minimum wage for older than 16 will be gross YTL 562.50 and net YTL 403.03 as of January 1, 2007. These figures are much lower than the European standards. According to the data of the European Employers’ Federation, the minimum wage which is determined as Euro 310.92 in Turkey, is Euro 1.503 in Luxembourg, Euro 1.293 in Ireland, Euro 1.273 in the Netherlands, Euro 1.269 in Britain, Euro 1.234 in Belgium and Euro 1.218 in France."

More:The New Anatolian - Minimum wage much lower than that in EU countries

Banking competition to bring 15,000 new jobs - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Banking competition to bring 15,000 new jobs
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Opening new branch offices will become a key competitive tool for Turkish banks in 2007. This in turn will generate thousands of new jobs and 700 new branch offices in Anatolian cities "

More:Banking competition to bring 15,000 new jobs - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

The New Anatolian - Çağlayan: Interest rate gnaws like a rat, current deficit eyes like a hawk

"Çağlayan: Interest rate gnaws like a rat, current deficit eyes like a hawk

EkoTürk News Agency / Ankara
28 December 2006

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Ankara Chamber of Industry (ASO) Chair Zafer Çağlayan said “interest rate gnaws on us just like a rat, while current deficit eyes us like a hawk on a hilltop.”"

More:The New Anatolian - Çağlayan: Interest rate gnaws like a rat, current deficit eyes like a hawk

'"It is Okay to be Both Turkish and German" | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 28.12.2006

"''It is Okay to be Both Turkish and German'
Ekin Deligöz's comments about the Muslim headscarf have led to death threats
Großansicht des Bildes mit der Bildunterschrift: Ekin Deligöz's comments about the Muslim headscarf have led to death threats

Ekin Deligöz made waves when she called for Turkish women to take off their headscarves. DW-WORLD.DE spoke with the Green Party parliamentarian about her life as an immigrant and how she sees the future of integration."

More:'"It is Okay to be Both Turkish and German" | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 28.12.2006

EU German Presidency to contribute to efforts for Cyprus solution

"EU German Presidency to contribute to efforts for Cyprus solution


28/12/2006

by Athena Arsalidou (CNA)

The European Union German presidency has assured that it would do its utmost to accommodate the parties concerned in order to work towards a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem, in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and based on the principles on which the EU was founded.

This was stated by Charges d’ Affaires of the German embassy in Nicosia, Joachim Heidorn, whose country assumes the next EU rotating presidency on January 1st, 2007. "

More:Financial Mirror

Turkish politicians need to grow up - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Turkish politicians need to grow up
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Why can't Turkish politicians acquire enough wisdom to not feel the need to look back at past applications of previous governments and criticize them just to feel good about themselves today? I find this very infantile and childish."

More:Turkish politicians need to grow up - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

Time for new 'modus vivendi' between Iraqi Kurds and Turkey - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Time for new 'modus vivendi' between Iraqi Kurds and Turkey
Thursday, December 28, 2006

The Baker-Hamilton Report, as it has come to be known, has turned out to be something of a latter day 'Balfour Declaration' for the Iraqi Kurds. The reason is that the report’s recommendations concerning a way out of the Iraq debacle for the United States entails a 'sellout' in terms of their political aspirations. "

More:Time for new 'modus vivendi' between Iraqi Kurds and Turkey - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

Turkey facing doctor shortage - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Turkey facing doctor shortage
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Becoming a doctor is no longer something young people aspire to, according to figures released by the Health Ministry"

More:Turkey facing doctor shortage - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

Wicked ethnic cleansing of Turkish Cypriots

"Wicked ethnic cleansing of Turkish Cypriots
Alice Robinson, New Delhi
Dec 28, 06 2:24pm

I refer to the letter Turkey’s action in Cyprus against int’l law by Michael Anastasiadis. Anastasiadis is wrong. No court has ever held Turkey's intervention in 1974 to be illegal. They had every right to intervene to save the Turkish Cypriots from the merciless attacks of the Greek
Cypriots, and should have done so eleven years earlier. They have every right to stay in Northern Cyprus until a settlement can be found, which will give the Turkish Cypriots some security. "

More:Wicked ethnic cleansing of Turkish Cypriots

Turkey : TEXGATE 2007 - gateway for global brands & textile sector - Textile News Turkey

"Turkey : TEXGATE 2007 - gateway for global brands & textile sector
December 28, 2006

The 21st International Fabric and Accessory Fair – TEXGATE 2007 shall be organized by ITF-Istanbul Trade Fairs and held at Istanbul CNR EXPO between 08-10 March, 2007."

More:Turkey : TEXGATE 2007 - gateway for global brands & textile sector - Textile News Turkey

Ankara warns US over Armenian genocide bill

"Ankara warns US over Armenian genocide bill
By Zaman, Ankara
Thursday, December 28, 2006
zaman.com

Faced with the possibility that the U.S. Congress will consider a proposal with regard to the alleged Armenian genocide, Spokesperson for the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs Namik Tan asked the U.S. Administration to continue its long-lasting balanced and constructive policy."

More:Ankara warns US over Armenian genocide bill

National Security Council to discuss EU and counterterrorism

"National Security Council to discuss EU and counterterrorism
By Cihan News Agency
Thursday, December 28, 2006
zaman.com

Turkey's National Security Council (MGK) will convene on Thursday for the last meeting of the year. Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer will preside over the meeting."

More:National Security Council to discuss EU and counterterrorism

Turkish banking sector to hire 15,000 employees next year - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

"Turkish banking sector to hire 15,000 employees next year
Thursday, December 28, 2006

Competition to increase market share in the banking sector will get tougher in 2007 with more than 700 branch offices slated for opening and nearly 15,000 employees hired "

More:Turkish banking sector to hire 15,000 employees next year - Turkish Daily News Dec 28, 2006

Turkey Feels Regret Over Efforts Of Armenian Lobbies To Exploit Political Developments, Tan

"Turkey Feels Regret Over Efforts Of Armenian Lobbies To Exploit Political Developments, Tan
Published: 12/27/2006

ANKARA - 'Turkey follows with regret the efforts of the Armenian lobbies (seeking to win votes) to exploit political developments in the United States,' Turkish Foreign Affairs spokesman Namik Tan told a weekly news conference in Ankara on Wednesday."

More:Turkey Feels Regret Over Efforts Of Armenian Lobbies To Exploit Political Developments, Tan

Turkish Business: How Does the Wheel of Real Economy Turn in Turkey?

"How Does the Wheel of Real Economy Turn in Turkey?

By Saruhan Özel
Aksam

Think of a Turkish manufacturer. He is reaching the consumers through his local distributors. He cannot increase the prices too much because, if he does that, due to the competition of the imports, he is going to lose market share. Employment and income growth are both weak as well. "

More:Turkish Business: How Does the Wheel of Real Economy Turn in Turkey?

Turkish And German Companies To Cooperate In Turkish Electricty Market

"Turkish And German Companies To Cooperate In Turkish Electricty Market
Published: 12/27/2006

ISTANBUL - German energy company Energie Baden-Württemberg AG (EnBW) and Turkish Ciner Group signed a letter of intent for cooperation in Turkish electricity market."

More:Turkish And German Companies To Cooperate In Turkish Electricty Market

Turkey Not Satisfied With E.U.'s Invitation Letter

"Turkey Not Satisfied With E.U.'s Invitation Letter
ANKARA - Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Namik Tan said on Wednesday that Ankara received EU`s invitation letter regarding the start of negotiations in enterprises and industrial policy chapter."

More:The Anatolia Times

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

Ambassador Bilman To Replace M.F.A. Spokesman Tan

"Ambassador Bilman To Replace M.F.A. Spokesman Tan
Published: 12/27/2006

ANKARA - Ambassador Levent Bilman will replace Namik Tan, spokesman for the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) who has been appointed as Turkey`s new Ambassador to Israel."

More:Ambassador Bilman To Replace M.F.A. Spokesman Tan

French Historian's Turkish Citizenship Approved

"French Historian's Turkish Citizenship Approved
By Cihan News Agency
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
zaman.com

Jean Michel Thibaux, a French historian, has had his citizenship application approved by the Turkish Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Thibaux accepted an academic position offered by Turkey's Akdeniz University and declared he would become a Turkish citizen in response to the Armenian genocide bill approved in the French Parliament in October 2005."

More:French Historian's Turkish Citizenship Approved

Foreign Policy: Seven Questions: Will Turkey Join the EU... Or Go Nuclear?

"Seven Questions: Will Turkey Join the EU... Or Go Nuclear?

Posted December 2006
Turkey’s bid to join the European Union is on the verge of failure. If the EU says no, will Turks turn away from Europe? What does Turkey think about Iran and the bomb? Will Turkey seek its own nuclear weapon? To answer these questions, FP spoke with Mensur Akgun, an expert on Turkish foreign policy."

More:Foreign Policy: Seven Questions: Will Turkey Join the EU... Or Go Nuclear?

Learning Turkish « Louis Proyect: The Unrepentant Marxist

"
Learning Turkish
Filed under: Turkey — louisproyect @ 3:31 pm

For most of the first semester of elementary Turkish I just completed, I felt like I was barely treading water and in over my head. Learning a new language at the age of 61 is tough enough as it is, but studying it at an Ivy League institution like Columbia University is even more daunting. Twice I came this close (picture a thumb 1/8th of an inch away from a forefinger) from dropping it, but just received my grade: an A-!"

More:Learning Turkish « Louis Proyect: The Unrepentant Marxist

From Turkey, a new genre in art publishing - Culture - International Herald Tribune

"From Turkey, a new genre in art publishing
By Souren Melikian
Published: December 22, 2006

ISTANBUL: A new type of art book combining superlative quality photography printed at immense cost and rigorous scholarly investigation by international specialists has seen the light of day. The concept might revolutionize the entire industry."

More:From Turkey, a new genre in art publishing - Culture - International Herald Tribune

SABAH Newspaper English Edition - Economy - 26 Turkish billionaires among the world's richest

"The richest 100 Turks

Forbes Turkey magazine has published a list of the 100 richest Turks. The number of billionaires, which was 20 last year, has risen to 26. This year there are an additional 27 that have made the list.

Thirteen business women were included in Forbes list of the 100 richest people in Turkey. Among the women, Semahat Arsel, the oldest daughter of Vehbi Koç, came in first. Two women in the list are from the Koç family; three women are from the Sabancı family; and five women are from the Doğan family."

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - Economy - 26 Turkish billionaires among the world's richest

Deported pianist Burak Bedikyan thanked Turkish MFA for immediate reaction

"Deported pianist Burak Bedikyan thanked Turkish MFA for immediate reaction

[ 27 Dec.:28 ]

Turkish citizen of Armenian origin, pianist Burak Bedikyan, deported from Azerbaijani airport Bine on Dec 19, made allegation against Azerbaijan in his release to the press, APA’s bureau reports. "

More:APA

One-fifth of population still existing below poverty line - Turkish Daily News Dec 27, 2006

"One-fifth of population still existing below poverty line
Wednesday, December 27, 2006

Poverty continues to constitute a major problem for Turkish society, says Assistant Professor Haluk Levent, specialist of income distribution and poverty at Galatasaray University."

More:One-fifth of population still existing below poverty line - Turkish Daily News Dec 27, 2006

» World Bank supports Turkey increasing investments By Commercial Debt Advisor

"World Bank supports Turkey increasing investments

DEBT SERVICINGTreasury to repay $44.7 million foreign debt this week ANKARA - Turkish Daily News The treasury will repay The fair will be composed of many sections; such as allied industry products, accessories, petrol-gas and commercial vehicles read more
World Bank supports Turkey increasing investments"

More:» World Bank supports Turkey increasing investments By Commercial Debt Advisor

3 PKK Members Handed over to Turkish Authorities

"3 PKK Members Handed over to Turkish Authorities
By Cihan News Agency
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
zaman.com

Three members of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) have been handed over to Turkish security forces in the southeastern Turkish province of Sirnak. Having run away from the terrorist organization, the three PKK members surrendered to Iraqi Kurdistan Democratic Party (IKDP) officials, a statement from Turkish General Staff said. IKDP authorities handed over the three terrorists on Tuesday to Turkish security forces at the Habur border gate located in Silopi district, on the Turkey-Iraq border."

More:3 PKK Members Handed over to Turkish Authorities

Last exhibition marks 150th anniversary of Dolmabahçe Palace - Turkish Daily News Dec 27, 2006

"Last exhibition marks 150th anniversary of Dolmabahçe Palace
Wednesday, December 27, 2006

An exhibition titled �The Last Knot of Weaving: Ottoman Palace Carpets,� the last event in a series of activities celebrating the 150th anniversary of Dolmabahçe Palace, opened at the palace on Monday."

More:Last exhibition marks 150th anniversary of Dolmabahçe Palace - Turkish Daily News Dec 27, 2006

Booming economy drifting into dangerous waters - Turkish Daily News Dec 27, 2006

"Booming economy drifting into dangerous waters
Wednesday, December 27, 2006

In Turkish Cyprus, per capita income has risen from $5,000 to $11,000 in just two years thanks to a boom in the construction industry. Growth has averaged 12 percent but there is no way that such growth can be sustained. With imports at $1.2 billion and exports at $66 million the current account deficit remains a major issue"

More:Booming economy drifting into dangerous waters - Turkish Daily News Dec 27, 2006

Turkish Weekly Opinion - EU wants the penny and the bun: neither with Turkey nor without

"EU wants the penny and the bun: neither with Turkey nor without
Fatma Yilmaz

The latest news about Turkey-EU relations has come from the EU side whose term-presidency is conducted by Finland. The CNN Turk has written that the Finnish presidency has just launched a new initiative in order to provide a progress to overcome the deadlock in terms of Turkey’s EU bid. According to the news, the Finnish initiative aims at opening the eight chapters for negotiations, which were blocked by the EU not to open unless Turkey fulfills its responsibilities emanating from the Customs Union Additional Protocol. The Finnish proposal has a conditionality base according to which Turkey has to open its one substantial port to the Greek Cypriots. The so-called new initiative is called as ‘window formula’ and it seems to get supports from the UK, Spain, Sweden and Italy apart from Finland, the owner of the proposal. I mentioned it as ‘so-called’ initiative simply because this is a similar formula which Turkey had offered to the EU side just before the last European Summit taken place on 14-15 December. Intending to prevent the deadlock expected to be on Turkey-EU relations due to the port issue, Turkey had offered to open one port and one airport for the Greek Cypriot ships and planes and also to open the Famagusta port for the international direct trade under the Turkish administration."

More:Turkish Weekly Opinion - EU wants the penny and the bun: neither with Turkey nor without

Turkish Donations Warm Indonesian Holiday

"Turkish Donations Warm Indonesian Holiday
By Mesut Cevikalp, Cihan News Agency, Banda Aceh
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
zaman.com

Commemoration ceremonies were held yesterday in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Thailand to mark the second anniversary of the tsunami disaster that killed 230,000 people."

More:Turkish Donations Warm Indonesian Holiday

Tuesday, December 26, 2006

The New Anatolian - Historian: Assyrian genocide claims bogus

"Historian: Assyrian genocide claims bogus

The New Anatolian / Ankara
27 December 2006

Turkey is now being haunted by claims of an Assyrian genocide in 1915 during the country's relocations.

Bulent Ozdemir, head of the Turkish Historical Society's (TTK) Assyrian Studies Section, responded yesterday to a draft report by Dutch Christian Democrat parliamentarian Camiel Eurlings, in which she asserted that Turkey should accept Pontic Greek and Assyrian genocide claims, in addition to those by Armenians.
"

More:The New Anatolian - Historian: Assyrian genocide claims bogus

Variety.com - Springer cleared for Turk TV stake

"Springer cleared for Turk TV stake
Antitrust agencies give greenlight to Springer
By ERIK KIRSCHBAUM
Turkey's Dogan Yayin Holding said Monday that Turkish and German antitrust agencies have given their OK to German publishing giant Axel Springer's acquisition of a 25% minority stake in Dogan TV, one of the leading broadcasters in the fast-growing Turkish media market."

More:Variety.com - Springer cleared for Turk TV stake

TURKEY TROUBLE

"TURKEY TROUBLE:

It's the holiday season, so perhaps we should look on the bright side. Even though most of Iraq is imploding, at least the Kurdish bits in the north are fairly stable. Right? Well, that's what I thought--even setting aside the whole Kirkuk issue, which still looks worrisome--until this story popped up on my Google News alerts:

Turkey and the United States are reportedly negotiating the possibility of a cross-border operation into northern Iraq, where the PKK has base camps. Two special coordinators appointed by the United States and Turkey have been continuing talks on the possibility of military action in northern Iraq."

More:The Plank

Figures On Turkey's Foreign Trade

"Figures On Turkey's Foreign Trade
Published: 12/26/2006

ANKARA - There are 40,936 exporter and 49,903 importer companies in Turkey as of October, 2006, officials of Foreign Trade Undersecretariat told A.A on Monday."

More:Figures On Turkey's Foreign Trade

Who Owns Kirkuk? The Turkoman Case - Middle East Quarterly

"Who Owns Kirkuk? The Turkoman Case

by Yücel Güçlü
Middle East Quarterly
Winter 2007

The question of Kirkuk's final status remains among the touchiest issues concerning Iraq's future. The Iraqi Kurdish political parties seek to include Kirkuk in a federal Kurdish state, an outcome at odds with Iraqi Turkoman sensitivities. The Turkomans consider Kirkuk to be their own ancestral capital and cultural center. Understanding the Turkoman claim to Kirkuk is essential to defuse a potentially explosive problem.

Policymakers and commentators outside Turkey often ignore the Turkomans. Literature about them is scarce in Western languages; the little that exists is limited in academic rigor and utility.[1] Furthermore, in terms of enunciating their concerns and interacting with Western officials, the Turkomans themselves have not always been effective spokesmen for their cause."

More:Who Owns Kirkuk? The Turkoman Case - Middle East Quarterly

Turkey sends note to Azerbaijan

"Turkey sends note to Azerbaijan

[ 26 Dec.:48 ]

Turkey Foreign Ministry send note to Azerbaijan twice, APA Turkey bureau reports. The notes covers the incident happened on December 19, that is Sertab Erener and Armenian-born pianist Burak Bedikyan were not allowed to Azerbaijan and send back. "

More:APA

Kyiv Post. Azerbaijan threatens to shut down Russian and some Turkish TV broadcasts

"Azerbaijan threatens to shut down Russian and some Turkish TV broadcasts

Dec, 18:11

BAKU, Azerbaijan (AP) - Azerbaijan could pull Russian state television stations off the air if Azerbaijani TV stations are not allowed to broadcast in Russia, a state broadcasting official said Tuesday.

Turkish channels could also face problems if they refuse to broadcast Azerbaijani programs, said Nusirevan Maharamli, the head of the state National Broadcasting Council."

More:Kyiv Post. Azerbaijan threatens to shut down Russian and some Turkish TV broadcasts

Figures On Turkey's Foreign Trade

"Figures On Turkey's Foreign Trade
Published: 12/26/2006

ANKARA - There are 40,936 exporter and 49,903 importer companies in Turkey as of October, 2006, officials of Foreign Trade Undersecretariat told A.A on Monday."

More:Figures On Turkey's Foreign Trade

Photographs Of Year From Objectives Of A.A

"Photographs Of Year From Objectives Of A.A

ANKARA - Several photographs of the most striking moments of 2006 taken by photo-journalists of the Anadolu Agency (A.A) were put in the A.A web-site.

One of these 45 photographs was taken by Riza Ozel in Lebanon. It shows a Lebanese baby who was killed in an Israeli attack together with 55 other civilians in Qana town of Lebanon. The photograph reveals the destruction of war with the baby`s body covered in dust and its pacifier hanging from its neck.

Another photograph taken by Zekeriya Albayrak reflects the Turkish people`s reaction against terrorism during the funeral of Colonel Alim Yilmaz at Ankara`s Kocatepe Mosque on April 10th.

Salih Zeki Fazlioglu succeeded in immortalizing the papal visit to Istanbul`s Blue Mosque in November. His photograph was also used by the world press.

A.A Photograph Department transmits nearly 400 photos every day and more than 150 thousand every year to its subscribers.

"Photographs of the Year" collection can be seen in the A.A`s web site: "www.aa.com.tr""

The Anatolia Times

Turkey, Eu : Ankara to pursue EU reforms despite partial talks freeze

"Turkey, Eu : Ankara to pursue EU reforms despite partial talks freeze

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdallah Gül: “There is disarray in the European Union. Some members are confused, they mix up great strategic issues with small ones”

Turkey will pursue reforms to align itself with European Union norms despite a partial freeze of its membership talks, Foreign Minister Abdallah Gül has said, describing the EU sanction as only a temporary setback to the country’s European aspirations.

“Turkey is committed to its EU target. There is no deviation from this target after the latest EU decision”, Gül told a news conference in Ankara.
“The importance we attach to reforms has not decreased -- on the contrary it has increased”, he said. “We are aware that we still have shortcomings and we will speedily proceed with the reforms”."

More:turkey, eu : Ankara to pursue EU reforms despite partial talks freeze

Turkey Trouble

"Turkey Trouble

Let's look on the bright side. Even though most of Iraq is imploding, at least the Kurdish bits in the north are fairly stable. Right? Well, that's what I thought—even setting aside the whole Kirkuk issue, which still looks worrisome—until this story popped up on my Google News alerts:

Turkey and the United States are reportedly negotiating the possibility of a cross-border operation into northern Iraq, where the PKK has base camps. Two special coordinators appointed by the United States and Turkey have been continuing talks on the possibility of military action in northern Iraq."

More:Bradford Plumer

INTERNET BUSINESS LAW SERVICES, Internet Law & E-Commerce Law News Portals.

"INTERNET LAW - Main Sources of Turkish Legal System

IBLS Contributor: Cetin Emec Bulvari, Just & Fair Law Office, Turkey, info@justandfair.com
Monday, December 25, 2006

The law of Turkey is predominantly written law in the form of constitution, statutes, decrees having force of statutes (Kanun Hukmunde Kararname), decrees (Tuzuk)and regulations (yonetmelik). Other sources are customary and case law. Precedents plays a small part in legal practice."

More:INTERNET BUSINESS LAW SERVICES, Internet Law & E-Commerce Law News Portals.

Turkey and the EU - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"Turkey and the EU

TODAY'S EDITORIAL
December 26, 2006

The European Union did itself a disservice this month with a decision to suspend eight of the 35 'chapters' of Turkey's accession negotiations, the most recent in a series of episodes that suggest Europe is distancing itself from Turkey. The Turks have been increasingly frustrated by what they perceive as a double standard applied to their country's membership bid, and popular opinion in Turkey is turning increasingly against the process. The successful accession would help solidify Turkey as a Western-oriented democracy in the Muslim world, while a failure would be damaging to its relationship with Western allies and to the Turkish republic itself. "

More:Turkey and the EU - Editorials/Op-Ed - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

Karagöz Days promoting traditional Turkish shadow theater - Turkish Daily News Dec 26, 2006

"Karagöz Days promoting traditional Turkish shadow theater
Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Karagöz Days, organized by the Union Internationale de la Marionettes (UNIMA), kicked off with an opening ceremony in Ankara on Sunday.

Speaking at the event at the Ekin Theater, UNIMA's Turkish National Center Chairman Mevlüt Özhan emphasized the importance of keeping traditional Turkish shadow theater alive and said they are trying to promote shadow theater to the younger generation as well as cultivate new artists."

More:Karagöz Days promoting traditional Turkish shadow theater - Turkish Daily News Dec 26, 2006

Recommendations for Kirkuk - Turkish Daily News Dec 26, 2006

"Recommendations for Kirkuk
Tuesday, December 26, 2006

The International Crisis Group, which defines itself as a group founded to prevent clashes around the world, prepares very valuable reports. "

More:Recommendations for Kirkuk - Turkish Daily News Dec 26, 2006

EU's insistence for company information creates problems in iron and steel sector restructuring - Turkish Daily News Dec 26, 2006

"EU's insistence for company information creates problems in iron and steel sector restructuring
Tuesday, December 26, 2006

HACER BOYACIOĞLU

ANKARA – Referans

Ongoing negotiations with the European Union on the �Restructuring Program of the Iron and Steel Sector� is facing trouble due to the EU's insistence on collecting company data. "

More:EU's insistence for company information creates problems in iron and steel sector restructuring - Turkish Daily News Dec 26, 2006

Hürriyet - EU countries see new bid to save Turkey's 8 "shelved" accession talks topics

"EU countries see new bid to save Turkey's 8 'shelved' accession talks topics

EU countries in support of Turkey's EU membership bid have started a movement for the immediate re-opening of the eight accession talks topics shelved following Ankara's initial refusal to budge on opening up either air or sea ports to Southern Cypriot trade. The move comes following Ankara's latest signalling that it will in fact be willing to open at least one large port to Southern Cypriot trade. "

More:Hürriyet - EU countries see new bid to save Turkey's 8 "shelved" accession talks topics

Europe's Test on Islam

"Europe's Test on Islam

While the European Union was making a decision to slow down accession talks with Turkey, the European Monitoring Center on Racism and Xenophobia (EUMC) was coincidentally publishing its report on Islamophobia."

More:Europe's Test on Islam

JTW News - New Strategy from Turkey about the EU prospect

"New Strategy from Turkey about the EU prospect

Tuesday , 26 December 2006

JTW/ Ankara - On 25 December 2006, Turkish Foreign Ministry declared Turkey’s new strategy regarding the last decision of the European Union on EU-Turkey negotiation process. According to the decision taken by the European Summit dated on December 15, if Turkey do not open its ports for the Greek Cypriot ships and planes, negotiations on eight chapters will never be started, also for the rest even if the negotiations will be started they will not be closed. "

More:JTW News - New Strategy from Turkey about the EU prospect

Hürriyet - TUIK figures reveal drops in hunger, poverty across Turkey

"TUIK figures reveal drops in hunger, poverty across Turkey

The Turkish Institute of Statistics (TUIK) has released its figures depicting poverty and hunger levels in Turkey for the year 2005. According to TUIK's 'Results of the 2005 Poverty Project' report, there were 623,000 people in Turkey living beneath the hunger level, while 14,681,000 people in Turkey were beneath the poverty level in 2005. "

More:Hürriyet - TUIK figures reveal drops in hunger, poverty across Turkey

Monday, December 25, 2006

Rice praises Turkey's Iraq policy

"Rice praises Turkey's Iraq policy
25/12/2006 14:48:57

During an interview with The Associated Press last week, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice praised Turkey’s policy on Iraq.

Stressing that certain neighboring countries like Turkey have been quite helpful while some others have not been, Rice said that Iran’s influence and activities were feeding violence in Iraq.

Touching upon the PKK presence in northern Iraq, Rice said that Turks and the US were dealing with the problem in a trilateral cooperative mechanism.
"

Dunya Online

JTW News - Vatican: Turkey is a real bridge between East and West

"Vatican: Turkey is a real bridge between East and West

Monday , 25 December 2006

Vatican stated on Sunday that they had closely observed Turkey's status as a real bridge between the East and the West during Pope Benedict XVI's visit to Turkey."

More:JTW News - Vatican: Turkey is a real bridge between East and West

Ankara Reveals New Strategy for EU Bid

"Ankara Reveals New Strategy for EU Bid
By Cihan News Agency
Monday, December 25, 2006
zaman.com

The Turkish government is looking respond to the European Union's (EU) suspension of accession talks.

The government says it will start to realize regulations required for the unopened chapters of the membership negotiations beginning 2007.

'If the goal is to reach European standards, then we will do it ourselves without the EU asking for it,' said Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul on Monday revealing Ankara's new strategy."

More:Ankara Reveals New Strategy for EU Bid

Armenian News - Gul Calls to “Fight” against Armenian Genocide

"Gul Calls to “Fight” against Armenian Genocide

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul has called for cooperation between state institutions and non-governmental organizations in the “fight against Armenian claims of the Genocide,” reports Cihan news agency. In response to a motion from an opposition MP, Gul stated that Foreign Ministry and Turkish offices abroad carried out comprehensive works to discover the historical facts on the Armenian question. FM Gul underlined the necessity of cooperation of state institutions and NGOs on the issue. "It will be appreciated that our (Turkey’s) universities, non-governmental organizations, professional organizations and businessmen should pay close attention to the issue and every single individual should contribute to these efforts," Gul remarked. Gul recalled that PM Erdogan had suggested to Armenian President setting up a joint committee of Turkish and Armenian historians to research the facts and claims regarding the 1915 events a year ago. “However, we have not been able to receive a positive response to this proposal,” he added."

Armenian News - Gul Calls to “Fight” against Armenian Genocide

Turkey Debates Its Future

"Turkey Debates Its Future

By Simon Marks

ISTANBUL, Turkey (VOA) -- Talks between the government of Turkey and the European Union have stalled over Turkey's refusal to allow Greek-Cypriot ships to dock in its ports. The Turkish government insists that it's still serious about seeking membership of the European Union, despite opinion polls that show support for the idea is falling inside the country. Turkey itself is now gripped by a debate over the country's future direction. And as Correspondent Simon Marks reports from Istanbul, the future of its secularist nature may be at stake."

More:Turkey Debates Its Future

Secularism stressed once more on Kubilay anniversary

Secularism stressed once more on Kubilay anniversary
Monday, December 25, 2006

Serdar Alyamaç

İZMİR - Turkish Daily News

The importance of secularism in Turkey was stressed by the country's staunchly secular institutions on the 76th anniversary of the death of Lt. Mustafa Fehmi Kubilay, who was murdered by bigoted Islamic fanatics in Izmir's Menemen district during riots against Turkey's secular structure in 1930.

On the anniversary, observed every year in Menemen to keep alive the feeling of firm secularism in Turkey, a crowd marched to Yıldıztepe, where Kubilay was killed. After a ceremony, thousands attended a meeting called “From Menemen to Çankaya: Secular Republic,” shouting slogans like “Çankaya is closed to Shariah” and “Çankaya is secular and will remain secular.”

More:TDN

German FM: Turkey's EU approach is in our interest

German FM: Turkey's EU approach is in our interest

Monday , 25 December 2006

German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said on Sunday that further efforts that aimed at making the country a member of the European Union, are in the interest of the Union.

In his comments published in German Berliner Morgenpost newspaper, Steinmeier, who is a Social Democrat member of Chancellor Angela Merkel's ruling grand coalition and supporter of Turkey's EU bid, urged the EU to press on with membership talks with Turkey.

More:JTW News

How should the current impasse between the EU and Turkey be interpreted, and how should Turkey react?

How should the current impasse between the EU and Turkey be interpreted, and how should Turkey react?

Michael Emerson

Commissioner Olli Rehn says there is no train crash, but rather a slowing down because of works on the line. The Commission manifestly seeks to avoid a crisis, while being obliged to react to the non-implementation of the Ankara Protocol. Actually one can read the measures taken – namely to freeze (or not to open) 8 out of the 35 chapters of accession negotiations – in even lower key than Olli Rehn. The so-called 'negotiations' are not really negotiations at all, rather a process for monitoring Turkey's unilateral adoption of the EU acquis. Turkey can perfectly well carry on its long process of unilateral convergence on the EU acquis in any case. The Commission's staff will be happy to remain in constant informal contact with Mr Babacan's team. Whether this process continues in or out of formal negotiations does not really matter at this stage, and the Commission will continue to review progress in its regular reports in any case. This requires that Turkey sees these measure!
More:AB Haber

Ertegün: A secret force behind Turkish-Armenian rapprochement bid

Ertegün: A secret force behind Turkish-Armenian rapprochement bid
Monday, December 25, 2006

YUSUF KANLI

ANKARA - Turkısh Daily News

It was rather interesting to learn that late Ahmet Ertegün was not just a “musical envoy” for Turkey, or a “monument to friendship” between the Turkish and the American peoples, but that he was also an important figure working diligently on such sensitive issues as the Turkish-Armenian problem, due to his conviction that such issues must be resolved for the better promotion of Turkey.

More:Ertegün: A secret force behind Turkish-Armenian rapprochement bid

Elections To Test Turkish Stability

Elections To Test Turkish Stability
Oxford Analytica 12.25.06, 6:00 AM ET

The election of a new president in March and parliament in November, along with loss of faith in prospects of European Union membership, will test the stability Turkey achieved after the 2001 financial crisis.

More:Elections To Test Turkish Stability

Sunday, December 24, 2006

Turkish banks to see foreign inflows in 2007

"Turkish banks to see foreign inflows in 2007
MENAFN - 24/12/2006

(MENAFN) Reuters reported that Turkish banking stocks will see fresh inflows of foreign cash in 2007, but only once concerns over presidential elections and uncertainty over interest rates have cleared."

More:MENAFN - Middle East North Africa . Financial Network News: Turkish banks to see foreign inflows in 2007

Young Turkish Composer in High Demand

"Young Turkish Composer in High Demand
By Ali Pektas
Sunday, December 24, 2006
zaman.com

While our pop singers keep trying to appear on European music charts by singing in foreign languages, we have few musicians that have made a name for themselves in the international music world.

Evrim Demirel, however, is one of them."

More:Young Turkish Composer in High Demand

Tensions Between London, Nicosia over Ercan Airport

"Tensions Between London, Nicosia over Ercan Airport
By Cihan News Agency, Nicosia
Sunday, December 24, 2006
zaman.com

British support for the opening of Turkish Cypriot Ercan Airport to international air traffic has led to tensions between Greek Cyprus and London."

More:Tensions Between London, Nicosia over Ercan Airport

The Economist: The Mood Has Turned Unusually Bad In Turkey- The E.U. Relations

"The Economist: The Mood Has Turned Unusually Bad In Turkey- The E.U. Relations
Published: 12/23/2006

LONDON - The Economist, one of the most influential economic and political weeklies in Britain, has indicated that the mood had turned unusually bad in Turkey-the EU relations."

More:The Economist: The Mood Has Turned Unusually Bad In Turkey- The E.U. Relations

Beverage giant jockeys for all the rakı in China - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

"Beverage giant jockeys for all the rakı in China
Sunday, December 24, 2006

KRISTEN STEVENS

ISTANBUL – Turkish Daily News

On any given night in Turkish homes and taverns, people gather around tables subtly dominated by tall glasses of a clear alcohol that fuels conversations, revelations and a huge Turkish market -- soon to open to the Far East by way of a new cultural concoction: rakı and green tea. "

More:Beverage giant jockeys for all the rakı in China - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

International music world lost two giants in 2006 - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

"International music world lost two giants in 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006

American Turkish Society President Murat Köprülü offered one of many poignant summaries: Ertegun’s was a unique life, made more special by the avid devotion that is particular to music lovers and those who understand this world. At home, in the field, whether on the soccer green, the music industry, the political world or among his Wall Street buddies, Ertegun was always keenly concerned, interested, and engaged. His brain was moving faster and more efficiently at 83 than most brains do at 42 "

More:International music world lost two giants in 2006 - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

Youth has desire but not belief in EU membership - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

"Youth has desire but not belief in EU membership
Sunday, December 24, 2006

FULYA ÖZERKAN

ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

A poll conducted among Turkish youth has shown that around half would vote for Turkey's EU membership but that even more believe the membership is a pipe dream."

More:Youth has desire but not belief in EU membership - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

Turkish Economy Leaves Bulgaria And Romania Behind

"Turkish Economy Leaves Bulgaria And Romania Behind
Published: 12/23/2006

ANKARA - According to World Economic Forum's Lisbon Review for 2006, Turkey was ranked higher compared to Romania and Bulgaria, the two countries whose EU membership became definite"

More:Turkish Economy Leaves Bulgaria And Romania Behind

Patriarch Of Armenians In Turkey Seeks Support For Turkey's E.U. Bid

"Patriarch Of Armenians In Turkey Seeks Support For Turkey's E.U. Bid
Published: 12/23/2006

ISTANBUL - The patriarch of the Armenians in Turkey sought support for the country's European Union aspirations in separate letters he sent to the EU leaders, a bulletin of the patriarchate has said."

More:Patriarch Of Armenians In Turkey Seeks Support For Turkey's E.U. Bid

T.H.Y. Signs Cooperation Agreement With Lufthansa

"T.H.Y. Signs Cooperation Agreement With Lufthansa
Published: 12/23/2006

ISTANBUL - Turkish Airlines (THY) signed a cooperation agreement with Lufthansa.

According to a statement issued by the THY press office, THY, after taking the first step in joining the Star Alliance, signed an agreement with Lufthansa which increased the THY flight destinations from 131 to 231."

More:T.H.Y. Signs Cooperation Agreement With Lufthansa

‘Honor killings’ not a magazine issue, warns Van governor - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

"‘Honor killings’ not a magazine issue, warns Van governor
Sunday, December 24, 2006

It’s now the year 2006. Child-women are still asking themselves 'Who is pouring the rain?' And they are still being killed in the name of 'honor'"

More:‘Honor killings’ not a magazine issue, warns Van governor - Turkish Daily News Dec 24, 2006

BLUE CRUISE TOUR IN TURKEY

"BLUE CRUISE TOUR IN TURKEY

Fethiye - Muğla - Turkey

WHAT IS A GULET?

Imagine wooden sailing boats thousands of years ago carrying cargos of wine and copper across the Aegean to trade with ancient civilization, or fishing boat earning a living from the Mediterranean teerning with fish. Such boats were built along the Aegean coast of Turkey and many of the skills and designs used then have been passed down to today's boat builders. "

More:TURKEY CHARTER BLUE VOYAGE TOUR

Saturday, December 23, 2006

World Politics Watch | Corridors of Power: Turkey's EU Candidacy, Nuclear Recycling and More

"Corridors of Power: Turkey's EU Candidacy, Nuclear Recycling and More
Roland Flamini | Bio | 23 Dec 2006
World Politics Watch Exclusive

TALKING TURKEY TO THE TURKS -- European Union uncertainty about whether Turkey will ultimately make the cut and join the union continues. One senior European diplomat in Washington said outright Friday that, in his opinion, it will not happen. He said the Turks are beginning to come to the same conclusion, although 'they tell us to keep saying that their application for membership is under consideration.'"

More:World Politics Watch | Corridors of Power: Turkey's EU Candidacy, Nuclear Recycling and More

Austrian Premier Sees No Full Membership For Turkey In E.U.

"Austrian Premier Sees No Full Membership For Turkey In E.U.
Published: 12/23/2006

VIENNA - Austrian Prime Minister Wolfgang Schussel said Tuesday that outcome from Turkey`s entry talks will be 'anything but full membership.'"

More:Austrian Premier Sees No Full Membership For Turkey In E.U.

The Raw Story | Turkey's bumpy ride in 2006 in its bid to join the EU By Christopher Wade

"Turkey's bumpy ride in 2006 in its bid to join the EU By Christopher Wade


dpa German Press Agency
Published: Saturday December 23, 2006

By Christopher Wade, Ankara- When Turkey began official negotiations to join the European Union in October 2005 hopes were high that after years of wrangling Turkey had a clear target, albeit one far off in the future: membership of the club it has wanted to join for decades. By the end of 2006, however, that target seems as far away as ever with the EU having suspended negotiations on eight out of 35 policy areas thanks to a dispute over Cyprus."

More:The Raw Story | Turkey's bumpy ride in 2006 in its bid to join the EU By Christopher Wade

Dutch Embassy's Trade Attache Martin In Kayseri

"Dutch Embassy's Trade Attache Martin In Kayseri
Published: 12/23/2006

KAYSERI - Dutch Embassy`s (in Ankara) Trade Attache Roland Martin had a meeting with (central) Kayseri Chamber of Trade (KTO) Chairman Hasan Ali Kilci."

More:Dutch Embassy's Trade Attache Martin In Kayseri

Hürriyet - Four million Turks win their bread from Raki

"Four million Turks win their bread from Raki

Four million people in Turkey earn a living through the alcoholic drinks sector, with Raki and wine at the top of the list, according to Galip Yorgancıoğlu, CEO at Mey Beverages’, a total that includes producers of aniseed and grapes, distributors, shops selling Mey products, and services. "

More:Hürriyet - Four million Turks win their bread from Raki

Keller: I Have Confidence In Turkish Economy

"Keller: I Have Confidence In Turkish Economy
Published: 12/23/2006

BURSA - Jeremy Keller, Trade Attache at the US Consulate General in Istanbul, said that he had confidence in Turkish economy."

More:Keller: I Have Confidence In Turkish Economy

Doha Bank to promote Turkish business in Qatar - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

"Doha Bank to promote Turkish business in Qatar
Saturday, December 23, 2006

Qatar-based Doha Bank officially opened its doors in Turkey yesterday. As Qatar recently announced that it had budgeted $182 billion in infrastructure projects for 2006-2011, award-winning Doha Bank has launched a branch in Turkey to forge business opportunities with Turkish companies interested in Qatari projects. "

More:Doha Bank to promote Turkish business in Qatar - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

“Why are European countries standing in the way of the admission of Turkey as a full (EU member?” -

"
> Home > 'Lets Talk' Comment on this ArticleEmail this article
“Why are European countries standing in the way of the admission of Turkey as a full (EU member?”
12/23/2006 11:00:00 AM GMT

Dear Sheikha,

Why are European countries standing in the way of the admission of Turkey as a full European Union (EU) member?

Turkey's EU membership process has taken quite a long time with no possible results in the near future. "

More:“Why are European countries standing in the way of the admission of Turkey as a full (EU member?” -

Turkish-American Association expands presence in Konya - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

"Turkish-American Association expands presence in Konya
Saturday, December 23, 2006

The Turkish-American Association (TAA) Konya Language School was opened at a ceremony held on Monday.

The ceremony was attended by a number of guests, including U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Ross Wilson, Konya Mayor Tahir Akyürek and Justice and Development Party (AKP) Konya deputy Remzi Çetin. "

More:Turkish-American Association expands presence in Konya - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

The E.U. Is Insistent

"The E.U. Is Insistent
Published: 12/23/2006

BY SEMIH IDIZ

MILLIYET- Following the decision taken by the EU Council last week, it was clear that starting membership talks on four chapters which weren’t suspended wouldn’t be a great gesture to Ankara, because closing these chapters is also conditional. Actually the EU wants these chapters opened in order to be able to say that despite everything the train is moving forward. It’s also known that membership talks have actually been stopped since June. "

More:The E.U. Is Insistent

Treasures of Anatolia - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

"Treasures of Anatolia
Saturday, December 23, 2006

Regular readers of my column will remember my comments about the difficulties in digging a subway system anywhere around Istanbul. Case in point was the Marmaray project, where construction work had to be halted many times after running into ancient ruins at almost every attempt to lay foundations."

More:Treasures of Anatolia - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

Dutch institute inaugurated in Ankara - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

"Dutch institute inaugurated in Ankara
Saturday, December 23, 2006

The Dutch Higher Education Institute was inaugurated in a ceremony on Thursday in Ankara attended by Education Minister Hüseyin Çelik and Dutch Education, Culture and Science Minister Maria van Hoeven. "

More:Dutch institute inaugurated in Ankara - Turkish Daily News Dec 23, 2006

Talat: “The importance of solidarity with Turkey has increased”

"Talat: “The importance of solidarity with Turkey has increased”

22.12.2006

Turkish Cypriot President Mehmet Ali Talat said that the British announcement that Britain may be able to start direct flights to Northern Cyprus is pleasant news and mentioned that if Turkey opens her ports to Greek Cypriot registered ships and airplanes, the isolation over Turkish Cypriots will increase. "

More:Talat: “The importance of solidarity with Turkey has increased”

Turkish Weekly Opinion - EU is not Ready to Conduct Negotiations with Turkey!

"EU is not Ready to Conduct Negotiations with Turkey!
Mehmet Ozcan

Saturday , 23 December 2006

At the last meeting of the Committee of Permanent Representatives (COREPER) dated 20 December, there became a consensus on the subject that one chapter will be opened in terms of Turkey-EU negotiations. The chapter on which the EU reached a compromise is ‘enterprise and industrial policy’. However, contrary to the expectations, the EU decided not to start the negotiations for more 3 chapters whose screening processes and reports have already completed because of the opposition of Greek Cypriots."

More:Turkish Weekly Opinion - EU is not Ready to Conduct Negotiations with Turkey!

Armenian News - Yerevan Expects EU Will Be Actively Involved in Establish Relations Between Turkey and Armeni

"Yerevan Expects EU Will Be Actively Involved in Establish Relations Between Turkey and Armenia
23.12.2006 14:25 GMT+04:00 Print version Send to mail In Russian In Armenian

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ The Wall Street Journal has published Serge Sargsyan’s, the Armenian Defense Minister’s article ‘Despite the Genocide’, where he expressed hope that the EU during entry talks with Turkey will demand from Ankara to normalize its relations with Yerevan. The Defense Minister noticed that over the past few months, attention in Europe has focused once again on the Genocide of the Armenian people. The debate in the European Parliament over whether Turkey's recognition of the Genocide should be a precondition for membership in the European Union, and the French National Assembly's bill criminalizing Genocide denial, have put the spotlight on this tragic period of Armenia's history.
"

More:Armenian News - PanARMENIAN.Net | Armenian News Agency - Yerevan Expects EU Will Be Actively Involved in Establish Relations Between Turkey and Armenia

New Turkish Ambassador to the North

"New Turkish Ambassador to the North

22.12.2006

Turkey’s new ambassador to Northern Cyprus, Turkekul Kurttekin, presented his letter of authorisation to President Mehmet Ali Talat at a ceremony held on Monday at the Presidential Offices. Ambassador Kurttekin was greeted with the Turkish national anthem and a welcoming military ceremony and was then received by the President.
During the ceremony Kurttekin stated that Turkey’s support and cooperation for Northern Cyprus would continue and relayed Turkish President, Ahmet Necdet Sezer’s regards."

More:New Turkish Ambassador to the North

Friday, December 22, 2006

From Istanbul with Love - OhmyNews International

"From Istanbul with Love
A personal travelogue of a birthday pilgrimage
Michael Werbowski

Sevince (which means joy in Turkish) invited me for my birthday to Istanbul recently, the city where popes and patriarchs meet, where Byzantine emperors ruled and Ottoman sultans sat on empires. All this history in one place seemed overwhelming to me, almost like a dizzying spell."

More:From Istanbul with Love - OhmyNews International

Helsingin Sanomat - Refugees receive orientation in Turkey for possible settlement in Finland

"Refugees receive orientation in Turkey for possible settlement in Finland
Official delays test patience of refugees

Boats in the harbour in front of Helsinki's Market Square, paper factories, Finnish girls in parks with bikini tops, winter landscapes.
A group of Somalis attentively watch an orientation video with narration in the Somali language at an office of the UNHCR in the Turkish capital Ankara. "

More:Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign

Iraq: Istanbul Conference Enflames Sectarian Tensions - RADIO FREE EUROPE / RADIO LIBERTY

"Iraq: Istanbul Conference Enflames Sectarian Tensions
By Sumedha Senanayake

December 22, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- On December 13-14, Turkey hosted a 'Conference for the Support of the Iraqi People' in Istanbul that brought together more than 150 attendees, including politicians, religious figures, intellectuals and activists, from both inside and outside Iraq."

More:Iraq: Istanbul Conference Enflames Sectarian Tensions - RADIO FREE EUROPE / RADIO LIBERTY

"Creation vs Darwin takes Muslim twist in Turkey" - Pastor Michael’s blog

"'Creation vs Darwin takes Muslim twist in Turkey'

by Tom Heneghan (Reuters, November 22, 2006)

Istanbul, Turkey - A lavishly illustrated 'Atlas of Creation' is mysteriously turning up at schools and libraries in Turkey, proclaiming that Charles Darwin's theory of evolution is the real root of terrorism.

Arriving unsolicited by post, the large-format tome offers 768 glossy pages of photographs and easy-to-read text to prove that God created the world with all its species."

More:"Creation vs Darwin takes Muslim twist in Turkey" - Pastor Michael’s blog

IranVisitor: Iran's Azeri Turks

"Iran's Azeri Turks

If you hear a language other than Farsi on the streets of Tehran, most likely it's Azeri Turkish. Closely related but not identical to the national language spoken in Turkey, Azeri is spoken as a first language by about 20% of the Iranian population, mainly concentrated in the provinces of Eastern and Western Azerbaijan but it is also very commonly spoken in the capital. Estimates of just how many Iranians are ethnically Azeri Turks vary widely. One very commonly quoted statistic makes Azeris the largest single population group in Iran, making up 30 million of the country's population of ?70 million?."

More:IranVisitor: Iran's Azeri Turks

Goldman, Babcock buy into Turkey's TAV

"Goldman, Babcock buy into Turkey's TAV
Saturday Dec 23 06:42 AEDT

Goldman Sachs and Australian investment firm Babcock & Brown have bought stakes in Turkish airport operator TAV, which plans an initial public offering in 2007, the Turkish company says."

More:Goldman, Babcock buy into Turkey's TAV

Turkey’s Democratic Dilemma - Forum on Democracy :::::: Safe Democracy Foundation

"Turkey’s Democratic Dilemma
The intensification of the Kurdish conflict
By Per Persson (for Safe Democracy)

Per Persson writes on how the Kurdish conflict presents a major obstacle to Turkey’s democratization process and subsequent admittance into the EU. Due to the War in Iraq and regional security concerns, the fighting between Kurdish activists and Turkish military has intensified in recent years. Yet, in Persson’s opinion, it is the process of democratization, and not the ends of joining the EU, that matters most to Turkey’s future. Even if Turkey decides against membership in the EU, the process of fighting its tradition of intolerance and human rights abuses, and strengthening its democratic institutions will be greatly beneficial for the country and its minorities."

More:Turkey’s Democratic Dilemma - Forum on Democracy :::::: Safe Democracy Foundation

Publicity campaign a must to salvage 2007 tourism - Turkish Daily News Dec 22, 2006

"Publicity campaign a must to salvage 2007 tourism
Friday, December 22, 2006

Chairman of Tourism Investors Oktay Varlıer warns the government that 2007 might as well be considered a lost year if existing inertia continues
"

More:Publicity campaign a must to salvage 2007 tourism - Turkish Daily News Dec 22, 2006

Sufi News and Sufism World Report

"Turkey in the 20th century: between Sufi groups, the EU and radical Islam
By Wlodzimierz Redzioch - Sunday Catholic Weekly - Czestochowa,Poland
Wednesday, December 6, 2006

In the 19th century the large Ottoman Empire began losing its lands and its definitive collapse was after World War I. In 1908 the Young Turks seized power and they were in favour of introducing the constitutional system and during the war they were Germany's allies. In 1920, after the defeat, under the terms of the Treaty of Sèvres, the Ottoman Empire ceased to exist."

More:Sufi News and Sufism World Report

Christian Democrats Object Report on Women Rights

"Christian Democrats Object Report on Women Rights
By Selcuk Gultasli
Friday, December 22, 2006
zaman.com

The Christian Democrats, a party in the European Parliament (EP) have launched a campaign to improve the conditions of Christian minorities in Turkey and demand the removal of the expression “headscarf” from a draft report prepared by Turkish-Dutch parliamentarian Emine Bozkurt on women rights in Turkey."

More:Christian Democrats Object Report on Women Rights

Open And Shut

"Open And Shut
Published: 12/22/2006

BY GUNDUZ AKTAN

RADIKAL- The EU Commission’s proposal was accepted last week and Turkey’s membership talks were suspended in eight chapters. Thus, the process of our talks was slowed down. Meanwhile, EU officials and the press stated that the EU shouldn’t close its doors to Turkey, otherwise the process of reform might stop. When the word ‘reform’ is mentioned, we think of the army being subject to civilian authority, the rights of minorities, in other words, giving collective rights to Kurds and Christians’ religious rights. It’s understood that the Justice and Development Party will continue membership talks under these conditions. In other words, we will be accepting punishment for a crime we supposedly committed by not fulfilling our ‘obligations’ in the Additional Protocol concerning Cyprus. As we won’t be able to solve the Cyprus issue within the UN before 2009, we will have to face the issue of unilaterally opening our harbors and ports to Greek Cypriots. This way we’ll postpone this crisis to the end of 2009."

More:Open And Shut

Turkey And The EU Versus Turkey And The Muslim World By Ali Al-Hail

"Turkey And The EU Versus Turkey And The Muslim World

By Ali Al-Hail

Al-Jazeerah, December 22, 2006

Once upon a time during 2004, the European Commission's conscious all of a sudden, awakened. It had come up with a proposition to lift 'racist' sanctions off the Republic of Northern Cyprus."

More:Turkey And The EU Versus Turkey And The Muslim World By Ali Al-Hail

Turkey : Fashion designer Bahar Korcan - Istanbul’s pride! - Textile Fashion News Fibre2Fashion

"Turkey : Fashion designer Bahar Korcan - Istanbul’s pride!
December 22, 2006

Istanbul, the ‘city of seven hills’ in Turkey, dominated by Muslim populace is coming out of its shell in regards to fashion.

Bahar Korcan, the Istanbul based designer wants Turkey to carve a niche in the world fashion."

More:Turkey : Fashion designer Bahar Korcan - Istanbul’s pride! - Textile Fashion News Fibre2Fashion

Hürriyet - Ahmet Hakan: Wig on top of turban

"Ahmet Hakan: Wig on top of turban

Everything that lies between the dark black soil and the bright blue sky which needs to be said on the subject of turbans has already been said in Turkey. Yes, the turban has been called a 'political symbol,' a 'decision by the European Court of Human Rights,' people have called it their 'personal right,' or talked about how their 'grandmothers used to cover their heads.' Others have insisted 'don't interfere in my style of dress,' while still others have reminded us 'the turban is not the same as the headscarf.' "

More:Hürriyet - Ahmet Hakan: Wig on top of turban

Turkey’s ruling party mum on presidential candidate

"
Turkey’s ruling party mum on presidential candidate
Erdogan said that reports he would stand for the presidency were just speculation.

NTV-MSNBC

ISTANBUL - Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) will not announce its candidate for next year’s presidential election until just before the parliament chooses the successor to President Ahmet Necdet Sezer, Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said late Wednesday night."

More:Turkey’s ruling party mum on presidential candidate

Holiday Making on Turkey\'s Southern Coast

"Holiday Making on Turkey\'s Southern Coast

Turkey's geopolitical developments have always attracted the outside world to its doorsteps. Having got ruled during the ancient periods by some famous empires of those times, the land continues on being a hub for geopolitical activities even today. With negotiations being on for its merger with the European Union, the region is bound to have a sway on the world politics for many years to come now. No doubt Turkey is known today as one of the most sought after tourist destinations across the globe. The blend of its historical past, modern-day Islam and the beautiful sand-beaches make Turkish holiday making a worthwhile experience."

More:Holiday Making on Turkey\'s Southern Coast

Analyze Production and Consumption Trends in the Turkish Large Household Appliances Market

"Analyze Production and Consumption Trends in the Turkish Large Household Appliances Market

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/c47618) has announced the addition of The Large Household Appliances Market in Turkey to their offering.

Turkey is a market with an increasing capacity and production of household appliances. The increasing activity in the construction industry and following demand in especially built-in products triggered by apartment complexes makes Turkey an attractive country for investments."

More:Analyze Production and Consumption Trends in the Turkish Large Household Appliances Market

Pamir: Turkey missed its chance - for now - Turkish Daily News Dec 22, 2006

"Pamir: Turkey missed its chance - for now
Friday, December 22, 2006

Turkey already had serious problems over the Turkmen gas, said Turkish energy expert Necdet Pamir, as many projects on transfer of gas from Turkmenistan to Europe over Turkey failed to materialize. �Lastly, Turkmenistan binded the bulk of its sales to Russia. Thus, Turkey missed its chance of cheap natural gas, and also the opportunity to get the gas directly from Turkmenistan for at least 25 years� he said."

More:Pamir: Turkey missed its chance - for now - Turkish Daily News Dec 22, 2006

Thursday, December 21, 2006

People's Daily Online -- Turkey starts cross-strait rail tunnel excavations in Istanbul

"Turkey starts cross-strait rail tunnel excavations in Istanbul

Turkey on Thursday started rail tunnel excavations of the Marmaray Project, which will connect Europe and Asia beneath the Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul, the semi- official Anatolia news agency reported.

In a speech at a ceremony held in Istanbul to start digging tunnels, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the project launched in 2004 will surely facilitate transportation in the city."

More:People's Daily Online -- Turkey starts cross-strait rail tunnel excavations in Istanbul

Kuna site|Story page|Turkey underscores importance of reaching solution...12/22/2006

"Turkey underscores importance of reaching solution to Kurdish rebels'' issue
POL-TURKEY-ERDOGAN
Turkey underscores importance of reaching solution to Kurdish rebels' issue

ANKARA, Dec 21 (KUNA) -- Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan asserted Thursday the importance of reaching tangible results on the background of the efforts exerted by the United States and Turkey against rebels in Northern Iraq."

More:Kuna site|Story page|Turkey underscores importance of reaching solution...12/22/2006

Health of Turks hangs in the balance, still - Turkish Daily News Dec 21, 2006

"Health of Turks hangs in the balance, still
Thursday, December 21, 2006

After waiting nearly half a century for better health care, the Turkish people found out this week that they likely will sweat it out another year before benefiting from new health reforms. On Monday Turkey's constitutional court cancelled the law, two weeks before it was to go into effect on January 1."

More:Health of Turks hangs in the balance, still - Turkish Daily News Dec 21, 2006

The New Anatolian - Onder Aytac & Emre Uslu - The 'self-Turkification' of some Kurds

"The 'self-Turkification' of some Kurds
Onder Aytac & Emre Uslu

aytac.uslu@gmail.com
21 December 2006

The Kurdish question has emerged largely because the state elites have tried to assimilate Turkey's Kurdish population into the 'Turkish zone.' Yet despite the state elites' harsh policies to that end, unlike other minorities, the Kurdish people have refused to give up their Kurdish identity. Opinions on this issue vary. Some say because of the state's harsh, rigid policies toward the Kurds' cultural demands, such as banning the Kurdish language, music, etc., the Kurds responded in kind to defend their identity. On the other end of the spectrum, some people still argue that Turkey moved to democracy too soon. Because of the democratization process in the 1950s, the republican nation-building project was interrupted, retarding the 'internalization' of the Kurds. "

More:The New Anatolian - Onder Aytac & Emre Uslu - The 'self-Turkification' of some Kurds

Europaparlamentet - Women's rights in Turkey: improvements still needed - Newsdesk

"Europaparlamentet
Women's rights in Turkey: improvements still needed
:59

Turkey's legal framework on women's rights 'has in general been satisfactory, but its substantive implementation remains flawed', says the EP Women's Rights Committee in its second report on women's role in social, economic and political life in Turkey, adopted on 20 December. The report emphasises that respecting human rights, including women’s rights, is a 'conditio sine qua non' for Turkey's membership of the EU. "

More:Europaparlamentet - Women's rights in Turkey: improvements still needed - Newsdesk

Turkish Weekly Comment - To Miss Hilda Darian, My Armenian Reader

"To Miss Hilda Darian, My Armenian Reader
Nermin Aydemir

Thursday , 21 December 2006

I am quoting, Miss Hilda Darian’s email with my replies attached to it, in italics.

By this opportunity I want to thank Miss Darian very much for her interest and valuable contribution. Wishing that her email will start a fruitful discussion, from which we might find the possibility to improve our relations as two neighbor nations."

More:Turkish Weekly Comment - To Miss Hilda Darian, My Armenian Reader

Italy Proposes Motion for Turkey's Access to EU

"Italy Proposes Motion for Turkey's Access to EU
By Anadolu News Agency (aa), Roma
Thursday, December 21, 2006
zaman.com

Turkey has received support from Italy in its efforts to go through a difficult period of time while on its way to the European Union.

A motion was adopted unanimously among members of the Commission on Foreign Affairs in the Italian parliament in a bid to keep negotiations between Turkey and the European Union on track."

More:Italy Proposes Motion for Turkey's Access to EU

SunJournal.com - Turkish hospitality impresses professors

"Turkish hospitality impresses professors

By Maggie Gill-Austern , Staff Writer
Thursday, December 21, 2006

FARMINGTON - A week after getting home from a lecture tour abroad, Waleck Dalpour and Jon Oplinger are still talking about the tea."

More:SunJournal.com - Turkish hospitality impresses professors

The Muslim News - ‘I leave a piece of my heart in Istanbul’

"‘I leave a piece of my heart in Istanbul’

By Elif Aydýn

It’s an irony that won’t be lost on the Turks. In a week where France and Germany are reputedly seeking greater sanctions against Turkey’s intransigence over opening its ports and airports to trade with southern Cyprus, over and above the European Commission’s recommendation that eight of the thirty five accession chapters be suspended, the visit of Pope Benedict XVI to Turkey is being hailed a victory for the dialogue between civilizations. "

More:The Muslim News - ‘I leave a piece of my heart in Istanbul’

Turkish Business: Who Owns the TGRT Shares?

"Who Owns the TGRT Shares?

By Oray Egin
Aksam

His funeral is barely over but the push and shove over Ahmet Ertegun's inheritance is already on.

People in Turkey are betting on who will take over TGRT TV station's stocks. [Rupert Murdock owns 25% of TGRT shares and Ertegun used to own the remaining 75%. But since Ertegun did not leave behind any known Turkish citizen heirs, Turkish laws forbid his heirs to claim the shares – UA] "

More:Turkish Business: Who Owns the TGRT Shares?

Georgia to transport power from Russia, Azerbaijan to Turkey

"Georgia to transport power from Russia, Azerbaijan to Turkey

21.12.2006, 13.42

ANKARA, December 21 (Itar-Tass) - Georgia will ensure electric power transportation from Russia and Azerbaijan to Turkey via its territory, Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili said in Istanbul at a meeting with the Turkish business community on Thursday."

More:ITAR-TASS