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Friday, August 31, 2007

Turkish designer wins prestigious award

"Turkish designer wins prestigious award (Turkish Daily News Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge) Competing with 3,880 designs from 34 countries, Irmak prepared a unique package for the Istanbul series of Koleksiyon Mobilya (Collection Furniture), earning two awards for the designer. Organized this year into categories of package design, advertisement and interactive media, the competition has been held in Essen since 1955. Winners' works are put on exhibition in Essen's Red Dot Design Museum.

Along with Gokhan Irmak, Irmak established the "Orhan Irmak Design". In the packaging design category, he says, Turkey is so new; this has both advantages and disadvantages."

More:Turkish designer wins prestigious award

Islam's history is not all blood-soaked - Telegraph

"Islam's history is not all blood-soaked Last Updated: 12:01am BST 30/08/2007 William Dalrymple reviews The Mughal Emperors And The Islamic Dynasties Of India, Iran And Central Asia, 1206-1925 by Francis Robinson In 1526 Zahir-ud-Din Babur, a young Turkish poet prince from Ferghana in Central Asia, descended the Khyber Pass with a small army of hand-picked followers; and with him he brought some of the first cannon seen in India. With these he defeated the Delhi Sultan and established his garden-capital at Agra."

More:Islam's history is not all blood-soaked - Telegraph

Turkey's democratic choice - International Herald Tribune

"Turkey's democratic choice

The election of Abdullah Gul, an observant Muslim, to the Turkish presidency is a victory for democracy. The military, which has a habit of defending Turkish secularism at the expense of Turkish democracy, tried to block his candidacy last spring. Rather than bow to the generals, the government took the issue to the people, who delivered Gul's party a mandate in July's parliamentary elections, smoothing the way for lawmakers to overwhelmingly approve Gul for the presidency."

More:Turkey's democratic choice - International Herald Tribune

Dunya Online Haber Sayfası

"Five Turks taken hostage in Afghanistan 31/08/2007 13:53:51
Five Turkish citizens who work for Turkish construction firm ZDM in Afghanistan were taken hostage yesterday. The Turkish firm reportedly had a dispute with a firm owned by Afghan businessman Abdulfettah Zengerzade. Machine engineer Ercan Ketene was among those first taken hostage, but was released and taken to the hospital when a blow to his head resulted in injury. The identities of the other hostages are not yet known. The Turkish Foreign Ministry is working to resolve the dispute and get the hostages freed."

Dunya Online Haber Sayfası

Uzbekistan wants to be friends with Turkey again and counts on its support - Ferghana.Ru Information agency, Moscow

"Uzbekistan wants to be friends with Turkey again and counts on its support 31.08.2007 19:34 msk Bahtijar Shakhnazarov
Uzbek Ambassador to Ankara Ulfat Kadyrov and Commercial Attache Nadyr Khashimov participated in Abroad, program of privately owned Channel-A of the Turkish television on August 30."

More:Uzbekistan wants to be friends with Turkey again and counts on its support - Ferghana.Ru Information agency, Moscow

Infocult: Information, Culture, Policy, Education: Gothic surprise in Turkey

"Gothic surprise in Turkey

Real life imitates Gothic, continued: read this gorgeous post about eerie spaces from Bldgblog. It focuses on the recent discovery of Derinkuyu, an entirely underground city found in Turkey through this surreal, Gothic fashion, by:

a man who simply "broke through a wall and discovered behind it a room that he'd never seen, which led to still another, and another...""

More:Infocult: Information, Culture, Policy, Education: Gothic surprise in Turkey

ANALYSIS-Low profits force Turkish jewellers to diversify | Reuters

"ANALYSIS-Low profits force Turkish jewellers to diversify Fri Aug 31, 2007 5:56AM EDT
By Humeyra Pamuk ISTANBUL, Aug 31 (Reuters) - Turkish jewellers are diversifying their businesses and investing more in areas such as energy and real estate as sky-rocketing raw material prices and fierce competition put an end to easy profits."

More:ANALYSIS-Low profits force Turkish jewellers to diversify | Reuters

Seven cities shoulder almost all of Turkey’s foreign trade

"Seven cities shoulder almost all of Turkey’s foreign trade
Seven cities in Turkey -- İstanbul, Ankara, İzmir, Bursa, Kocaeli, Sakarya and Gaziantep -- were responsible for imports and exports of over $1 billion in the first half of 2007, according to data from the Undersecretariat for Foreign Trade."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

FT.com / In depth - The mosque of integration

"The mosque of integration By Hugh Williamson in Berlin Published: August 31 2007 15:31 | Last updated: August 31 2007 15:31 The steel mills and coal mines that towered over Marxloh for decades have mostly gone, but many of the 'Gastarbeiter', or guest workers, who came from Turkey to dig the coal and work the furnaces remain."

More:FT.com / In depth - The mosque of integration

Why Turks do not use seat belts? An interview study

"Why Turks do not use seat belts? An interview study

Özlem Şimşekoğlua and Timo Lajunen
Abstract

Despite the effectiveness of seat belt use and legislation, seat belt use rate is low in Turkey. The aim of this study was to investigate the motives to use and not to use a seat belt in different traveling conditions in a sample of car drivers and passengers. Interviews were made face to face with 221 interviewees from different age and occupation groups. Frequently reported reasons for using a seat belt were traveling conditions, safety, situational conditions, habit of using a seat belt, and avoiding punishment. Frequently reported reasons for not using a seat belt were situational conditions, not believing in the effectiveness, discomfort and having no habit. Safety was the strongest predictor of reported seat belt use in both low and high risk traveling conditions. Findings suggest that seat belt campaigns should mainly emphasize seat belt's safety impact and aim at habit formation. "

More:ScienceDirect - Accident Analysis & Prevention : Why Turks do not use seat belts? An interview study

Business world hails its new leaders - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

"Business world hails its new leaders Friday, August 31, 2007

Turkish business circles gave their full support to the appointments. They also welcomed the election of Abdullah Gül as the president. Gül, with experience as a foreign minister and minister of state, and with a constructive attitude both at home and abroad, has the necessary attributes to be president, noted Rifat Hisarcıklıoğlu of Turkish Union of Chambers and Commodities Exchanges"

More:Business world hails its new leaders - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

Turks Don't Foresee Islamist Government: Angus Reid Global Monitor

"Angus Reid Global Monitor : Polls & Research Turks Don't Foresee Islamist Government August 31, 2007 (Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Most people in Turkey feel an Islamist administration will not be installed in their country, according to a poll by Konda published in Milliyet. 52.9 per cent of respondents do not think there is a threat of Islamist governance in Turkey."

More:Turks Don't Foresee Islamist Government: Angus Reid Global Monitor

Guardian Unlimited | Comment is free | Secular Turks will settle for nothing less than a truly liberal society

"Secular Turks will settle for nothing less than a truly liberal society We cannot compromise our ideals just so Turkey can be a role model in the Middle East, says Mehmet Karli"

More:Guardian Unlimited | Comment is free | Secular Turks will settle for nothing less than a truly liberal society

Outstanding brands of diamond and jewelry display charming collections - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

"Outstanding brands of diamond and jewelry display charming collections

Turkey’s and global prominent jewelry brands, companies, manufacturers and dealers meet in Istanbul for the Istanbul Jewelry Show-II. New concepts, collections, themes surround the sector, particularly the diamond sector in Turkey"

More:Outstanding brands of diamond and jewelry display charming collections - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

Turkey to boost energy investments

"Turkey to boost energy investments The government plans to pass legislation to allow for Turkey to build nuclear power stations, said Guler.

ANKARA - Turkey’s government is to ramp up investments in the energy sector in its second term, Energy and Natural Resources Minister Hilmi Guler said Friday."

More:Turkey to boost energy investments

Traveler notes: Turkish students spend their summer driving pedicabs downtown

"Turkish students spend their summer driving pedicabs downtown
Soon the young Turks will be heading home. They are a prevalent but largely unrecognized subculture of San Diego's Embarcadero and Gaslamp Quarter. Most pedal bicycle cabs; others sell T-shirts on the waterfront or work in downtown restaurants."

More:Traveler notes: Turkish students spend their summer driving pedicabs downtown

Erdoğan prepares for trip to the U.S. with Babacan - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

"Erdoğan prepares for trip to the U.S. with Babacan Friday, August 31, 2007

DUYGU GÜVENÇ
ANKARA - Turkish Daily News

After forming the new government, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is preparing for a visit to the United States intending to kill two birds with one stone."

More:Erdoğan prepares for trip to the U.S. with Babacan - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

Unemployment rates higher among women and young population

"Unemployment rates higher among women and young population 31.08.2007 Umut Uras What will the debate on the presence of the Turkish Armed Forces on the Island produce? The newcomer makes you long for the past … The new Greek Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs, Erato Marcoullis, has caused the previous minister to be longed for. We knew that Yorgo Iacovou would be missed when Lillikas became Minister of Foreign Affairs, who is now missed upon the arrival of Marcoullis. She is trying to create the image that the presence of Turkey and the Turkish troops are the nuisance and it is their presence that is preventing a settlement and the more she speaks the further down she goes."

More:Unemployment rates higher among women and young population

Christ Church: A part of Istanbul's history - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

"Christ Church: A part of Istanbul's history Friday, August 31, 2007

The Crimean Church at the end of Istiklal Street has deep running ties with Turkey. Its chaplain, Ian Sherwood, and the congregation now give back to the community and immigrants who come here looking for a new home"

More:Christ Church: A part of Istanbul's history - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

A call for Turkish-Greek partnership to combat forest fires - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

"A call for Turkish-Greek partnership to combat forest fires Friday, August 31, 2007

President of the İzmir Chamber of Commerce (İZTO), Ekrem Demirtaş, announced in a written statement yesterday that he sent a letter to the prime ministers of Turkey and Greece calling on them to establish a partnership for a firefighting fleet."

More:A call for Turkish-Greek partnership to combat forest fires - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

Peace activists to gather for preservation of Anatolian mosaic - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

"Peace activists to gather for preservation of Anatolian mosaic Friday, August 31, 2007

The Kurdish issue is a barrier to peace in Turkey, according to members of the “Turkey Searching for its Peace” initiative. They also criticize the government’s policies on tackling the Kurdish problem, a problem that exists in Turkey for almost 30 years"

More:Peace activists to gather for preservation of Anatolian mosaic - Turkish Daily News Aug 31, 2007

Sensoy : Armenian resolution may affect certain relations

"Sensoy : Armenian resolution may affect certain relations
The New Anatolian / Ankara 30 August 2007 Font Size: default medium large Turkish Ambassador in Washington Nabi Sensoy warned that Turkish-American relations will be adversely affected if the U.S. House of Representatives passes a bill recognizing claims that Ottoman Turks committed an act of genocide in 1915 against the Armenians."

More:The New Anatolian

Contra Costa Times/Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Turkey's exotic call: Eurasian flavorings influence culture mix - by Anne Chalfan

For the complete report from the Contra Costa Times/Pittsburgh Post Gazette click on this link

Turkey's exotic call: Eurasian flavorings influence culture mix - by Anne Chalfan

The Grand Bazaar boggles the eyes, the ears and the mind, with more than 4,000 shops spread over 61 streets under one roof. It's fascinating and confounding, with pulsating colors and beckoning vendors. Please, have a cup of tea and see our rugs. Lady, you like that purse? I make a good price for you. The Rimskys, who had experienced Grand Bazaar madness on a previous trip, did a little strategic planning prior to this trip and hired the services of the Screaming Shopper, aka Marilyn Hill Henderson. Henderson is a British ex-pat who promises to demystify shopping in Istanbul.

The Rimskys walked into the hotel, grinning and dripping with sweat. Mission accomplished: They had bought three fabulous rugs that were being shipped to their home. And Mary Lou was adorned with a few baubles -- a fabulous gold necklace and earrings. Joe sported a new Izod shirt, with three more tucked in a bag.Turkish people are very friendly and work hard to speak English. Turkey is 99 percent Muslim today, but the nation remains secular, and Turkey is desperate to remain moderate in its quest to join the European Union. Istanbul, despite its milling 16 million, is a fun city with a plummy locale occupying both Europe and Asia. Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus, the inlet that divides the two continents.

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Eurobarometer: The EU's relations with its neighbours

A survey of attitudes in the European Union

Highlights regarding Turkey:

Firstly, two out of the three current candidate countries are at the top of the list of countries that EU citizens mention spontaneously as being set to join the European Union in a near future. Respondents indicate first and foremost that Turkey is expected to be next in line to join the European Union (34%), followed by Croatia (12%). Citizens from the EU15 are more likely to know about Turkey’s membership bid (36% vs. 26% in the new Member States). The candidate status of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is still less well-known (5%).
******
At national level, the accession process of Turkey is the best known in the Netherlands (66%), Sweden (59%) and Denmark (55%). Slovenes are better informed about the candidate country status of Croatia (72%) and of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (22%). Almost every second Austrian mentions
Croatia when speaking about future enlargement of the European Union (48%).
******
In general, EU citizens are moderately aware of the countries which are set to join the EU. They spontaneously name two formal candidate countries (Turkey and Croatia) in first and second place as countries set to join the European Union in a near future. However, the candidate status of the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is less well known.

For the complete report: The EU's relations with its neighbours

JTW News - Turkey expects Israel's Support in Regard of US Jews

"Turkey expects Israel's Support in Regard of US Jews Thursday , 30 August 2007
Turkey expects Israel's Support in Regard of US Jews Turkey expects Israel to 'deliver' American Jewish organizations and ensure that the US Congress does not pass a resolution characterizing as genocide the massacre of Armenians during World War I, Turkish Ambassador to Israel Namik Tan told The Jerusalem Post Sunday."

More:JTW News - Turkey expects Israel's Support in Regard of US Jews

Comment is free: Fears for the future

"Fears for the future Turkey is changing from a secular state to a new hybrid combining modernity and tradition: but secularists won't give up their freedoms easily.

The election of Abdullah Gül as president Turkey has been a long slog: five eventful months in which his candidacy first brought millions out onto the streets in protest, then brought down the government - subsequently re-elected in a landslide victory with 46% of the vote - and finally brought the military, historically the most respected and collective organ in the nation, to more or less admit defeat to factional politics."

More:Comment is free: Fears for the future

Turks Claim US Weapons Reach Rebel Kurds | World Latest | Guardian Unlimited

"Turks Claim US Weapons Reach Rebel Kurds Thursday August 30, 2007 7:01 PM ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Turkish legislators said Thursday that American weapons have been turning up in the hands of Kurdish guerrillas staging attacks in Turkey. The accusations came days before a high-level Pentagon team travels to Iraq to investigate how U.S. weapons intended for Iraqi security forces wound up being used for murders and other violent crimes in Turkey."

More:Turks Claim US Weapons Reach Rebel Kurds | World Latest | Guardian Unlimited

Historical Erzurum Houses: Wondrous journey back in time

"Historical Erzurum Houses: Wondrous journey back in time
Prominent 17th century Turkish traveler Evliya Çelebi included Erzurum in his travel book, describing it as the city where the ‘black cat freezes” in the harsh winter when jumping from rooftop to rooftop."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Pentagon probes claims that U.S. weapons ended up in Turkey - On Deadline - USATODAY.com

"Pentagon probes claims that U.S. weapons ended up in Turkey Weapons that the United States gave to Iraqi security forces have been linked to murders and other violent crimes in Turkey, The New York Times and other media outlets report. The Times says estimates of the number of guns recovered in Turkey range 'from dozens to hundreds.'"

More:Pentagon probes claims that U.S. weapons ended up in Turkey - On Deadline - USATODAY.com

Turkish Tycoon, American Dreams

"Turkish Tycoon, American Dreams An educational trip to the United States brought Engin Yesil from Turkey to South Florida ripe with innovative business ideas and a penchant for contributing generously to children in need. By Vanessa Valera b0004p-0295.jpg If you don’t believe in the American dream, Engin Yesil, a driven entrepreneur with a relentless zeal for victory, will make you believe. “I came to the United States to get an education, so that I can go back and run my family business in Turkey,” he continues, “I was an entrepreneur since birth, but I realized all the opportunities this country offered, and I was hooked on becoming the American dream.”"

More:Haute Living Magazine » Blog Archive » Turkish Tycoon, American Dreams

Vatican Influencing EU

"Vatican Influencing EU
The New York Times cleverly pointed out that since the Vatican has been unable to include a reference to “Christianity” in the new European Constitution, it has of course, continued to influence European politics, and the continent’s future, in other ways. Specifically in regard to Turkish membership in the EU, a recent interview with Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger included a statement saying that Turkey, a predominantly Muslim secular republic of 70 million people, is “in permanent contrast to Europe,” and that connecting it to Europe would be a mistake. To accentuate his point, he even referred to the historical Ottoman Empire’s incursions into Europe."

More:Vatican Influencing EU

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

"France names five problem areas of Turkey’s EU bid Published: Friday, 31 August, 2007, 01:15 AM Doha Time PARIS: France spelled out yesterday five areas of Turkey’s accession talks with the European Union that it wants to hold up because they assume the large, poor, mainly Muslim nation will eventually join the 27-nation bloc. They include agricultural subsidies and regional aid – the EU’s two biggest spending programmes – as well as the euro and Turkey’s place in institutions such as the European Parliament, and European citizenship rights for Turks. In a speech on Monday setting out his foreign policy goals, President Nicolas Sarkozy said that France would allow talks with Ankara to continue as long as one possible outcome was the offer of a close association with the EU rather than membership."

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

Turkey extends hand of friendship to fire-ravaged Greece (SETimes.com)

"Turkey extends hand of friendship to fire-ravaged Greece 30/08/2007

Answering calls for assistance with the fires that have been called an "unprecedented disaster for Greece", Turkey sent a fire fighting plane to the country Monday (August 27th). The assistance was not notable, compared with the significant help already offered by the European countries, but symbolically it was significant."

More:Turkey extends hand of friendship to fire-ravaged Greece (SETimes.com)

VOA News - Turkey's New President Presides Over Military Victory Ceremony

"Turkey's New President Presides Over Military Victory Ceremony By Dorian Jones Istanbul 30 August 2007 Jones report (mp3) - Download 577k audio clip Listen to Jones report (mp3) audio clip Turkey's new president presided over a ceremony marking the 85th anniversary of the final battle in the 1922 Turkish War of Independence. As Dorian Jones reports for VOA from Istanbul, President Abdullah Gul sat next to the country's top military leader, two days after the military boycotted Mr. Gul's swearing-in ceremonies."

More:VOA News - Turkey's New President Presides Over Military Victory Ceremony

Turkish army chief seeks to play down Gul tensions | International | Reuters

"Turkish army chief seeks to play down Gul tensions Thu Aug 30, 2007 3:16PM EDT

ANKARA (Reuters) - The head of Turkey's powerful armed forces sought to play down accusations on Thursday that he was giving the newly-elected President Abdullah Gul the cold shoulder because of his past in political Islam."

More:Turkish army chief seeks to play down Gul tensions | International | Reuters

World Politics Review | The European Union Still Eludes a Turkey Culturally Apart

"The European Union Still Eludes a Turkey Culturally Apart Handan T. Satiroglu | Bio | 30 Aug 2007 World Politics Review Exclusive French President Nicolas Sarkozy once made headlines with the remark, 'If Turkey were Europe, we would know it.' In July, European Commission president José Manuel Barroso gave voice to similar European sentiments in a Greek newspaper interview: 'Let's be honest,' he said, 'Turkey is not ready to become an EU member and the EU is not ready to accept Turkey as a member. Neither tomorrow, nor the next day.' Despite the overwhelmingly positive European response to Erdogan's recent triumph at the polls, and calls to revamp Turkey's political and economic reforms by European leaders, one fact remains clear: Turkey's membership in the EU is as elusive as ever."

More:World Politics Review | The European Union Still Eludes a Turkey Culturally Apart

Turkish politics | The next battle | Economist.com

"The next battle Aug 30th 2007 | ANKARA From The Economist print edition Abdullah Gul has been elected president. But the ruling AK party faces more conflict with the generals over a new constitution “IT'S the final nail in the army's coffin.” That is how one pro-secular government official summed up the elevation of Abdullah Gul, a former Islamist, to the presidency on August 28th in the teeth of opposition from the country's generals. Others saw it as a moral victory for the pious masses over an overweening secular elite that has long concentrated power and wealth in its hands."

More:Turkish politics | The next battle | Economist.com

Singapore and Turkey sign cooperation agreement

"Singapore and Turkey sign cooperation agreement By S Ramesh, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 30 August 2007 1747 hrs SINGAPORE : Bilateral ties between Singapore and Turkey are set to strengthen with the signing of an agreement in the fields of culture, science, education, media and sports."

More:Channelnewsasia.com

Line-up of Turkey's new cabinet led Erdogan

"Line-up of Turkey's new cabinet led Erdogan www.chinaview.cn 2007-08-29 23:28:31
ANKARA, Aug. 29 (Xinhua) -- Following is the line-up of Turkey's 60th government led by Prime Minister-designate Recep Tayyip Erdogan, which was approved by Turkey's newly-elected President Abdullah Gul on Wednesday:"

More:Line-up of Turkey's new cabinet led Erdogan

Working Abroad: How to find a job in Turkey « THE LABOR PARTY

"Working Abroad: How to find a job in Turkey August 30, 2007 at 8:00 am ·
Yesterday’s post about working holidays and finding jobs abroad has proved so popular that I figured it wouldn’t be the worst idea to put together something similar today."

More:Working Abroad: How to find a job in Turkey « THE LABOR PARTY

Comment is free: Turkey's about turn

"Turkey's about turn The election of Abdullah Gül is proof that the Turkish military's old ways of doing business are no longer reliable or effective.

Two days into his presidency, Europe seems willing to give Abdullah Gül a chance. His distracted detractors continue to remind us that he is a devout Muslim, he worked in the Saudi banking sector for a few years, belongs to a party that once described democracy as a train leading to an Islamist state, and has a wife who wears a headscarf. But during his years as Turkey's foreign minister, he has won the trust and respect of Europe's diplomatic community. Over the past five years he has worked tirelessly to push forward the EU reform agenda, and one of his first acts as president was to call for this programme (which slowed during the tumultuous run-up to July's general election) to be pursued with renewed vigour."

More:Comment is free: Turkey's about turn

An Islamic Turkey: Why Not? - News Bloggers

"An Islamic Turkey: Why Not? Dinesh D'Souza Posted Aug 29th 2007 11:34PM by Dinesh D'Souza Filed under: Breaking News, Islam, Islamic Radicals Turkey just had an election, and the Turkish people just administered the secular parties and the goons in the military a well-deserved kick in the rear end. The secular parties have for decades considered Turkey their private property, with elections a kind of formality to confirm their inheritance. If elections go the wrong way, they felt, that's no problem: the generals can always stage a coup and restore us to power. Indeed the military has staged four coups since 1960."

More:An Islamic Turkey: Why Not? - News Bloggers

Gender Focus: Women in Turkish political thought: between tradition and modernity - Simten Cosar

"Women in Turkish political thought: between tradition and modernity - Simten Cosar This article aims at revealing the patriarchal pattern that has dominated Turkish political thought in the 20th century. I analyse the construction of woman's identity in the writings of three prominent thinkers of the early-republican era (1923-1945); namely, Ahmet Agaoglu, Peyami Safa and Zekeriya Sertel. The thinkers are deliberately chosen since each represents challenging political dispositions vis-a-vis the others. Ahmet Agaoglu is a liberal-nationalist, Peyami Safa is a well-known conservative thinker and Zekeriya Sertel is a leftist."

More:Gender Focus: Women in Turkish political thought: between tradition and modernity - Simten Cosar

Turkey's New President: Gul or Ghoul? - August 30, 2007 - The New York Sun

"Turkey's New President: Gul or Ghoul? By YOUSSEF IBRAHIM August 30, 2007
A ghoul in Islamic folklore is a demon that eats buried bodies, abducts children, and attacks unwary travelers. The new president of Turkey, Abdullah Gul, may not be that kind of monster, but he is a determined Islamist who will instead abduct Turkey's secularism, bury its democracy, and attack fellow travelers next door in Europe."

More:Turkey's New President: Gul or Ghoul? - August 30, 2007 - The New York Sun

Turkey's archaic authoritarian model crumbling

"Turkey's archaic authoritarian model crumbling

Aug 30, 2007 04:30 AM
Haroon Siddiqui

The election of Abdullah Gul as Turkey's first "Islamist" president over the objections of the "secularist" military is more than a triumph of democracy.

Combined with last month's sweeping victory of the ruling party, it represents a historic development with domestic and international implications."

More:TheStar.com - columnists - Turkey's archaic authoritarian model crumbling

Secularism at home, secularism in the world - Turkish Daily News Aug 30, 2007

"Secularism at home, secularism in the world Thursday, August 30, 2007

The nature of the relationship between church and state was enshrined in the modern constitutions of both Ireland and Turkey. And the issue of secularism still carries a very potent political charge here in Turkey as indeed it does in Ireland.
"

More:Secularism at home, secularism in the world - Turkish Daily News Aug 30, 2007

Tea Time with the Turkish Police

"Tea Time with the Turkish Police Ben Lazarus Sitting in a Turkish police station next to an accused criminal is not how I expected to spend my Thursday night. Even less did I expect the night to end with a pratical joke played on me by the Turkish police."

More:The Georgetown Voice | Tea Time with the Turkish Police - August 30, 2007

Turkish Businessmen to Open Turkish Lobbies in Europe

"Turkish Businessmen to Open Turkish Lobbies in Europe
Written by The Media Line Staff Published Thursday, August 30, 2007
Turkish businessmen are trying to establish a Turkish lobby in European countries in an attempt to further boost the country's economy, the Turkish daily The New Anatolian reported. The businessmen are carrying out economic and cultural cooperation ventures together with European mayors, politicians and businessmen, especially in Germany, Belgium and Poland, chairman of the European-Turkish Business Council, Aziz Sahin, said Wednesday at a press conference."

More:The Media Line

Oracle ISV Migration Center in Istanbul Celebrates First Anniversary W - .

"Oracle ISV Migration Center in Istanbul Celebrates First Anniversary With Highly Successful Track Record Aug 30 2007 - Istanbul, Turkey 29-AUG-2007 06:21 AM Oracle's Independent Software Vendor (ISV) Migration Center in Istanbul, which opened on 29 August 2006, has proven a great success in its first full year of operation and facilitated the migration of 215 ISVs to an Oracle technology platform."

More:Oracle ISV Migration Center in Istanbul Celebrates First Anniversary W - .

Ankara sharply condemns Hyderabad attacks

"Ankara sharply condemns Hyderabad attacks

The Turkish capital has expressed its deep sadness and concern over weekend bombings that killed at least 42 people in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad, reiterating the vital importance it has attached to international cooperation against terrorism."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

The missing player in Gulf security - The Boston Globe

"The missing player in Gulf security By Lenore G. Martin | August 30, 2007 THE BUSH administration recently proposed to sell $20 billion in sophisticated weaponry to the states of the Gulf Cooperation Council. This move spotlights the need for allied support for US efforts to counter Iran's threats to Gulf security. Yet Washington already has a strategically located NATO ally in the region: Turkey. Unfortunately, the administration's policies are pushing Turkey toward Iran rather than planting it firmly in the US security network."

More:The missing player in Gulf security - The Boston Globe

US Must Not Neglect Turkey(The Korea Times)

"US Must Not Neglect Turkey By Arthur I. Cyr Scripps Howard News Service The selection of former foreign minister and practicing Muslim Abdullah Gul as the new president of Turkey by the parliament has led to fears of Islamic extremism and political instability. The new president's wife Hayrunnisa publicly wears the religious headscarf, formally banned in public buildings, and has become an iconic figure for the rise of religion in modern Turkey."

More:US Must Not Neglect Turkey(The Korea Times)

U.S. Weapons, Given to Iraqis, Move to Turkey - New York Times

"U.S. Weapons, Given to Iraqis, Move to Turkey

By DAVID S. CLOUD and ERIC SCHMITT
Published: August 30, 2007

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 — Weapons that were originally given to Iraqi security forces by the American military have been recovered over the past year by the authorities in Turkey after being used in violent crimes in that country, Pentagon officials said Wednesday."

More:U.S. Weapons, Given to Iraqis, Move to Turkey - New York Times

BBC NEWS: Have Your Say - Is Gul the right choice as Turkish president? - send BBC your feedback

For the BBC survey click on this link

Have Your Say - Is Gul the right choice as Turkish president? - send BBC your feedback

Abdullah Gul has been elected president of Turkey - the first politician with an Islamist background to become Turkish head of state. Mr Gul took his oath at a ceremony in parliament, pledging loyalty to democracy and to the secular Republic. The European Union welcomed Mr Gul's election, calling it a positive step in the country's campaign to join the bloc. What is your reaction to Mr Gul's election as president? Is he the right man for the job? How do you think Turkey's secular opposition and the army will react?


To give your opinion go to the BBC survey by clicking on this link

TODAY'S ZAMAN: Eurasia festival to offer Turkey award-winning movie premieres

For the complete report from TODAY'S ZAMAN click on this link

Eurasia festival to offer Turkey award-winning movie premieres

As drought-weary Turkey hopes to welcome cool and rainy days with the arrival of autumn, moviegoers and art lovers also have high hopes that the new season will help them shake off dreary summer days with festivals, major exhibitions and theater and opera performances. The Altın Portakal (Golden Orange) Film Festival, one of Turkey's major film festivals that has been running for more than four decades, will do just that in the holiday hotspot of Antalya when it gets under way in October.

In its 44th year, the Antalya Film Festival -- which covers the Golden Orange and the newly launched sister event, the Eurasia International Film Festival -- is getting ready to salute film buffs with an extensive selection of European and Asian movies and a number of gleaming guests, including movie stars and film professionals from around the globe. Organized by the Turkish Foundation of Cinema and Audiovisual Culture (TÜRSAK) in collaboration with the Antalya Foundation for Culture and Art (AKSAV), both festivals and the Eurasia Film Market will take place Oct. 19-28.

Forbes.com: US Army to Examine Iraq Contracts - intended for Iraqi security forces ended up being used for murders and other violent crimes in Turkey.

For the complete report from Forbes.com click on this link

US Army to Examine Iraq Contracts - intended for Iraqi security forces ended up being used for murders and other violent crimes in Turkey.

Among the contracts to be reviewed by the Army are awards to former Halliburton subsidiary KBR, which has received billions of dollars since 2001 to be a major provider of food and shelter services to U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Democrats in the US Congress have claimed that KBR, formerly known as Kellogg Brown and Root, benefited from ties to Vice President Dick Cheney, who once led Halliburton Co., the Houston-based oil services conglomerate, and congressional Republicans.Democrats in Congress have claimed that KBR, formerly known as Kellogg, Brown and Root, benefited from ties to Vice President Dick Cheney, who once led Halliburton Co., the Houston-based oil services conglomerate, and congressional Republicans.

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

France says some Turkey-EU chapters should wait for some time

"France says some Turkey-EU chapters should wait for some time
France wants some parts of Turkey's accession talks with the European Union to go ahead before others, with those that assume Ankara will join the bloc waiting until later, a government spokesman said on Wednesday. In a speech on Monday setting out his foreign policy goals, President Nicolas Sarkozy said France would not oppose continued talks with Ankara as long as one possible outcome was the offer of an association with the EU rather than membership. France has said in the past it has a problem with five of the 35 areas, or 'chapters,' into which negotiations are divided, arguing that they assume an outcome of full membership."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Indian film director to shoot Mevlana movie

"Indian film director to shoot Mevlana movie Indian filmmaker Muzaffar Ali, currently working on his upcoming project which will be a feature-length movie focusing on 13th century Sufi philosopher and poet Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi, visited Turkey this week to see the locations for the movie."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

"Armenian Genocide Crisis Tests Tight Ties Between Turkey and Israel - Forward.com"

"Armenian Genocide Crisis Tests Tight Ties Between Turkey and Israel ADL to Ankara: ‘Deep Regret’ Marc Perelman | Wed. Aug 29, 2007 Turkish, Israeli and American Jewish officials held frantic consultations in the past week in an effort to defuse a diplomatic crisis prompted by the Anti-Defamation League’s recent description of the Ottoman massacre of Armenians during World War I as “tantamount to genocide.”"

More:"Armenian Genocide Crisis Tests Tight Ties Between Turkey and Israel - Forward.com"

United Press International - International Security - Emerging Threats - Analysis

"Analysis: Turkey's EU bid strengthened? Published: Aug. 29, 2007 at 1:54 PM By STEFAN NICOLA UPI Correspondent BERLIN, Aug. 29 (UPI) -- Turkey's new President Abdullah Gul has pledged to continue his country’s pro-European Union course, raising hopes in Europe that Turkey's unique experiment of more Islam and more democracy can succeed."

More:United Press International - International Security - Emerging Threats - Analysis

Turkey's new president vows to defend secularism

"Turkey's new president vows to defend secularism printable versionbigger textsmaller text Newly elected Turkish President Abdullah Gul, who has broken with political Islam has stated he is loyal to secularism. His AK party's election landslide victory in July gives him a strong presidential mandate. The new president enjoys widespread popular support but besides the military's cool reception of his election many Turks are divided in their opinion of their new head of state."

More:EuroNewsEuroNews : Turkey's new president vows to defend secularism

Gul receives cold reception from Turkey military - Region - Middle East Times

"Gul receives cold reception from Turkey military Hande Culpan AFP August 29, 2007

REUTERS) ANKARA -- Ex-Islamist Abdullah Gul's first encounter as president with the staunchly-secularist Turkish army got off to a shaky start Wednesday, when the top brass broke with tradition and failed to salute him at a military ceremony here, one day after his turbulent election to the post."

More:Gul receives cold reception from Turkey military - Region - Middle East Times

Turkey's new president approves pro-EU cabinet - CNN.com

"Turkey's new president approves pro-EU cabinet

ANKARA, Turkey (Reuters) -- New Turkish President Abdullah Gul approved a pro-EU reformist cabinet on Wednesday which reflected Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan's aim to push ahead with stalled political and economic reforms needed to join the bloc."

More:Turkey's new president approves pro-EU cabinet - CNN.com

Oktay Eksi: The first day - Hürriyet

"Oktay Eksi: The first day Since yesterday, Turkey has a new President. The election of Abdullah Gul has forced us all through an incredibly difficult period. But the democratic system and the Turkish nation, which knows how to find solutions without departing from the basic rules of justice, has led us all to this final conculsion, which shows 'legitimacy.'"

More:Oktay Eksi: The first day - Hürriyet

Turkish pop star to sing for 'Mission Istanbul' : Music News : ApunKaChoice.Com

"Turkish pop star to sing for 'Mission Istanbul' 29th Aug 2007 17.39 IST By ApunKaChoice Apoorva Lakhia’s ambitious project Mission Istanbul keeps getting bigger. First it was Hollywood stunt director George Aguilar (worked with Martin Scorcese) who was recently roped in to do stunts for ‘Mission Istanbul’. Now, a beautiful and talented Turkish singer has been signed to sing a Hindi-Turkish song in the film."

More:Turkish pop star to sing for 'Mission Istanbul' : Music News : ApunKaChoice.Com

Turkey's politics | Sliding from the secular | Economist.com

"Sliding from the secular Aug 29th 2007 From Economist.com Turkey's rigid secularism may fade under Abdullah Gul's presidency Reuters THE selection of Abdullah Gul as Turkey’s president ends four months of political turmoil that began when the country’s meddlesome generals unleashed a campaign to block his candidacy. On Tuesday August 28th, 339 deputies backed Mr Gul, a conservative politician with an Islamist past. This was far above the simple majority required in the 550-member parliament. With the elevation of Mr Gul, who served as foreign minister for four years under the ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party, the rigid and authoritarian secularism that has defined Turkish politics for over 80 years is set to fade."

More:Turkey's politics | Sliding from the secular | Economist.com

Diyarbakır boasts longest city walls after China

"Diyarbakır boasts longest city walls after China
The walls of Diyarbakır, surrounding the city with 82 towers, are accepted as the longest of such structures after the Great Wall of China. The exact dates of their construction are unknown; however, it is known that the city was strategically strengthened by encircling it with these barriers during the reign of Roman Emperor Constantinus II in A.D. 349. The city walls are composed of two main parts known as the 'Outer Fortress' and 'Inner Fortress.' The Outer Fortress is more than five kilometers in length and has four doors -- Dağ Gate in the north, Urfa Gate in the west, Mardin Gate in the south and Yeni Gate in the east. The Inner Fortress is encircled by a separate wall in the northeast corner of the Outer Fortress. Artuklu Palace was discovered during an excavation of a hill called Virantepe in the Inner Fortress."

More:TODAY'S
ZAMAN

US Department of State cangratulates

"US Department of State cangratulates Gul, praises Turkish democracy The New Anatolian / Ankara 29 August 2007 Font Size: default medium large 'The successful completion of these elections is testament to the maturity of Turkish democracy and strength of the Turkish Constitution,' U.S. Department of State said on Tuesday."

More:The New Anatolian

Turkish companies to attend 'Summer Davos' in China - Turkish Daily News Aug 29, 2007

"Turkish companies to attend 'Summer Davos' in China Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Reeta Çevik
Turkish Daily News - Istanbul

Several growing Turkish companies will participate in the Inaugural Annual Meeting of the New Champions, organized by The World Economic Forum in Dalian, China, on 5-8 September. Also the Premier of China Wen Jiabao will attend the meeting. The event will focus on the role new and fast-emerging multinational companies, the New Champions, are playing in changing global business landscape. More than 1,500 participants from over 80 countries are expected to take part in the so-called �Summer Davos�, named after the high profile meetings The World Economic Forum hosts each year in Switzerland for business leaders, national political leaders, intellectuals and journalists. "

More:Turkish companies to attend 'Summer Davos' in China - Turkish Daily News Aug 29, 2007

Foreign tax evaders nothing next to Turks - Turkish Daily News Aug 29, 2007

"Foreign tax evaders nothing next to Turks Wednesday, August 29, 2007

SEVİN TURAN
ISTANBUL - Turkish Daily News

When in Rome do as the Romans do, so the saying goes. Foreign residents in Turkey have chosen to adapt this old adage to their real estate purchases. Turkey's Ministry of Finance has uncovered serious tax evasion infractions involving real estate purchases in several of Turkey's prominent vacation regions. These violations, typically in the form of property undervaluing, totaled nearly 60 percent of all real estate transactions, and approximately YTL 52.1 million in tax revenues were lost as a result, according to a piece published by the Anatolia News Agency. "

More:Foreign tax evaders nothing next to Turks - Turkish Daily News Aug 29, 2007

European Press Review: Gül Should Get A Fair Chance | Europe | Deutsche Welle | 29.08.2007

"European Press Review: Gül Should Get A Fair Chance Turkey's new president Abdullah Gül at his swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday
European papers commented on Turkey's new president Abdullah Gül on Wednesday. It remains to be seen whether he will bring Turkey closer to the EU while alleviating the Turkish military's doubts about him, they said."

More:European Press Review: Gül Should Get A Fair Chance | Europe | Deutsche Welle | 29.08.2007

500,000 year-old artifacts discovered in Karain cave

"500,000 year-old artifacts discovered in Karain cave
The New Anatolian / Ankara 29 August 2007 Font Size: default medium large Historical artifacts dating back to 500,000 years ago, were unearthed in Karain Cave of Mediterranean city of Antalya, it was reported on Wednesday. Orhan Duzgun, Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Director General for Cultural Assets and Museums, told A.A that 500,000-year-old obsidian stones and jewelry were discovered during the excavations conducted in Karain Cave."

More:The New Anatolian

AKP to Disavow Ataturk Principles

"AKP to Disavow Ataturk Principles
BEIRUT, Aug 29-The ruling Turkish Justice and Development Party (AKP) will put a series of political reforms high on its agenda under the newly-elected President Abdullah Gul, among them distancing itself from secular principles set by Mustafa Kamal Ataturk, an expert said Wednesday."

More:Alalam News

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish leader to review cabinet

"Turkish leader to review cabinet Abdullah Gul Abdullah Gul has pledged to respect Turkey's institutions New Turkish President Abdullah Gul is to review a proposed new cabinet, submitted by his former boss, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish leader to review cabinet

Is Turkey Facing an "Islamist" Future? - TIME

"Is Turkey Facing an 'Islamist' Future? Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2007 By PELIN TURGUT

Turkey today passed a political landmark when, for the first time in its history, a politician rooted in political Islam was elected President. Bringing four months of government turmoil to an end, Abdullah Gul won the post on the third round of balloting by the nation's parliament."

More:Is Turkey Facing an "Islamist" Future? - TIME

EU cannot play positive role in Cyprus, says Erçakıca

TODAY'S ZAMAN: "EU cannot play positive role in Cyprus, says Erçakıca
European Union term president Portugal is too open to pressure from the Greek side over the Cyprus issue, something that 'indicates that the EU can no longer play a positive role in the solution of the Cyprus issue,' according to a statement made by Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (KKTC) presidential spokesperson Hasan Erçakıca on Tuesday. Erçakıca's statement came in response to a journalist's question during a weekly press conference as to Portuguese Foreign Minister Luis Amado's recent contacts with Greek Cyprus. Amado did not visit the KKTC. 'This was an attitude revealing negative meanings,' Erçakıca said."

BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Viewpoint: Turkey's soul unveiled

"Viewpoint: Turkey's soul unveiled Internationally acclaimed writer Elif Shafak says women's bodies have become a battlefield for competing views of modern Turkey. Here she comments on the impact of Abdullah Gul's election as president. Mr Gul is a former Islamist whose wife controversially wears the headscarf."

More:BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Viewpoint: Turkey's soul unveiled

EurActiv.com - EU hails new Turkish president | EU - European Information on Elections

"EU hails new Turkish president

After a third round of votes, and amid opposition from the Turkish military, the parliament elected Abdullah Gül, a moderate islamist, as the country's new president. The Commission said it hoped the election would give "renewed impetus" to the country's EU accession process."

More:EurActiv.com - EU hails new Turkish president | EU - European Information on Elections

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Party With Islamist Roots Set to Modernize Turkey

"Party With Islamist Roots Set to Modernize Turkey Turkey selects a president intent on promoting democracy, EU integration and economic reform Hasan Kösebalaban YaleGlobal, 28 August 2007
EAST LANSING: The election of Abdullah Gül as president of Turkey – a foregone conclusion since the landslide victory of Prime Minister Erdogan's Justice and Development Party (AKP) in July – marks a turning point in the country’s history. If allowed to carry on the mandate with which the party won 46.5 percent of the vote in July elections, the AKP could further democratize the country, bringing about economic liberalization and international integration."

More:Party With Islamist Roots Set to Modernize Turkey

Abdullah Gul: I will follow the goals of Ataturk and will work for the democratization of Turkey

"Abdullah Gul: I will follow the goals of Ataturk and will work for the democratization of Turkey
28 August 2007 | 20:28 | FOCUS News Agency Ankara. Abdullah Gul was sworn in as the 11th President of Turkey after he was elected by 339 votes, the Turkish daily Hurriyet announces in its online edition. In his speech at the Turkish Parliament at 6 pm local time, Gul said he would hug his compatriots without making difference among them. He added that today Turkey showed itself and the world how mature the democracy in the country was."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

Victory for democracy marks a break with Ataturk’s vision | Bronwen Maddox: World Briefing - Times Online

"Victory for democracy marks a break with Ataturk’s vision Bronwen Maddox: World Briefing The success of Abdullah Gül in becoming Turkey’s new President is a victory for democracy. But it is a blow for secularism, in that it accurately reflects the new strength of the conservative, low-key Islamic voters from the heart of Anatolia at the expense of the secular cities."

More:Victory for democracy marks a break with Ataturk’s vision | Bronwen Maddox: World Briefing - Times Online

Turkish winemakers look beyond tough home market - washingtonpost.com

"Turkish winemakers look beyond tough home market By Daren Butler and Osman Senkul
Reuters Tuesday, August 28, 2007; 8:07 PM HOSKOY, Turkey (Reuters) - As harvest arrives, Cem Cetintas tends lovingly to his vines, hoping they yield wine popular with foreign palates to boost his exports in the face of a harsh climate in the Turkish market."

More:Turkish winemakers look beyond tough home market - washingtonpost.com

Turkish Weekly Opinion - How to Salvage U.S. Prestige in Turkey and the Middle East?

"How to Salvage U.S. Prestige in Turkey and the Middle East? Barin Kayaoglu Tuesday , 28 August 2007 It is not enough to be more prudent, more flexible, and more efficient. We now have to cut to the bone and scrape the marrow of our traditional outlook. Nothing is more painful or more demanding in human affairs. But we can take heart from the knowledge that such action is the source of individual self-realization and true national greatness. William A. Williams[1]

A few snapshots from recent history reveal how Turkish opinion of the United States has profoundly changed over the years."

More:Turkish Weekly Opinion - How to Salvage U.S. Prestige in Turkey and the Middle East?

Turkish politics travels in many jagged lines

"Turkish politics travels in many jagged lines MIDWEEK By BUNN NAGARA AT FIRST glance, Turkey’s tense issues of Islam and governance would seem to evoke some predictable responses in the Western world, on whose edge the Turkish nation sits. But the interplay of religion and politics – and their implications and nuances – are unique to the country. In Turkey they practically beg for Western misinterpretation."

More:Turkish politics travels in many jagged lines

Turkey: Genocide flap could hurt Israel

"Turkey suggests that Israel could suffer because of Armenian debate Embassy of Turkey Nabi Sensoy, Turkey's ambassador in Washington. By Ben Harris Published: 08/28/2007 The Anti-Defamation League's reversal last week of its position on the Armenian genocide has set off a flurry of diplomatic activity in Turkey and Israel.

NEW YORK (JTA) -- The Anti-Defamation League's reversal last week of its position on the Armenian genocide has set off a flurry of diplomatic activity in Turkey and Israel.

Officials in Ankara and Jerusalem, in coordination with American Jewish leaders, were working this week to contain the fallout from the ADL's statement, which recognized the World War I massacres of Armenians by Ottoman Turks as "tantamount to genocide.""

More:JTA Forum: Article Comments: Turkey: Genocide flap could hurt Israel

Back to the Brink in Turkey? - Yahoo! News

"Back to the Brink in Turkey? By ANDREW PURVIS Wed Aug 15, 5:45 AM ET The re-nomination of Abdullah Gul for President has renewed concerns that Turkey could be plunged back into the political crisis that triggered early parliamentary elections last month. That crisis pitched the ruling conservative AK Party led by Recep Tayyip Erdogan against the staunchly secular military, which rejected the nomination of Gul, the foreign minister, for the largely ceremonial presidency. The staunchly secular military opposed Gul's initial candidacy on the grounds that it represented a violation of Turkey's founding secularist principles - the fact that Gul's wife, a conservative Muslim, wears a headscarf in public represented a symbol of the Turkish state intolerable to the generals."

More:Back to the Brink in Turkey? - Yahoo! News

EuroNewsEuroNews : All eyes on Turkish first lady in headscarf debate

"All eyes on Turkish first lady in headscarf debate

In the run-up to the Turkish presidency election nothing inflamed passions quite as much as the debate over a simple item of clothing. Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül's wife has been a high profile campaigner for a woman's right to wear the hijab, the Islamic headscarf. Hayrunnisa Gül will become Turkey's first first lady to wear the hijab since 1925. The prospect has caused a storm between those who see the scarf as a symbol of political Islam and others who view it as an order from God. 'The inside of Abdullah Gul's head is covered,' said one woman in a Turkish street. 'I'm not bothered that his wife covers her head. But imagine a reception everyone's dressed in the modern way and...well I wouldn't be happy to see her dressed like a Saudi woman.'"

More:EuroNewsEuroNews : All eyes on Turkish first lady in headscarf debate

EurActiv.com - Turkey and Europe: the way ahead | EU - European Information on Enlargement & Neighbours

"Turkey and Europe: the way ahead Published: Tuesday 28 August 2007 International Crisis Group The AK Party's victory in the July 2007 parliamentary elections creates an opportunity for both it and the EU to 're-launch' Turkey's accession process, according to an August report from the International Crisis Group."

More:EurActiv.com - Turkey and Europe: the way ahead | EU - European Information on Enlargement & Neighbours

Gül Elected President in Ankara: A Test of Turkey's Maturity - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"A Test of Turkey's Maturity By Annette Grossbongardt in Istanbul After months of acrimony and debate, Abdullah Gül was elected the new president of Turkey. Many suspect him of being a closet adherent of political Islam. Just how Turkey reacts to his election will say a lot about the country's maturity."

More:Gül Elected President in Ankara: A Test of Turkey's Maturity - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

European Commission Congratulates President Gul Over His Election

"European Commission Congratulates President Gul Over His Election Published: 8/28/2007 BRUSSELS - European Union Commission head Jose Manuel Barroso congratulated Abdullah Gul over his election as Turkey's 11th President, saying that Gul's election might add a new momentum to Turkish-EU relations."

More:European Commission Congratulates President Gul Over His Election

German court orders retrial of 2 brothers in 'honor killing' case

"German court orders retrial of 2 brothers in 'honor killing' case
AP 2007-08-28 16:54:58 - LEIPZIG, Germany (AP) - A German federal court on Tuesday ordered a retrial for two brothers acquitted of fatally shooting their sister in what prosecutors have described as an «honor killing» meant to punish the Turkish-German woman for her Western lifestyle. A Berlin court last year acquitted the two _ Mutlu Surucu and Alpaslan Surucu, both in their mid-20s _ of murder, citing lack of sufficient evidence of their involvement in the 2005 killing of Hatan Surucu, 23."

More:German court orders retrial of 2 brothers in 'honor killing' case

A Fond Farewell To Sezer

"A Fond Farewell To Sezer Published: 8/28/2007 BY FIKRET BILA MILLIYET- We’re seeing the 10th president of the Republic of Turkey , Ahmet Necdet Sezer, off from Cankaya today. In his seven years and three months in office, he took a stance appropriate to Ataturk’s positions. In this respect, he’ll take his place in the annals of history. He has been a statesman with a strong personality. He hasn’t shifted with the political winds. He has grounded himself in the Constitution and Ataturk."

More:A Fond Farewell To Sezer

Gul Wins Vote for Turkish Presidency - New York Times

"Gul Wins Vote for Turkish Presidency

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) -- A devout Muslim with a background in political Islam won the Turkish presidency on Tuesday, in a major triumph for the Islamic-rooted government after months of confrontation with the secular establishment.

Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul received a majority of 339 votes in a parliamentary ballot and took the oath of office, pledging impartiality and loyalty to Turkey's historic separation of religion and politics."

More:Gul Wins Vote for Turkish Presidency - New York Times

EU chief welcomes election of Gul as Turkish president; hopes for more reform

"EU chief welcomes election of Gul as Turkish president; hopes for more reform
AP 2007-08-28 16:57:58 - BRUSSELS, Belgium (AP) - The European Union welcomed Abdullah Gul's election as Turkey's new president Tuesday, hoping it will lead to further economic and political reforms needed for the country to move closer to the bloc. Recent parliamentary elections and Tuesday's parliamentary vote electing Gul as Turkey's new head of state «represents a considerable achievement"

More:EU chief welcomes election of Gul as Turkish president; hopes for more reform

Turkey's Gul from Islamist minister to president - Israel News, Ynetnews

"Turkey's Gul from Islamist minister to president 56-year-old foreign minister elected president after winning third round of voting in parliament; his candidacy was controversial because of his Islamist past and the fact that his wife wears a Muslim-style headscarf"

More:Turkey's Gul from Islamist minister to president - Israel News, Ynetnews

NY Arts Magazine - Bedri Baykam - Sarah Masel

"Bedri Baykam - Sarah Masel Bedri Baykam - nyartsmagazine.com Bedri Baykam Like an endless labyrinth erratically winding and pushing towards new directions with no conclusive destination, Turkish artist Bedri Baykam transcends artistic progression. Developmental patterns do not exist within the artist’s prolific career; for Baykam resides in a world laden with gray, an environment in which x is y, and the very notion of dichotomies collapses to ultimately compose compellingly expressive and audacious art. Indeed, to truly understand Baykam is to at once perceive him as a perpetual rebel, an individual who seems to effortlessly refuse the confining definitions and simplifications that we, as human beings, are inherently disposed to designate. Experimenting with painting, drawing, performance art, installations, photography, collage and even graffiti, the artist, who is also a political activist, notable writer—Baykam published a 1,300 page autobiography, as well as a fictional novel that he believes inspired the attacks of 9/11, titled The Bone—and art scholar, continually surprises."

More:NY Arts Magazine - Bedri Baykam - Sarah Masel

Time for a change at the CHP - Turkish Daily News Aug 28, 2007

"Time for a change at the CHP Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Deniz Baykal is perhaps the worse leader in the history of the CHP: instead of learning this lesson, and to accept its consequences, he chooses to pursue the exact same strategy he pursued months ago"

More:Time for a change at the CHP - Turkish Daily News Aug 28, 2007

IntelliBriefs: Turkey-EU relations in Europe

"Turkey-EU relations in Europe http://www.turkishdailynews.com.tr/article.php?enewsid=81965 Tuesday, August 28, 2007 Cengiz Aktar We dwelled upon what should and should not to do in Turkey to re-kindle relations with the European Union (EU). Today let's look at the other side, to Europe."

More:IntelliBriefs: Turkey-EU relations in Europe

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish MPs elect Gul president

"Turkish MPs elect Gul president Turkey's Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul.

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul, a former Islamist, has been elected president in a parliamentary vote."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish MPs elect Gul president

Call by Peres softens ADL's stance on Armenian genocide - Turkish Daily News Aug 25, 2007

"Call by Peres softens ADL's stance on Armenian genocide Saturday, August 25, 2007

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) Friday called on Armenia to accept a Turkish proposal to establish a joint commission to study the 1915-1916 incidents, in a move to balance their recent decision on the recognition of Armenian genocide after pressure from Israel. “We must encourage steps to create an atmosphere in which Armenia will respond favorably to the several recent overtures of Turkey to convene a joint commission to assist the parties in achieving a resolution of their profound differences,” said the ADL, in a written statement issued by Glen S. Lewy, the ADL's national chair and Abraham H. Foxman, the ADL's national director."

More:Call by Peres softens ADL's stance on Armenian genocide - Turkish Daily News Aug 25, 2007

İznik Ceramics: An unchanged practice through the ages - Turkish Daily News Aug 28, 2007

"İznik Ceramics: An unchanged practice through the ages Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Natalie Lyubomirsky
İZMİR- Turkish Daily News

From the time of the Selçuk Turks in the late 11th century, ceramics and pottery have had a significant cultural and artistic place within the Turkish psyche. In the late 16th century under the support and patronage of the Ottoman Sultans the industry began to flourish. As the Ottoman Empire began to decline so did the practice, however the Ephesus Ceramic Production Center in Selçuk has kept the tradition alive and well. "

More:İznik Ceramics: An unchanged practice through the ages - Turkish Daily News Aug 28, 2007

Poll says most Turks unbothered by first lady with headscarf - Women - Middle East Times

"Poll says most Turks unbothered by first lady with headscarf AFP August 28, 2007 ANKARA -- Nearly three-quarters of Turks have no objections to a first lady wearing the Islamic headscarf, but want the president to be impartial, a public opinion poll published Tuesday showed."

More:Poll says most Turks unbothered by first lady with headscarf - Women - Middle East Times

EU welcomes Sarkozy's concession to Turkey

"EU welcomes Sarkozy's concession to Turkey Malaysia Sun Monday 27th August, 2007
The European Commission has welcomed French President Nicolas Sarkozy's softer line on Turkey after he pledged not to block its membership talks with the European Union. At a conference of French ambassadors in Paris, President Sarkozy said France would not oppose the opening of new chapters for negotiation between the European Union and Turkey."

More:EU welcomes Sarkozy's concession to Turkey

Turkish film wins Sarajevo Film Festival award - Turkish Daily News Aug 28, 2007

"Turkish film wins Sarajevo Film Festival award Tuesday, August 28, 2007

The Sarajevo Film Festival, which was launched near the end of the 1992-95 war, awards a Turkish film, "A Man's Fear of God" (Takva) by director Özer Kızıltan"

More:Turkish film wins Sarajevo Film Festival award - Turkish Daily News Aug 28, 2007

New Turkish constitution to be sent to parliament before year’s end: Firat

"New Turkish constitution to be sent to parliament before year’s end: Firat Turkey’s current constitution was drafted by the military in the wake of the 1980 coup, though it has been amended a number of times in the subsequent years."

More:New Turkish constitution to be sent to parliament before year’s end: Firat

Tensions on Iraq-Turkey border send residents packing

"Tensions on Iraq-Turkey border send residents packing Posted on Tuesday, August 28, 2007 (EST) A year after he fled Baghdad for the safe haven of his father's hometown on Iraq's northern border, Emmanuel is packing his bags again, fearful of a Turkish strike against Kurdish rebels.

SHARANSH, Iraq (AFP) - A Christian Iraqi, 43-year-old Emmanuel was born and raised in Baghdad where he lived and managed a liquor store that has been in the family for decades, until he received death threats from Islamist insurgents."

More:Tensions on Iraq-Turkey border send residents packing

Cyprus outlines positions on EU enlargement

"Cyprus outlines positions on EU enlargement 28/08/2007 The positions of the Republic of Cyprus on the next European Union enlargement, including Turkey’s accession to the Union, were presented by Minister of Foreign Affairs Erato Kozakou-Marcoullis during an international conference in Bled, Slovenia."

More:Financial Mirror

Vivek Oberoi to learn Turkish for 'Mission Istanbul'? : Bollywood News : ApunKaChoice.Com

"Vivek Oberoi to learn Turkish for 'Mission Istanbul'? 28th Aug 2007 17.49 IST By ApunKaChoice

Vivek Oberoi is working hard for his role in director Apoorva Lakhia’s next film Mission Istanbul .

The film, as its title suggests, is set in Turkey and deals with the burning issue of international terrorism. Vivek Oberoi plays a Turkish character named Rizwan.
"

More:Vivek Oberoi to learn Turkish for 'Mission Istanbul'? : Bollywood News : ApunKaChoice.Com

As Turkey's world turns -- The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"As Turkey's world turns By Tulin Daloglu August 28, 2007 ISTANBUL, Turkey. -- Some developments, good or bad, can catch us so fully by surprise that they feel like a joke. But the best jokes are a reflection of an emotional threat as they mirror the truth."

More:As Turkey's world turns -- The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

Candidate Once Doomed as Islamist Is Ascendant - New York Times

"Candidate Once Doomed as Islamist Is Ascendant

By SABRINA TAVERNISE and SEBNEM ARSU
Published: August 28, 2007

After being shut out of the presidency last spring, Abdullah Gul, a religious man in the assiduously secular realm of Turkish politics, allowed himself a little soul-searching.

“Has the government limited women’s rights?” Mr. Gul, 56, asked a panel of newspaper editors on national television, hoping to persuade Turkey’s establishment that it had nothing to fear from his candidacy. "

More:Candidate Once Doomed as Islamist Is Ascendant - New York Times

Turkey’s Marmara region swamped by heavy rainfall

"Turkey’s Marmara region swamped by heavy rainfall
Turkey’s struggle with drought in some regions and floods in others continued as heavy rainfall in the country’s Marmara region caused flooding in many cities yesterday. Dozens of houses and workplaces were flooded, vehicles were damaged as they were dragged away by the floodwaters and traffic flow was paralyzed."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Monday, August 27, 2007

Two popular eggplant recipies - Turkish Daily News Aug 27, 2007

"Two popular eggplant recipies Monday, August 27, 2007

Eggplant is one of the most popular vegetables, which is used in many different ways in most cuisines. The most popular eggplant recipes in Turkish cuisine are fried eggplants and eggplant salad even though there are hundreds of ways to cook the vegetable. Eggplant is hard to cook because it takes a long time. Ready roasted eggplant has recently took its place on market shelves, so it is now easy for the fans of the vegetable to prepare it. "

More:Two popular eggplant recipies - Turkish Daily News Aug 27, 2007

Brussels welcomes softer French line on Turkey — EUbusiness - EU business, legal and financial news and information - EUbusiness.com

"Brussels welcomes softer French line on Turkey 27 August 2007, 21:32 CET (BRUSSELS) - The European Commission welcomed Monday French President Nicolas Sarkozy's softer line on Turkey after he pledged not to block its membership talks with the European Union. 'We welcome this contribution to the debate that is underway,' said Commission spokesman Amadeu Altafaj."

More:Brussels welcomes softer French line on Turkey — EUbusiness - EU business, legal and financial news and information - EUbusiness.com

Turkish army issues new warning

"Turkish army issues new warning

Turkey's powerful armed forces chief has warned that 'centres of evil' are trying to undermine the secular state. Gen Yasar Buyukanit did not name those who were 'trying to corrode the secular nature of the Turkish Republic'."

More:BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Turkish army issues new warning

Erdal Inonu Travels to USA for treatment

"Erdal Inonu Travels to USA for treatment The New Anatolian / Istanbul 27 August 2007 Font Size: default medium large Prof. Erdal Inonu, former chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP) and son of Ismet Inonu, former Prime Minister and arm companion of Ataturk, left for United States on Monday to undergo chemo-therapy."

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Turkey pressuring Israel over new ADL stance

http://www.jta.org/cgi-bin/iowa/breaking/103818.html: "Turkey pressuring Israel over new ADL stance

08/26/2007 Turkey is pressing Israel to help reverse the Anti-Defamation League’s new position on the Armenian genocide. Turkey’s foreign minister, Abdullah Gul, reportedly told Israel’s ambassador in Ankara, Pinhas Avivi, that Israel could have done more to prevent the ADL’s shift, Ha’aretz reported."

Jackson Diehl - Muslim Democracy in Action - washingtonpost.com

"Muslim Democracy in Action By Jackson Diehl Monday, August 27, 2007; Page A13

The notion that democracy and Islam are fundamentally incompatible is about to get a resounding rebuke, just at the moment it is threatening to congeal as conventional wisdom in Washington. Barring a last-minute surprise -- such as a military coup -- a liberal and pro-Western politician named Abdullah Gul will be elected president of Turkey by the country's parliament tomorrow. Gul speaks fluent English and has been a steady if somewhat quiet friend of the United States during more than four years as foreign minister. He also identifies himself as a religious Muslim in a country with an 85-year history of militant secularism. His wife wears a headscarf, which is banned from public offices, universities and -- until now -- the president's Cankaya Palace in Ankara."

More:Jackson Diehl - Muslim Democracy in Action - washingtonpost.com

German Law Discriminates Against Turks

"German Law Discriminates Against Turks

A new German law requires that a Turkish woman seeking to join her spouse in Germany must first prove knowledge of how to speak the German language. According to Claudia Roth of the German Green Party: “A Turkish woman has to demonstrate a basic knowledge of German to join hr partner in Germany but an American manager or a Japanese banker does not.” She called for putting aside the new law."

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Opinion: Does your ethnicity really matter? THE ORANGE GROVE | - OCRegister.com

"The Orange Grove: Does your ethnicity really matter? What you achieve in your life means more than where your ancestors lived. By TIBOR R. MACHAN A young woman asked me the other day what I thought her ethnic background is. After I initially declined to guess – mainly because I don't care about such stuff and know even less – she kept pressing me, so I said, 'I guess you may be Turkish.' Whereupon she took major offense."

More:Opinion: Does your ethnicity really matter? THE ORANGE GROVE | - OCRegister.com

Turkish Airlines wage deal averts strike

"Turkish Airlines wage deal averts strike (Reuters) 27 August 2007 ISTANBUL - Turkish Airlines and a union representing its staff have reached a wage deal, Labour Minister Murat Basesgioglu said on Monday, averting a strike at the peak of the tourist season."

More:Khaleej Times Online - Turkish Airlines wage deal averts strike

Drop in VAT will Boost Turkish Tourism

"Drop in VAT will Boost Turkish Tourism

The Mediterranean Association of Tourist Hoteliers (AKTOB) expects the reduction of the value added tax (VAT), to be adopted in 2008, to boost the Turkish tourism industry. Beginning in 2008, the VAT rate for the sector will be cut down from 18 to 8 percent."

More:Focus on Travel News

Great Hotels of the World announces opening of new Mövenpick Resort Bodrum

"August 2007 - Great Hotels of the World announces opening of new Mövenpick Resort Bodrum

Great Hotels of the World (GHOTW; http://www.ghotw.com), representing some of the world’s finest independent hotels, is delighted to announce that the 5* Mövenpick Resort Bodrum in Turkey, has now officially opened."

More:Great Hotels of the World - worldwide luxury hotels

The way forward in Cyprus - Turkish Daily News Aug 24, 2007

"The way forward in Cyprus Friday, August 24, 2007

Semih İDİZ

Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat is due to meet his Greek Cypriot counterpart Tassos Papadopoulos on September 5, under the auspices of the United Nations (UN) in order to see if a breakthrough might be possible in the stalemated Cyprus talks. "

More:The way forward in Cyprus - Turkish Daily News Aug 24, 2007

Marriott opens New Hotel in Turkey - Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia

"Marriott opens New Hotel in Turkey - Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia

Marriott has opened the 238-room Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia, the first of its upscale Marriott Hotels & Resorts brand in Turkey under a franchise agreement with the Buyukhanli Group."

More:Marriott opens New Hotel in Turkey - Istanbul Marriott Hotel Asia

Istanbul's busy Taksim Square to get a museum - Turkish Daily News Aug 27, 2007

"Istanbul's busy Taksim Square to get a museum Monday, August 27, 2007

Istanbul Mayor Kadir Topbaş disclosed plans to change the face of Istanbul's busy Taksim Square. The project includes a Republic Museum."

More:Istanbul's busy Taksim Square to get a museum - Turkish Daily News Aug 27, 2007

Bomb threat temporarily grounds Istanbul-bound jet in Swedish capital - International Herald Tribune

"Bomb threat temporarily grounds Istanbul-bound jet in Swedish capital

STOCKHOLM, Sweden: An Istanbul-bound passenger jet was grounded overnight at Stockholm's airport due to a bomb threat, but took off early Monday after police searched the plane and found nothing suspicious, officials said.

Passengers had not yet boarded the Viking Airlines plane when the bomb threat came in, but the flight crew was evacuated, Arlanda airport spokeswoman Karin Magnusson said."

More:Bomb threat temporarily grounds Istanbul-bound jet in Swedish capital - International Herald Tribune

Turkey: Ankara Seeks Role As East-West 'Energy Bridge' - RADIO FREE EUROPE / RADIO LIBERTY

"Turkey: Ankara Seeks Role As East-West 'Energy Bridge' By Roman Kupchinsky Iran -- A general view of Phase One of the South Pars gas field in the southern port of Assaluyeh, 26May2003

In July, Turkey signed a preliminary agreement with Iran to develop three gas projects in the giant South Pars gas field and build two pipelines to ship an estimated 30 billion cubic meters of Iranian and Turkmen gas to Turkey for resale to Europe."

More:Turkey: Ankara Seeks Role As East-West 'Energy Bridge' - RADIO FREE EUROPE / RADIO LIBERTY

Ambassador Namig Tan: Approach towards Israel is changing in Turkey after Anti-Defamation League’s statement

"Ambassador Namig Tan: Approach towards Israel is changing in Turkey after Anti-Defamation League’s statement

[ 27 Aug 2007 11:59 ] “The strategic cooperation between Turkey and Israel is very important both regionally globally,” Turkish ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to Israel Namig Tan told APA’s Israel bureau. Turkish ambassador characterized Turkey and Israel as democratic and secular states in the Middle East."

More:APA

Turkey blocks EU, Nato because of Malta

"Turkey blocks EU, Nato because of Malta

Turkey has blocked Nato from sharing intelligence with the EU because Cyprus and Malta, which are in the EU but not Nato, do not belong to the alliance’s Partnership for Peace Programme, so they have no security clearance. “Turkey will discuss intelligence issues – and this includes Afghanistan – with the EU only if Cyprus and Malta are excluded. But the EU wants to negotiate as a bloc,” a Nato diplomat has been reported as saying."

More:INDEPENDENT online

France's Sarkozy favours EU-Turkey association | World | Reuters

"France's Sarkozy favours EU-Turkey association Mon Aug 27, 2007 10:33AM
PARIS (Reuters) - French President Nicolas Sarkozy said on Monday he wants a close association between Turkey and the European Union rather than membership but would not oppose opening new chapters that could lead to either of these aims."

More:France's Sarkozy favours EU-Turkey association | World | Reuters

Sunday, August 26, 2007

Israel must get US Jews to back down, Turkey's envoy tells 'Post' | Jerusalem Post

"Israel must get US Jews to back down, Turkey's envoy tells 'Post' By HERB KEINON

Turkey expects Israel to 'deliver' American Jewish organizations and ensure that the US Congress does not pass a resolution characterizing as genocide the massacre of Armenians during World War I, Turkish Ambassador to Israel Namik Tan told The Jerusalem Post Sunday."

More:Israel must get US Jews to back down, Turkey's envoy tells 'Post' | Jerusalem Post

Economic Trends: The Recent Turkish Elections: Why Is the EU Applauding?

"The Recent Turkish Elections: Why Is the EU Applauding?

While the EU has generally applauded the recent elections in Turkey as a victory for democracy, many within Turkey are convinced otherwise. The elections were won by the AKP, a religious party, which took 65 percent of the parliamentary seats with 25 percent of the vote. All electoral systems are overly generous to the party with the largest (plurality) vote. The high threshold of ten percent in the Turkish system is particularly so. Apart from questions of the degree to which the results reflect the popular will; however, the elections have raised fears that Turkey may be jettisoning its secular constitutional system."

More:Economic Trends: The Recent Turkish Elections: Why Is the EU Applauding?

Amado: Cyprus resolution not in European Union’s hands

"Amado: Cyprus resolution not in European Union’s hands The European Union cannot possibly resolve the Cyprus issue on its own, Luis Amado, EU term president from Portugal has declared, following his two-day official talks in EU member Greek Cyprus last week."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

EU to donate 1.6 billion euros to Turkey over three years

"EU to donate 1.6 billion euros to Turkey over three years The European Union is planning to give Turkey 497.4 million euros in 2007, 538.7 million in 2008 and 566.5 million euros in 2009 as grants within its multi-year financial framework. The money can only be used to improve the institutional capacity of governmental organizations, regional and supra-border cooperation, regional development, rural development and the improvement of human resources."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Erdogan, Gul Widen Army Rift, Gain Freer Hand on Turkish Sales

"Erdogan, Gul Widen Army Rift, Gain Freer Hand on Turkish Sales By Ben Holland

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who chose a shining light bulb as his party's symbol, is struggling to keep the power on. Turkey's largely state-owned electricity industry had trouble coping with high demand in the record temperatures of July and August. Now that Erdogan has won re-election to a second five-year term, he can proceed with plans to privatize the power companies."

More:Bloomberg.com: Worldwide

A deafening Turkish silence as Greece burns - Turkish Daily News Aug 27, 2007

"A deafening Turkish silence as Greece burns Monday, August 27, 2007

DUYGU GÜVENÇ
ANKARA – Turkish Daily News

As nearby Greece continued yesterday to face walls of flame killing scores in the country's worst series of forest fires in history, aid from across the Aegean was largely symbolic despite a legacy of mutual assistance borne of the 1999 Turkish earthquake to which Athens was the first responder."

More:A deafening Turkish silence as Greece burns - Turkish Daily News Aug 27, 2007

Turkey to take action to protect interests in Iraq, US report says - Turkish Daily News Aug 25, 2007

"Turkey to take action to protect interests in Iraq, US report says

Risk of Turkish incursion into Iraq remains in place, according to National Intelligence Estimate

Ümit ENGİNSOY
WASHINGTON - Turkish Daily News

Turkey will likely resort to a number of measures to protect its interests in Iraq, while there remains a risk of a unilateral Turkish military incursion into northern Iraq to fight the terrorist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), a top U.S. intelligence report stated Thursday."

More:Turkey to take action to protect interests in Iraq, US report says - Turkish Daily News Aug 25, 2007

Cars of the future roam Istanbul traffic - Hürriyet

"Cars of the future roam Istanbul traffic Cars of the future roam Istanbul trafficA solar-powered car and another that runs on hydrogen fuel were let sent into Istanbul's busy traffic yesterday following a ceremony at Cevahir mall. The aim is to acquaint the public with alternative energy and its uses, said a spokesperson from the student group that built the cars at Yıldız Technical University."

More:Cars of the future roam Istanbul traffic - Hürriyet

Turkish Authorities learn from last year - International Herald Tribune

"Turkish Authorities learn from last year

ISTANBUL, Turkey: Unlike last year, Turkish authorities did not venture into politics during the ceremony after Sunday's Grand Prix — Deputy Prime Minister Mehmet Ali Sahin presented the trophy to Ferrari's Felipe Massa."

More:Turkish Authorities learn from last year - International Herald Tribune

Güleryüz: ADL does not speak for entire Jewish lobby in US

"Güleryüz: ADL does not speak for entire Jewish lobby in US
Assuming that the New York-based Anti-Defamation League (ADL) -- which has provoked deep disappointment in Turkey due to a change in their approach to the Armenian issue -- represents the entire Jewish community based in the United States would be misleading, a prominent figure of the Turkish Jewish society warned on Friday."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Black and A Turk: Ayse Bircan, Part VII

"Black and A Turk: Ayse Bircan, Part VII In this installment of Black and Turkish, Ayse Bircan talks about the situation with women in Turkey and also about her time living and working in London.

One of my sisters didn't finish university, got married, had daughters and now works as a secretary; the other finished university and is a high school English teacher. My elder brother--he's twelve years older--was a driver but has stopped work now, he is pensioned.

In Turkey women share the same problems of oppression as women anywhere, but their position is changing as a result of industrialization. Old attitudes have begun to change. Before the 1960s there were different attitudes towards women. In big cities women can go to school and do whatever they want, but it's not the same everywhere. Women can also vote in all parts of Turkey; they have the right to vote and to be elected, which is before in some European countries. Because in the war of independence women fought along with men, when the new country was established (it was the Ottoman Empire before) Ataturk gave women all these rights--yet there are many barriers. There are laws. For example, if a man doesn't sign that his wife can work, she can't work; it has to be written on paper. But the situation doesn't arise in the first place, since women, being oppressed, anyway ask their husbands. After the industrialization of the 1960s many women went into the workplace. Their labour was needed because it's cheap and a woman generally isn't a danger for a boss. In the textile industry especially, most of the workforce is female. In the women's organization I worked in an area that has the country's highest population of women workers. It was in Bursa, where there are many textile factories, 90 per cent staffed by women; only the managers were men. Our organization lasted four years before it was banned, but during those years it expanded very quickly. "

More:A Beautiful Mind: NOT the Movie: Black and A Turk: Ayse Bircan, Part VII

anjapartanen: Arzu Toker:'.. thousands of modern Turkish women in Germany who pretend to be Spaniards or Italians and are ashamed to say they are Turk

"Arzu Toker:'..thousands of modern Turkish women in Germany who pretend to be Spaniards or Italians and are ashamed to say they are Turkish, because..

Islam in Europe: An Interview With Arzu Toker on the Cologne Mosque
The plans of an Islamic association to build an imposing "Central Mosque" in Cologne are the subject of ongoing controversy in Germany. The mosque design features a giant 35 meter high dome flanked by two 55 meter high minarets. Much of the initial public opposition to the mosque project was organized by "Pro Cologne": a political movement that local authorities have classified as "right-wing extremist" -- a common euphemism in Germany for neo-Nazi groups. Last May, however, the controversy over the Cologne mosque project took on a new dimension when the renowned German journalist and historian of the Third Reich, Ralph Giordano, joined the ranks of the mosque critics. Giordano argued that the mosque project sent the "wrong signal" and claimed that the integration of Muslims in Germany had "failed." As proof for his claim, he pointed to the presence of fully veiled women on the streets of Cologne, whom he described as resembling "human penguins." "I do not want to see women wearing burqas on German streets!" Giordano exclaimed."

More:anjapartanen: Arzu Toker:'.. thousands of modern Turkish women in Germany who pretend to be Spaniards or Italians and are ashamed to say they are Turkish, because..

Clog: From Turkey to North Africa - craft connects

"From Turkey to North Africa - craft connects DSCF1962 On Thursday, Craft Victoria was visited by representatives of the Australian Turkish Cultural Platform, eager to connect their own community's craft skills to the broader craft scene. Here's a prodigious local maker with the President Hilkat Özgün."

More:Clog: From Turkey to North Africa - craft connects

Turkey at odds over prospect of presidential first lady clad in Islamic dress - International Herald Tribune

"Turkey at odds over prospect of presidential first lady clad in Islamic dress

ANKARA, Turkey: Turkey's secular establishment and its Islamic-leaning government have long quarreled fiercely over weighty issues such as the appointment of Islamic-minded officials and the role of the military in politics."

More:Turkey at odds over prospect of presidential first lady clad in Islamic dress - International Herald Tribune

Peres to Turks: Our stance on Armenian issue hasn't change

"Peres to Turks: Our stance on Armenian issue hasn't changed

This entry was posted on 8/26/2007 4:38 AM and is filed under Ummah News Links. Israel has not changed its position on the killing of 1.5 million Armenians during World War I, President Shimon Peres assured the Turkish prime minister last week. On Tuesday, the Anti-Defamation League announced that it considered the massacres to be genocide. It apologized for putting the Turkish people in a 'difficult position' in a letter this weekend, the Turkish media reported."

More:Ummah News Links

Talking Turkey

"Talking Turkey Middle East » Turkey » Istanbul By gigiyogini August 25th 2007 During my three weeks in Turkey I have been debating about what to write. Turkey is incredibly diverse and hard to describe in a few short words. It wasn't even until about the last week that I began to really appreciate and enjoy the country for what it is. I arrived in Istanbul to join my second of three Intrepid Tours. Our group was 11 people, 2 Kiwis, 1 English woman living in Turkey teaching English, me, a 70 year old scot living now in Australia (yes 70 and a legend! looks 50 and has the most amazing travel stories), 1 Canadian living in London, and the rest Australian. Our tour leader hails from Brazil, but has spent most of his life in Asia, called Cleverson (yes and his brothers names Emerson and Jefferson!)"

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August 26: Jews must stay away from this controversy | Jerusalem Post

"August 26: Jews must stay away from this controversy

Sir, - David Harris's "Armenians, Turks and Jews - protecting historical truth through dialogue" (August 23) was such a warm and humane piece, the temptation to respond was irresistible."

More:August 26: Jews must stay away from this controversy | Jerusalem Post

Turkey in Brief

"Turkey in Brief Posted on Sunday, August 26 @ 05:04:09 CDT by editor
THE Mediterranean Association of Tourist Hoteliers (AKTOB) expects the reduction of the value added tax (VAT), to be adopted in 2008, to boost the Turkish tourism industry."

More:Voices Newspaper Altinkum Didim Turkey - Turkey in Brief

Barrichello joins Button at back of Turkish grid

"Barrichello joins Button at back of Turkish grid Sun 26 Aug 2007, 9:58
ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Brazilian Rubens Barrichello joined team mate Jenson Button at the back of the Turkish Grand Prix starting grid on Sunday after Honda also changed the engine of his car."

More:Sport | Africa - Reuters.com

Khaleej Times Online - Earthquake rattles Turkey, no casualties

"Earthquake rattles Turkey, no casualties (AFP) 26 August 2007 ISTANBUL - An earthquake registering a magnitude 5.4 on the Richter scale shook southeast Turkey on Sunday, with no casualties reported, Turkey’s Kandilli seismology centre said. The quake happened at 1:05 am local time (2205 GMT Saturday) in the province of Bingol, not far from the town of Karliova, the Istanbul-based centre said."

More:Khaleej Times Online - Earthquake rattles Turkey, no casualties

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Expulsion for Yıldırım in Holland - Turkish Daily News Aug 25, 2007

"Expulsion for Yıldırım in Holland Saturday, August 25, 2007

Expulsion for Yıldırım in Holland

The deputy of Holland's Socialist Party, Düzgün Yıldırm, who is of Turkish origins and who receives death threats from ultra rightist groups, is being expelled from his party, reported the NTV news channel on Friday.

Yıldırım has been under pressure by his own party to resign for a period of time. He will continue his role as a senator, he said, adding that he might establish a new party. "

Expulsion for Yıldırım in Holland - Turkish Daily News Aug 25, 2007

‘Moderation leads to progress and prosperity’

"‘Moderation leads to progress and prosperity’ Staff Report ISLAMABAD: Moderate character and broad vision can lead a country towards progress and Turkey and Pakistan are capable of showing the way to peace and progress to the rest of the Muslim World, said Turkish Ambassador Rauf Engin Soysal."

More:Daily Times - Leading News Resource of Pakistan - ‘Moderation leads to progress and prosperity’

SABAH Newspaper English Edition - Sports - Turkey is proud of you, Elvan

"Elvan is the second in the world championship The athlete Elvan Abeylegesse won the silver medal in the women's 10 thousand meters World Athletics Championship in Japan."

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - Sports - Turkey is proud of you, Elvan

Women Preachers Educate Women

"Women Preachers Educate Women According to the Office of Religious Affairs, the survival of the family depends on women receiving religious education. The office appointed 196 women preachers to Turkish provinces under a project that was launched a year ago."

More:Bianet :: Women Preachers Educate Women

Turkey's Jews unhappy with ADL move to acknowledge 'Armenian genocide'

"Turkey's Jews unhappy with ADL move to acknowledge 'Armenian genocide' The New Anatolian / Ankara 22 August 2007
'We have difficulty in understanding why the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), one of the most important Jewish organizations in the USA, has changed stance and decided to acknowledge Armenian allegations regarding 1915 incidents,' Turkish Jewish Community announced on Wednesday."

More:The New Anatolian

The End of Secularism - Newsweek: International Editions - MSNBC.com

"The End of Secularism
By Soner Cagaptay
Newsweek International

Sept. 3, 2007 issue - This fall, I plan to teach a course on Turkish secularism at Georgetown University. The class was originally listed as current politics. But given the direction in which Turkey's headed, it could well become a history course instead. For after some 80 years, Turkish secularism is withering away."

More:The End of Secularism - Newsweek: International Editions - MSNBC.com