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Friday, February 29, 2008

Iraq troop withdrawal baffles Turks

"Iraq troop withdrawal baffles Turks
By Sarah Rainsford
BBC News, Istanbul

Turkish soldiers on patrol near the Turkey-Iraq border in Sirnak province (29 February 2008)
Turkey's military said it had achieved its goals in northern Iraq

The timing of the Turkish military withdrawal from northern Iraq came as a surprise."
More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Iraq troop withdrawal baffles Turks

Turkey urges PKK to end struggle

"Turkey urges PKK to end struggle

Turkish troops, Turkey/Iraq border 29 Feb
Iraq said the incursion violated its sovereignty

Troops withdraw
Turkey's prime minister has called on Kurdish PKK rebels to lay down their arms and embrace democracy."

More:BBC NEWS | World | Europe | Turkey urges PKK to end struggle

Two Turks poisoned in a new fire in Germany - Turkish Daily News Mar 01, 2008

"Two Turks poisoned in a new fire in Germany
Saturday, March 1, 2008

Another in a series of residential fires erupted in the German city of Herne Thursday night, injuring two Turkish people after another fire broke out on Monday in a building predominantly inhabited by Turks, the Anatolia news agency reported."

More:Two Turks poisoned in a new fire in Germany - Turkish Daily News Mar 01, 2008

Turkey “not reforming Islam, but itself” with hadith review - FaithWorld

"Turkey “not reforming Islam, but itself” with hadith review

Ali Bardakoglu, Turkey’s top religious official, says his country’s effort to purge the hadith of sexism and superstition is not an attempt to reform Islam but to change the Turkish way of practising it. This reform project hit the headlines this week when the BBC ran a story on what it called “a revolutionary reinterpretation of Islam - and a controversial and radical modernisation of the religion“. It said the revision of the hadith, the collection of the sayings of the Prophet Mohammad that are second only to the Koran as an authority for Muslims, was something akin to a Protestant Reformation in Islam."

More:Turkey “not reforming Islam, but itself” with hadith review - FaithWorld

Israel Hasbara Committee: Sarkozy's Policy on Turkey's E.U. Accession: Bad for France? - by Soner Cagaptay

For the complete report from Israel Hasbara Committee click on this link

Sarkozy's Policy on Turkey's E.U. Accession: Bad for France? - by Soner Cagaptay

According to Soner Cagaptay, France's President Sarkozy was elected partly because of his tougher approach to Islamic radicalism within France which was a public reaction to events such as the rioting in Paris in 2005. Cagaptay also endorses actions the French President has taken that include the appointment of Algerian-Moroccan immigrant Rachida Dati as Minister of Justice. However, Cagaptay argues that Sarkozy can reinforce the "European-ness" of non-radical Muslims within France by supporting Turkey's accession into the European Union. Thus far, Sarkozy opposes inclusion of Turkey in the European Union.

Turkey Reaches Out to Muslim Neighbours

"Turkey Reaches Out to Muslim Neighbours
By Soner Cagaptay
Jane's Islamic Affairs Analyst, March 2008

Early indications from Turkey's Justice and Development Party (Adalet ve Kalkinma Partisi: AKP), which assumed governance for the second time in July 2007, render it possible to make certain predictions about the future of Turkish foreign policy. The AKP will likely continue its hallmark policy of good ties with the US, while increasingly sympathising with the Muslim countries of the Middle East. The AKP successfully balanced good relations with the US and solidarity with Muslim countries and concerns during its first term between 2002 and 2007. Can the party keep this balance in its second term?"

More:Article or Op-Ed

News Analysis: Turkey's well-timed attack aims to root out Kurdish rebels _English_Xinhua

"News Analysis: Turkey's well-timed attack aims to root out Kurdish rebels
www.chinaview.cn 2008-02-29 13:23:00

Special report: Turkey's incursion into Iraq

by Li Bo

BEIJING, Feb. 29 (Xinhua) -- Some 10,000 Turkish troops, backed by F-16 warplanes and Cobra attack helicopters, poured over the border with Iraq last Thursday in the first large-scale cross-border offensive since the Justice and Development Party came to power."

More:News Analysis: Turkey's well-timed attack aims to root out Kurdish rebels _English_Xinhua

Prohibition of Turkish language in Western Thrace

"Prohibition of Turkish language in Western Thrace - 28.02.2008

Ministry of National Education and Religious Affairs of Greece obligated that ceremonies in national festivals, 25 March, 28 October and 17 November, in Turkish minority schools will only be celebrated in Greek language. According to this decision, using of Turkish language in ceremonies in Turkish Minority schools in national festivals of Greece has been prohibited. According to news written in Gundem news-paper which is published in Western Thrace, Directorate General of Foreign and Minority Schools of Ministry of National Education and Religious Affairs of Greece obligated that ceremonies in national festivals, 25 March, 28 October and 17 November, in Turkish minority schools will only be celebrated in Greek language, with a mandat signed by Angelos Sirigos, General Directorate. Ministry made out non-usage of Turkish poems and literature in national festivals to prohibition of Turkish language in ceremo-nies in national festivals in minority schools."

More:Prohibition of Turkish language in Western Thrace

AIG Capital Partners Exits AFM Cinemas in Turkey

"AIG Capital Partners Exits AFM Cinemas in Turkey

ISTANBUL, Turkey, February 29 /PRNewswire/ -- AIG Investments today announced that an affiliate of AIG Capital Partners, Inc. has sold its shares in AFM Uluslararasi Film Produksiyon Tic. ve San. A.S. ('AFM Cinemas'), the leading cinema and entertainment company, headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey. On February 26, AIG Capital Partners together with other existing shareholders completed the sale of 51.91% of the company to A1 Group Limited, the key investment group of the Alfa-Group Consortium.

Founded in 1965, AFM Cinemas is Turkey's largest cinema chain with 32 theatres and 183 screens in 12 different cities."

More:AIG Capital Partners Exits AFM Cinemas in Turkey

Brussels silent on incursion but wants something in exchange - Turkish Daily News Feb 29, 2008

"Brussels silent on incursion but wants something in exchange
Friday, February 29, 2008

CANSU ÇAMLIBEL
BRUSSELS – Turkish Daily News

As the Turkish incursion into northern Iraq to fight the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) enters its seventh day, there has been no major reaction from the European Union, which has acknowledged the legitimacy of the need for Ankara to protect its citizens. "

More:Brussels silent on incursion but wants something in exchange - Turkish Daily News Feb 29, 2008

Gül calls on Russia to jointly build Anatolian pipeline - Turkish Daily News Feb 29, 2008

"Gül calls on Russia to jointly build Anatolian pipeline
Friday, February 29, 2008

Turkey has invited Russia to join the construction of an oil pipeline, bypassing the congested Turkish straits, through Anatolia, President Abdullah Gül said yesterday in an interview with Russia's Itar-Tass news agency."

More:Gül calls on Russia to jointly build Anatolian pipeline - Turkish Daily News Feb 29, 2008

Turkish Dedeman hotel chain enters Bulgaria - News news

"Turkish Dedeman hotel chain enters Bulgaria
11:41 Fri 29 Feb 2008 - Dessislava Leshtarska

Turkish hotel chain Dedeman Hotels&Resorts International will take over the management of two Bulgarian hotels, owned by Turkish businessman Sudi Ozkan, Dnevnik daily reported on February 29. The hotel operator has already placed job ads to fill available vacancies in Bulgarian papers."

More:Turkish Dedeman hotel chain enters Bulgaria - News news

New Cyprus cabinet tasked with ending division

"New Cyprus cabinet tasked with ending division

The cabinet of Cyprus's first communist President Demetris Christofias was sworn in on Friday, tasked with reviving peace talks with the Turkish Cypriots and ending the three-decade division of the strategic Mediterranean island.

'The hard work starts now,' Christofias told his ministers, including one woman, at their first cabinet meeting following the swearing-in ceremony at the presidential palace in Nicosia."

More:IC Publications

Rhino bones prove ancient bridges to Anatolia -- study - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

"Rhino bones prove ancient bridges to Anatolia -- study

Agence France-Presse
First Posted 22:27:00 02/29/2008

PARIS -- A 25-million year old rhino bone shows that Anatolia, the bulk of modern-day Turkey, was not then encircled by water, as some geologists have contended, according to a study published Friday.

The first evidence that a pre-historic rhinoceros from the genus Paraceratherium wandered the rugged hills and plateaus of Anatolia in the late Oligecene era proves that a land passage to Asia existed at the same time, said the study."

More:Rhino bones prove ancient bridges to Anatolia -- study - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

Turkish company eyes Kremikovtzi - minister - Business news

"Turkish company eyes Kremikovtzi - minister
16:11 Fri 29 Feb 2008 - Elena Koinova

A Turkish company has confirmed its interest to become a strategic investor in the Kremikovtzi steel mill, Bulgarian Minister of Economy and Energy Petar Dimitrov told members of Parliament (MPs) on February 29, BTA reported.

Asked when the steelworks would pay workers' salaries, Dimitrov said that the ministry and the mill's management would do everything possible to defer current liabilities for an indefinite period. He expressed concern, though, that in this way the mill would accrue new debt that would most likely be transferred to the new owner of Kremikovtzi. A bigger debt burden would only further cut the chances to sell on the steel mill for a fair price, Dimitrov said."

More:Turkish company eyes Kremikovtzi - minister - Business news

Ertugrul Ozkok: Bulent Ersoy's comments and the Turkish troops

"Ertugrul Ozkok: Bulent Ersoy's comments and the Turkish troops

I still cannot forget the things said by Turkish artist Bulent Ersoy that evening. In fact, I even wrote a column about his statements.

Bulent Ersoy was speaking later on a television program.

There was a photograph of former President Turgut Ozal hanging in the salon, and Ersoy was reading prayers to the memory of Ozal."

More:Ertugrul Ozkok: Bulent Ersoy's comments and the Turkish troops

Turkish stocks fall 2 pct as risk appetite wanes | Industries | Technology, Media & Telecommunications | Reuters

"Turkish stocks fall 2 pct as risk appetite wanes

ISTANBUL, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Turkish stocks dropped more than 2 percent on Friday, while the lira and bonds eased as well in line with emerging market weakness as fears of a U.S. economic slowdown curbed risk appetite, dealers said."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkish stocks fall 2 pct as risk appetite wanes | Industries | Technology, Media & Telecommunications | Reuters

Turks in Germany urge changes to integration policy : Europe World

"Turks in Germany urge changes to integration policy

Berlin - Germany's Turkish community called Friday on the government to change its integration policy in order to pay more attention to the needs of the country's 1.7 million Turks. A five-point proposal released in Berlin called for 10 per cent of public service jobs to go to migrants as well as the introduction of Turkish lessons and a course called 'intercultural life' in schools."

More:Turks in Germany urge changes to integration policy : Europe World

Turks head home; media claims Iraq incursion over

"Turks head home; media claims Iraq incursion over

Turkish troops have begun returning to their bases from northern Iraq, however Ankara has not yet confirmed that the ground incursion is over. Turkey sent thousands of soldiers across the border last week to root out PKK rebels. Each day has brought reports of militant deaths as well as the loss of some Turkish troops. The Turkish media is saying that it is the end of a limited campaign."

More:EuroNewsEuroNews : Turks head home; media claims Iraq incursion over

World Bank approves 4-year $6.2 bln Turkey program

"World Bank approves 4-year $6.2 bln Turkey program

The World Bank on Thursday approved a four-year $6.2 billion financing program for Turkey, which hopes to join the European Union before 2015. 'The strategy anticipates World Bank financing for programs of the Turkish government, or guarantee by the government, up to $6.2 billion during the four-year period,' the World Bank said in a statement. [Reuters]"

More:News & Broadcast - Press Reviews

TURKEY DIVIDING AGAINST ITSELF, BUT STILL STANDING FIRM ON NORTHERN IRAQ - Eurasia Daily Monitor

"TURKEY DIVIDING AGAINST ITSELF, BUT STILL STANDING FIRM ON NORTHERN IRAQ

By Gareth Jenkins

Friday, February 29, 2008

Almost exactly 150 years ago, in June 1858, Abraham Lincoln famously declared that a house divided against itself could not stand. Yet in recent days, despite deepening internal divisions over the government’s attempts to lift the headscarf ban in Turkish universities, officials and politicians from across almost the entire political spectrum have been unanimous in resisting U.S. pressure to ensure that Turkey’s ongoing military operation against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) is kept as short as possible. The only exception has been the Democratic Society Party (DTP), many of whose members are openly sympathetic to the PKK."

More:TURKEY DIVIDING AGAINST ITSELF, BUT STILL STANDING FIRM ON NORTHERN IRAQ - Eurasia Daily Monitor

Turkish Army Declines Comment on Reports of Iraq Withdrawal

"Turkish Army Declines Comment on Reports of Iraq Withdrawal

By Mark Bentley

Feb. 29 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey's army declined comment on reports that it started pulling its troops out of northern Iraq, ending a week-long incursion.

The army said on its Web site that it will make a ``comprehensive'' statement on the reports later today."

More:Bloomberg.com: Africa

Turkey Quits Iraq After Biggest Incursion in 11 Years

"Turkey Quits Iraq After Biggest Incursion in 11 Years (Update1)

By Mark Bentley and Camilla Hall

Feb. 29 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey's army withdrew its troops from northern Iraq after its biggest military incursion into the country for 11 years.

Turkish units pulled out early today after more than a week of battles with the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, the army said in a statement on its Web site. The clashes with the PKK, which seeks autonomy for Turkey's 15 million ethnic Kurds, killed 237 militants and 24 Turkish soldiers, the military said."

More:Bloomberg.com: Worldwide

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish troops move out of Iraq

"Turkish troops move out of Iraq
Handout by Turkish military on 28 February 2008 of its troops in an undisclosed location

The Turkish military says it has withdrawn its troops from northern Iraq, following a controversial ground offensive against Kurdish rebels."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish troops move out of Iraq

Turkish textile industry looks east to boost sector

"Turkish textile industry looks east to boost sector

By Daren Butler and Mustafa Yukselbaba
ISTANBUL, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Turkey's textile industry is looking to develop beyond its Istanbul heartland to shore up its global market share in the face of growing competition from China, a leading sector official told Reuters.
Textiles are central to Turkey's exports, surging to some $16 billion in 2007 from less than $9 billion five years earlier."

More:Feed Article | Business |

Cypriot leader urges unity, says Turkey key to settlement

"Cypriot leader urges unity, says Turkey key to settlement

Cypriot leader Demetris Christofias said on Thursday his first priority was a peace deal on the divided island but said the key to a settlement was Turkey, whose bid to join the EU is hampered by the conflict. (UPDATED)"

More:Cypriot leader urges unity, says Turkey key to settlement

FRANCE: PSA to export Turkish vans beyond EU: Automotive News & Comment

"FRANCE: PSA to export Turkish vans beyond EU

29 February 2008 | Source: just-auto.com editorial team

Production of PSA small vans in Turkey is to be increased to include new versions and exports outside the European union.

PSA Peugeot Citroën and Karsan, which already builds the first-generation Peugeot Partner (now called Origin after the debut of a redesigned model line) on have signed a cooperation agreement to jointly produce the Citroën Berlingo First and Partner Origin and develop and manufacture extended versions."

More:FRANCE: PSA to export Turkish vans beyond EU: Automotive News & Comment

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Gulfnews: Turkey finds Dubai's progress in realty sector worth emulating

"Turkey finds Dubai's progress in realty sector worth emulating

By Duraid Al Baik, Foreign Editor
Published: February 29, 2008, 00:30

Dubai: While aiming to become part of Europe, Turkey is keen to maintain its relations with its neighbours in the Arab world. In an exclusive interview, Mehmet Simsek, Turkey's Minister of Economy, told Gulf News that the region needs visionary leaders like those in the UAE to bridge the gap with the West."

More:Gulfnews: Turkey finds Dubai's progress in realty sector worth emulating

Sarkozy's Policy on Turkey's E.U. Accession: Bad for France?

"Sarkozy's Policy on Turkey's E.U. Accession: Bad for France?

By Soner Cagaptay

IHC Abstract

According to Soner Cagaptay, France's President Sarkozy was elected partly because of his tougher approach to Islamic radicalism within France which was a public reaction to events such as the rioting in Paris in 2005. Cagaptay also endorses actions the French President has taken that include the appointment of Algerian-Moroccan immigrant Rachida Dati as Minister of Justice. However, Cagaptay argues that Sarkozy can reinforce the 'European-ness' of non-radical Muslims within France by supporting Turkey's accession into the European Union. Thus far, Sarkozy opposes inclusion of Turkey in the European Union."

More:Israel Hasbara Committee

Turkish-Armenian relations and the European Union (2)

"Turkish-Armenian relations and the European Union (2)
by
Ali Yurttagül*

The reason that Armenia does not have too many problems with its contradictory 'policies of balance' is partially because of its current 'cease-fire' with Azerbaijan and because of the embargo that Turkey has placed on Armenia."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

A shopping website: Businessmen not allowed - Turkish Daily News Feb 29, 2008

"A shopping website: Businessmen not allowed
Friday, February 29, 2008

The first and only website donating its profits to women's funds and supporting women entrepreneurs by only selling their products was opened in January 2008."

More:A shopping website: Businessmen not allowed - Turkish Daily News Feb 29, 2008

Turkish Lawyers Demand Removal of Malatya Judges

"Turkish Lawyers Demand Removal of Malatya Judges

Court’s impartiality questioned as evidence, courtroom recording withheld.

by Barbara G. Baker

MALATYA, Turkey, Lawyers representing the families of three Christians tortured and slaughtered with knives in eastern Turkey last April demanded this week that the three-member bench of judges hearing the case be replaced."

More:Turkish Lawyers Demand Removal of Malatya Judges

World Bank approves 4-year $6.2 bln Turkey program | Markets | Bonds News | Reuters

"World Bank approves 4-year $6.2 bln Turkey program

WASHINGTON, Feb 28 (Reuters) - The World Bank on Thursday approved a four-year $6.2 billion financing program for Turkey, which hopes to join the European Union before 2015."

More:World Bank approves 4-year $6.2 bln Turkey program | Markets | Bonds News | Reuters

Turkish court suspends Izmir port tender

"Turkish court suspends Izmir port tender
Friday, 29.02.2008, 12:14am (GMT)

A top Turkish court has suspended a privatisation tender for Izmir port, won by a consortium of Hong Kong's Hutchison and Global Investment Holding, the union involved in the case said on Thursday. Metin Bayyar, lawyer for the Liman-Is union which had appealed for last year's tender to be cancelled, told Reuters the court had suspended the deal, not cancelled it as local media had reported earlier."

More:Hellenic Shipping News - Turkish court suspends Izmir port tender

Turkey’s covered women fed up with politics over their headscarves - FaithWorld

"Turkey’s covered women fed up with politics over their headscarves
February 28th, 2008, filed by Emma Ross-Thomas

It started as a women’s protest for the right to wear Muslim headscarves at university, in this case at Marmara University in Istanbul. Then the men showed up with their banners and megaphones, lined up in front of the cameras and began speaking in place of the women. That left the ladies standing demurely on the sidelines or in the crowd, all decked out with their bright silk scarves with nothing to do but clap at what the men said."

More:Turkey’s covered women fed up with politics over their headscarves - FaithWorld

The Kurds | Turkey invades northern Iraq | Economist.com

"Turkey invades northern Iraq

Feb 28th 2008 | ANKARA AND ERBIL
From The Economist print edition
With scores of fighters on both sides killed, the latest battle between Turkey and its rebel Kurds with havens in Iraq may get out of hand

THE latest incursion by Turkish forces into northern Iraq in an effort to squash the rebels of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which draws its support from Turkey's own Kurds, is the biggest in a decade. It is also one of the most worrying for the region as a whole. The danger is that it may draw in the peshmerga, the Kurdish forces loyal to the government of the Kurds' autonomous region in northern Iraq, and destabilise all of Iraq, just when the insurgency across the country is gradually being contained. The most striking development is that America, whose relations with Turkey, its old ally in NATO, have been chilly, this time appears to have sided more plainly with the Turks. The Americans have even sent high-tech specialists to work alongside the Turks to provide “real-time” intelligence to help Turkish helicopters and artillery to target the PKK in its mountain fastnesses."

More:The Kurds | Turkey invades northern Iraq | Economist.com

TURKEY Ankara approves a new law for non-Muslim religious foundations - Asia News

"Ankara approves a new law for non-Muslim religious foundations
by NAT da Polis
The norm eliminates an historical situation of injustice according to which some Turkish citizens were treated differently from others. Now religious foundations can accept new donations, and proceed with the purchase of new properties."

More:TURKEY Ankara approves a new law for non-Muslim religious foundations - Asia News

Turkish Delights Catering Trowbridge (from Swindon Advertiser)

"Turkish Delights Catering, Trowbridge

A TURKISH catering company from Trowbridge is promising a feast fit for kings as part of its new venture."

More:Turkish Delights Catering Trowbridge (from Swindon Advertiser)

EIB issues record high loan to Turkey

"EIB issues record high loan to Turkey
The European Investment Bank (EIB) granted 2.2 billion euros of loans which makes Turkey 7th country to borrow highest amount of money from the bank last year.

EIB issues record high loan to Turkey

Total amount of loans given by the bank to Turkey between 2003 and 2007 reached 6.2 billion euros considering 1.8 billion euros issued in 2006. As the bank's short-term perspective, EIB projects to offer nearly 2 billion euros of loans to Turkey each year until 2013, said Matthias Kollatz-Ahnen, vice president of the bank."

More:EIB issues record high loan to Turkey

Istanbul as a Center of Global Finance?

"Istanbul as a Center of Global Finance?
Mustafa Kutlay

Thursday , 28 February 2008

Over the last four years Turkey has been at the forefront of global investors. Thanks to the intense privatization applications, to the improvements regarding the EU membership process and to the ample global liquidity conditions, the foreign direct investment in Turkey increased from 2.8 billion dollar in 2004 to 21.8 billion dollar in 2007. The main sectors that aroused the interest of the investors are transport, storage and communications sectors as well as the wholesale and retail trade. The recent financialization wave in Turkey attracted not only the traders but also the investment banks or more famously known as the “masters of the universe”. The financial intermediation sector has attracted at an amount of 7 billion dollar in 2006 and 11 billion dollar in 2007."

More:Turkish Weekly Comment - Istanbul as a Center of Global Finance?

Turkey resists pressure to end northern Iraq offensive - Europe, News - Independent.co.uk

"Turkey resists pressure to end northern Iraq offensive

By Ahmed Rasheed and Mariam Karouny in Baghdad
Thursday, 28 February 2008

Turkey has said it had "no timetable" to withdraw troops fighting Kurdish guerrillas in northern Iraq, resisting pressure from the US and other allies to end the offensive quickly.

Turkish troops crossed the border last Thursday to root out Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) fighters, which have used remote mountainous northern Iraq as a base in their armed campaign for self-rule in the mainly Kurdish south-east of Turkey."

More:Turkey resists pressure to end northern Iraq offensive - Europe, News - Independent.co.uk

Trend News : Khojali Tragedy Considered one of Most Horrific Crimes against Human Beings – Head of Heydar Aliyev Foundation Representative in Russia

"Khojali Tragedy Considered one of Most Horrific Crimes against Human Beings – Head of Heydar Aliyev Foundation Representative in Russia
28.02.08 10:58

Russia, Moscow, 27 February / Trend News corr. R.Agayev / The Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict on the Nagorno-Karabakh has continued for 20 years. Approximately 20% of Azerbaijani territories were occupied by the Armenians as a result of the conflict. Today there are 1mln internally displaced people in the country and the Khojali tragedy is considered to be one of the most difficult and horrific experiences of this conflict."

More:Trend News : Khojali Tragedy Considered one of Most Horrific Crimes against Human Beings – Head of Heydar Aliyev Foundation Representative in Russia

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to invewt in Turkey

"European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to invewt in Turkey

TNA with wire services
28 February 2008

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which is getting prepared to withdraw from the countries in central Europe, plans to make investments in Turkey in the upcoming period."

More:The New Anatolian

Trend News : Probe into fire in which nine Turks died in German city nears end

"Probe into fire in which nine Turks died in German city nears end
28.02.08 16:27

(dpa) - A probe by German and Turkish investigators into a fire that claimed the lives of nine Turkish women and children when it gutted a century-old tenement in the city of Ludwigshafen at the beginning of the month is nearing completion.

A police spokeswoman in the south-western city said Thursday that the report would not be made public until a psychological report had been submitted on two girls who claimed to have seen a man setting a fire in the stairwell of the house."

More:Trend News : Probe into fire in which nine Turks died in German city nears end

UPDATE 1-Turkish Eczacibasi Ilac seeks partners, shares up | Industries | Healthcare | Reuters

"UPDATE 1-Turkish Eczacibasi Ilac seeks partners, shares up

ISTANBUL, Feb 28 (Reuters) - Turkey's Eczacibasi Ilac ECILC.IS said on Thursday it was talking to possible partners to work together in the health sector, sending its stock sharply higher."

More:UPDATE 1-Turkish Eczacibasi Ilac seeks partners, shares up | Industries | Healthcare | Reuters

Turkey Rules Out Timetable For Troop Withdrawal

"Turkey Rules Out Timetable For Troop Withdrawal
Associated Press
Word Count: 653

ANKARA, Turkey -- Turkey's incursion against Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq should be short and focused, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Thursday.

But Turkey's military chief declined to set a timetable for the withdrawal of troops, who have been operating in Iraq for a week. 'The United States believes the current offensive should be as short and precisely targeted as possible,' Gates said after a meeting with Turkish counterpart Vecdi Gonul."

More(Subscription rqd):Free Preview - WSJ.com

Why Ankara should rethink its stance on Kosovo - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

"Why Ankara should rethink its stance on Kosovo
Thursday, February 28, 2008

Turkish government should not endorse the same principles, which, if they had been implemented in the 20s would have reduced the modern Turkish state to a small rump in central Anatolia"

More:Why Ankara should rethink its stance on Kosovo - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

Turkey Must Not Go Undercover | Columbia Spectator

"Turkey Must Not Go Undercover
By Mila Erer
PUBLISHED FEBRUARY 28, 2008

To be free, to let the citizens of a country decide exactly how they wish to act seems very ideal and, to an extent, very comfortable. Once we take a step towards realism, however, we will realize that such drastic liberties could lead to chaos and segregation within a country. Democratic idealism is taking a toll on Turkey and on its current discussion about permitting women who wear the turban to attend universities."

More:Turkey Must Not Go Undercover | Columbia Spectator

Morality, justice and women's rights: a portrait of Islam for the 21st century -Times Online

"Morality, justice and women's rights: a portrait of Islam for the 21st century

Turkey's highest religious authority is preparing to publish a groundbreaking guide to Islam for the modern world, putting the words of the Prophet Muhammad into context for a sweeping reinterpretation of the religion."

More:Morality, justice and women's rights: a portrait of Islam for the 21st century -Times Online

AFP: Turkey tells US its troops will stay in Iraq 'as long as necessary'

"Turkey tells US its troops will stay in Iraq 'as long as necessary'

10 hours ago

ANKARA (AFP) — Turkey said Thursday its offensive against Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq will continue 'as long as necessary,' rejecting pressure for a speedy end to the military incursion from US Defence Secretary Robert Gates."

More:AFP: Turkey tells US its troops will stay in Iraq 'as long as necessary'

Historic heritage vs tourism profits debated at panel - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

"Historic heritage vs tourism profits debated at panel
Thursday, February 28, 2008

The decision by the Four Seasons Hotel to enlarge its existing building over an archaeological site in the historic Sultanahmet neighborhood of Istanbul has sparked debate over whether the desire to preserve the city's heritage is being sacrificed to possible profit from tourism."

More:Historic heritage vs tourism profits debated at panel - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

Turkey tackles 'nightmarish' pensions for 48-year-old retirees - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

"Turkey tackles 'nightmarish' pensions for 48-year-old retirees
Thursday, February 28, 2008

Istanbul engineer Sina Kuseyri is planning for his retirement in two years when he reaches the ripe old age of 48, benefiting from a state pension that allows millions ofTurks to end their working lives in their 40s.As Kuseyri figures out how to live on a stipend he estimates will be about a tenth of the 4,500 liras ($3,800) he spends a month, Turkey's government is confronting a system that eats up 17 percent of its budget. Payments for the 12 years leading up to 2006 totaled 119 percent of that year's gross domestic product."

More:Turkey tackles 'nightmarish' pensions for 48-year-old retirees - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

20 in custody over leaking of mining secrets - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

"20 in custody over leaking of mining secrets
Thursday, February 28, 2008

Police yesterday took several Energy Ministry officials and businessmen into custody for alleged involvement in a corruption ring that involved the leaking of information on secret mineral reserves in order to allow private companies to claim ownership before the state."

More:20 in custody over leaking of mining secrets - Turkish Daily News Feb 28, 2008

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Interview - Fatih Akin - Ottaman blues | The List

"Interview - Fatih Akin

Kaleem Aftab goes head on with the best Turkish filmmaker of his generation

Fatih Akin is embarrassed that his new film The Edge of Heaven picked up awards in Cannes and at the European Film Awards for Best Screenplay. The Turkish filmmaker admits: ‘The final film looks nothing like the script. We completely changed its structure in the edit room.’ For this reason, Akin made a point of praising British editor Andrew Bird when he picked up the prizes."

More:Interview - Fatih Akin - Ottaman blues | The List

RoboTurk helicopter to aid disaster recovery | Tech news blog - CNET News.com

"RoboTurk helicopter to aid disaster recovery
Posted by Stefanie Olsen

Two Turkish engineers have built a prototype of an autonomous rescue helicopter equipped with Microsoft robotics and mapping software so that it can capture video of disaster sites and stream it back to command centers. The engineers Oguz Bayrakdar and Omer Celik began developing the robot, called RoboTurk, last year with the help of the Istanbul municipal government and Microsoft Robotics Group, which makes commercial software for autonomous applications that could range from a child's robotic Lego set to an unmanned helicopter."

More:RoboTurk helicopter to aid disaster recovery | Tech news blog - CNET News.com

Turkish-Armenian relations and the European Union (1)

"Turkish-Armenian relations and the European Union (1)
by
Ali Yurttagül*
The results of the Armenian elections last Tuesday were unfortunately not as hopeful as those experienced recently in Cyprus.


The former prime minister and new president Sarkisian is from the 'Karabakh family,' which holds power in Armenia in its hands like a caliphate. Sarkisian is, like Kocharian, a politician who supports the independence of Karabakh."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

İstanbul to host energy meeting of Iraq, Turkey, US

"İstanbul to host energy meeting of Iraq, Turkey, US

Iraqi, Turkish and US officials are scheduled to meet in İstanbul on Saturday for a meeting that will focus on energy issues amid frenzied diplomatic correspondence between Ankara, Baghdad and Washington concerning Turkey's ongoing military operation inside northern Iraq to eliminate the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) based there."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Letters: Headscarves, secularism and emancipation | From the Guardian | The Guardian

"Headscarves, secularism an

Madeleine Bunting's comment on the protests in Turkey against women wearing headscarves in Turkish universities (Comment, February 25) avoided the political feeling within the nation at the heart of the matter. There is a creeping feeling in middle-class liberal Turkey that the conservative AK party is promoting more regressive values. Political favour is being granted to the openly religious (or those who wear the trappings of the openly religious) at the expense of secular non-believers."

More:Letters: Headscarves, secularism and emancipation | From the Guardian | The Guardian

Turkey rejects timetable for troop withdrawal

"Turkey rejects timetable for troop withdrawal

Defense Secretary Robert Gates arrived in Ankara and will meet today with Turkey's president, prime minister and military brass."

More:Turkey rejects timetable for troop withdrawal

Some Turks Question Timing of Iraq Push - washingtonpost.com

"Some Turks Question Timing of Iraq Push
Did Incursion Just Happen to Coincide With Easing of Ban on Head Scarves?

By Ellen Knickmeyer
Washington Post Foreign Service
Thursday, February 28, 2008; Page A14

ANKARA, Turkey, Feb. 27 -- Turkey's military offensive in northern Iraq has clear objectives: attack Kurdish separatist guerrillas in their mountain bases, destroy their camps and weapons caches, and show them they can be pursued anywhere, anytime. "

More:Some Turks Question Timing of Iraq Push - washingtonpost.com

Turkish-Jewish Friendship

"Turkish-Jewish Friendship

“Both Turkey and Israel are unique in the Middle-East as the only countries with democratic regimes and democratic culture with multi-party systems. The close ties of friendship and tolerance between the Turkish and Jewish People throughout the centuries is proof that Moslems and Jews can live together with mutual respect."

More:Turkish-Jewish Friendship « Worte,Zeichen,Bilder

Opinion: Turkey’s Kurdish Clashes | Newsweek International | Newsweek.com

"Kurdish Battles

The tension on the Turkish-Iraqi border is a time bomb that Washington must defuse

It's a 30-year-old story between Iraq and Turkey: the snow melts, the Kurdish fighters of the PKK emerge from hibernation in Iraq's Kandil Mountains, and fighting starts in Turkey's southeast. This year the Turkish Army started early, pushing thousands of men across the border in the first significant ground incursion since America arrived in Iraq. The Turks apparently procured Washington's acquiescence, but Iraqi Kurds of all stripes, ranging from the central government to ordinary Kurdish citizens to dissident Shiite leader Moqtada al-Sadr, demand Iraqi sovereignty be defended."

More:Opinion: Turkey’s Kurdish Clashes | Newsweek International | Newsweek.com

A Mutual Enemy: U.S.-Turkish-Iraqi Cooperation against the PKK

"A Mutual Enemy: U.S.-Turkish-Iraqi Cooperation against the PKK
By Abdulkadir Onay and Soner Cagaptay
February 27, 2008

On February 21, Turkish ground forces crossed the Iraqi border in an attempt to dismantle Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) terrorist camps, following weeks of periodic aerial bombardment that began in mid-December. The incursion was partly the product of a November 5 agreement between Turkey and the United States to share intelligence in fighting the PKK, a group that the U.S. State Department has designated a foreign terrorist organization. On February 22, the White House backed the operation: 'The United States agrees with Turkey that the PKK is a terrorist organization, and . . . an enemy of Turkey, Iraq, and the United States.'"

More:www.washingtoninstitute.org

Loving Istanbul

"Loving Istanbul
By Marinneth S. Babao

A BEAUTIFUL sunrise welcomed me as I set foot in Istanbul. The ride to my hotel was breathtaking with the Bosphorus Sea creating a lovely backdrop of the sunrise. I felt that the moment was perfect for a small prayer thanking God for the loveliest things in the world."

More:Sun.Star Davao - Loving Istanbul

Turkish Salvage Tycoon in War-Torn Iraq Says U.N. Owes Him Millions - International News | News of the World | Middle East News | Europe

"Turkish Salvage Tycoon in War-Torn Iraq Says U.N. Owes Him Millions

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

By Michael Y. Park

Kahraman Sadikoglu remembers the day in May 2003 when a U.N. agency asked him to move forward with a business deal that would make the world a better place — and help him earn a tidy profit."

More:FOXNews.com - Turkish Salvage Tycoon in War-Torn Iraq Says U.N. Owes Him Millions - International News | News of the World | Middle East News | Europe News

U.S. Tech Investment in Turkey Increases from 848 Million in 2006 to more Than 3.5 Billion in 2007

"U.S. Tech Investment in Turkey Increases from 848 Million in 2006 to more Than 3.5 Billion in 2007

By Tim Gray
TMCnet Web Editor

In a move designed to capitalize on the growing need for information and communications technology [ICT] expansion opportunities among U.S. businesses, the Investment Support and Promotion Agency of Turkey [ISPAT] is hosted this week its first ICT investing seminar in Chicago."

More:U.S. Tech Investment in Turkey Increases from 848 Million in 2006 to more Than 3.5 Billion in 2007

Fighting the PKK: Can Turkey Succeed in Northern Iraq? - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"Can Turkey Succeed in Northern Iraq?

By Jürgen Gottschlich in Istanbul

Turkish military leaders as well as Turkish papers have reported success in northern Iraq, but how effective has the invasion been? US and Iraqi leaders are impatient, while Kurdish militants have probably melted away."

More:Fighting the PKK: Can Turkey Succeed in Northern Iraq? - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

Turkey beefs up security on border to prevent PKK infiltration_English_Xinhua

"Turkey beefs up security on border to prevent PKK infiltration
www.chinaview.cn 2008-02-27 21:55:11

ANKARA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Turkey deployed additional troops and armored vehicles along the borders with Iraq on Wednesday to prevent the infiltration of the banned Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK)as the ground operation against the terrorist group in Iraq's north continues, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported."

More:Turkey beefs up security on border to prevent PKK infiltration_English_Xinhua

EBRD looks at role in Turkey

"EBRD looks at role in Turkey

By Stefan Wagstyl in London

Published: February 27 2008 02:00 | Last updated: February 27 2008 02:00

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the multilateral bank for former communist countries, is considering launching operations in Turkey.

Extending its reach to the country could aid western efforts to build links with Turkey at a time when Ankara's bid for European Union membership faces some difficulty. The move could give the EBRD a new role as it pulls out of richer former communist economies and cut its risk of over-exposure to Russia."

More:FT.com / Home UK / UK - EBRD looks at role in Turkey

Turkey delays inauguration of first nuclear plant tender

"Turkey delays inauguration of first nuclear plant tender

Turkey on Thursday delayed the opening of a tender for the construction of the countrys first nuclear power plant. The energy ministry was waiting for a government audit agency to comment on the tenders technical details before potential bidders could be invited, state-run media said. Officials said earlier but it was not clear how long the delay would be."

More:Turkey delays inauguration of first nuclear plant tender

Turkish delight over Iraq incursion may backfire - Radio Netherlands Worldwide - English

"Turkish delight over Iraq incursion may backfire

by Bernard Bouwman

27-02-2008

Public opinion in Turkey is in a celebratory mood - the Turkish army appears to be rapidly liquidating Kurdish PKK fighters in northern Iraq. But can the party mood continue?

The Turkish military's website is not renowned for its user-friendliness: the press statements do not distinguish themselves by giving detailed information or clear explanations. However, that has changed in recent days. The website has been regularly updated with new press communiqués. The reason is simple: at the end of last week, the Turkish army launched an invasion of northern Iraq to eliminate the PKK or Kurdistan Workers' Party. The 'people's army' believes the fighting is going well as it has managed to kill more than 150 PKK guerrillas so far."

More:Turkish delight over Iraq incursion may backfire - Radio Netherlands Worldwide - English

Erşahin's Wax Poetic releases 'Copenhagen' - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

"Erşahin's Wax Poetic releases 'Copenhagen'
Wednesday, February 27, 2008

A living example of "here today, gone tomorrow," musician İlhan Erşahin's Wax Poetic released "Copenhagen," the second piece of a trilogy devoted to cities. The Scandinavian-influenced album is one station on his endless journey through many musical genres and places of the world"

More:Erşahin's Wax Poetic releases 'Copenhagen' - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

Turkish incursion would not affect the export of Iraqi oil

"Turkish incursion would not affect the export of Iraqi oil

Translated by IRAQdirectory.com - [2/27/2008]
An official at the North Oil Company said on Sunday that Iraq's exports of crude oil to the port of Ceyhan in Turkey would not be affected by the Turkish military incursion in northern Iraq"

More:Turkish incursion would not affect the export of Iraqi oil

Armenian brutality that targeted all of humanity

"Armenian brutality that targeted all of humanity
by
ZAKİR HAŞİMOV*
The Hocalı massacre has gone down as one of the worst and most striking pages in Azerbaijanian history.
For 200 years the people of Azerbaijan were victims of constant nationalist, chauvinist attempts on the part of the Armenians to engage in ethnic cleansing and to carry out the politics of genocide."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Desa of Turkey buys factory and land outside of Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

"Desa of Turkey buys factory and land outside of Istanbul
Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Desa Deri Sanayi & Ticaret AS, a Turkish maker of leather bags and shoes, bought a factory and the land on which it's situated near the city of Tekirdag"

More:Desa of Turkey buys factory and land outside of Istanbul - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

THE KOSOVA CONUNDRUM FOR TURKEY AND EURASIA - Eurasia Daily Monitor

"THE KOSOVA CONUNDRUM FOR TURKEY AND EURASIA

By John C. K. Daly

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Since Kosova unilaterally declared independence on February 17, its action has caused a fissure in international reactions. Thirty states have now recognized Kosova’s independence, including the United States, Great Britain, France, and Germany. However, Russia, China, Spain, Georgia, and Greece, among others, oppose the move."

More:THE KOSOVA CONUNDRUM FOR TURKEY AND EURASIA - Eurasia Daily Monitor

Turkey says no timetable to pull-out, PKK death toll rises to 230

"Turkey says no timetable to pull-out, PKK death toll rises to 230
Turkey declined to give Iraq a timetable for withdrawal of troops fighting PKK on Wednesday, while Turkish army announced that 77 more PKK militants were killed, taking the death toll to 230 since the operation launched last week.

Turkish army said in a statement five more Turkish troops were killed in heavy fighting. Turkey's fatalities now rose to 24. It described the Tuesday night's operation as 'the most extensive one since the beginning of the cross-border land operation'. Its forces had hit 475 new targets, including shelters, anti-aircraft facilities, training bases and command centers, it added. On Wednesday Turkish warplanes are bombing hide-outs of PKK terrorists in mountainous area in Siladze region to neutralize terrorists and destroy the organization's infrastructure in the region, the official Anatolian Agency reported."

More:Turkey says no timetable to pull-out, PKK death toll rises to 230

Oktay Eksi: Turban chaos and the YOK President

"Oktay Eksi: Turban chaos and the YOK President

This time it was not only Hurriyet who was saying it. Yesterday's newspapers--of course not including those independent (!) press organs close to the administration--used the same word to describe the stage we have arrived at in these turban debates: 'Chaos!'

There are three main architects in this all: One is Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the other is MHP leader Devlet Bahceli, and the third is the president of the influential Board of Higher Education (YOK), Professor Yusuf Ziya Ozcan."

More:Oktay Eksi: Turban chaos and the YOK President

Turk party asks top court to block headscarf reform | World | Reuters

"Turk party asks top court to block headscarf reform
Wed Feb 27, 2008 11:30am GMT

By Gareth Jones

ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey's main opposition party said on Wednesday it had asked the Constitutional Court to quash a government-backed reform aimed at easing a ban on women students wearing the Muslim headscarf at university."

More:Turk party asks top court to block headscarf reform | World | Reuters

Turkey refuses to set timetable for troop withdrawal from Iraq_English_Xinhua

"Turkey refuses to set timetable for troop withdrawal from Iraq

BAGHDAD, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Turkish envoy to Baghdad said on Wednesday that his country will not set a timetable for the withdrawal of its troops fighting PKK fighters in northern Iraq.

"Our mission in northern Iraq is clear and there will be no timetable for our troops to withdraw until those terrorist bases are eliminated," the Turkish envoy, Ahmet Davutoglu, told a news conference in Baghdad after talks with Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari, a Kurd. "

More:Turkey refuses to set timetable for troop withdrawal from Iraq_English_Xinhua

Turkish Troops Kill 77 Kurdish Rebels

"Turkish Troops Kill 77 Kurdish Rebels

By BURHANETTIN OZBILICI – 4 hours ago

CUKURCA, Turkey (AP) — Turkish troops have killed 77 Kurdish rebels in night-long clashes in northern Iraq, the military said Wednesday. Five soldiers were also killed.

Meanwhile, more than 40 military trucks ferried troops toward the Iraqi border Wednesday, a day after heavy snow slowed down Turkey's ground incursion against Kurdish rebels."

More:The Associated Press: Turkish Troops Kill 77 Kurdish Rebels

ISN Security Watch - Wider Black Sea: Concept and reality

"Wider Black Sea: Concept and reality

As the US and EU promote the concept of a new 'Wider Black Sea' geopolitical region, economics may be the key to common identity and security, Haroutiun Khachatrian reports for ISN Security Watch."

More:ISN Security Watch - Wider Black Sea: Concept and reality

EPICOS - News: Unbound Turkey: A Rising Regional Powerbroker

"Unbound Turkey: A Rising Regional Powerbroker
(2008-02-27)
By: Forecast International Inc.

NEWTOWN, Conn. [February 26, 2008] - With its large military, burgeoning economy, and pivotal location as a bridge between two continents, Turkey has emerged as a crucial player involving regional geopolitics in both the Caspian Basin and the greater Middle East. As detailed in its most recent 'Turkey Military Market Overview,' Forecast International anticipates that Ankara's growing role as a regional powerbroker will be strengthened in coming years as its geopolitical bandwidth expands eastward."

More:EPICOS - News: Unbound Turkey: A Rising Regional Powerbroker

US players of Efes refuse to go to Serbia for basketball game

"US players of Efes refuse to go to Serbia for basketball game

The New Anatolian / Ankara
27 February 2008

Four American players of Efes Pilsen basketball team of Turkey refused to go to the Serbian capital of Belgrade for ULEB Cup game against Partizan Igokea to be played Thursday."

More:The New Anatolian

EXTRA: PKK wounded 'not treated' in Iraq's Kurdish region : Middle East World

"EXTRA: PKK wounded 'not treated' in Iraq's Kurdish region

Baghdad - The government of Iraq's Kurdish Autonomous Region denied Thursday that wounded rebels of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) were receiving treatment in the region's hospitals. 'News reported on the website of the Turkish General Staff that wounded PKK rebels are receiving treatment in hospitals in the Kurdish region are untrue,' said a statement by a government spokesman."

More:EXTRA: PKK wounded 'not treated' in Iraq's Kurdish region : Middle East World

Istanbul and Antalya most popular cities in real estate sector - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

"Istanbul and Antalya most popular cities in real estate sector
Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Citizens of around 70 countries have bought property in Turkey, according to a report of the foreign population in Turkey conducted by the Chamber of Foreign Affairs of the Deed and Cadastre Head Office."

More:Istanbul and Antalya most popular cities in real estate sector - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

Bloomberg.com: Europe

"Turkey to End `Nightmarish' Pensions for 48-Year-Olds (Update1)

Feb. 27 (Bloomberg) -- Istanbul engineer Sina Kuseyri is planning for his retirement in two years when he reaches the ripe old age of 48, benefiting from a state pension that allows millions of Turks to end their working lives in their 40s."

More:Bloomberg.com: Europe

Euronews to broadcast news in Turkish - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

"Euronews to broadcast news in Turkish
Wednesday, February 27, 2008

The state-owned Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT) has started partnership negotiations with European news channel Euronews, which broadcasts news in eight different languages."

More:Euronews to broadcast news in Turkish - Turkish Daily News Feb 27, 2008

Feminine lives ruled by masculine politics - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

"Feminine lives ruled by masculine politics
Monday, February 25, 2008

Making politics over a woman's body is just as wrong as depriving women who wear headscarves the right to an education in the name of protecting secularism, says UN's special rapporteur on violence against women"

More:Feminine lives ruled by masculine politics - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

Turkish parties move against law allowing head scarves - International Herald Tribune

"Turkish parties move against law allowing head scarves

ANKARA, Turkey: Two secular Turkish opposition parties jointly appealed to the Constitutional Court on Wednesday to overturn a law allowing women to wear Islamic head scarves in universities."

More:Turkish parties move against law allowing head scarves - International Herald Tribune

Turkish Cup welcomes clash of bruised titans_English_Xinhua

"Turkish Cup welcomes clash of bruised titans
www.chinaview.cn 2008-02-27 19:14:39

ANKARA, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Arguably Turkish football's most important and historic derby will take place Wednesday night, and both Galatasaray and Fenerbahce know that this will be more than asimple Fortis Turkish Cup quarterfinal match, Turkish Daily News reported."

More:Turkish Cup welcomes clash of bruised titans_English_Xinhua

Gates to tell Turks to wrap up Iraq op | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle

"Gates to tell Turks to wrap up Iraq op

NEW DELHI — Defense Secretary Robert Gates says he will tell Turkish leaders they need to wrap up their military operations in northern Iraq quickly, and that the ongoing assault must not last longer than a week or two."

More:Gates to tell Turks to wrap up Iraq op | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle

US to seek end to Turkey assault

"US to seek end to Turkey assault

US Defence Secretary Robert Gates has said Turkish operations in northern Iraq must end as soon as possible."

More:BBC NEWS | World | Europe | US to seek end to Turkey assault

Turkey sees no need for 7th Nabucco partner now

"Turkey sees no need for 7th Nabucco partner now

By Orhan Coskun
ANKARA, Feb 27 (Reuters) - The six-nation natural gas pipeline project Nabucco is 'crowded enough' and there is no need at present to discuss a seventh partner, the head of Turkey's state gas pipeline company Botas said on Wednesday.
Gaz de France said earlier on Wednesday that it was still ready to join if the consortium behind the Nabucco pipeline, which is designed to help Europe diversify its gas imports away from Russia, backed its participation."

More:Feed Article | Business |

TURKISH POP STAR FUMING OVER VIDEO ALCOHOL BAN

"TURKISH POP STAR FUMING OVER VIDEO ALCOHOL BAN

Turkish pop star ASLIZEN YENTU has been left fuming after authorities in the country banned her latest music video - as it featured shots of a dinner table laden with alcohol. The country's broadcasting authorities are currently working on plans to ban any scenes that 'encourage' consumption of alcohol and Yentu's video became one of the first victims."

More:TURKISH POP STAR FUMING OVER VIDEO ALCOHOL BAN

Saba Net - Yemen news agency

"Turkey to establish monument in Sana'a
[27 February 2008]

SANA'A, Feb. 27 (Saba) – Well-informed sources said that the Turkish government had decided to set up a monument in the capital Sana'a for Turkish people who died in Yemen during the Ottoman Empire."

More:Saba Net - Yemen news agency

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Global program to promote Turkish films

"Global program to promote Turkish films

The Turkish Culture and Tourism Ministry, starting this spring, will be holding weeklong Turkish movie screening programs in around 30 countries, the ministry's copyrights and cinema department announced this week."

More:TODAY'S ZAMAN

Patrick Cockburn: The Turkish invasion could destroy a unified Iraq - Commentators, Opinion - Independent.co.uk

"Patrick Cockburn: The Turkish invasion could destroy a unified Iraq

Iraq is disintegrating faster than ever. The Turkish army invaded the north of the country last week and is still there. Iraqi Kurdistan is becoming like Gaza where Israel can send in its tanks and helicopters at will."

More:Patrick Cockburn: The Turkish invasion could destroy a unified Iraq - Commentators, Opinion - Independent.co.uk

Turkey strives for 21st century form of Islam | World news | The Guardian

"Turkey strives for 21st century form of Islam

· Move to rewrite sharia law basis and redefine Qur'an
· Fusion of Muslim beliefs and western principles

Turkey is engaged in a bold and profound attempt to rewrite the basis for Islamic sharia law while also officially reinterpreting the Qur'an for the modern age.

The exercise in reforming Islamic jurisprudence, sponsored by the modernising and mildly Islamic government of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the prime minister, is being seen as an iconoclastic campaign to establish a 21st century form of Islam, fusing Muslim beliefs and tradition with European and western philosophical methods and principles."

More:Turkey strives for 21st century form of Islam | World news | The Guardian

FT.com / World - Turkey's fresh look at Prophet nears end

"Turkey's fresh look at Prophet nears end

By Vincent Boland in Ankara

Published: February 27 2008 02:00 | Last updated: February 27 2008 02:00

Turkey's religious authorities are close to completing a significant revision of the reports and interpretations of what the Prophet Mohammed said and did, in a project likely to generate fierce debate in the Muslim world and the west."

More:FT.com / World - Turkey's fresh look at Prophet nears end

FT.com / World - EBRD looks at role in Turkey

"EBRD looks at role in Turkey

By Stefan Wagstyl in London

Published: February 27 2008 02:00 | Last updated: February 27 2008 02:00

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the multilateral bank for former communist countries, is considering launching operations in Turkey."

More:FT.com / World - EBRD looks at role in Turkey

'Genocide' politics

"Embassy Row

By James Morrison
February 26, 2008

'Genocide' politics

A grim but tireless debate between Turks and Armenians for more than nine decades found its way into the U.S. presidential campaign, as Turkish-Americans began organizing politically against any change in Washington's policy toward the 'Armenian genocide' of 1915."

More:Embassy Row - - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

Analysis: Turkey's risky PKK war - UPI.com

"Analysis: Turkey's risky PKK war

Published: Feb. 26, 2008 at 4:10 PM

By STEFAN NICOLA
UPI Germany Correspondent
BERLIN, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- While the European Union has criticized Turkey's ground incursion into northern Iraq, Washington seems to silently approve. That strategy is not without risk, however, especially if the military move would take civilian lives and longer than it should."

More:Analysis: Turkey's risky PKK war - UPI.com

Christofias: Turkey remains key factor in Cyprus solution_English_Xinhua

"Christofias: Turkey remains key factor in Cyprus solution
www.chinaview.cn 2008-02-27 03:15:22

NICOSIA, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- President-elect of Cyprus Demetris Christofias said on Tuesday that efforts to solve the Cyprus problem also depend on Turkey, which has stationed up to 40,000 troops in the north."

More:Christofias: Turkey remains key factor in Cyprus solution_English_Xinhua

Report: Turkey's president approves return of confiscated property to religious minorities - International Herald Tribune

"Report: Turkey's president approves return of confiscated property to religious minorities

ISTANBUL, Turkey: Turkey's president on Tuesday approved a European Union-backed law to return properties belonging to religious minorities confiscated by the state decades ago, state-run media said."

More:Report: Turkey's president approves return of confiscated property to religious minorities - International Herald Tribune

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkey determined to crush PKK

"Turkey determined to crush PKK
By Sarah Rainsford
BBC News, Istanbul

Turkish commando troops near the Turkey-Iraq border in Sirnak province, 24 February 2008
Heavy snow on the Iraqi border has hampered the Turkish operation

In a remote, snow-covered region of northern Iraq, Turkish troops have been battling Kurdish PKK rebels for five days."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkey determined to crush PKK

Aegon Says to Acquire Turkish Insurer Ankara | Industries | Financial Services & Real Estate | Reuters

"Aegon Says to Acquire Turkish Insurer Ankara

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - Dutch insurer Aegon (AEGN.AS: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Tuesday it had agreed to buy Turkish insurer Ankara Emeklilik from Polis Bakim ve Yardim Sandigi as it expands into the fast-growing Turkish life insurance and pension market."

More:Aegon Says to Acquire Turkish Insurer Ankara | Industries | Financial Services & Real Estate | Reuters

Azeris call on Europe to condemn Armenian 'genocide' : Europe World

"Azeris call on Europe to condemn Armenian 'genocide'

Europe World News | Home
Brussels - Azeri demonstrators called on the European Union on Tuesday to condemn Armenian war crimes in the disputed area of Nagorno Karabakh, 16 years after one of the most notorious massacres in the conflict. 'Rising generations must build a rampart against the renewal of this tragedy,' the group of several dozen protesters said in a statement calling on the UN, EU and international organizations 'to recognize and condemn the genocide at Khodjaly.'"

More:Azeris call on Europe to condemn Armenian 'genocide' : Europe World

Press TV - Turks: Hijab symbol of religious identity

"Turks: Hijab symbol of religious identity
Tue, 26 Feb 2008 18:13:10
Most Turkish women who wear a headscarf believe it is a symbol of their religious identity and an obligation, a poll indicates."

More:Press TV - Turks: Hijab symbol of religious identity

Talking to Turkey's Kurds - The Boston Globe

"Talking to Turkey's Kurds
By Aliza Marcus and Andrew Apostolou
February 26, 2008

THE CRISIS between Turkey and Iraq, with the United States playing the uneasy role of mediator and friend to both, has escalated with the Turkish land operation launched Feb. 22. Following last fall's spate of attacks inside Turkey by the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, the Bush administration gave Turkey intelligence to facilitate air strikes against key PKK bases in remote Iraqi Kurdish mountains. Washington hoped this would prevent any Turkish military offensive inside Iraqi Kurdistan, Iraq's most stable region and the PKK's unwilling host. This policy has clearly failed."

More:Talking to Turkey's Kurds - The Boston Globe

Turkey's Iraq war - The Boston Globe

"Turkey's Iraq war
February 26, 2008

TURKEY'S current military offensive inside northern Iraq has touched off a crisis - one to which several other players in the region have contributed. Although the ultimate responsibility for ending this crisis falls on Turkey, all of the others, including the United States, must do their part to prevent a larger regional conflagration."

More:Turkey's Iraq war - The Boston Globe

Suzan Sabanci Dincer Proves Turkey's Answer to Customer's Man

"Suzan Sabanci Dincer Proves Turkey's Answer to Customer's Man

By Ben Holland

Feb. 26 (Bloomberg) -- Suzan Sabanci Dincer was an 8-year- old schoolgirl when she began visiting the main office of her family's bank, Akbank TAS, during summer vacations. In the 1970s, she befriended Medeni Berk, Akbank's chief executive officer at the time."

More:Bloomberg.com: Europe

Trend News : Meeting of Turkic Speaking Countries Parliament Chairmen to be Held

"Meeting of Turkic Speaking Countries Parliament Chairmen to be Held
26.02.08 10:35

Azerbaijan, Baku, 25 February / Trend News corr. I.Alizadeh / The next Turkic speaking countries meeting is expected to held in Ankara at the end of May.

“ Turkey proposes to meet by Parliament chairmen at the end of May. At present, the exact date of the meeting is being specified through diplomatic channels,” Parliament reported to Trend News."

More:Trend News : Meeting of Turkic Speaking Countries Parliament Chairmen to be Held

In Turkey, Students Test a New Policy on Head Scarves - washingtonpost.com

"In Turkey, Students Test a New Policy on Head Scarves

By Ellen Knickmeyer
Washington Post Foreign Service
Tuesday, February 26, 2008; Page A10

ISTANBUL, Feb. 25 -- One of the agents of Turkey's cultural transformation stood, 5 feet tall and less than 100 pounds, at the gate of Istanbul Bilgi University on Monday, a flying wedge of social change in a fuzzy purple winter coat, brown hiking boots and a black wool scarf wrapped around her head. "

More:In Turkey, Students Test a New Policy on Head Scarves - washingtonpost.com

US: Turkey should take account of Iraqi Kurdish civilian concerns

"US: Turkey should take account of Iraqi Kurdish civilian concerns

The New Anatolian / Ankara
26 February 2008

U.S. Department of State said Monday during the military operation in the north of Iraq, Turkey should continue with its stated policy to minimize the impact and take very serious account of the concerns of civilian populations in the area."

More:The New Anatolian

Iraq calls on U.S. to intervene in Turkish incursion - Los Angeles Times

"Iraq calls on U.S. to intervene in Turkish incursion

The fighting between its ally and a Kurdish separatist group it considers a terrorist organization puts the Bush administration in a bind. 'They could do more,' an Iraqi official says.
By Asso Ahmed and Tina Susman, Special to The Times
February 26, 2008
SHILADEZAH, IRAQ -- Artillery and gunfire echoed through the mountains of northern Iraq on Monday during continued clashes between invading Turkish troops and Kurdish rebels, with Turkey saying that 153 guerrillas had been killed in four days."

More:Iraq calls on U.S. to intervene in Turkish incursion - Los Angeles Times

Can Turkish economy survive high energy prices?

"Can Turkish economy survive high energy prices?
Consumption; Demand; PricesGuest writes:

One of the test beds of peak oil, or supply constraints, is Turkey. The country is not gifted with many hydrocarbon reserves and faces a decline in its oil production. The rising thirst of energy for this developing country relies on exports from close countries. Natural gas, which is not peaking soon, is also a twin brother of oil in terms of pricing of the contracts, yet Turkey has no chance on this front either."

More:Peak Oil News >> Consumption; Demand; Prices >> Can Turkish economy survive high energy prices?

Turkish troops and PKK battle for 5th day in N.Iraq - swissinfo

"Turkish troops and PKK battle for 5th day in N.Iraq
Turkish army commando

By Paul de Bendern

ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkish forces fought Kurdish guerrillas at close quarters as they advanced on a key PKK base in northern Iraq on Monday, and Baghdad warned a prolonged incursion could have serious consequences for the region"

More:Turkish troops and PKK battle for 5th day in N.Iraq - swissinfo

Turkish foreign real estate spending tops $10 bln in 5 years

"Turkish foreign real estate spending tops $10 bln in 5 years

26 Feb 2008
bbj.hu
In the five-year period from 2003 through 2007 the value of real estate purchases by foreign interests in Turkey was approximately $10 billion, recent Undersecretariat of the Treasury figures have shown."

More:www.bbj.hu :: Turkish foreign real estate spending tops $10 bln in 5 years

Travel Biz Monitor :: Turkey to open tourist office in India

"Turkey to open tourist office in India
By Arti Saggi - New Delhi
After deliberating about an India office for almost a year, Turkey has finally confirmed its plan to open a dedicated National Tourist Office (NTO) in India in the next two months. The office is scheduled to come up in Chanakya Puri, New Delhi. It is, currently, scouting for a suitable location in the area."

More:Travel Biz Monitor :: Turkey to open tourist office in India

IOL: 'Turkish offensive could spark unrest'

"'Turkish offensive could spark unrest'

February 26 2008 at 12:04PM

Baghdad - Turkey's incursion into northern Iraq - its second in three months - threatens to trigger regional turmoil and destabilise the only peaceful area in the country since the fall of Saddam Hussein."

More:IOL: 'Turkish offensive could spark unrest'

U.S. Knew of Turkey's Plan To Hit PKK, Didn't Object

"U.S. Knew of Turkey's Plan To Hit PKK, Didn't Object
By Yochi J. Dreazen
Word Count: 649

WASHINGTON -- The Turkish government briefed the Bush administration about its plans to strike northern Iraq well in advance of launching the controversial operation and the U.S. raised no objections, according to American and Turkish officials."

More(Subscription rqd):Free Preview - WSJ.com

Turkish Cypriot leader says new reunification talks could start as early as April (UPDATED) - Hürriyet

"Turkish Cypriot leader says new reunification talks could start as early as April (UPDATED)

Reuters

Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat said on Tuesday the election of a new Cypriot president offered a chance for relaunching reunification talks, that could come as early as April and he believed a solution could be found by the end of 2008."

More:Turkish Cypriot leader says new reunification talks could start as early as April (UPDATED) - Hürriyet

French news for anglophones: France's international relations

"France's international relations

The European Parliament approved the European Union’s Lisbon Treaty on Wednesday, with 525 votes in favour, 115 against and 29 abstentions. It is expected to come into effect next year, after all 27 member states of the EU have individually ratified the treaty. Replacing the rejected constitution of 2005, the Lisbon Treaty has so far been ratified by France and four other member states."

More:French news for anglophones: France's international relations

Turkish opposition to try and have headscarf amendments ruled invalid

"Turkish opposition to try and have headscarf amendments ruled invalid
The amendments were backed by the ruling Justice and Development Party and the opposition Nationalist Movement Party.

ANKARA - Turkey’s main opposition party has confirmed it will seek to have constitutional amendments allowing women to wear the Islamic headscarf to attend university overturned."

More:Turkish opposition to try and have headscarf amendments ruled invalid

IOL: Turkish PM defends military incursion in Iraq

"Turkish PM defends military incursion in Iraq

February 26 2008 at 02:09PM

Ankara - Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Tuesday defended Turkey's military offensive against Kurdish rebel bases in northern Iraq, amid calls for US and Iraqi troops to be withdrawn as soon as possible."

More:IOL: Turkish PM defends military incursion in Iraq

BBC NEWS | Middle East | Iraq denounces Turkish offensive

"Iraq denounces Turkish offensive

Turkey says it is defending itself from rebel attacks
The Iraqi government has denounced a Turkish incursion into northern Iraq in some of the strongest terms heard since the operation began last week."

More:BBC NEWS | Middle East | Iraq denounces Turkish offensive

World to watch Holy Hittite Monument - Turkish Daily News Feb 26, 2008

"World to watch Holy Hittite Monument
Tuesday, February 26, 2008

BEYŞEHİR - Anatolia News Agency

Eflatunpınar Holy Hittite Monument and Pool, situated in the central Anatolian city of Konya's Beyşehir district and little known, will be illuminated and broadcast live to the world on the Internet."

More:World to watch Holy Hittite Monument - Turkish Daily News Feb 26, 2008

Cyprus talks reunification

"Cyprus talks reunification
UPDATED: 2008-02-26 02:19:39 MST

NICOSIA, Cyprus -- The decades-long division of Cyprus could be resolved by the end of the year, the leader of the breakaway Turkish Cypriots said yesterday, a day after Greek Cypriots elected a new president."

More:The Calgary Sun - Cyprus talks reunification

Bianet :: Dink Trial: Criminal Organisation is Protected

"Dink Trial: Criminal Organisation is Protected

The fourth hearing has brought no further clarity in the case, as many of the requests of the joint plaintiffs were refused.

Bıa news centre

26-02-2008

Erol ÖNDEROĞLU

On 19 January 2007, the editor-in-chief of the weekly Turkish-Armenian Agos newspaper, Hrant Dink, was murdered in front of his office in central Istanbul. The suspected gunman O.S. and eighteen other, mostly young, men are on trial; eight of them are in police detention."

More:Bianet :: Dink Trial: Criminal Organisation is Protected

Turk Dogan Mulls Talks on Road Privatisation | Markets | Reuters

"Turk Dogan Mulls Talks on Road Privatisation

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkish conglomerate Dogan Holding (DOHOL.IS: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Tuesday it was considering offers for talks about Turkey's upcoming privatisation of highways and bridges, but had reached no agreement on any partnership."

More:Turk Dogan Mulls Talks on Road Privatisation | Markets | Reuters

Third bridge at Istanbul Strait - Hürriyet

"Third bridge at Istanbul Strait

Anatolian Agency

Turkish Transportation Ministry will soon send to State Planning Organization (DPT) a feasibility report on a new highway project in Istanbul, including the third bridge planned to be built at Bogazici (Bosphorus)."

More:Third bridge at Istanbul Strait - Hürriyet

Turkey's powerful diplomatic link in the Gulf - Turkish Daily News Feb 26, 2008

"Turkey's powerful diplomatic link in the Gulf
Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Commercial interests between Kuwait and Turkey rest on friendly political relations that date as far back as the independence of Kuwait. ‘Since its independence in 1961, Kuwait enjoyed good relations with Turkey. Political missions were exchanged from the earliest times,’ says Abdullah Abdulaziz Al-Duwaikh, the Kuwaiti ambassador to Turkey"

More:Turkey's powerful diplomatic link in the Gulf - Turkish Daily News Feb 26, 2008

Turkey ranks 7th on the list of rental summer houses - Turkish Daily News Feb 26, 2008

"Turkey ranks 7th on the list of rental summer houses
Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Foreigners who own summer houses in Turkey's popular summer resorts rent them out over the Internet, placing the country seventh out of 112 countries in demand for holiday homes, according to a study by the Web site holidaylettings.co.uk."

More:Turkey ranks 7th on the list of rental summer houses - Turkish Daily News Feb 26, 2008

Monday, February 25, 2008

Turkish universities warned to allow headscarves - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

"Turkish universities warned to allow headscarves

Posted 5 hours 20 minutes ago

Turkey's higher education watchdog has warned university chiefs they risked prosecution if they flouted new laws allowing women students to wear the Islamic headscarf.

Some universities have stood defiant against the constitutional amendments that came into force over the weekend, backed by those who fiercely object to measures they believe will undermine Turkey's secular system."

More:Turkish universities warned to allow headscarves - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

Turkish troops "advancing on PKK headquarters" (Roundup) - Middle East

"Turkish troops 'advancing on PKK headquarters' (Roundup)

Feb 25, 2008, 15:50 GMT

Ankara - Turkish troops were Monday advancing on the Kurdish Workers' Party (PKK) headquarters located in the Qandil Mountains near the Iraqi border with Iran, as Ankara defended the operation saying Turkey had the right to self-defence."

More:Turkish troops "advancing on PKK headquarters" (Roundup) - Middle East

Turks gather in solidarity for soldiers' funerals | Reuters

"Turks gather in solidarity for soldiers' funerals

By Selcuk Gokoluk

ANKARA, Feb 25 (Reuters) - Thousands of flag-waving Turks mourned the deaths of three army officers at their funerals in Ankara's main mosque on Monday in a show of solidarity with the military's fight against Kurdish rebels in northern Iraq."

More:Turks gather in solidarity for soldiers' funerals | Reuters

Turkey Property Fethiye cooking course is highly recommended - 25-02-2008

"Turkey Property Fethiye cooking course is highly recommended

A cooking course held at the Yediburunlar lighthouse near to Fethiye has been highlighted in a list of the finest culinary tuition programmes in the world."

More:Turkey Property Fethiye cooking course is highly recommended - 25-02-2008

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkey academics defy scarf law

"Turkey academics defy scarf law

The headscarf issue has divided opinion in Turkey
A number of Turkish universities have defied a new law allowing women students to wear Islamic headscarves."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkey academics defy scarf law

The Herald - Life. Captured Every Day. - Serving York, Chester, and Lancaster Counties.

"Turkish Cypriot leader sees solution
By ELENA BECATOROS and MENELAOS HADJICOSTIS · The Associated Press

CYPRUS TURKISH CYPRIOTS
Petros Karadjias
Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat reacts during an interview in his office in the Turkish occupied area of the divided capital Nicosia, Cyprus, Monday, Feb. 25, 2008. The election of a new president in Cyprus could see a solution to the island decades-long partition by the end of the year, according to the leader of the breakaway Turkish Cypriot state, Mehmet Ali Talat said the Turkish Cypriot side was willing to be flexible.

The decades-long division of Cyprus could be resolved by the end of the year, the leader of the breakaway Turkish Cypriots said Monday."

More:The Herald - Life. Captured Every Day. - Serving York, Chester, and Lancaster Counties.

A $12 billion history lesson - International Herald Tribune

"A $12 billion history lesson

Last week, a senior French official flew to Istanbul to discuss Turkey's exclusion of Gaz de France from an $12 billion pipeline project - designed to bring Central Asian oil directly to European markets - because of recent French legislation making it a criminal offense to deny that the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Armenians in 1915 constituted genocide."

More:A $12 billion history lesson - International Herald Tribune

Ankara's Intentions: What Is Behind Turkey's Invasion of Northern Iraq? - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"ANKARA'S INTENTIONS
What Is Behind Turkey's Invasion of Northern Iraq?

Turkey had been warning for months that it was considering an invasion of northern Iraq to go after Kurdish rebels based there. But now that it has happened, many are wondering why now? Could it actually be an invitation to negotiate?"

More:Ankara's Intentions: What Is Behind Turkey's Invasion of Northern Iraq? - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

Turkish academics dispute whether law allows Islamic head scarf in universities - International Herald Tribune

"Turkish academics dispute whether law allows Islamic head scarf in universities

ISTANBUL, Turkey: Some Turkish academics dispute whether a recent change in the Constitution allows women to wear Islamic head scarves in universities, signaling that the battle over the religious attire has yet to run its course."

More:Turkish academics dispute whether law allows Islamic head scarf in universities - International Herald Tribune

EU: Turkey must avoid disproportionate Iraq action | Reuters

"EU: Turkey must avoid disproportionate Iraq action

BRUSSELS, Feb 22 (Reuters) - The European Union on Friday repeated a call on Turkey to refrain from any disproportionate military action in northern Iraq.
"

More:EU: Turkey must avoid disproportionate Iraq action | Reuters

SOCIAL POLARIZATION DEEPENING IN TURKEY - Eurasia Daily Monitor

"SOCIAL POLARIZATION DEEPENING IN TURKEY

By Gareth Jenkins

Monday, February 25, 2008

As supporters of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) stage sporadic protests in western Turkey against the ongoing Turkish military operations in northern Iraq, the government’s hurried attempt to lift the headscarf ban in Turkish universities appears to be deepening the other great divide in Turkish society, namely that over the role of Islam in public life."

More:SOCIAL POLARIZATION DEEPENING IN TURKEY - Eurasia Daily Monitor

Event teaches about Turkey

"Event teaches about Turkey
By ANTON MENNING, Times Staff Writer
Published: Monday, February 25, 2008 8:00 AM CST

A mixture of civilians, military personnel and children attended a recent event at the Lewis and Clark Center at Fort Leavenworth (KS) to learn about Turkey's history, culture and government."

More:Leavenworth Times - News

Turkey's SMEs to meet at Business Partneria - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

"Turkey's SMEs to meet at Business Partneria
Monday, February 25, 2008

CEYDA ÇAĞLAYAN
ISTANBUL – Referans

Turkey's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will meet foreign companies at the Mediterranean Business Partneria, to be held at the Antalya Expo Center May 15-16. The organization, which aims to secure long-term commercial synergies, targets a business volume of at least 500 million euros. "

More:Turkey's SMEs to meet at Business Partneria - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

Was the Ottoman Empire a colonizer? - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

"Was the Ottoman Empire a colonizer?
Monday, February 25, 2008

Ali GÜNEŞ

International University of Sarajevo, jointly with Ankara Centre for Thought and Research (ADAM), through the sponsorship of Turkish International Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA), hosted an international conference on “East-West Relations: Past, Present, Future” on February 14-15, 2008, in Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. "

More:Was the Ottoman Empire a colonizer? - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

Investment Property in Turkey - A Country at the Crossroads

"Investment Property in Turkey - A Country at the Crossroads by Antonio Bonito

For anyone about to invest in the emerging Turkey property market, it's a good idea to discover as much as possible about this ancient land at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, to uncover its mysteries and try to imagine what the future holds for those who reside within its extensive borders. In this article we are going to set the scene by taking a brief look at modern-day Turkey."

More:Article: GoArticles.com

Turkey's AKP u-turn on additional headscarf legislation, as universities divided (UPDATED) - Hürriyet

"Turkey's AKP u-turn on additional headscarf legislation, as universities divided (UPDATED)

An AKP official said there is no need to change the additional 17th article of the Higher Education Law to lift the headscarf ban, reversing an earlier agreement between the governing party and nationalist MHP, who supported the constitutional amendments as the legal dispute grows."

More:Turkey's AKP u-turn on additional headscarf legislation, as universities divided (UPDATED) - Hürriyet

Trend News : EU chief hopes new president can help resolve Cyprus stalemate

"EU chief hopes new president can help resolve Cyprus stalemate
25.02.08 14:35

(dpa) - European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso on Monday called on new Cyprus President Dimitris Christofias to waste no time in seeking a deal with the Turkish Cypriot community on the status of the divided island."

More:Trend News : EU chief hopes new president can help resolve Cyprus stalemate

Mixed implementation of headscarf ban in Turkey : Europe World

"Mixed implementation of headscarf ban in Turkey

Ankara - The implementation of two constitutional amendments allowing womento wear Islamic-style headscarves at universities varied Monday with some universities allowing covered women to enter classes and others forcing students to uncover before being allowed onto campus. Students wearing the headscarf were allowed into Bogazici University, but at the nearby Istanbul Technical University the ban on the covering continued, Anadolu news agency reported."

More:Mixed implementation of headscarf ban in Turkey : Europe World

New Cyprus leader under pressure to end division | World | Reuters

"New Cyprus leader under pressure to end division

By Michele Kambas and Dina Kyriakidou

NICOSIA (Reuters) - Newly-elected Cyprus President Demetris Christofias came under immediate pressure on Monday to make good on promised efforts to reunite the divided Mediterranean island."

More:New Cyprus leader under pressure to end division | World | Reuters

Feminine lives ruled by masculine politics - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

"Feminine lives ruled by masculine politics
Monday, February 25, 2008

Making politics over a woman's body is just as wrong as depriving women who wear headscarves the right to an education in the name of protecting secularism, says UN's special rapporteur on violence against women"

More:Feminine lives ruled by masculine politics - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

Deaths rise in Iraq offensive - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

"Deaths rise in Iraq offensive
Monday, February 25, 2008

In the third day of the military's ground operation into northern Iraq, the clashes intensify. Major PPK camps are hit by artillery and warplanes, killing 112 terrorists. Iraq says the operation does not target the country's sovereignty"

More:Deaths rise in Iraq offensive - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

Best Investments in India: Indian companies keen to invest in Turkey

"Indian companies keen to invest in Turkey

In Today Scenario Investing overseas is the ongoing trend, Developing countries are not only investing in countryside, but they also are seeking investment opportunities abroad."

More:Best Investments in India: Indian companies keen to invest in Turkey

Queen of Turkish hearts in Germany - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

"Queen of Turkish hearts in Germany
Monday, February 25, 2008

'Neighborhood mothers' help Turkish mothers find their way in German society

Dorte Huneke
BERLIN - Turkish Daily News

You can recognize them by their red shawl and a red and white bag, which resembles a school satchel. "

More:Queen of Turkish hearts in Germany - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

Asia Times Online :: Middle East News, Iraq, Iran current affairs

"Turkey's offensive comes at a price
By M K Bhadrakumar

The high Qandil mountains and deep gorges on the northern Iraqi border region with Iran must be one of the world's most ideal terrains for guerrilla war. That is where the fighters of the separatist Turkish Kurdish movement the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) have set up its headquarters. The PKK is close enough to the Turkish border to stage its guerrilla attacks and can easily frustrate 'hot pursuits' by the Turkish army."

More:Asia Times Online :: Middle East News, Iraq, Iran current affairs

Turkey’s New Card in EU Diplomacy: Energy

"Turkey’s New Card in EU Diplomacy: Energy
Alper Fevzi Kara

This commentary is from USAK's Energy Review Newsletter
http://www.turkishweekly.net/energy
To subscribe email to energyreview@turkishweekly.net

Looking at the bigger picture, against the backdrop of all this internal politics, the economic agenda of the country is quite different. Despite all absurdities in the political stage, Turkey is heading forward like a mammoth pushing its way through the jungle.
Thrilling developments in the energy business are on the way, especially those concerning oil and gas are in full steam. "

More:Turkish Weekly Comment - Turkey’s New Card in EU Diplomacy: Energy

Turkish army kills 79 PKK rebels in Iraq as offensive widens - Haaretz - Israel News

"Turkish army kills 79 PKK rebels in Iraq as offensive widens
By Reuters
Tags: Kurds, Iraq, Turkey, PKK

Turkish troops intensified their offensive against Kurdish PKK guerrillas in northern Iraq on Saturday, two days after crossing the mountainous border in a campaign Turkey's allies hope will be short and limited."

More:Turkish army kills 79 PKK rebels in Iraq as offensive widens - Haaretz - Israel News

Turkey popular destination for European tourists - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

"Turkey popular destination for European tourists
Monday, February 25, 2008

Turkey will be a popular tourism destination this year for European tourists, according to a study conducted by Thomas Cook, a leading tourism agency in Europe."

More:Turkey popular destination for European tourists - Turkish Daily News Feb 25, 2008

Turkey warned of ‘full-scale' Kurd resistance

"Turkey warned of ‘full-scale' Kurd resistance
By Leila Fadel and Yasseen Taha/McClatchy Newspapers (MCT)
Sunday, February 24, 2008 9:49 AM CST
BAGHDAD -- The president of the Kurdistan regional government ordered Iraqi Kurdistan to prepare for 'full-scale resistance' Saturday if a Turkish military incursion expands into populated areas."

More:Lake Expo Online - Top News

Iraq fears clash between Turkish troops and Peshmerga

"Iraq fears clash between Turkish troops and Peshmerga
Mon 25 Feb 2008, 13:18 GMT
By Mohammed Abbas

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq fears that a prolonged Turkish incursion into northern Iraq could trigger clashes between Turkish troops and Iraqi Kurdish Peshmerga security forces, the country's national security adviser said on Monday."

More:World | Africa - Reuters.com

Turkey's Gul delays Africa trip due to Iraq campaign

"Turkey's Gul delays Africa trip due to Iraq campaign
Mon 25 Feb 2008, 12:05 GMT

ANKARA, Feb 25 (Reuters) - Turkey's President Abdullah Gul has postponed a planned trip to Africa this week due to a major Turkish ground offensive against Kurdish PKK rebels in northern Iraq, the state Anatolian news agency said on Monday."

More:News | Africa - Reuters.com

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish Cypriots urge unity talks

"Turkish Cypriots urge unity talks
Demetris Christofias speaking at campaign headquarters in Nicosia
Christofias has already arranged to meet the Turkish Cypriot president
The Turkish Cypriot leader has called on the new Cyprus president to resume negotiations as soon as possible in an effort to reunite the island."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish Cypriots urge unity talks

Sunday, February 24, 2008

A head scarf is not just a scarf | csmonitor.com

"A head scarf is not just a scarf
The dispute in Turkey reminds us of the importance of allowing 'others' emotional depth.

brooklyn, n.y. - Just as a flag is not merely a swatch of material – stars, stripes, sickles – a scarf is no longer a piece of silk. Turkey is set to repeal its longstanding scarf ban in university settings – setting off a firestorm of controversy about class conflict, human rights, and the rise of Islam in a country fearful of religious influence."

More:A head scarf is not just a scarf | csmonitor.com

The Oya Collection

"Turkish women are ‘handmade’ champions. A handmade trousseau is a must and a way to measure the suitability of the bride to be. Incredibly beautiful stuff (and some very ugly) is made by hand for that trousseau."

More:.: The Oya Collection

Madeleine Bunting: Secularists have nothing to fear from women wearing headscarves | Comment is free | The Guardian

"Secularists have nothing to fear from women wearing headscarves

Separation of church and state should not preclude the assertion of religious identity - as Turkey is learning

In Turkey, any day now, a female university student will mark a dramatic moment in her country's history. After years of heated debate, culminating in street demonstrations in recent months, she will no longer have to replace her headscarf with a wig or hat before attending her lectures, thanks to a constitutional amendment that received presidential consent last week. However, she will know that her newly won right is by no means secure; university authorities have been threatening to break the law and enforce the headscarf ban, while legal appeals are likely to end up in the constitutional court."

More:Madeleine Bunting: Secularists have nothing to fear from women wearing headscarves | Comment is free | The Guardian