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Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Turkish documentary wins hearts in Greece

"Turkish documentary wins hearts in Greece
Turkish director Tahsin İşbilen’s new documentary film sheds a light on an almost unknown period, telling the story of Greek communist partisans who escaped from the Nazis during World War II and took shelter in Turkey"

More:Turkish documentary wins hearts in Greece

commentarymagazine.com: He’s not the Barack Obama Europe Knew - by Abe Greenwald

commentarymagazine.com: He’s not the Barack Obama Europe Knew - by Abe Greenwald

He’s not the Barack Obama Europe Knew - by Abe Greenwald

Where Ronald Reagan tore down a wall, Barack Obama has hit one – and it’s made of bricks. European support for the American president is suffering. As Gregor Peter Schmitz asserts in Der Spiegel, “it has become clear that the most contentious issues [between the U.S. and Europe] have been shelved.” This means Obama is no longer asking Europe to replicate his idea of a stimulus plan and he’s not pushing for military help in Afghanistan. On both issues European leaders have declared, “No we can’t.” When it comes to instituting a global stimulus plan, the American president is further to the Left than Europe -- and Europe still objects. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy say they favor more government regulation in lieu of more government spending. Obama sought to immediately clarify. He told the Financial Times on Sunday, "The press has tended to frame this as an 'either/or' approach. I have consistently argued that what is needed is a 'both/and' approach. We need stimulus and we need regulation." In other words, Europeans are choosing their statist options from an a la carte menu, but in the U.S. we’re going family style. Nevertheless in Europe putting blame for the global financial crisis squarely on America’s shoulders is a relished pastime, and no matter how statist Obama gets, the Continent can’t be seen to follow the U.S.’s lead.

A romantic, sweet business in Muğla

"A romantic, sweet business in Muğla
FETHİYE - The imagery of honey and bees is usually linked with flowers, but in Muğla Province, delicious honey is produced from a symbiotic relationship between honeybees, a tiny aphid insect and the red pine tree."

More:A romantic, sweet business in Muğla

EU chides Turkey over press freedom, urges reform - Forbes.com

"EU chides Turkey over press freedom, urges reform
03.31.09, 01:56 PM EDT

By Marcin Grajewski

BRUSSELS, March 31 (Reuters) - The European Union's enlargement chief criticised Turkey on Tuesday for the way it treats the press, citing its tax dispute with its biggest media group, Dogan Yayin Holding."

More:EU chides Turkey over press freedom, urges reform - Forbes.com

Armenia and Turkey: Can Nuclear Power Become a Force that Binds Two Enemies?

"ARMENIA AND TURKEY: CAN NUCLEAR POWER BECOME A FORCE THAT BINDS TWO ENEMIES?
Marianna Grigoryan 3/31/09

As Turkey and Armenia inch closer to some potential form of reconciliation, Armenian attention is increasingly focusing on whether or not Turkey will opt to participate in the construction of a new Armenian nuclear power plant.

A February 21 statement by Prime Minister Tigran Sarkisian that Yerevan is 'open for dialogue' about Turkish participation in the project has sparked often heated debate in Armenia. Despite the public expression of concern, Armenia’s minister of energy and natural resources, Armen Movsisian, reaffirmed at a March 20 news briefing that the government would be open to considering Turkish participation in the project. 'Any state can take part in the construction of the nuclear power plant, including Turkey,' Movsisian said."

More:EurasiaNet Eurasia Insight - Armenia and Turkey: Can Nuclear Power Become a Force that Binds Two Enemies?

CSIS Events - Turkey's Evolving Dynamics: Strategic Choices for U.S.-Turkey Relations

"Turkey's Evolving Dynamics: Strategic Choices for U.S.-Turkey Relations

Over the past year, an interdisciplinary team of CSIS scholars, working under the guidance of a Senior Advisory Group of distinguished former officials undertook a comprehensive assessment of Turkey’s internal developments and changing relations with its neighbors and the United States. A week before President Obama’s trip to Turkey, Dr. Brzezinski and General Scowcroft discussed Turkey’s importance to the Unites States and the value of this study. The CSIS scholars outlined their findings and proposals for a new strategic framework for reinvigoration and long-term management of the U.S.-Turkish relationship. "

More:CSIS Events - Turkey's Evolving Dynamics: Strategic Choices for U.S.-Turkey Relations

TURKISH SCIENTIST SAYS TWO LASERS MORE EFFECTIVE ON CANCER CELLS - Turk.Net

"TURKISH SCIENTIST SAYS TWO LASERS MORE EFFECTIVE ON CANCER CELLS

ANKARA (A.A) - 31.03.2009 - A Turkish scientist carrying out academic studies in the U.S. has said that using two lasers instead of a single laser in cancer treatment could be more effective in destroying the diseased cells."

More:(SCI) TURKISH SCIENTIST SAYS TWO LASERS MORE EFFECTIVE ON CANCER CELLS - Turk.Net

In the Name of Islam: A Liberal Appeal

"In the Name of Islam: A Liberal Appeal
By Soner Cagaptay
Middle East Strategy at Harvard, March 30, 2009

A trap awaits Turkey analysts seeking to explain rising anti-Americanism and anti-Semitism in Turkey. There is a tendency to look into the historic roots of both phenomena and to explain both as hardwired in the Turkish polity, not as products of current politics."

More:Article or Op-Ed

Six Armenians in Istanbul’s Municipal Councils

"Six Armenians in Istanbul’s Municipal Councils

Five Turkish-Armenian men and one woman have been voted into municipal councils in four district municipal councils in Istanbul."

More:Bianet :: Six Armenians in Istanbul’s Municipal Councils

Book Exchange

"Book Exchange

Mavi Boncuk |

Kostas Emilios Tsolakidis - Belki Bir Gün Dönerim / To Hroniko Mias Zois
September 2007 - Turkey

Tasos Avgerinos - Sefiller Kervanı/ To Karavani Ton Yimnon
October 2007 - Turkey

Kemal Yalçın - Emanet Çeyiz/Dowry on Loan
1998

One novel is entitled 'Dowry on Loan', which is based on a true-life story. Indeed, the author reveals that there were one thousand Greeks living peacefully with one thousand Turks in his native City of Honaz in the Denizli region. One day in September 1920 all the Greek men disappeared from the town."

More:Mavi Boncuk: Book Exchange

Obama to speak in Turkish parliament on April 6

"Obama to speak in Turkish parliament on April 6
U.S. President Barack Obama will make a speech to Turkish lawmakers in parliament on April 6 during his visit to the country, state-run Anatolian Agency reported on Tuesday."

More:Obama to speak in Turkish parliament on April 6

ANALYSIS - Kurdish nationalism on the rise, ballot suggests

"ANALYSIS - Kurdish nationalism on the rise, ballot suggests
DİYARBAKIR - Local election results manifested, once again, evidence that Kurdish nationalism is strong and the tactics of the incumbent Justice and Development Party, or AKP, do not appease its adherents or win any hearts and minds in the country’s southeastern region. The victory was most clear in Diyarbakır, the biggest city in Southeast Turkey"

More:ANALYSIS - Kurdish nationalism on the rise, ballot suggests

Istanbul Water And Sewerage Administration Implements New Cadas

"Istanbul Water And Sewerage Administration Implements New Cadastral System With Bentley Map To Save Time And Reduce Costs

March 31, 2009

The Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (ISKI), which provides potable water to a city with a population of more than 11 million, won a 2008 Be Award of Excellence in the 'Innovation in Cadastre and Land Development' category for its Asset Management Information System (ISEMBIS). The project is featured in the new publication 'The Year in Infrastructure 2008,' available online from Bentley Systems, the leading company dedicated to providing comprehensive software solutions for the infrastructure that sustains our world, at www.bentley.com/YearInInfrastructure2008."

More:Istanbul Water And Sewerage Administration Implements New Cadas

NEW ACTORS TO BEGIN OPERATIONS IN TURKEY'S NATURAL GAS MARKET - Turk.Net

"NEW ACTORS TO BEGIN OPERATIONS IN TURKEY'S NATURAL GAS MARKET

ANKARA (A.A) - 31.03.2009 - Enerco and Avrasya Gaz, two companies that got import licence from Turkey's Energy Market Regulatory Board (EPDK) are set to start selling gas in Turkey."

More:(ECO) NEW ACTORS TO BEGIN OPERATIONS IN TURKEY'S NATURAL GAS MARKET - Turk.Net

Minister discusses Turkey’s ban on Cypriot aircrafts with EU officials

"Minister discusses Turkey’s ban on Cypriot aircrafts with EU officials

March 31, 2009

Cyprus Minister of Communications and Works Nicos Nicolaides discussed during the EU Transport Council the issue of Turkey’s refusal to allow Cypriot aircrafts to use its air space."

More:Financialmirror.com News - Minister discusses Turkey’s ban on Cypriot aircrafts with EU officials

Vestas Signs Contract for 33 MW in Turkey - Renewable Energy World

"Vestas Signs Contract for 33 MW in Turkey
Randers, Denmark

Vestas has received an order for 33 megawatts of wind turbines for the Mersin project in Turkey. The order calls for the delivery, transportation and installation of 11 units of the company's V90-3.0 MW wind turbine, a VestasOnline Business SCADA system, as well as a five-year service and availability agreement. Delivery of the turbines is scheduled to start in the third quarter of 2009 and the project is expected to be completed by the beginning of 2010."

More:Vestas Signs Contract for 33 MW in Turkey - Renewable Energy World

Turkish markets firm, shrug off poor GDP data - Forbes.com

"Turkish markets firm, shrug off poor GDP data
03.31.09, 06:17 AM EDT


ISTANBUL, March 31 (Reuters) - Turkish markets were stronger on Tuesday, tracking firmer global stock markets which bet that the worst of corporate earnings damage may be over, and shrugged off worse-than-expected economic growth data."

More:Turkish markets firm, shrug off poor GDP data - Forbes.com

Turkish to deploy 4,000 policemen for Obama's visit

"Turkish to deploy 4,000 policemen for Obama's visit
www.chinaview.cn 2009-03-31 18:34:38
ANKARA, March 31 (Xinhua) -- The Turkish government is expected to deploy over 4,000 policemen along with several other security measures during U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to the country on April 6 and 7, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported on Tuesday."

More:Turkish to deploy 4,000 policemen for Obama's visit_English_Xinhua

Four new players to start to sell natural gas in Turkish market

"Four new players to start to sell natural gas in Turkish market
ISTANBUL - Four new companies including Enerco and Avrasya Gaz, who awarded an import license from Turkey's Energy Market Regulatory Board (EPDK), are set to start selling gas in Turkey."

More:Four new players to start to sell natural gas in Turkish market

APA - Armenian candidates elected to some municipalities in Turkey

"Armenian candidates elected to some municipalities in Turkey
[ 31 Mar 2009 17:37 ]

Ankara–APA. Most of Armenian candidates were elected to the city and town municipalities in Turkey, APA reports quoting Vesti.az. For the first time in Turkey, so many Armenians were elected to the municipal assemblies and the observers related it to the warm relations of current government of Turkey with Armenia and its plans to open the borders."

More:APA - Armenian candidates elected to some municipalities in Turkey

Date set for Turkey-Afghanistan-Pakistan summit in Ankara

"Date set for Turkey-Afghanistan-Pakistan summit in Ankara
Afghanistan's President Karzai and Pakistan's President Zardari will participate in the summit to be hosted by Turkish President Gul."

More:World Bulletin [ Date set for Turkey-Afghanistan-Pakistan summit in Ankara ]

Monday, March 30, 2009

Turkmeneli Europe Friendships: Iraq serves Turkey a rare treat

"Iraq serves Turkey a rare treat
Iraq serves Turkey a rare treat
By Sami Moubayed

http://www.atimes.com

DAMASCUS - A historical run-through of non-state players in the Middle East concludes that they were never intended to win, just achieve the short- and long-term objectives of their patrons."

More:Turkmeneli Europe Friendships: Iraq serves Turkey a rare treat

Trade of Roj for NATO bid denied

"Trade of Roj for NATO bid denied
ANKARA -Officials from the Danish State Prosecutor's Office and the Copenhagen police were in Ankara on Thursday and Friday as part of an ongoing investigation into the broadcasts of Roj TV, Denmark's ambassador to Turkey confirmed yesterday."

More:Trade of Roj for NATO bid denied

AKP hit by its own strategy, poll results show

"AKP hit by its own strategy, poll results show
ANKARA - The drop in support for the country’s ruling party is thanks to the party’s stumbling on its three chosen fronts -- corruption, poverty and bans -- instead finding scandal and public backlash for its efforts. The results of the local elections may mean greater change in the Cabinet than in the cities as multiple ministers fail to carry their own constituencies"

More:AKP hit by its own strategy, poll results show

Coastal towns stage solid CHP performance

"Coastal towns stage solid CHP performance
İZMİR - Beside its clear İzmir victory, the Republican People’s Party, or CHP, won in the coastal provinces of Antalya, Muğla, Aydın and Mersin. In Muğla, CHP candidate Osman Gürün won the election with 46 percent, while the CHP’s candidate in Aydın, Özlem Çerçioğlu, won 26.3 percent of the vote. In Mersin, too, the CHP protected its stronghold as candidate Macit Özcan won with 30.99 percent."

More:Coastal towns stage solid CHP performance

Turkey's Local Elections: Liberal Middle-Class Voters Abandon AKP

"Turkey's Local Elections: Liberal Middle-Class Voters Abandon AKP
By Soner Cagaptay
March 30, 2009

On March 29, Turkish voters went to the polls to elect mayors of more than eighty cities and two thousand smaller municipalities, as well as members of eighty-one provincial councils. Turkey's governing Justice and Development Party (AKP) won 39 percent of the vote, the main opposition Republican Peoples Party (CHP) and Nationalist Action Party (MHP) won 23 percent and 16 percent respectively, and the remainder went to smaller parties. The March 29 poll was the first election in which the AKP has seen a drop in support since coming to power in 2002, a result due largely to the flight of liberal middle-class voters from the party. This noticeable drop in support from such an important voter class is likely to have significant consequences for the AKP and the future of Turkish politics."

More: Washington Institute

AFP: US lawmakers back Armenia-Turkey thaw

"US lawmakers back Armenia-Turkey thaw

WASHINGTON (AFP) — A group of US lawmakers told leaders of Armenia and Turkey on Monday that they stood ready to help the neighbors as they strive to end decades of animosity and forge closer diplomatic ties."

More:AFP: US lawmakers back Armenia-Turkey thaw

Activists target Turkey’s nuclear plans - The National Newspaper

"Activists target Turkey’s nuclear plans

Tamsin Carlisle

* Last Updated: March 30. 2009 9:36PM UAE / March 30. 2009 5:36PM GMT

Steely resolve: Turkey may have to readdress its civilian nuclear power programme in the face of environmental protests. Umit Bektas / Reuters

ISTANBUL // As Arab nations push forward with civilian nuclear programmes, Turkey’s plans for atomic power development are stalling, partly because of a problem unlikely to trouble its neighbours: domestic anti-nuclear activism."

More:Activists target Turkey’s nuclear plans - The National Newspaper

Erdogan´s Staggering Defeat in Turkey´s Municipal Elections: the Beginning of His End?

"Erdogan´s Staggering Defeat in Turkey´s Municipal Elections: the Beginning of His End?

The confusion that prevailed in the Turkish political life cedes its place to clarity and conscience, as the extremist Islamist premier Erdogan´s party has been defeated in yesterday´s municipal elections.

With more than 97.3 percent of the votes counted, Erdogan´s Justice and Development (AKP) Party gets 38.97%, whereas the two leading opposition parties, the Center-Left Republican People´s (CHP) Party of Deniz Baykal and the Right Nationalist Movement (MHP) Party of Devlet Bahceli get respectively 23.23% and 16.13% of the suffrage. This means that the two opposition parties combined total more than the Islamists - for the first time in the 21st century."

More:American Chronicle | Erdogan´s Staggering Defeat in Turkey´s Municipal Elections: the Beginning of His End?

Ergenekon, AK, And Turkey's Municipal Elections - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

"Ergenekon, AK, And Turkey's Municipal Elections

March 30, 2009
By Abbas Djavadi
On August 13, 1994, a helicopter landed in the Kurdish village of Kirkagac, near the town of Cizre in southeastern Turkey. Men in camouflage fatigues stormed houses and took away six men, leaving behind their wives, children, and parents."

More:Ergenekon, AK, And Turkey's Municipal Elections - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

AK party fails to sweep Turkey poll

"AK party fails to sweep Turkey poll

Erdogan admitted that he was not satisfied
with the results [EPA]

Turkey's ruling Justice and Development (AK) party has won local elections but fallen short of a sweeping victory that the prime minister was aiming for."

More:Al Jazeera English - Europe - AK party fails to sweep Turkey poll

Christians in Turkey May Appeal Fine for 'Illegal' Funds | / | Global Terrorism

"Christians in Turkey May Appeal Fine for 'Illegal' Funds

March 27, 2009

Converts accused of 'insulting Turkishness' fear ruling sets dangerous precedent.

ISTANBUL, March 27 (Compass Direct News) - Fearing that a court-ordered fine of two Turkish Christians here for 'illegal collection of funds' would set a precedent crippling to churches, their lawyer plans to take the case to a European court."

More:200903294198 | Christians in Turkey May Appeal Fine for 'Illegal' Funds | / | Global Terrorism

EUROPEAN UNION TO DISCUSS ARMENIAN-TURKISH CLOSED BORDER - Politics - Panorama | Armenian news

"EUROPEAN UNION TO DISCUSS ARMENIAN-TURKISH CLOSED BORDER

“After the U.S. President Barack Obama’s visit to Turkey Armenian-Turkish closed border will be probably opened,” reports APA referring to Euronews. According to some sources in Brussels the Foreign Minister of Turkey Ali Babacan is going to pay a visit to Armenia and the closed Armenian-Turkish border will get opened on the eve of 24 April."

More:EUROPEAN UNION TO DISCUSS ARMENIAN-TURKISH CLOSED BORDER - Politics - Panorama | Armenian news

Turkish government poll setback weakens markets | Markets | Markets News | Reuters

"Turkish government poll setback weakens markets

By Ayla Jean Yackley

ISTANBUL, March 30 (Reuters) - Turkish financial markets weakened on Monday after the ruling AK Party saw its support slide in municipal elections, raising concern it may find it harder to see through difficult reforms."

More:CORRECTED - Turkish government poll setback weakens markets | Markets | Markets News | Reuters

Cyprus, Greece, Turkey still face human rights obstacles (SETimes.com)

"Cyprus, Greece, Turkey still face human rights obstacles

30/03/2009

The governments of Cyprus, Greece and Turkey 'generally respected' human rights last year, but their citizens had to contend with police abuse, trafficking in persons and violence against women, the US Department of State said in a report last month."

More:Cyprus, Greece, Turkey still face human rights obstacles (SETimes.com)

Turkcell unit to bid in Turkish lottery tender

"Turkcell unit to bid in Turkish lottery tender
From Dow Jones Newswires
Monday 30 March 2009

Turkey's largest mobile phone operator Turkcell said Monday its subsidiary Sans Oyunlari Yatirim Holding AS will bid in a consortium or go it alone in a tender for a 10-year concessional license to run the national lottery Milli Piyango, the Ihlas News Agency, or IHA, reported."

More:Total Telecom - Turkcell unit to bid in Turkish lottery tender

Ankara will not compromise and open borders with Armenia: Turkey’s International Strategic Research Organization Director

"Ankara will not compromise and open borders with Armenia: Turkey’s International Strategic Research Organization Director
30.03.09 15:50 Ankara will not compromise and open borders with Armenia: Turkey’s International Strategic Research Organization Director

Azerbaijan, Baku, March 30 /Trend News, R. Hafizoglu/

Turkey's International Strategic Research Organization says though Armenian issue will be discussed during U.S. President's visit to Turkey, Ankara will not compromise and open borders with Armenia."

More:Trend News : Ankara will not compromise and open borders with Armenia: Turkey’s International Strategic Research Organization Director

Q&A-What's next for Turkey's PM Erdogan, AK Party | Reuters

"Q&A-What's next for Turkey's PM Erdogan, AK Party
Mon Mar 30, 2009 8:00am EDT

ANKARA, March 30 (Reuters) - Turkey's ruling AK Party won a fresh endorsement in Sunday's local elections, but not the landslide Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan had hoped for, which may make it harder for him to push reforms in the EU candidate."

More:Q&A-What's next for Turkey's PM Erdogan, AK Party | Reuters

ANALYSIS-Turkey looks to sway Brussels with Russian gas deals By Reuters

"ANALYSIS-Turkey looks to sway Brussels with Russian gas deals
2009-03-30 12:23:34 GMT (Reuters)

By Thomas Grove and Orhan Coskun

ISTANBUL/ANKARA, March 30 (Reuters) - A series of potential natural gas deals with Russia may be what Turkey sees as the best card it has to try to further its European Union accession ambitions, but such deals may not be enough on their own."

More:ANALYSIS-Turkey looks to sway Brussels with Russian gas deals By Reuters

ANALYSIS-Turkish elections bring AK Party down to earth | Reuters

"ANALYSIS-Turkish elections bring AK Party down to earth
Mon Mar 30, 2009 8:00am EDT

By Paul de Bendern

ISTANBUL, March 30 (Reuters) - For a man who rarely accepts defeat, the disappointment expressed by Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan over Sunday's local elections suggests the ruling party will address its shortcomings and in turn boost democracy."

More:ANALYSIS-Turkish elections bring AK Party down to earth | Reuters

Obama may meet Assad in Istanbul to dramatize outreach to Muslims

"Obama may meet Assad in Istanbul to dramatize outreach to Muslims

DEBKAfile Exclusive Report

March 30, 2009, 4:05 PM (GMT+02:00)

Turkish prime minister Recip Tayyep Edrogan is leaning hard on the White House for US president Barack Obama to meet Syrian president Bashar Assad. Edrogan says this will dramatize the address Obama plans to deliver from Istanbul on April 7 extending America's hand of peace to Muslims worldwide. It will also telegraph a strong message to the new Netanyah-Barak-Lieberman government that the Obama administration wants Israel to go back to the Turkish-mediated peace talks with Syria begun by Ehud Olmert – this time with active US involvement."

More:DEBKAfile - Obama may meet Assad in Istanbul to dramatize outreach to Muslims

Turkey’s ruling party vows to push EU reforms

"Turkey’s ruling party vows to push EU reforms
(AP)

30 March 2009

ANKARA, TURKEY - Turkey’s Islamic-oriented ruling party vowed Monday to speed up reforms aimed at bringing the country closer to the European Union, after unofficial results from local elections indicated the party had lost political ground."

More:Khaleej Times Online - Turkey’s ruling party vows to push EU reforms

Gul Denies Saying "Kurdistan" During Iraq Visit - The Jamestown Foundation

"Gul Denies Saying 'Kurdistan' During Iraq Visit
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 60
March 30, 2009 10:39 AM Age: 34 min
Category: Eurasia Daily Monitor, Turkey, Home Page, Foreign Policy
By: Saban Kardas

Turkish President Abdullah Gul's visit to Iraq might be regarded as a turning point in Turkey's Kurdish issue, perhaps more than its implications for improving Turkish-Iraqi ties (EDM, March 24). On the plane to Baghdad, Gul reportedly used the word 'Kurdistan' to describe the Kurdistan Regional Administration (KRG) in Northern Iraq, in stark contrast to Turkey's past political discourse. Although Gul later denied these reports, the discussions they triggered confirmed Turkey's more nuanced approach towards the Kurds, as well as revealing the remaining obstacles."

More:Gul Denies Saying "Kurdistan" During Iraq Visit - The Jamestown Foundation

Why it is Turkey that matters for Obama

"Why it is Turkey that matters for Obama
March 30, 2009 2:37pm

Here in London, everybody is going G-20 crazy. Understandable, of course, since this is the biggest gathering of world leaders that has Britain has hosted for many years. But the G-20 is just the first leg of a four-stop tour by President Obama. First there is the London meeting, then the Nato summit in Strasbourg, then the US-EU meeting in Prague and then a two-day state visit to Turkey. In fact, my guess is that it will probably be a five-legged tour - with Obama going on to Afghanistan for a surprise vist, after Turkey."

More:FT.com | Gideon Rachman's Blog | Why it is Turkey that matters for Obama

Turkey seeks to contain Islamic radicals - El Paso Times

"Turkey seeks to contain Islamic radicals
By SELCAN HACAOGLU Associated Press Writer
Posted: 03/30/2009 08:41:29 AM MDT

ANKARA, Turkey—As the only Muslim member of NATO and a candidate to join the EU, Turkey has come to be seen as a bridge between East and West—held up by Washington as a shining example of how Islam is compatible with modern democracy."

More:Turkey seeks to contain Islamic radicals - El Paso Times

A Strategic Journey With Gul

"A Strategic Journey With Gul
Published: 3/30/2009

BY HADI ULUENGIN
HURRIYET- Flying to Brussels two days ago with President Abdullah Gul, I was still thinking about his visit to Iraq. In other words, I wasn't thinking of this very important visit, the first to the EU on the presidential level, bolstered by our National Program. All the reporters in the pool were looking for a scoop, and wondering if Gul really said the word 'Kurdistan' in Iraq or not, or if it was just a slip of the tongue."

More:A Strategic Journey With Gul

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Erdogan Vote Shrinks in Election as Recession Bites (Update1) - Bloomberg.com

"Erdogan Vote Shrinks in Election as Recession Bites (Update1)

By Mark Bentley and Steve Bryant

March 30 (Bloomberg) -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan lost votes in an election for the first time in his seven-year rule after the economy dived into recession, weakening his hand with secular rivals over Islam’s role in politics."

More:Erdogan Vote Shrinks in Election as Recession Bites (Update1) - Bloomberg.com

Surprising results from certain districts Istanbul

"Surprising results from certain districts Istanbul

ISTANBUL – Early elections results have yielded some surprising outcomes in the districts of Istanbul, with the ruling Justice and Development Party, or AKP, losing votes in Beyoglu, one of the city’s historical tourist centers and Sariyer, on the European side of the Bosporus."

More:Surprising results from certain districts Istanbul

ANALYSIS - Strong opposition shakes AKP’s dominance

"ANALYSIS - Strong opposition shakes AKP’s dominance
ANKARA - On Sunday the Justice and Development Party, or AKP, is on the verge of losing around 8 percent of its support when compared with results of the 2007 general elections.

But it has to be noted that Sunday’s vote was for the local administrations. The majority voted for their local administrators instead of political parties, proving that nominations of strong political figures changed the overall picture."

More:ANALYSIS - Strong opposition shakes AKP’s dominance

Muğla fish farms to close

"Muğla fish farms to close
BODRUM- After long debates and a legal process about pollution, 29 fish farms in Muğla will be shut down because they have not been relocated in the past year."

More:Muğla fish farms to close

Opposition in surprise shake up in Antalya

"Opposition in surprise shake up in Antalya
ANTALYA - An interesting election race unfolded in Antalya with the victory of the main opposition candidate in the race against the ruling AKP candidate, who is the current mayor. The Turkish prime minister defined the outcome as 'abnormal.'"

More:Opposition in surprise shake up in Antalya

NATO trumps Roj for Dane

"NATO trumps Roj for Dane
ANKARA - Denmark has reportedly dispatched two prosecutors to Ankara for discussions on the closure of Roj TV, a mouthpiece for the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK."

More:NATO trumps Roj for Dane

Turkey's ruling party loses votes in elections

"Turkey's ruling party loses votes in elections

10 hours ago

ANKARA (AFP) — Turkey's Islamist-rooted ruling party led rivals by a large margin but appeared to lose some base support in local elections Sunday marked by deadly violence.

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he was not satisfied with his Islamist-rooted party's showing in the polls though it was headed for certain victory."

More:AFP: Turkey's ruling party loses votes in elections

New exhibit connects Topkapı, Alhambra palaces

"New exhibit connects Topkapı, Alhambra palaces
ISTANBUL - Because of their similar political symbols and meanings, Spain's Alhambra Palace and Turkey's Topkapı Palace are the subjects of a new exhibiton set to open as part of the Second Alliance of Civilizations Forum. The exhibition will include 19th century photos from artists such as Jean Laurent and Abdullah Biraderler"

More:New exhibit connects Topkapı, Alhambra palaces

Koç research center brings int'l art historians to Istanbul

"Koç research center brings int'l art historians to Istanbul
ISTANBUL - The latest meeting of art historians researching Anatolia’s cultural development focused on artistic communication in the Byzantine world."

More:Koç research center brings int'l art historians to Istanbul

Turkey’s ruling AKP Ankara candidate Gokcek seems the winner

"Turkey’s ruling AKP Ankara candidate Gokcek seems the winner
ANKARA - According to election results at 10:30 p.m. (1930 GMT), the ranking of the parties in the capital remains unchanged as Justice and Development Party, or AKP, gets the first rank. Main opposition Republican People’s Party, or CHP, is in the second rank while Nationalist Movement Party, or MHP, occupies the third rank."

More:Turkey’s ruling AKP Ankara candidate Gokcek seems the winner

March Eco-Tidbits from Turkey

"March Eco-Tidbits from Turkey
by Jennifer Hattam, Istanbul, Turkey on 03.29.09
Business & Politics (news)

turkey istanbul metrobus red-breasted merganser bird photo
Istanbul expanded its bus rapid transit system, while climate change drove the red-breasted merganser out of Turkey. Photos via OrtaSepha.com (left) and by teddy llovet via Flickr

The 5th World Water Forum held two weeks ago in Istanbul dominated the city's news this month, but other environmentally related events were afoot in March too. Once again, we wrap up some of the month's news from Turkey, developments that prompted reactions of both 'süper' (yep, just like in English, but with an umlaut) and 'maalesef' (unfortunately):"

More:March Eco-Tidbits from Turkey : TreeHugger

Turkey's Sabanci family buys stake in Air Berlin - Forbes.com

"Turkey's Sabanci family buys stake in Air Berlin
03.29.09, 12:54 PM EDT
pic

By Maria Sheahan

FRANKFURT, March 29 (Reuters) - Turkey's Sabanci family is buying a 15.3 percent in German airline Air Berlin, scooping up part of Len Blavatnik's stake, more than two months after the U.S. billionaire sold the holding."

More:UPDATE 2-Turkey's Sabanci family buys stake in Air Berlin - Forbes.com

Bosphorus future in the pipeline

"Bosphorus future in the pipeline

Tamsin Carlisle

Last month alone, 1,695 ships sailed south through the Bosphorus from the Black Sea. Murad Sezer / AP

It is raining in Turkey’s largest city, and the early spring cold is penetrating. Except for a Japanese tour group decked out in vinyl rain coats, the cobbled streets of the Sultanahmet tourist district are almost deserted."

More:Bosphorus future in the pipeline - The National Newspaper

Ruling Turkish party leads vote in local elections; 6 killed in election violence - Los Angeles Times

"Ruling Turkish party leads vote in local elections; 6 killed in election violence
SUZAN FRASER, Associated Press Writer
12:31 PM PDT, March 29, 2009
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Islamic-oriented party emerged as the leading party in Turkey's local elections Sunday but, with half the votes counted, saw a slide in its support compared with a landslide victory two years ago."

More:Ruling Turkish party leads vote in local elections; 6 killed in election violence - Los Angeles Times

Turkey's AK Party wins poll, loses Kurdish city - Reuters - Latest Business News - Portfolio.com

"Turkey's AK Party wins poll, loses Kurdish city
Mar 29 2009 4:32PM EDT

By Selcuk Gokoluk and Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey's ruling AK Party won Sunday's local elections but Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan failed to secure a sweeping victory that may make it harder for him to push through reforms for the European Union candidate."

More:Turkey's AK Party wins poll, loses Kurdish city - Reuters - Latest Business News - Portfolio.com

Pro-Kurdish DTP sweeps Diyarbakir

"Pro-Kurdish DTP sweeps Diyarbakir
DİYARBAKIR - One of striking results of yesterday’s municipal elections was the ascendance of the Democratic Society Party, or DTP, in Turkey’s predominantly Kurdish southeast."

More:Pro-Kurdish DTP sweeps Diyarbakir

Power cuts, system crashes create unease in Turkish election count

"Power cuts, system crashes create unease in Turkish election count
ANKARA – Power cuts and breakdowns in the Supreme Election Board, or YSK’s, computer systems have created a sense of unease in the main opposition Republican People’s Party, or CHP. According to the CHP’s claims, the YSK computer system has broken down in Eskisehir and Antalya."

More:Power cuts, system crashes create unease in Turkish election count

Turkic language accents to be discussed in Istanbul

"Turkic language accents to be discussed in Istanbul
29.03.09 11:52

Azerbaijan, Baku, March 29 /Trend News, J. Babayeva/

The current state of the Turkic language accents will be discussed in Istanbul.

Symposium titled Current State of Translation between Turkic accents and Problems will be held at the Istanbul Maltepe University Marma Kongre Center by TURKSOY on March 31-April 5, TURKSOY headquarters told Trend News."

More:Trend News : Turkic language accents to be discussed in Istanbul

Turkey's Istanbul to host IDEF'09 Fair in April

"Turkey's Istanbul to host IDEF'09 Fair in April
Local and foreign companies will join the fair that will take place between April 27 and 30, 2009 in Istanbul's TUYAP Fair and Congress Center."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey's Istanbul to host IDEF'09 Fair in April ]

Turkey-Armenia border may open in April: EU high-ranking official

"Turkey-Armenia border may open in April: EU high-ranking official
29.03.09 16:19

An anonymous high-ranking EU official said he hopes the Turkey-Armenia border will open in April following U.S. President Barack Obama's visit to Turkey, the Sabah newspaper reported.

Turkey and Armenia are attempting to normalize their relations, which were severed in 1993."

More:Trend News : Turkey-Armenia border may open in April: EU high-ranking official

Turkish vote tests Erdogan's mandate - CNN.com

"Turkish vote tests Erdogan's mandate

ISTANBUL, Turkey (CNN) -- Turkey was Sunday voting in local elections widely seen as a referendum on Prime Minister Rece Tayyip Erdogan, whose challenges the country's strict secular system have pitted him against the military and judiciary."

More:Turkish vote tests Erdogan's mandate - CNN.com

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Doc's Talk: "Islamist threat to Turkey's secular system" set to win fresh mandate

"'Islamist threat to Turkey's secular system' set to win fresh mandate

Turkish secularism on the ropes. Sharia is advancing in what is always held out to be that exemplary beacon of democracy in the Islamic world, Turkey. The reasons why Sharia supremacists are advancing there have not -- unsurprisingly -- been sufficiently explored by Western analysts, who of course dismiss out of hand the appeal of a call to restore Islamic authenticity. 'Erdogan Set for Election Win That May Revive Tension Over Islam,' by Ben Holland for Bloomberg, March 27 (thanks to The Fool):"

More:Doc's Talk: "Islamist threat to Turkey's secular system" set to win fresh mandate

Excavation in Turkey may re-write history of iron tool production

"Excavation in Turkey may re-write history of iron tool production

Tokyo, March 28 (ANI): The discovery of fragments of an iron tool in Turkey has pushed back the start of the Iron Age by several centuries, which may lead to the history of iron tool production being re-written."

More:Excavation in Turkey may re-write history of iron tool production

EU assures Balkans, Turkey of membership prospects - International Herald Tribune

"EU assures Balkans, Turkey of membership prospects

HLUBOKA, Czech Republic: The European Union told its Balkan neighbors and Turkey on Saturday they remain on track for membership, but skated around a rising number of issues that are darkening the EU's ambitious expansion plans."

More:EU assures Balkans, Turkey of membership prospects - International Herald Tribune

Obama heading to Europe

"Obama heading to Europe
By Steven Thomma
MCCLATCHY NEWSPAPERS

...TURKEY

Obama will visit Ankara and Istanbul before turning homeward.

Though this isn't the site of Obama's promised speech reaching out to the Muslim world — that will come later in a still-unidentified Muslim capital — Turkey is a Muslim country."

More:03/28/2009 - Obama heading to Europe - STLtoday.com

Turkish Airlines Crashed Due to Faulty Altimeter | Travel and car hire news

"Turkish Airlines Crashed Due to Faulty Altimeter

Ted Harris March 6th, 2009 Airline News

The Turkish Airlines flight that crashed last week, killing nine people, close to the Amsterdam airport is said by authorities to have had a faulty altimeter, which shut down the engine. They said that similar shutdowns occurred two other times with the same plane, and the pilots overruled them. Turkish Airlines warned Boeing, the maker of the aircraft, and other carriers that use the B737 to be aware of the issue."

More:Turkish Airlines Crashed Due to Faulty Altimeter | Travel and car hire news

Turkey says Muslims oppose Dane's NATO candidacy - International Herald Tribune

"Turkey says Muslims oppose Dane's NATO candidacy

ANKARA, Turkey: Turkey's prime minister has said there is strong opposition from Muslim nations to Denmark's prime minister becoming the next NATO chief and indicated the candidacy threatened to harm the alliance."

More:Turkey says Muslims oppose Dane's NATO candidacy - International Herald Tribune

EU assures Balkans, Turkey of membership prospects

"EU assures Balkans, Turkey of membership prospects

HLUBOKA, Czech Republic (AP): The European Union told its Balkan neighbors and Turkey on Saturday that they remain on track for membership of the 27-nation bloc despite delays caused by troubled internal reforms."

More:The Hindu News Update Service

Turkey’s relations with Israel must remain strong, Turkish president says in Brussels

"Turkey’s relations with Israel must remain strong, Turkish president says in Brussels

BRUSSELS (EJP)--- Relations with Israel are valuable for Turkey and it is important they remain strong, Turkish President Abdullah Gül told journalists on Friday.
"

More:EJP | News | Western Europe | Turkey’s relations with Israel must remain strong, Turkish president says in Brussels

EU TO ASK TURKEY TO CONTRIBUTE TROOPS TO GENDARMERIE FORCE TO BE DEPLOYED IN AFGHANISTAN - Turk.Net

"EU TO ASK TURKEY TO CONTRIBUTE TROOPS TO GENDARMERIE FORCE TO BE DEPLOYED IN AFGHANISTAN

HLUBOKA NAD VLTAVOU (A.A) - 28.03.2009 - French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner said Saturday that the EU wanted to form a Gendarmerie Force to be deployed in Afghanistan which was troubled with homeland security issues."

More:(DIP) EU TO ASK TURKEY TO CONTRIBUTE TROOPS TO GENDARMERIE FORCE TO BE DEPLOYED IN AFGHANISTAN - Turk.Net

Obama’s Istanbul visit could ‘help reduce tensions’ between cultures divides - The National Newspaper

"Obama’s Istanbul visit could ‘help reduce tensions’ between cultures divides

James Reinl, United Nations Correspondent

NEW YORK // The eagerly anticipated arrival of Barack Obama at an intercultural summit in Istanbul would mark his first visit to a Muslim-majority country since becoming US president and shine a spotlight on the so-called clash of civilisations"

More:Obama’s Istanbul visit could ‘help reduce tensions’ between cultures divides - The National Newspaper

TURKEY Elections in Turkey: testing ground for Erdogan and the army - Asia News

"Elections in Turkey: testing ground for Erdogan and the army
by NAT da Polis
The AKP is the clear favorite, and seems set to win over the nationalists and Kurds. The electoral campaign has been conducted amid scandal, but freely and openly. The unknown postelection scenario: relations with the EU, or a 'neo-Ottoman' program? Even the Vatican has something to say."

More:TURKEY Elections in Turkey: testing ground for Erdogan and the army - Asia News

Why Turkey Has Not Integrated Into Europe. | Newsweek International Edition | Newsweek.com

"Putting Ghosts To Rest

Turkey's prime minister will need political courage to reform his country and bring it closer to Europe.

Another Battle Ahead?: AKP supporters at an election rally in Istanbul, in March
By Owen Matthews and Sami Kohen | NEWSWEEK
Published Mar 28, 2009
From the magazine issue dated Apr 6, 2009

Bringing Turkey to Europe's door has been Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's epochal achievement. So why, over the four years since Turkey opened formal negotiations to join the European Union, has he seemed to have lost interest in his grand project? With his AK Party's thumping parliamentary majority, Erdogan had a chance to integrate his country into the EU and reform the Constitution in a way that would create a real democracy—for instance, by overhauling the Constitution to protect elected parties and officials from interference from politicized prosecutors. But instead of integrating Turkey into Europe, he has spent more energy over the last couple of years pursuing Turkey's Middle East diplomacy and, most recently, aggressively attacking Israel's invasion of Gaza. And instead of reforming the Constitution, he's chosen to leave largely intact a system born in a 1980 military coup that left the Army with extraordinary powers over elected officials."

More:Why Turkey Has Not Integrated Into Europe. | Newsweek International Edition | Newsweek.com

Spanish police arrest wanted PKK leader < Local News | Expatica Spain

"Spanish police arrest wanted PKK leader
Spanish police have detained a suspected leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) the Anatolia news agency reported Friday, quoting Foreign Minister Ali Babacan."

More:Spanish police arrest wanted PKK leader < Local News | Expatica Spain

Mixed village a model for ethnically split Cyprus?

"Mixed village a model for ethnically split Cyprus?

PYLA, Cyprus (AP) - They live separate lives in a marriage of convenience.
That's how local leader Nejdet Ermetal Enver describes the Greek and Turkish communities in the sleepy coastal village of Pyla. Pyla is the only village in Cyprus where Greek and Turkish residents have remained together after the Mediterranean island was ethnically split"

More:Mixed village a model for ethnically split Cyprus?

Friday, March 27, 2009

Property investors 'to cash in' on Turkey EU ascension - Axia FX - News

"Property investors 'to cash in' on Turkey EU ascension

Foreign property investors are looking to cash in on Turkey's potential ascension to the European Union (EU).

That is according to the foreign investment blog Nubricks, which claims that overseas nationals are buying property while it's cheap in the hope that prices will sky rocket if the country is admitted to the continental alliance."

More:Property investors 'to cash in' on Turkey EU ascension - Axia FX - News

Iraq moves to counter Kurdish power in provinces - The Irish Times - Sat, Mar 28, 2009

"Iraq moves to counter Kurdish power in provinces

MICHAEL JANSEN

BAGHDAD IS reasserting Iraqi sovereignty in three northern non-Kurdish provinces where Kurdish officials, peshmerga militiamen and intelligence agents have operated freely since the US occupation in 2003. Baghdad considers “illegal” such activities outside the autonomous Kurdish region and is determined to re-establish government control over parts of neighbouring Tamim, Nineveh and Dyala provinces."

More:Iraq moves to counter Kurdish power in provinces - The Irish Times - Sat, Mar 28, 2009

Ruling Party in Turkey Faces a Test

"Ruling Party in Turkey Faces a Test

By NICHOLAS BIRCH

ISTANBUL -- Turkey's ruling party is leading most polls ahead of municipal elections this weekend, setting up the Islamist-rooted AK Party to solidify its dominance of national politics.

Most polls suggest the AK Party will win slightly more than the 47% of votes it garnered in parliamentary elections in 2007, maintaining a 26-point lead over its nearest rival, the secularist Republican People's Party, or CHP. But strong economic headwinds could mean some surprises."

More:Ruling Party in Turkey Faces a Test - WSJ.com

Obama’s nominee refuses to call 1915 events as genocide

"Obama’s nominee refuses to call 1915 events as genocide
WASHINGTON - Phil Gordon, nominated by U.S. President Barack Obama as assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, Thursday declined to qualify World War I-era killings of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire as 'genocide' during his confirmation hearing at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee."

More:Obama’s nominee refuses to call 1915 events as genocide

Shopping malls: New fair grounds of Istanbul

"Shopping malls: New fair grounds of Istanbul
ISTANBUL - The characteristics of shopping malls are changing. Rather than only offering stores and restaurants to visitors, the new malls surrounding Istanbul day by day become venues where people can spend their whole day."

More:Shopping malls: New fair grounds of Istanbul

Turkey's local polls set to give Erdogan reform boost | International | Reuters

"Turkey's local polls set to give Erdogan reform boost
Fri Mar 27, 2009 5:17pm EDT

By Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkey's ruling party is set to win a clear victory in Sunday's local polls despite a worsening economy, freeing popular Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan's hand to pursue his reformist drive in the European Union candidate."

More:Turkey's local polls set to give Erdogan reform boost | International | Reuters

Israel is valuable for Turkey, Gül says

"Israel is valuable for Turkey, Gül says
BRUSSELS - Relations with Israel are valuable for Turkey and it is important they remain strong, Turkish President Abdullah Gül said yesterday."

More:Israel is valuable for Turkey, Gül says

Lagendijk asks the European Commission to adjust visa requirements for Turks

"Lagendijk asks the European Commission to adjust visa requirements for Turks

The European Court of Justice concluded in its judgement in the case Soysal that the EU cannot demand visa from Turkish citizens who travel to the EU to deliver services for Turkish businesses. Dutch Green MEP Joost Lagendijk (chairman of the EU-Turkey delegation in the European Parliament) asks the European Commission to adjust the European regulations."

More:AB Haber

Turkish PM denies amnesty plan for Kurdish rebels

"Turkish PM denies amnesty plan for Kurdish rebels
28 March 2009 | 01:51 | FOCUS News Agency
Ankara. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday denied that Turkey might consider an amnesty for Kurdish rebels fighting the government as part of a broader plan to end a 24-year insurgency, AFP informed."

More:FOCUS Information Agency

First ladies of pop unite to support survivors of abuse

"First ladies of pop unite to support survivors of abuse
ISTANBUL - For the first time in Turkish history top female vocalists assemble to perform on the same stage, some together, some in Kurdish Ğ all singing each other’s songs. Their cause is united behind a campaign against domestic violence in Turkey and a hotline that has had close to 12,000 callers in a year and a half, 2,500 of whom required emergency services."

More:First ladies of pop unite to support survivors of abuse

Zardari and Karzai to meet in Ankara next week

"Zardari and Karzai to meet in Ankara next week

ANKARA: The presidents of Afghanistan and Pakistan will hold talks in Ankara next week in a third Turkish-sponsored meeting on the war on terror, the Anatolia news agency reported on Friday, citing Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan."

More:Daily Times - Leading News Resource of Pakistan - Zardari and Karzai to meet in Ankara next week

Guler, Miller talk Blue Stream

"Guler, Miller talk Blue Stream

ANKARA, Turkey, March 27 (UPI) -- A second leg of the Blue Stream natural gas pipeline to transport resources to Israel was included in talks to increase Russian gas transits for Turkey."

More:Guler, Miller talk Blue Stream - UPI.com

Turkish ruling party targets poor in regional vote - Forbes.com

"FEATURE-Turkish ruling party targets poor in regional vote
03.27.09, 11:01 AM EDT

By Selcuk Gokoluk

ANKARA, March 27 (Reuters) - Trucks are busy carrying coal to poor districts of Turkey's capital Ankara and delivering free washing machines and fridges to the regions. Huge pictures of Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan and candidates of his Islamist-rooted party cover rundown apartment blocks."

More:FEATURE-Turkish ruling party targets poor in regional vote - Forbes.com

Turkish politician's body found in helicopter wreck | International | Reuters

"Turkish politician's body found in helicopter wreck
Fri Mar 27, 2009 11:44am EDT

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkish searchers found the body of the leader of a right-wing political party and the wreckage of his helicopter on Friday, two days after it crashed during election campaigning, broadcaster CNN Turk said."

More:Turkish politician's body found in helicopter wreck | International | Reuters

New twist in Turkey's Ergenekon probe (SETimes.com)

"New twist in Turkey's Ergenekon probe

27/03/2009

Prosecutors investigating an alleged 'deep state' conspiracy in Turkey are turning their attention to extrajudicial murders allegedly carried out against Kurds."

More:New twist in Turkey's Ergenekon probe (SETimes.com)

UN forum on civilization to be held in Turkey's Istanbul_English_Xinhua

"UN forum on civilization to be held in Turkey's Istanbul
www.chinaview.cn 2009-03-28 02:22:20

ANKARA, March 27 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations Alliance of Civilizations will hold its second forum in Turksy's Istanbul on April 6-7, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported here Friday."

More:UN forum on civilization to be held in Turkey's Istanbul_English_Xinhua

Partnership in the Shadow of a Threat

"Sixty Years of Turkish-Israeli Relations
Partnership in the Shadow of a Threat

Turkey and Israel mark the sixtieth anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year. Theirs has been a fruitful if conflict-ridden relationship. But there has been more than just the desire to make peace between the Israelis and the Arabs. Jan Felix Engelhardt looks back at the start of the relationship"

More:Qantara.de - Partnership in the Shadow of a Threat

AFP: Turkey willing to revive Israel-Syria talks: PM

"Turkey willing to revive Israel-Syria talks: PM

6 hours ago

ANKARA (AFP) — Turkey is ready to mediate between Israel and Syria if the two agree to resume stalled indirect talks, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was quoted as saying Friday."

More:AFP: Turkey willing to revive Israel-Syria talks: PM

Euromoney Seminars - 2nd Annual Turkey Energy and Infrastructure Finance Conference - Europe

"2nd Annual Turkey Energy and Infrastructure Finance Conference

Date: 21 May 2009 - 22 May 2009
Venue: Movenpick Hotel, Istanbul, Turkey

Euromoney Seminars and Project Finance Magazine’s 2nd Annual Turkey Energy and Infrastructure Finance Conference will provide the perfect opportunity for those active in project finance in Turkey to convene and discuss the real deal financing opportunities in the region for 2009 and beyond."

More:Euromoney Seminars - 2nd Annual Turkey Energy and Infrastructure Finance Conference - Europe

ACA addressed issues to Clinton concerning US relations with Armenia and Turkey

"ACA addressed issues to Clinton concerning US relations with Armenia and Turkey

27.03.2009 13:30

The Armenian Council of America (ACA) sent U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton a letter. In the letter, the ACA addressed several issues of concern regarding U.S.-Armenia and U.S.-Turkey relations."

More:Public Radio of Armenia

Turkish PM: Obama Visit To Boost "Inadequate" Ties - Report - EasyBourse actualité

"Turkish PM: Obama Visit To Boost 'Inadequate' Ties - Report
Friday March 27th, 2009 / 11h24
ANKARA (AFP)--Turkish-U.S. ties are 'inadequate' and U.S. President Barack Obama's upcoming visit will pave the way for a new phase in relations, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was quoted as saying Friday."

More:Turkish PM: Obama Visit To Boost "Inadequate" Ties - Report - EasyBourse actualité

Turkey president: Netanyahu government must act responsibly - Haaretz - Israel News

"Last update - 16:38 27/03/2009
Turkey president: Netanyahu government must act responsibly
By News Agencies and Haaretz Service
Tags: Israel News, Turkey

All the members of Israel's future government should drop the hawkish rhetoric they used while in opposition, otherwise the entire Middle East peace process will suffer, Turkey's President Abdullah Gul warned on Friday."

More:Turkey president: Netanyahu government must act responsibly - Haaretz - Israel News

Turkey probes secret financial ties in Ergenekon coup plot

"Turkey probes secret financial ties in Ergenekon coup plot
Turkey's BDDK 'asked all the banks whether there are safe deposit boxes that belong to 143 people, most of them accused in the Ergenekon coup probe, or their relatives.'"

More:World Bulletin [ Turkey probes secret financial ties in Ergenekon coup plot ]

International Relations of Turkic World (IRTW): PM Erdogan says Turkish-US relations need to be boosted

"PM Erdogan says Turkish-US relations need to be boosted
The level of Turkish-U.S. relations is inadequate and bilateral ties need to be boosted, Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan said late Thursday."

More:International Relations of Turkic World (IRTW): PM Erdogan says Turkish-US relations need to be boosted

Turks get suspended sentences for embassy attack in Finland

"Turks get suspended sentences for embassy attack in Finland
A Finnish court sentenced five Turks to suspended sentences Thursday for trying to set fire to Turkey’s embassy in Helsinki last October and ordered them to pay compensation to Ankara and the insurance company."

More:Turks get suspended sentences for embassy attack in Finland

Danish PM to visit Istanbul, Turkey signals no obstacle to NATO posting

"Danish PM to visit Istanbul, Turkey signals no obstacle to NATO posting
Denmark's Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen will visit Turkey in early April to attend an international forum in Istanbul, Hurriyet daily reported on its website Friday, as President Abdullah Gul said his country would not block the Dane's nomination as next head of the NATO military alliance."

More:Danish PM to visit Istanbul, Turkey signals no obstacle to NATO posting

Israel coalition should drop warlike rhetoric, Turkey's Gul says

"Israel coalition should drop warlike rhetoric, Turkey's Gul says
Middle East News

Brussels - All the members of Israel's future government should drop the hawkish rhetoric they used while in opposition, otherwise the entire Middle East peace process will suffer, Turkey's President Abdullah Gul warned on Friday."

More:Israel coalition should drop warlike rhetoric, Turkey's Gul says

UK exhibition on Cyprus’ lost heritage

"UK exhibition on Cyprus’ lost heritage

THERESA Villiers, UK Member of the Parliament for Chipping Barnet, following her attendance at the formal opening of the exhibition, “Lost Heritage Cyprus, 1974-2009”, has sent a letter to Foreign Secretary, David Miliband, urging him to visit the exhibition and “to throw the UK Government’s weight behind efforts to preserve the churches and other cultural heritage at risk in the occupied north of Cyprus."

More: Cyprus-mail

Why Turkey belongs to the EU

"Why Turkey belongs to the EU
Sigurd Neubauer
Friday 27 March 2009 - 07:30

With its geographical location, at the crossroads of an East-West and North-South axis, Turkey has played a dominating geopolitical role from the days of the Ottoman Empire to the present. In recognition of Turkey’s strategic position, President Harry S. Truman was quick to incorporate Turkey into the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). As the alliance is celebrating its 60th anniversary, Turkey is again at a crossroad. This time, the choice facing the Turkish Republic is whether Ankara should continue its path towards becoming a full fledged member of the European Union, or if Turkey should adopt a “neo Ottoman” foreign policy brokering conflicts between Israel and Syria and between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran."

More:Why Turkey belongs to the EU - Turquie Européenne - Friday 27 March 2009 - Actualités de la Turquie et traductions de la presse turque

In Turkey, a Women’s Film Festival

"In Turkey, a Women’s Film Festival
By Susanne Fowler

Turkey | It’s refreshing to find a free activity in these tighter economic times, and for this weekend, there’s still time to catch some thought-provoking films in the “Chromosome XX” series being screened at the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art as part of the Filmmor Women’s Film Festival."

More:In Turkey, a Women’s Film Festival - Globespotters Blog - NYTimes.com

Euronews: Gül in Brussels, “a family atmosphere”

For the complete report from euronews click on this link

Gül in Brussels, “a family atmosphere”

The first visit to EU headquarters by a Turkish head of state – Abdullah Gül. took place in what Gül called “a family atmosphere”. But, in spite of a warm welcome from European Commission President José Manuel Barroso, Turkey’s path to acceptance by the EU bloc still needs straightening out. The Turkish president re-confirmed his people would not be put off: “This is a process of adapting to the European Union standards and Turkey is determined, everybody is determined because it is a strategic process for us. It also belongs to the Turkish people, and will continue to in the future. Let no one have any doubt about that.”

Thursday, March 26, 2009

KEYNOTE SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY AT THE EUROPEAN BUSINESS SUMMIT

"KEYNOTE SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY AT THE EUROPEAN BUSINESS SUMMIT

(BRUSSELS, 26 MARCH 2009)

Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is a great pleasure for me to participate in the Seventh European Business Summit. I am confident that, the Summit will provide to the business community yet another occasion to address important problems that face Europe, at present."

More:ABHaber,Gül'ün Avrupa İş Zirvesi'nde yaptığı konuşmayı yayınlıyor (ingilizce)

Turkey and Armenia poised to normalise ties - The Irish Times - Fri, Mar 27, 2009

"Turkey and Armenia poised to normalise ties

NICHOLAS BIRCH in Istanbul

TURKEY AND Armenia are poised to normalise relations non-existent since 1993. The move would be a historic reconciliation between two traditional enemies divided by strategic differences in the Caucasus and the Ottoman Empire’s ethnic cleansing of Armenians in 1915."

More:Turkey and Armenia poised to normalise ties - The Irish Times - Fri, Mar 27, 2009

Ergenekon indictment built on telephone tap

"Ergenekon indictment built on telephone tap
ISTANBUL - Wiretaps and documents found in suspects’ computers are the basis of the accusations leveled against the two retired generals in the add-on indictment in the controversial Ergenekon case, which was accepted Wednesday by an Istanbul court."

More:Ergenekon indictment built on telephone tap

Biologists to meet in Turkish Cyprus

"Biologists to meet in Turkish Cyprus
NICOSIA – Turkish Cyprus President Mehmet Ali Talat said that the decision to organize the annual meeting of the European Countries Biologists Association in northern Cyprus is a very important one."

More:Biologists to meet in Turkish Cyprus

Solution of problems between Azerbaijan and Armenia will help to overcome the difficulties in relations of Turkey with Armenia - Turkish PM

"Solution of problems between Azerbaijan and Armenia will help to overcome the difficulties in relations of Turkey with Armenia - Turkish PM
27.03.09 03:34 Solution of problems between Azerbaijan and Armenia will help to overcome the difficulties in relations of Turkey with Armenia - Turkish PM

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan plans to discuss the ways of regulating of Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict at talks with US President Barack Obama during his visit to Turkey."

MOre:Trend News : Solution of problems between Azerbaijan and Armenia will help to overcome the difficulties in relations of Turkey with Armenia - Turkish PM

West Favors Dane for Top NATO Post, but Turkish Hurdles Remain

EU-Digest

West Favors Dane for Top NATO Post, but Turkish Hurdles Remain

The United States gave its blessing to the appointment of Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen as the next NATO secretary general in Brussels over the weekend, paving the way for him to take over the trans-Atlantic alliance's top civilian job in August. Washington also enjoys strong support for the choice of Rasmussen from its three biggest European allies in the alliance -- Germany, France and the UK. Although Rasmussen, 56, declined to publicly comment on the possibility of succeeding Dutch diplomat Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, he never officially ruled himself out as a candidate for a post that has traditionally gone to a European.

The main snag to Rasmussen's nomination, which needs to be approved by all members of the 26-nation alliance, is possible opposition to his candidacy from Turkey, a secular nation that is predominantly Muslim. "The cartoon crisis has a larger dimension than just Turkey," a Turkish official, who requested anonymity, told Reuters. "At a time when NATO is going to assume added responsibility in Afghanistan and Pakistan, having a secretary general with such an objectionable approach to billions of Muslims, is not the right approach to the Muslim world." Turkey has also attacked Denmark for failing to revoke the broadcasting license of a television station that Ankara has accused of being a mouthpiece for Kurdish rebels opposed to the government. Adding fuel to the fire, Rasmussen had publicly stated in 2003 that he opposed full EU membership for Turkey.

"Turkey will certainly not be so foolish as to shoot themselves in the foot with a veto about a religious matter if they claim to be a secular nation and say they believe in Freedom of Speech. Hopefully European NATO members, including the Turks will talk about more serious issues, like what purpose the NATO has now the cold war has ended and why it should become the world's policeman?"

EU will watch acts against press freedom, says chief

"EU will watch acts against press freedom, says chief
ANKARA - The head of the European Commission warned the Turkish government yesterday that any decision that could hinder press freedom would be taken into consideration in the country’s EU membership bid."

More:EU will watch acts against press freedom, says chief

EU stresses business community's role in Turkey's accession to EU

"EU stresses business community's role in Turkey's accession to EU
www.chinaview.cn 2009-03-27 04:17:05

BRUSSELS, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Business community plays a 'pivotal role' in Turkey's European Union accession process, Olli Rehn, EU commissioner for enlargement, said here on Thursday."

More:EU stresses business community's role in Turkey's accession to EU_English_Xinhua

Turkish PM shows common touch on campaign trail - CNN.com

"Turkish PM shows common touch on campaign trail

ELAZIG, Turkey (CNN) -- The yellow bus with a giant photo of the prime minister on its side raced through Elazig, a provincial town in eastern Anatolia, blaring patriotic music."

More:Turkish PM shows common touch on campaign trail - CNN.com

Bayramoglu plea for Turkish Cypriot Representation in the EU Parliament - Londra gazete www.londragazete.com

"Bayramoglu plea for Turkish Cypriot Representation in the EU Parliament

By Fatih Cansiz

THE CHAIRMAN of one of London’s Turkish Cypriot associations has brought a personal application to the European Parliament to reverse the Council decision, which prevents Turkish Cypriot representation in Brussels"

More:Bayramoglu plea for Turkish Cypriot Representation in the EU Parliament - Londra gazete www.londragazete.com

Cyprus urges Turkey to fulfill all obligations towards EU

"Cyprus urges Turkey to fulfill all obligations towards EU
www.chinaview.cn 2009-03-27 00:07:53

NICOSIA, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Cyprus on Thursday reiterated that Turkey must fulfill all of its obligations to the European Union, especially those concerning the divided Mediterranean island, so that it can continue its bid to join the regional bloc."

More:Cyprus urges Turkey to fulfill all obligations towards EU_English_Xinhua

Barroso hopeful of progress on EU-Turkey talks

"Barroso hopeful of progress on EU-Turkey talks

ELITSA VUCHEVA

Today @ 17:35 CET

EUOBSERVER / BRUSSELS – Turkey's accession talks with the EU may move a small step forward before the Czech EU presidency ends in June, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said on Thursday (26 March)."

More:EUobserver

Trams, cats and local elections; Postcard from Istanbul - Londra gazete www.londragazete.com

"Trams, cats and local elections – Postcard from Istanbul

By Suzan Nuri

THE last time I travelled to Istanbul was six years ago and as I spent last week there, I had to wonder to myself why it had taken so long to return to this mad, buzzing city."


More:Trams, cats and local elections &#8211; Postcard from Istanbul - Londra gazete www.londragazete.com

Turkish Voters Head to Polls, Sunday

"Turkish Voters Head to Polls, Sunday
By Dorian Jones
Diyarbakir
26 March 2009

TurkeyTurkish voters go to the polls in nationwide local elections on Sunday, March 29. The predominantly Kurdish Southeast, and in-particular Diyarbakir, the largest city in the region, is seen as a key for the ruling Islamic- rooted AK party. In the last general election they scored a surprising victory over the pro-Kurdish DTP, and are aiming to do better this round. But the DTP are fighting back by focusing on women rights."

More:VOA News - Turkish Voters Head to Polls, Sunday

Turkey's Gul urges Iraqi Kurds to fight PKK in northern Iraq (SETimes.com)

"Turkey's Gul urges Iraqi Kurds to fight PKK in northern Iraq

25/03/2009

BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Turkish President Abdullah Gul on Tuesday (March 24th) urged Kurdish regional Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani to take action against the terrorist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in northern Iraq."

More:Turkey's Gul urges Iraqi Kurds to fight PKK in northern Iraq (SETimes.com)

Eruygur and Tolon had plans for four coups

"Eruygur and Tolon had plans for four coups

Ergenekon suspects will be charged for intending to stage four coups, entitled with the following code names, Yakamoz, Ayışığı, Sarıkız and Eldiven.

THREE TIMES LIFE SENTENCES IN SOLITARY CONFINEMENT
The second indictment in the Ergenekon case was accepted by the 13th High Criminal Court yesterday. The 1,909 page, indictment, which is broken down into five sections, includes charges on 19 individuals already arrested, as well as 56 additional suspects. Retired general Eruygur is being charged as a primary suspect and retired general Tolon is being charged as second. Both will both be tried with three counts of a life sentence in solitary confinement."

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - National - Eruygur and Tolon had plans for four coups

Dogan Yayin says accounts frozen by authorities | Industries | Consumer Goods & Retail | Reuters

"Dogan Yayin says accounts frozen by authorities

ISTANBUL, March 26 (Reuters) - Dogan Yayin Holding (DYHOL.IS), Turkey's biggest media group, said tax authorities had frozen its bank accounts in a legal wrangle over a $500 million penalty for alleged tax violations"

More:UPDATE 3-Dogan Yayin says accounts frozen by authorities | Industries | Consumer Goods & Retail | Reuters

TURKEY Erdogan heads for a vote: he will win, but he will lose support - Asia News

"Erdogan heads for a vote: he will win, but he will lose support
by Geries Othman
The economic crisis, accusations of corruption, and the failure to keep many promises made in the last elections are weighing against the Turkish prime minister, engaged in a campaign of rallies and inaugurations. Neither the governing party nor the opposition parties have presented any real plans to break the inertia."

More:TURKEY Erdogan heads for a vote: he will win, but he will lose support - Asia News

‘Terrorism Supporter’ to be the Secretary General of NATO

"‘Terrorism Supporter’ to be the Secretary General of NATO
Sedat Laciner
Director
USAK

NATO has started to take on new roles, especially after the Cold War period, among which combating international terrorism is its first priority. The expansion of NATO’s operation area from the former Yugoslavia to Afghanistan is also a new development NATO is operating among religiously and ethnically diverse populations from numerous regions. Hence, the Organization’s operation locations — at an equal distance from all religions and cultures — is of the utmost importance in accomplishing its mission. NATO is currently preparing to welcome its new secretary general, and Denmark’s Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen is in the lead, among the other strong candidates, in consideration for this post."

More:‘Terrorism Supporter’ to be the Secretary General of NATO

Iraq serves Turkey a rare treat

"Iraq serves Turkey a rare treat
By Sami Moubayed

DAMASCUS - A historical run-through of non-state players in the Middle East concludes that they were never intended to win, just achieve the short- and long-term objectives of their patrons."

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

IMF may prefer a longer-term standby deal with Turkey

"IMF may prefer a longer-term standby deal with Turkey
*Turkey welcomes more flexible IMF lending policy

By Hatice Aydogdu
GAZIANTEP, Turkey, March 26 (Reuters) - The International Monetary Fund may prefer longer-term standby deals with countries such as Turkey, Economy Minister Mehmet Simsek said late on Wednesday.
The protracted deal talks between the IMF and Ankara were suspended in January, and Simsek said in a second interview with Reuters and Bloomberg in southeast Turkey it would be positive if the global lender showed more flexibility."

More:Business Feed Article | Business | guardian.co.uk

Cyprus President: Turkish occupation responsible for cultural heritage’s destruction

"Cyprus President: Turkish occupation responsible for cultural heritage’s destruction

March 26, 2009

Turkish occupation is responsible for the destruction of Cyprus' cultural heritage, President of the Republic Demetris Christofias has said, noting that Turkey must contribute to the solution of the Cyprus problem."

More:Financialmirror.com News - Cyprus President: Turkish occupation responsible for cultural heritage’s destruction

Turkish Airlines sees summer 09 landings up 12 pct | Industries | Industrials, Materials & Utilities | Reuters

"Turkish Airlines sees summer 09 landings up 12 pct

ISTANBUL, March 26 (Reuters) - Turkish Airlines (THYAO.IS) said on Thursday it expects to increase landings in the summer season by 12 percent and available seat kilometres by 24 percent due to new routes and additional flights."

More:Turkish Airlines sees summer 09 landings up 12 pct | Industries | Industrials, Materials & Utilities | Reuters

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Turk Arrested Over Kurds’ Killings in ’90s - NYTimes.com

"Turk Arrested Over Kurds’ Killings in ’90s

By SEBNEM ARSU
Published: March 25, 2009

ISTANBUL — A Turkish officer was arrested Wednesday in connection with suspected extrajudicial killings in the country’s predominantly Kurdish southeast in the 1990s. "

More:Turk Arrested Over Kurds’ Killings in ’90s - NYTimes.com

RWE, Turcas Elektrik Uretim to build CCGT power plant in Turkey - Energy Business Review

"RWE, Turcas Elektrik Uretim to build CCGT power plant in Turkey

By Datamonitor staff writer

800 MW gas-fired power station to be built near Denizli

RWE Holding AS, RWE's Turkish subsidiary company, and the Turkish company Turcas Elektrik Uretim, a subsidiary of Turcas Petrol, have signed a joint venture agreement for the construction of an 800MW combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plant near the city of Denizli, Turkey."

More:RWE, Turcas Elektrik Uretim to build CCGT power plant in Turkey - Energy Business Review

TURKEY'S PRESIDENT GUL TO VISIT BRUSSELS - Turk.Net

"TURKEY'S PRESIDENT GUL TO VISIT BRUSSELS

ANKARA (A.A) - 25.03.2009 - Turkish President Abdullah Gul will leave for Brussels on Wednesday.

Presidency press center stated on Wednesday that Gul would meet European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, and attend a banquet hosted by him."

More:(DIP) TURKEY'S PRESIDENT GUL TO VISIT BRUSSELS - Turk.Net

Cypriot president warns elections in TRNC may harm reunification talks (SETimes.com)

"Cypriot president warns elections in TRNC may harm reunification talks

24/03/2009

NICOSIA, Cyprus -- President Demetris Christofias expressed concern on Monday (March 23rd) that election results in the self-proclaimed Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) may harm ongoing reunification talks between the two Cypriot communities."

More:Cypriot president warns elections in TRNC may harm reunification talks (SETimes.com)

Turkey slowly erasing black mark coup legacy | International | Reuters

"Turkey slowly erasing 'black mark' coup legacy

By Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA (Reuters) - For decades, he was the embodiment of a Turkish "pasha" general, one of those stern custodians of the republic's secular principles, always ready to step in to salvage the motherland from chaos with a coup."

More:Turkey slowly erasing black mark coup legacy | International | Reuters

UN vote on Sudan tests Turkish ties

"UN vote on Sudan tests Turkish ties
ISTANBUL - Turkey diverges from the Western bloc as it refuses to side with it on the deferral by the Security Council of the Sudanese president indictment. Of the 15 members of the council six say they will vote for deferral whereas seven, among them the US, say they will vote against it. Turkey is known to favor deferral despite requests from US"

More:UN vote on Sudan tests Turkish ties

Turkey breaks with past, seeks ties with Iraqi Kurds | Reuters

"Turkey breaks with past, seeks ties with Iraqi Kurds
Wed Mar 25, 2009 11:43am EDT

By Paul de Bendern - Analysis

BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Turkish President Abdullah Gul's recognition of the Kurdistan government in northern Iraq and his talks with the autonomous region's leader on fighting Kurdish guerrillas mark a breakthrough for regional stability."

More:Turkey breaks with past, seeks ties with Iraqi Kurds | Reuters

Turkish Court Indicts 56 on Coup Charges - WSJ.com

"Turkish Court Indicts 56 on Coup Charges

By NICHOLAS BIRCH

ISTANBUL -- A court here on Wednesday formally indicted 56 suspects, including two retired four-star generals, on charges of plotting to topple Turkey's Islamic-rooted government.

Made public by Istanbul's 13th Criminal Court, the 1,909-page indictment is the second to emerge from an 18-month investigation into a secularist-nationalist group accused of fomenting civil unrest against the ruling AK Party. Earlier this month, prosecutors submitted the indictment, which required approval from the court. That approval came Wednesday, paving the way for the case to move forward and the indictment to be made public. "

More:Turkish Court Indicts 56 on Coup Charges - WSJ.com

Turkish Cyprus president expected to meet US' Clinton

"Turkish Cyprus president expected to meet US' Clinton
Turkish Cyprus President Mehmet Ali Talat is expected to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton mid April, sources said."

More:World Bulletin [ Turkish Cyprus president expected to meet US' Clinton ]

Turkey improves ties with Iraq | Reuters

"Turkey improves ties with Iraq
Wed Mar 25, 2009 11:52am EDT

March 25 (Reuters) - President Abdullah Gul has been on a visit to Iraq, the first by a Turkish head of state since 1976, consolidating relations with Iraqi leaders and seeking closer relations with Iraq's largely autonomous Kurdistan region."

More:FACTBOX-Turkey improves ties with Iraq | Reuters

Turkish generals to face coup trial

"Turkish generals to face coup trial

By Delphine Strauss in Ankara

Published: March 25 2009 19:05 | Last updated: March 25 2009 19:05

Two senior retired generals will face trial accused of plotting to overthrow Turkey’s government, after an Istanbul court agreed on Wednesday to hear a case linking 56 more people to a clandestine group of ultranationalists."

More:FT.com / Europe - Turkish generals to face coup trial

Özkök may be asked to testify

"Özkök may be asked to testify

According to sources, in the upcoming days, Ergenekon prosecutors may request a witness testimony from former General Chief of Staff Hilmi Özkok, based on the 'Coup Journals' resource contained in the second indictment of the Ergenekon case."

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - National - Özkök may be asked to testify

Erdogan Takes on Media Mogul: Political Feud in Turkey Scares Off Foreign Investors - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

"ERDOGAN TAKES ON MEDIA MOGUL
Political Feud in Turkey Scares Off Foreign Investors

By Katrin Elger, Daniel Steinvorth and Isabell Hülsen

Local elections in Turkey have added fuel to the bitter feud between Recep Tayyip Erdogan and media mogul Aydin Dogan. But the Turkish prime minister's apparent vendetta is shaking foreign investor's confidence in the rule of law -- right in the middle of an economic crisis."

More:Erdogan Takes on Media Mogul: Political Feud in Turkey Scares Off Foreign Investors - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

One killed in explosion in Turkey | International | Jerusalem Post

"One killed in explosion in Turkey
By ASSOCIATED PRESS
ANKARA, Turkey

Police say an explosion in a city in southeastern Turkey has killed one person and wounded two others. "

More:One killed in explosion in Turkey | International | Jerusalem Post

Turkey slowly erasing "black mark" coup legacy

"Turkey slowly erasing 'black mark' coup legacy
25 Mar 2009 10:41:50 GMT
Source: Reuters
By Ibon Villelabeitia

ANKARA, March 25 (Reuters) - For decades, he was the embodiment of a Turkish 'pasha' general, one of those stern custodians of the republic's secular principles, always ready to step in to salvage the motherland from chaos with a coup."

More:Reuters AlertNet - FEATURE-Turkey slowly erasing "black mark" coup legacy

Turkish Airlines to buy 5 Boeing aircraft - Forbes.com

"Turkish Airlines to buy 5 Boeing aircraft
Associated Press, 03.25.09, 05:22 AM EDT
pic

Turkish Airlines says it is purchasing five Boeing 777-300 aircraft.

The company notified the Turkish stock exchange on Wednesday that it would purchase one jetliner each month between October 2010 and February 2011."

More:Turkish Airlines to buy 5 Boeing aircraft - Forbes.com

Court fines CHP deputy Canan Aritman claiming that Abdullah Gul’s mother is of Armenian origin

"Ankara-APA. Court fines CHP deputy Canan Aritman claiming that Abdullah Gul’s mother is of Armenian origin
[ 25 Mar 2009 13:37 ]
Ankara-APA. Republican People’s Party (CHP) deputy Canan Aritman, who claimed that Gul’s mother is of Armenian origin, will pay 1YTL lawsuit petition, APA reports quoting Anadolu agency."

More:APA - Ankara-APA. Court fines CHP deputy Canan Aritman claiming that Abdullah Gul’s mother is of Armenian origin

Surveillance Spooks Turks as Wiretaps Profusion Hurts Privacy - Bloomberg.com

"Surveillance Spooks Turks as Wiretaps Profusion Hurts Privacy

By Firat Kayakiran

March 25 (Bloomberg) -- Turkish actress Nurseli Idiz only makes phone calls in emergencies because when she talks, she’s concerned a stranger is listening."

More:Surveillance Spooks Turks as Wiretaps Profusion Hurts Privacy - Bloomberg.com

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Focus on Travel News: Daily Travel News website and Newsletter - “Light And Shape“ Arrives to Istanbul

"“Light And Shape“ Arrives to Istanbul
Published by Ozgur Tore
Tuesday, 24 March 2009
Two Germans, married to each other, who paint and exhibit together. At the first glance their paintings seem completely different! But yet they have a lot in common."

More:Focus on Travel News: Daily Travel News website and Newsletter - “Light And Shape“ Arrives to Istanbul

Hotelier as an ambassador

"Hotelier as an ambassador
BODRUM - It can be said that some foreign expatriates living in Turkey can act as unofficial ambassadors to this country. At least that is the case with Patrick Hembrough."

More:Hotelier as an ambassador

Turkish election offers hope for Kurds

"Turkish election offers hope for Kurds

By Delphine Strauss and Funja Guler in Diyarbakir

Published: March 24 2009 23:37 | Last updated: March 24 2009 23:37

Plumes of smoke rose above the fields around Diyarbakir, in Turkey’s Kurdish south-east, from fires lit to mark the traditional festival of Newruz. Under spring sunshine, families picnicked and dancers stamped in circles as Kurdish singers took the stage before a crowd of hundreds of thousands"

More:FT.com / Europe - Turkish election offers hope for Kurds

PKK rejects call to lay down arms

"PKK rejects call to lay down arms
BAGHDAD - Kurdish separatists yesterday rejected calls by Iraq's president to stop fighting against Turkey and leave Iraqi territory as the visiting Turkish president stepped up pressure on the Baghdad government to act against the group."

More:PKK rejects call to lay down arms

’Turk business can turn crisis into opportunity’

"’Turk business can turn crisis into opportunity’
ISTANBUL - Turkey could transform the crisis into an opportunity despite the fact that Russian-Turkish economic relations have been negatively effected, said experts, adding that Turkish business can go toward new investments at a time when other foreign capital is leaving Russia"

More:’Turk business can turn crisis into opportunity’

Yet another taboo dies in ’Kurdistan’

"Yet another taboo dies in ’Kurdistan’
ANKARA - President Abdullah Gül's first official uttering of the word ’Kurdistan’ in relation to the regional administration in northern Iraq sends shockwaves through the opposition, which fears this could encourage calls for more concessions and reveals foreign meddling. The only party supporting Gül’s move is the DTP, saying it is a sign of willingness for closer ties"

More:Yet another taboo dies in ’Kurdistan’

Istanbul to switch off lights for Earth Hour

"Istanbul to switch off lights for Earth Hour
ISTANBUL - Several buildings in Istanbul will turn off their nighttime lights for 60 minutes on March 28 as part of 'Earth Hour,' an international campaign to raise awareness about climate change, the New York Times reported."

More:Istanbul to switch off lights for Earth Hour

Electric Light & Power - Armenians mull idea of Turkey's participation in building new nuclear plant

"Armenians mull idea of Turkey's participation in building new nuclear plant
(March 24, 2009)

Mar 11, 2009 (BBC Monitoring via COMTEX) -- According to some economic experts, Turkey has already suggested to Armenia that it participate in the construction of a new unit of Armenia's nuclear power station."

More:Electric Light & Power - Armenians mull idea of Turkey's participation in building new nuclear plant

Turkey says not yet decided on next NATO chief | Reuters

"Turkey says not yet decided on next NATO chief
Tue Mar 24, 2009 2:24pm EDT

BAGHDAD, March 24 (Reuters) - Turkey has not decided whether to back Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen as the next NATO chief, Turkish President Abdullah Gul said on Tuesday."

More:Turkey says not yet decided on next NATO chief | Reuters

Gul's Visit to Baghdad: A Sign of Rapprochement With The Kurds? - The Jamestown Foundation

"Gul's Visit to Baghdad: A Sign of Rapprochement With The Kurds?
Publication: Eurasia Daily Monitor Volume: 6 Issue: 56
March 24, 2009 03:27 PM Age: 41 min
Category: Eurasia Daily Monitor, Turkey, Foreign Policy, Home Page
By: Emrullah Uslu

Turkey's President Abdullah Gul arrived in Iraq on March 23, becoming the first Turkish president to visit the country in 33 years, where he was warmly welcomed by Iraq's President Jalal Talabani. Gul's visit to Iraq was originally scheduled for December 20, 2008 but a chronic ear infection resulted in its postponement. Speculation had mounted over the past three months that he might use the opportunity to make a symbolic visit to Arbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) (Sabah, December 15)."

More:Gul's Visit to Baghdad: A Sign of Rapprochement With The Kurds? - The Jamestown Foundation

Iraq, Turkey Nearing Deal To Deprive PKK Of Bases - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

"Iraq, Turkey Nearing Deal To Deprive PKK Of Bases

By Charles Recknagel
Turkey's efforts to deprive the PKK -- the armed Turkish Kurd rebel movement -- of bases in northern Iraq may have reached a watershed moment with Turkish President Abdullah Gul's current visit to Baghdad."

More:Iraq, Turkey Nearing Deal To Deprive PKK Of Bases - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty © 2009

Turkish lira, assets boosted by IMF hopes, rising risk appetite

"Turkish lira, assets boosted by IMF hopes, rising risk appetite
Turkish asset prices rose on Tuesday, supported by increasing global risk appetite and hopes for a near-term loan agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF)."

More:Turkish lira, assets boosted by IMF hopes, rising risk appetite

Turkey's Sabanci targets 80 new discount-stores in 2009

"Turkey's Sabanci targets 80 new discount-stores in 2009
Sabanci Holding, a Turkish conglomerate with interests in retail, energy and banking, said on Tuesday that it aims to open 80 new DiaSa discount grocery stores in 2009 to bring the total number in the chain to 700."

More:Turkey's Sabanci targets 80 new discount-stores in 2009

ORDER OF SAINT ANDREW THE APOSTLE

"Turkish judiciary and state behind alienation of non-Muslims

New York, NY
3/23/2009
A new report reveals the facts behind confiscated properties of non-Muslim foundations inside Turkey. The Ecumenical Patriarchate is among those persecuted non-Muslim minorities. The findings have been released by the Turkish Economic and Social Studies Foundation (TESEV) and determine that the Turkish State and Judiciary policies are to blame."

More:ORDER OF SAINT ANDREW THE APOSTLE

Editorials: Significance of Gul’s Iraq visit

"Editorials: Significance of Gul’s Iraq visit
24 March 2009

VISITS abroad by heads of state are different to those by heads of government. They are a symbolic endorsement of good relations between countries; prime ministerial visits are about the nitty-gritty of politics — trade, military agreement, and foreign policy decisions. That is as true for Turkey as any other country. The visit to Iraq by its president, Abdullah Gul, is therefore something of a landmark. No Turkish head of state has visited Baghdad in over 30 years, although Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was there for talks with his Iraqi counterpart Nuri Al-Maliki last July."

More:Editorials: Significance of Gul’s Iraq visit

Kurdish rebels: We won't stop fighting in Iraq

"Kurdish rebels: We won't stop fighting in Iraq

By SINAN SALAHEDDIN – 4 hours ago

BAGHDAD (AP) — A Kurdish rebel group on Tuesday rejected calls by Iraq's president to stop fighting against Turkey and leave Iraqi territory."

More:The Associated Press: Kurdish rebels: We won't stop fighting in Iraq

Ex-Turkish army chief may testify in coup plot-reports

"Ex-Turkish army chief may testify in coup plot-reports
24 Mar 2009 13:55:46 GMT
Source: Reuters
ISTANBUL, March 24 (Reuters) - A former commander of Turkey's armed forces may be asked to testify in the investigation of an alleged plot to topple Turkey's Islamist-rooted government, Turkish media said on Tuesday."

More:Reuters AlertNet - Ex-Turkish army chief may testify in coup plot-reports

Investigators Say Turkish Airliner 'Fell Straight Down'

"Investigators Say Turkish Airliner 'Fell Straight Down'

Mon, 02 Mar '09
Survivors Says Engines Powered Up Immediately Before Impact

A spokesperson for the Dutch safety authority announced last week that a preliminary report on the crash of Turkish Airlines Flight TK1951 will probably be released by this Wednesday."

More:.:: Aero-News Network: The Aviation and Aerospace World's Daily/Real-Time News and Information Service ::.

Armenia concerned at Russian-Turkish relationship

"Armenia concerned at Russian-Turkish relationship
By Messenger Staff
Tuesday, March 24
Ruben Megrabian from the Armenian Centre for Political and International Research thinks that improvements in Russian-Turkish relations might be a threat for Armenia. He points out that these relations are based on their attitudes towards the West and that the Armenian elite should consider this possibility. Megrabian thinks that both Russia and Turkey have their own particular interests and therefore might ignore the Armenian interest."

More:The Messenger - Armenia concerned at Russian-Turkish relationship

RWE to invest in Turkish power plants

"RWE to invest in Turkish power plants

24 March 2009 - The second biggest German power company, RWE, said it bought stakes owned by number one E.ON in two Turkish projects, including a plant that would generate up to 800 MW of electricity."

More:Power Engineering - RWE to invest in Turkish power plants

Karzai to attend Afghanistan meeting, Ankara talks | South Asia | Reuters

"Karzai to attend Afghanistan meeting, Ankara talks

By Hamid Shalizi

KABUL (Reuters) - Afghan President Hamid Karzai will attend a conference in the Netherlands next week where the United States, the U.N. and Afghanistan's neighbours, including possibly Iran, are to discuss ways to end the Afghan conflict."

More:Karzai to attend Afghanistan meeting, Ankara talks | South Asia | Reuters

Afghan, Pakistani leaders to meet in Turkey - International Herald Tribune

"Afghan, Pakistani leaders to meet in Turkey

ANKARA, Turkey: A government official says the leaders of Afghanistan and Pakistan will meet in Turkey next month for talks aimed at building trust between the two neighbors."

More:Afghan, Pakistani leaders to meet in Turkey - International Herald Tribune