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Saturday, April 30, 2011

Tyres could be key to Turkish GP

"Tyres could be key to Turkish GP

Fri, 29 Apr 14:09:00 2011

Formula One teams could opt for some 'alternative' strategies in next week's Turkish Grand Prix because of the expected high levels of tyre degradation. "

More:Tyres could be key to Turkish GP - Yahoo! Eurosport

Jenson Button: Turkish GP 'critical test' for Pirelli tyres | F1 News - ITV Sport

"Turkey to provide 'critical test' for Pirellis – Button

Published: 28/04/11, 01:45PM
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Jenson Button believes Istanbul Park will provide Pirelli with a “critical test” for their new Formula 1 tyres at next week’s Turkish Grand Prix.

Pirelli have won plaudits for the role their new-for-2011 tyres have played in the racing so far this season, the Italian manufacturer having been asked to produce compounds which degrade more quickly than their Bridgestone predecessors in order to spice up the spectacle."

More:Jenson Button: Turkish GP 'critical test' for Pirelli tyres | F1 News - ITV Sport

Turkey, Azerbaijan fail to agree to terms on gas transit terms

"Turkey, Azerbaijan fail to agree to terms on gas transit terms

Istanbul (Platts)--29Apr2011/1235 pm EDT/1635 GMT

Turkey and Azerbaijan Friday failed to reach a final agreement over the purchase and transit of natural gas to be produced from the second phase of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz gas field, despite having arranged a signing ceremony for Friday afternoon, a spokesman for Turkey's Energy Ministry said Friday."

More:Turkey, Azerbaijan fail to agree to terms on gas transit terms - Natural Gas | Platts News Article & Story

Parties’ energy vision

"Parties’ energy vision
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Friday, April 29, 2011
GİLA BENMAYOR

Greenpeace has examined election manifestos of political parties in order to highlight the different energy visions.

Energy visions of the ruling Justice and Development Party, or AKP, and the opposition Republican People’s Party, or CHP, and the Nationalist Movement Party, or MHP, take up only one page in each manifesto."

More:Parties’ energy vision - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Iraqi refugees wait for new lives in Istanbul’s 'Little Baghdad'

"Iraqi refugees wait for new lives in Istanbul’s 'Little Baghdad'

Friday, April 29, 2011
BAHAR ÇUHADAR
ISTANBUL - Radikal
A neighborhood known as 'Son Durak' (Last Stop) in Istanbul's Kurtuluş area is a way station for Iraqis who have fled the Iraq war since 2003. The community, also called 'Little Baghdad,' is mostly populated by Christian refugees from central and southern Iraq whose meeting-point is a café on the neighborhood square"

More:Iraqi refugees wait for new lives in Istanbul’s 'Little Baghdad' - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Something To Declare: Dining out in Istanbul; Asia via Germany; Eclipse 2012; Mexico - News & Advice, Travel - The Independent

"Something To Declare: Dining out in Istanbul; Asia via Germany; Eclipse 2012; Mexico

Saturday, 30 April 2011

Destination of the week: Dining out in Istanbul

Turkey's largest city, whose heritage hotels are featured on page 6 today, is the subject of a price war between full-service and no-frills airlines this summer. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) competes with Turkish Airlines (020-7471 6666; turkishairlines.com) from Heathrow to the main airport of Ataturk, while easyJet (0905 821 0905; easyjet.com) at Gatwick rivals the low-cost flights on Pegasus (0845 0848 980; flypgs.com) from Stansted to the second airport, Sabiha Gokcen. Fares start below £200 return."

More:Something To Declare: Dining out in Istanbul; Asia via Germany; Eclipse 2012; Mexico - News & Advice, Travel - The Independent

Istanbul's biggest free festival, Hıdrellez, gets canceled

"Istanbul's biggest free festival, Hıdrellez, gets canceled

Friday, April 29, 2011
IŞIL EĞRİKAVUK
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
Istanbul's biggest free festival, the Hıdrellez celebrations that mark the arrival of spring and the awakening of nature, has been canceled this year due to security precautions after an attempt to institute an admission fee. Organizers say it was becoming increasingly difficult to control the growing crowds, some of whom say they will still go to the festival site May 5 and create their own celebration"

More:Istanbul's biggest free festival, Hıdrellez, gets canceled - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

The Big Six: Heritage hotels in Istanbul - Hotels, Travel - The Independent

"The Big Six: Heritage hotels in Istanbul

By Tristan Rutherford

Istandbul's grande dame hotel awoke from some much-needed beauty sleep late last year. Rooms are a medley of marble, antique dressers, classic portraits of the city and monogrammed pillowcases. The suites are in a class of their own: some overlook the Bosphorus, while the Agatha Christie suite is where the author supposedly penned Murder on the Orient Express. The hotel has a spa with an indoor jet-streamed swimming pool and Turkish bath. "

More:The Big Six: Heritage hotels in Istanbul - Hotels, Travel - The Independent

Try Anything Once: Touring Turkey - Turkish Food Rundown, Part 1

"Touring Turkey - Turkish Food Rundown, Part 1

If I have not mentioned this before, I didn't have a bad meal the entire time I was in Turkey. Whether it was a local spot or a higher end place, everything I tasted was flavorful and often unique for me. My favorite part of Turkish food was that fact that there were elements that I recognized from other Mediterranean cuisines yet some distinctive cooking techniques (at least to me anyway). I'll highlight some of the food we ate in Istanbul in this post."

More:Try Anything Once: Touring Turkey - Turkish Food Rundown, Part 1

EU Stops Short Of Syrian Asset Freezes Due To Cypriot Opposition - Corruption Currents - WSJ

"EU Stops Short Of Syrian Asset Freezes Due To Cypriot Opposition

By Samuel Rubenfeld

European Union diplomats meeting in Brussels agreed to an arms embargo on Syria but fell short of issuing an asset freeze or travel ban on top officials, Dow Jones Newswires reported."

More:EU Stops Short Of Syrian Asset Freezes Due To Cypriot Opposition - Corruption Currents - WSJ

Turkey's AKP, CHP running close in social media support

"Turkey's AKP, CHP running close in social media support

Friday, April 29, 2011
İPEK YEZDANİ
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

When it comes to what people say on the Internet, Turkey’s ruling and main opposition parties are running almost neck-and-neck in popular support ahead of the June 12 general election, a new survey has revealed."

More:Turkey's AKP, CHP running close in social media support - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Can the Arab awakening be a positive black swan for Turkey?

"Can the Arab awakening be a positive black swan for Turkey?
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Friday, April 29, 2011

The fire of the Arab awakening is now catching up with the Syrian youth. The streets of Arab countries, following a long period of oppression, are continuing to vent their anger until they attain freedom or the cold kiss of death."

More:Can the Arab awakening be a positive black swan for Turkey? - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Exile Resources Reports Spudding Of Well Onshore Turkey

"Exile Resources Reports Spudding Of Well Onshore Turkey

Exile Resources Inc. has reported that, with partner Valeura Energy Inc. and operator Aladdin Middle East Ltd., it had spud the company's first exploration well, Bostanci-1, on April 24, 2011 in Turkey. This well is located in the southern most corner of the Rubai License 2600 adjacent to the borders with Iraq and Syria."

More:Exile Resources Reports Spudding Of Well Onshore Turkey

Syrians flee into Turkey

"Syrians flee into Turkey

ISTANBUL (AP) — More than 200 Syrians crossed the border into Turkey on Friday seeking refuge from a deadly crackdown on protesters, Turkish media reported."

More:Syrians flee into Turkey - Europe news by mail.com

Istanbul To Become International Financial Hub By 2023

"Istanbul To Become International Financial Hub By 2023

ISTANBUL, April 30 (Bernama) -- Istanbul will become one of the world's top 10 financial centers by 2023, Turkish State Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan said."

More:BERNAMA - Istanbul To Become International Financial Hub By 2023

Turkey, Azerbaijan agree on purchase and sale agreement | Energy News | Trend

"Turkey, Azerbaijan agree on purchase and sale agreement
30.04.2011 12:08

Turkey, Azerbaijan agree on purchase and sale agreement

Azerbaijan, Baku, April 30 / Trend E.Ismayilov /

The Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister said on Friday that Turkey and Azerbaijan agreed on purchase and sale part of the intergovernmental agreement, adding that, however, the parties needed time to work more on transit passages part of the agreement, the Turkish Anadolu news agency reported."

More:Turkey, Azerbaijan agree on purchase and sale agreement | Energy News | Trend

Friday, April 29, 2011

Nabeghlavi to Enter the Turkish Market in Two Weeks

"Nabeghlavi to Enter the Turkish Market in Two Weeks

29/04/2011 09:21 (01:23 minutes ago)

The FINANCIAL -- JSC Healthy Water (Tskali Margebeli), leading Georgian water producer in the country, has increased its sales figures by 15% during the last three years and this year it plans to enter the Turkish market as well. "

More:The FINANCIAL - Nabeghlavi to Enter the Turkish Market in Two Weeks

More funding for Cyprus’ reunification - Cyprus Mail

"More funding for Cyprus’ reunification
Published on April 29, 2011

THE EUROPEAN Commission has proposed the inclusion in the 2012 EU draft budget an additional €25 million in funding for the Turkish Cypriot community."

More:More funding for Cyprus’ reunification - Cyprus Mail

Turkey Econ Minister Chides Bank CEOs For Not Backing Policy

"Turkey Econ Minister Chides Bank CEOs For Not Backing Policy

ISTANBUL -(Dow Jones)- Turkey's economy minister Ali Babacan Friday warned bank chief executives not to place profits before stability, stressing that finance bosses were in the minority for not backing Turkey's unorthodox policy to lift reserve ratios while cutting benchmark rates."

More:Turkey Econ Minister Chides Bank CEOs For Not Backing Policy

Why Europe Needs Turkey – Analysis « « Eurasia Review Eurasia Review

"Why Europe Needs Turkey – Analysis

Written by: The Henry Jackson Society
April 29, 2011

By Ivelina Fedulova

With the world’s attention being turned towards Libya, its neighbours and the Middle East, it is not surprising that the media paid very little attention to the two EU enlargement meetings with Turkey and Croatia last week. After all, for most people, Croatia’s accession to the Union is a fait accompli, even more so now that it has concluded negotiations on two more chapters. Turkey’s accession, however, is believed to have stalled as there has been no progress in the process in the last year. This reinforces many people’s belief that Turkey will either never become an EU member or that it should not become one all together. Yet, the people of Europe should look past the ideological arguments against Turkey’s membership, which are often based on religion, culture, and history. With Europe’s global role constantly being challenged nowadays, allowing Turkey to join the Union would strengthen its security and defence, its foreign policy regarding Arab countries and would also ensure its energy security. The EU-27 need to recognise that Turkey need not necessarily be a threat to their interests, but could in fact help to augment their collective geopolitical influence going forwards, particularly with regards to energy security and their relationships in the Muslim world."

More:Why Europe Needs Turkey – Analysis « « Eurasia Review Eurasia Review

Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan: Kyrgyzstan opens window for the Turkish capital to the Central Asian investment market

"Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan: Kyrgyzstan opens window for the Turkish capital to the Central Asian investment market
28/04-2011 07:30, Ankara – 24.kg news agency , by Daniyar KARIMOV

Kyrgyzstan opens a window for the Turkish capital to the Central Asian investment market. This was announced by Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan Almazbek Atambayev yesterday at a press conference in Ankara. "

More:eng.24.kg

Turkey’s Trade Deficit Almost Doubles to $9.8 Billion in March - Businessweek

"Turkey’s Trade Deficit Almost Doubles to $9.8 Billion in March
April 29, 2011, 3:28 AM EDT

By Aydan Eksin

April 29 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey’s trade deficit jumped 91 percent from a year earlier in March, as growing domestic demand drew in imports of goods and raw materials."

More:Turkey’s Trade Deficit Almost Doubles to $9.8 Billion in March - Businessweek

Bloody Syrian crackdown embarrasses Turkish allies - CNN.com

"Bloody Syrian crackdown embarrasses Turkish allies
By Ivan Watson and Yesim Comert, CNN
April 29, 2011 -- Updated 1259 GMT (2059 HKT)

Istanbul, Turkey (CNN) -- Turkish officials engaged in last-minute shuttle diplomacy with their restive neighbor Syria and repeated calls for restraint ahead of what is expected to be another violent day of protests across the Arab nation on Friday. "

More:Bloody Syrian crackdown embarrasses Turkish allies - CNN.com

Poets condemn Syria's savage repression | Reuters

"Poets condemn Syria's "savage" repression

ISTANBUL | Thu Apr 28, 2011 10:17am EDT

(Reuters) - Poets at a festival in Istanbul criticized on Thursday Syria's violent repression of pro-democracy protesters as "the most savage and the most bloody among the Arab peaceful popular revolutions.""



More:Poets condemn Syria's savage repression | Reuters

Turkey debates whether international treaty is obstacle to plan to bypass the Bosporus - The Washington Post

"Turkey debates whether international treaty is obstacle to plan to bypass the Bosporus

ANKARA, Turkey — Turks are debating whether a 1936 treaty that governs shipping in the Bosporus Strait will disrupt ambitious government plans to build an alternative canal linking the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea."

More:Turkey debates whether international treaty is obstacle to plan to bypass the Bosporus - The Washington Post

Istanbul Music Festival prepares for 'journeys to faraway lands’

"Istanbul Music Festival prepares for 'journeys to faraway lands’

Friday, April 29, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
Istanbul will be host to world-famous stars of music during the 39th Istanbul International Music Festival from June 4 to 29. The event will host 24 concerts including symphony and chamber orchestras, vocal concerts, chamber music and recitals. The program of the festival was announced Thursday at a press conference at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul"

More:Istanbul Music Festival prepares for 'journeys to faraway lands’ - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey's trade gap soars while new iPad sells out in hours

"Turkey's trade gap soars while new iPad sells out in hours

Friday, April 29, 2011
ISTANBUL - Daily News with wires
The spread between Turkey’s imports and exports continues to rise at an alarming level, new figures show, as brand new iPad 2s sellout in a matter of hours at major technology retailers. Turkish exports in the first quarter rise to $31.5 percent, while imports increase to $56 billion. The trade deficit nearly doubles over the year, reaching $24.6 billion"

More:Turkey's trade gap soars while new iPad sells out in hours - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

The Turkish Media: At Long Last Turkey Becomes a World Leader!

"The Turkish Media: At Long Last Turkey Becomes a World Leader!
by Amberin Zaman
April 28, 2011

If nature permitted and Turkish pros-ecutors had their way, Vedat Kursun,the editor-in-chief of the pro-Kurdishdaily Azadiya Welat would spend 116years in prison. His biggest crime is to have permitted the publication of allegedly separatist articles in his newspaper. Under Turkey’s draconiananti-terror laws, this qualifes him for membership in the outlawed separatist Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), anarmed militant group that has been fghting the Turkish army for the past 27 years."

More:The Turkish Media: At Long Last Turkey Becomes a World Leader!

UN says Turkey should be involved in Libya process

"UN says Turkey should be involved in Libya process
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Thursday, April 28, 2011
ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News

The United Nations has asked Turkey to be involved in providing humanitarian aid to Libya and resolving the ongoing crisis there, a Turkish diplomat told the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review on Thursday."

More:UN says Turkey should be involved in Libya process - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Greece, Turkey and Illegal Immigration - Worldpress.org

"Greece, Turkey and Illegal Immigration

Ioannis Michaletos
April 28, 2011

Greece over the past few years has become a source country concerning the entrance of a large number of illegal immigrants, mostly from Asian and African states, who enter mainly through the Greek-Turkish borders. The problem erupted on a full scale in the early 00s and continues with increasing pace."

More:Greece, Turkey and Illegal Immigration - Worldpress.org

Turkey: Inspiring or insidious

"Turkey: Inspiring or insidious

By Delphine Strauss

Published: April 28 2011 22:34 | Last updated: April 28 2011 22:34

In one corner of the courtyard, green-painted railings enclose the tomb of a saint. In another, a pair of 12-year-old boys in spotless white shirts and neatly pressed trousers politely answer visitors’ questions. In Diyarbakir, a city in Turkey’s Kurdish south-east where many children work on the streets or land in jail for throwing stones at security forces, these two have come to prepare for high school entrance exams. Asked what they want to do later, one says “doctor” and the other, grinning, declares “police”."

More:FT.com / Comment / Analysis - Turkey: Inspiring or insidious

EGL (TAP's shareholder) signs MOU with Turkey's Botas

"EGL (TAP's shareholder) signs MOU with Turkey's Botas

Michael Roberts - 29.04.2011

EGL signed a memorandum of understanding in Ankara with Botas, a Turkish state-owned enterprise with activities in the area of oil and natural gas transport, as well as gas trading. Among other things, the agreement sets down the framework conditions for the planned transport of natural gas through Turkey to Europe, as well as additional areas of cooperation. The energy ministers of Switzerland and Turkey already signed a joint memorandum of understanding for stronger energy cooperation in November 2009."

More:Balkans.com Business News : EGL (TAP's shareholder) signs MOU with Turkey's Botas

Thursday, April 28, 2011

NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to visit Istanbul

"NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to visit Istanbul

Thursday, April 28, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Los Angeles Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Turkish star Mehmet Okur are coming to Turkey to attend a party in Istanbul."

More:NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to visit Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

As Events in Syria Intensify, Ankara Will Discuss a Confidential ‘B Plan’

"As Events in Syria Intensify, Ankara Will Discuss a Confidential ‘B Plan’

The pro-government Turkish daily Sabah reported that while Ankara’s 'A Plan' for Syria, which envisioned a transition to democracy via a series of reforms appears to have been left by the wayside, a 'B Plan' is soon to be put to action. This plan, which includes the possibilities of turmoil in Syria, civil war and migration, will be discussed by Turkey’s National Security Council on Thursday. "

More:MEMRI Turkish Media Blog - Full Entry

Music Festival Time for Istanbul

"Music Festival Time for Istanbul
Published by Ozgur Tore
Thursday, 28 April 2011 19:38

The Istanbul Music Festival organised by Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts, under the sponsorship of Borusan is greeting the music lovers in its 39th year with a fully packed program. "

More:Music Festival Time for Istanbul

UN's Libya envoy holds talks in Turkey: News24: World: News

"UN's Libya envoy holds talks in Turkey
2011-04-28 20:27

Ankara - The special UN envoy for Libya, Abdul Ilah al-Khatib, held talks in Turkey on Thursday ahead of a trip to the Libyan rebel stronghold of Benghazi, officials said."

More:UN's Libya envoy holds talks in Turkey: News24: World: News

Turkey Sends Delegation to Syria for Reform Talks - WSJ.com

"Turkey Sends Delegation to Syria for Reform Talks

BY MARC CHAMPION

ISTANBUL—Turkey on Thursday sent a high-level delegation of government experts to advise Syria on how to implement rapid reforms, a sign of Ankara's concern that rising violence could trigger instability across the region and unravel Turkish commercial and foreign-policy gains."

More:Turkey Sends Delegation to Syria for Reform Talks - WSJ.com

‘No compromise on sovereignty’ - Cyprus Mail

"‘No compromise on sovereignty’
By Jacqueline Agathocleous Published on April 28, 2011

CYPRUS IS ready to discuss any issues related to flight safety resulting from the operation of Ercan (Tymbou) airport in the north as long as its sovereign rights were unaffected, the transport ministry said yesterday."

More:‘No compromise on sovereignty’ - Cyprus Mail

Turkey Central Bank Chief Defends Hot-Money Policy - WSJ.com

"Turkey Central Bank Chief Defends Hot-Money Policy

BY JOE PARKINSON AND YELIZ CANDEMIR

ISTANBUL—Turkey's new central-bank governor on Thursday issued a robust defence of the bank's experimental monetary policy to curb hot money growth and cool a domestic lending boom, indicating that benchmark interest rates are unlikely to rise in the near term. "

More:Turkey Central Bank Chief Defends Hot-Money Policy - WSJ.com

AFP: Domestic violence rings alarm bells in Turkey

"Domestic violence rings alarm bells in Turkey

By Safak Timur (AFP) – 8 hours ago

ISTANBUL — She is neither a celebrity nor a prominent politician, but a bodyguard escorts Nahide Opuz at every step, even at the supermarket, to fend off a menace that has proved lethal: her ex-husband."

More:AFP: Domestic violence rings alarm bells in Turkey

Turkey Denounces Obama’s Remarks on 1915 Events

"Turkey Denounces Obama’s Remarks on 1915 Events

In his annual remarks on Saturday, to mark the ‘Armenian Remembrance Day,’ the U.S. President Barack Obama called the incidents of 1915 in the Ottoman Empire a 'great disaster' or 'Meds Yeghern' in Armenian, but once again he did not classify the WWI killings of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire as “genocide,” greatly angering many American-Armenians. Yet Turkey still criticized his statement."

More:MEMRI Turkish Media Blog - Full Entry

Censorship in the Turkish media

"Censorship in the Turkish media
| April 27, 2011

The anti-AK Party bloc has discovered a few new weapons against the Justice and Development Party (AK Party) and the alleged AK Party censorship of the Turkish media is one them."

More:Censorship in the Turkish media - Journal - Jailed Reporters

Two Kurdish rebels killed in Turkey clashes

"Two Kurdish rebels killed in Turkey clashes
Thursday, 28 April 2011 14:08 Mohideen Mifthah

ANKARA, April 28, 2011 (AFP) - Turkish soldiers killed two Kurdish rebels in fighting in eastern Turkey, Anatolia news agency reported late Wednesday.
The clashes erupted in the mountainous province of Tunceli as soldiers came across militants of the separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), the governor's office said in a statement, according to Anatolia."

More:Two Kurdish rebels killed in Turkey clashes

Turkey’s Central Bank Raises 2011 Inflation Forecast to 6.9%, Yields Surge - Bloomberg

"Turkey’s Central Bank Raises 2011 Inflation Forecast to 6.9%, Yields Surge
By Ali Berat Meric and Selcuk Gokoluk - Apr 28, 2011 12:09 PM GMT+0300

Turkey’s central bank raised its inflation forecast for 2011 to 6.9 percent from 5.9 percent, more than analysts expected, citing higher oil prices and taxes on textiles. Bond yields rose the most in a month. "

More:Turkey’s Central Bank Raises 2011 Inflation Forecast to 6.9%, Yields Surge - Bloomberg

US warns Turkey against financial transactions with Iran | Economy & Business news | Trend

"US warns Turkey against financial transactions with Iran
28.04.2011 15:45

US warns Turkey against financial transactions with Iran

The United States has warned Turkey against conducting financial transactions with Iran and asked Ankara to halt the operations of an Iranian state-run bank in the country, local media reported Thursday."

More:US warns Turkey against financial transactions with Iran | Economy & Business news | Trend

Turkey condemns Canadian PM for his remarks on the Armenian Genocide

"Turkey condemns Canadian PM for his remarks on the Armenian Genocide

28.04.2011 12:18

Turkey on Wednesday condemned Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's statement on the incidents of 1915, saying he was just “looking after his political benefits and has dealt a blow to efforts to improve ties between the two countries.”"

More:Turkey condemns Canadian PM for his remarks on the Armenian Genocide : Public Radio of Armenia

Erdogan’s Turkey Becomes Biggest Jailer With Opponents Alleging Power Grab - Bloomberg

"Erdogan’s Turkey Becomes Biggest Jailer With Opponents Alleging Power Grab
By Benjamin Harvey - Apr 28, 2011 12:00 AM GMT+0300

Turkey’s jailing of 17 journalists since September is fuelling accusations that Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s changes to the legal system are designed to eliminate opponents rather than harmonize laws with the European Union. "

More:Erdogan’s Turkey Becomes Biggest Jailer With Opponents Alleging Power Grab - Bloomberg

Defense lawyers boycott KCK trial in Turkey

"Defense lawyers boycott KCK trial in Turkey

Wednesday, April 27, 2011
ÖZGÜR ÖĞRET
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

The Kurdish Communities Union, or KCK, trial is gridlocked due to the court’s “stubbornness,” which prompted defense lawyers to boycott a hearing earlier this week, the head of the Diyarbakır Bar Association has said."

More:Defense lawyers boycott KCK trial in Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Young street musicians apprehended, fined by Ankara police

"Young street musicians apprehended, fined by Ankara police

Wednesday, April 27, 2011
ISTANBUL – Daily News with wires

Police apprehended and fined three high school students who were performing music over the weekend in central Ankara, saying they were creating a disturbance and later joking that they “got off easy” with a fine."

More:Young street musicians apprehended, fined by Ankara police - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey Plans New Canal for Istanbul

"Turkey Plans New Canal for Istanbul
Associated Press

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey unveiled a plan to build a new waterway to the Black Sea, promising that the tanker-clogged Bosporus through Istanbul would soon be used for sports and boat trips.
By SEBNEM ARSU

ISTANBUL — Heating up the campaign for the coming parliamentary elections, Turkey’s governing party on Wednesday unveiled a proposal to build a canal parallel to Istanbul’s Bosporus that would be longer than either the Panama or Suez canals. "

More:Turkey Plans New Canal for Istanbul - NYTimes.com

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

US asks Turkey to halt Bank Mellat’s operations, freeze Gahdafi’s assets

"US asks Turkey to halt Bank Mellat’s operations, freeze Gahdafi’s assets

Wednesday, April 27, 2011
SERKAN DEMİRTAŞ
ANKARA – Hürriyet Daily News

The United States has asked Ankara to halt the operations of Iranian Bank Mellat in Turkey and to freeze the assets of Libya’s leadership so as to support international efforts to impose financial pressure on the regimes."

More:US asks Turkey to halt Bank Mellat’s operations, freeze Gahdafi’s assets - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Exciting and ancient Istanbul

"Exciting and ancient Istanbul

David Potts | 28th April 2011

HE could have been no more than 10 years of age, dressed splendidly from head to toe in white with gold and blue trimmings."

More:Exciting and ancient Istanbul | Coolum Travel | Holidays and Tourism in Coolum | Coolum & North Shore News

An Innocent in the Terror Prison: The Guantanamo File on Germany's Murat Kurnaz - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

"The Guantanamo File on Germany's Murat Kurnaz

By John Goetz and Britta Sandberg

The Americans built Guantanamo to hold the most dangerous terrorists, but secret files show that their information on the inmates was often based just on rumors and suspicions. The file on Bremen-born prisoner Murat Kurnaz chronicles the absurd tale of an innocent man held for almost five years. "

More:An Innocent in the Terror Prison: The Guantanamo File on Germany's Murat Kurnaz - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News - International

Turkey talks EU in the Balkans

"Turkey talks EU in the Balkans
Posted By David Bosco Wednesday, April 27, 2011 - 9:44 AM Share

Turkey's president visited Serbia this week and emphasized his desire to see the Balkans placed under the European Union and NATO umbrellas. "

More:Turkey talks EU in the Balkans | The Multilateralist

How a Country of Fishermen Lost Its Favorite Fish - Max Strasser - Life - The Atlantic

"How a Country of Fishermen Lost Its Favorite Fish
By Max Strasser

Apr 27 2011, 10:55 AM ET
Turkey's mackerel used to be Turkish—but now they're Norwegian. A case study in the rise of the global seafood economy."

More:How a Country of Fishermen Lost Its Favorite Fish - Max Strasser - Life - The Atlantic

Petacchi wins fourth stage on Tour of Turkey

"Petacchi wins fourth stage on Tour of Turkey

Wednesday, April 27, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Italian cyclist Alessandro Petacchi of the Lampre-NGC team won the fourth stage of the Presidential Cycling Tour, or Tour of Turkey, on Wednesday."

More:Petacchi wins fourth stage on Tour of Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Keep Those Dirty Beatniks Out of Istanbul! - Hit & Run : Reason Magazine

"Keep Those Dirty Beatniks Out of Istanbul!

Jesse Walker | April 27, 2011

It must be 1966 in Turkey: They're putting a William Burroughs book on trial.

My grandfather invented the adding machine. This device is for subtraction.The Istanbul Prosecutor's Office has opened an investigation into a book written by internationally renowned author William S. Burroughs. It was translated and published by Sel Publishing House in January."

More:Keep Those Dirty Beatniks Out of Istanbul! - Hit & Run : Reason Magazine

Kyrgyzstan suggests establishing union with Russia and Turkey similar to EU | Vestnik Kavkaza

"Kyrgyzstan suggests establishing union with Russia and Turkey similar to EU

Russia, Turkey and Kyrgyzstan should consider establishing a union similar to the EU. This statement was made by the Prime Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Almazbek Atambayev, ITAR-TASS reports."

More:Kyrgyzstan suggests establishing union with Russia and Turkey similar to EU | Vestnik Kavkaza

US bets on EU and Turkey to add sting to planned sanctions on Syria

"US bets on EU and Turkey to add sting to planned sanctions on Syria

Wednesday, 27 April 2011

By JAMES M. DORSEY
Special to Al Arabiya

The Obama administration’s hopes that sanctions to be imposed on Syria as well as Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his family will spark dissent within Syria’s political leadership as well as the armed forces whose senior ranks are part of the country’s economic elite. To achieve that, the administration is looking to the European Union and Turkey to ensure that the sanctions hit where it hurts most: the pockets of those on which Mr. Assad’s power rests."

More:US bets on EU and Turkey to add sting to planned sanctions on Syria

Turkish anti-nuke protesters take to streets for Chernobyl anniversary

"Turkish anti-nuke protesters take to streets for Chernobyl anniversary

Wednesday, April 27, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

A noisy crowd numbering in the hundreds marched Tuesday evening in central Istanbul to both mark the 25th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, whose fallout reached Turkey’s Black Sea coast, and protest Ankara’s nuclear power plant plans."

More:Turkish anti-nuke protesters take to streets for Chernobyl anniversary - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey to Build Its Own 'Panama Canal' - WSJ.com

"Turkey to Build Its Own 'Panama Canal'

BY MARC CHAMPION

ISTANBUL—Turkey will build a new canal connecting the Black Sea with the Mediterranean, parallel to the Bosphorus strait, in order to cut traffic in one of the world's busiest and most urban shipping lanes, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Wednesday."

More:Turkey to Build Its Own 'Panama Canal' - WSJ.com

PM Erdoğan announces new water passage for Istanbul

"PM Erdoğan announces new water passage for Istanbul
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Wednesday, April 27, 2011
ISTANBUL - Daily News with wires

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Wednesday announced a massive project to construct a new water passage through western Istanbul province, broadcaster CNNTürk reported."

More:PM Erdoğan announces new water passage for Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey to Israel: Ankara Has No Control Over Gaza Flotilla | Middle East | English

"Turkey to Israel: Ankara Has No Control Over Gaza Flotilla

VOA News April 26, 2011

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu has told Israel not to attempt to stop an upcoming supply flotilla to Gaza next month."

More:Turkey to Israel: Ankara Has No Control Over Gaza Flotilla | Middle East | English

Doubts on Turkish foreign-policy shift unjustified, former top EU official says

"Doubts on Turkish foreign-policy shift unjustified, former top EU official says

Tuesday, April 26, 2011
ERISA DAUTAJ ŞENERDEM
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Turkey’s eastward shifts in foreign policy are raising questions in European Union circles, but such doubts are not justified and represent a minority opinion in the bloc, a former top EU official said Monday."

More:Doubts on Turkish foreign-policy shift unjustified, former top EU official says - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Serbia, Turkey and BiH back mutual support on EU path :: EMG :: SEE news

"Serbia, Turkey and BiH back mutual support on EU path

27. April 2011. | 07:16

Source: Emg.rs, Tanjug, Infobiro.tv

Leaders of Serbia, Turkey and BiH attached special attention to strengthening of economic cooperation and assessed that there is vast room for its enhancement. Another topic discussed at the summit referred to inter-cultural and inter-religious cooperation in the region."

More:Serbia, Turkey and BiH back mutual support on EU path :: EMG :: SEE news

Turkey writes off Kyrgyz $51 m debt

"Turkey writes off Kyrgyz $51 m debt
27/04-2011 07:42, Bishkek – 24.kg news agency , by Daniyar KARIMOV

Turkey wrote off Kyrgyz debt in amount of $51 million and granted $10 million for country’ support, as Prime Minister of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said yesterday, April 26, at press conference in Ankara city. "

More:eng.24.kg

Federation Council ratifies atom for peace agreement with Turkey | Vestnik Kavkaza

"Federation Council ratifies atom for peace agreement with Turkey

On Wednesday, Russian parliamentarians ratified the intergovernmental agreement with Turkey on cooperation in use of nuclear energy for peace, RIA Novosti reports."

More:Federation Council ratifies atom for peace agreement with Turkey | Vestnik Kavkaza

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Turkish designers' products selected for MoMA project

"Turkish designers' products selected for MoMA project

Tuesday, April 26, 2011
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
The 'Destination: Design' series at the New York Museum of Modern, or MoMA, continues this year with Istanbul. As part of the project titled “Destination: Istanbul,” products by Turkish designers chosen by MoMA will be on sale at the museum’s design store for two months. The whole collection will also be available in Istanbul until the end of November"

More:Turkish designers' products selected for MoMA project - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey dismantles Armenia reconciliation statue | World news | The Guardian

"Turkey dismantles Armenia reconciliation statue

Sculpture was criticised for overshadowing an Islamic shrine

Work has begun to dismantle a giant sculpture in the Turkish province of Kars, near the border with Armenia, which was meant to promote reconciliation over the loss of Armenian lives in the first world war."

More:Turkey dismantles Armenia reconciliation statue | World news | The Guardian

Turkish PM advises reform in Syria, sending envoy | Reuters

"Turkish PM advises reform in Syria, sending envoy

ISTANBUL | Tue Apr 26, 2011 3:37pm EDT

(Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan voiced concern on Tuesday over Syria's violent crackdown on demonstrators and said he was sending an envoy to meet President Bashar al-Assad and encourage him to move toward democracy."

More:Turkish PM advises reform in Syria, sending envoy | Reuters

Council of Europe to Send Media Envoy to Turkey

"Council of Europe to Send Media Envoy to Turkey
IPI Welcomes Decision, Calls for Release of Jailed Journalists

Steven M. Ellis, Press Freedom Adviser

The International Press Institute (IPI) today welcomed news that Council of Europe Secretary General Thorbjørn Jagland will send a media freedom envoy to Turkey."

More:Council of Europe to Send Media Envoy to Turkey

Italy's Belletti wins third stage of Tour of Turkey

"Italy's Belletti wins third stage of Tour of Turkey
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Tuesday, April 26, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Italian cyclist Manuel Belletti of the Colnago team won the third stage of the Presidential Cycling Tour, or Tour of Turkey, on Tuesday."

More:Italy's Belletti wins third stage of Tour of Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

A Romani Festival on the Streets of Istanbul - NYTimes.com

"A Romani Festival on the Streets of Istanbul
By ANSEL MULLINS

The Spring festival of Hidrellez, celebrated in Istanbul and throughout the region during the first week of May, may be attributed to the ancient prophets Ilyas and Hizir, but its rituals, venerating fire and water, reach back to the roots of Anatolian civilization. In Istanbul today, particularly in Romani districts, Hidrellez comes in the form of a memorable street party."

More:A Romani Festival on the Streets of Istanbul - NYTimes.com

CIA’s Panetta Held Secret Talks on Syria in Ankara, Sabah Says

"CIA’s Panetta Held Secret Talks on Syria in Ankara, Sabah Says
By Benjamin Harvey -

U.S. Central Intelligence Agency chief Leon Panetta spent five days in the Turkish capital at the end of March discussing regional tensions as Syria became the latest Mideast country to erupt in protests, Sabah newspaper reported. "

More:CIA’s Panetta Held Secret Talks on Syria in Ankara, Sabah Says - Bloomberg

Istanbul’s shopping fest ends, next year on the table

"Istanbul’s shopping fest ends, next year on the table

Tuesday, April 26, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
Turkey’s first 40-day-long Istanbul Shopping Festival ended Tuesday. Increasing the number of tourists, the festival makes the biggest contribution to the city’s foreign trade, according to event co-chairman Yılmaz Yılmaz. Still, the duration and date for the festival has begun to be discussed"

More:Istanbul’s shopping fest ends, next year on the table - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Tourism becoming scientific field, Turkish academics say

"Tourism becoming scientific field, Turkish academics say

Tuesday, April 26, 2011
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
Experts who participated in the Roadmapping for Academic Tourism Education Conference held last week in Dalaman in Muğla agree that tourism as a field has covered a great distance and should be recognized as an independent field of science. Scholars, however, are still divided in their views on the field’s current state"

More:Tourism becoming scientific field, Turkish academics say - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Firm mulls building Europe’s largest solar plant in Turkey

"Firm mulls building Europe’s largest solar plant in Turkey
By SHARON UDASIN
04/26/2011 02:38

US-Dutch solar energy firm GiraSolar in talks with Turkish partners over plant expected to provide 100 megawatts of energy."

More:Firm mulls building Europe’s largest solar plant in Turkey

Hayots Ashkharh: Turkey prepares diplomats with Armenian language skills

"Hayots Ashkharh: Turkey prepares diplomats with Armenian language skills

April 26, 2011

Trainings of diplomats with knowledge of Armenian language will be organized at Neighboring Languages Academy, Kadir Has University, on the initiative of the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Hayots Ashkharh newspaper reports."

More:Armenia News - NEWS.am

AFP: Obama calls Turkey's PM Erdogan after Armenia row

"Obama calls Turkey's PM Erdogan after Armenia row

WASHINGTON — US President Barack Obama spoke to Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, following complaints from Ankara about his remarks on Armenian massacres under the Ottoman Empire, the White House said Monday."

More:AFP: Obama calls Turkey's PM Erdogan after Armenia row

Libyans treated in Turkey return to Benghazi - FOCUS Information Agency

"Libyans treated in Turkey return to Benghazi
26 April 2011 | 00:00 | FOCUS News Agency
Home / World
Ankara. Turkish authorities announced on Monday that 66 Libyan nationals who received treatment in Turkey after the recent unrest in Libya, as well as 28 individuals who accompanied them during their stay in Turkey, were sent from the Aegean province of Izmir back to their home country, an official statement said, Xinhua informed."

More:Libyans treated in Turkey return to Benghazi - FOCUS Information Agency

Ankara on alert over escalating tension in Syria

"Ankara on alert over escalating tension in Syria

Monday, April 25, 2011
ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News

Turkey is alarmed at the escalating tension in neighboring Syria, where security forces’ deadly crackdowns on protesters threaten to trigger a flood of refugees across the border, Turkish officials have said."

More:Ankara on alert over escalating tension in Syria - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

EU must keep its promise on Cyprus, ex-EU official says

"EU must keep its promise on Cyprus, ex-EU official says

Monday, April 25, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

The state of European Union-Turkey negotiations is unsatisfactory, and the EU must act to find a solution to Cyprus and other issues causing barriers to negotiations, according to a former European official."

More:EU must keep its promise on Cyprus, ex-EU official says - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Monday, April 25, 2011

Hotels should use original Turkish names for dishes, federation says

"Hotels should use original Turkish names for dishes, federation says

Monday, April 25, 2011
ADANA – Doğan News Agency (DHA)

The names of Turkish dishes should remain in their original Turkish rather than be translated into English, according to the head of the head of the national cooks’ federation."

More:Hotels should use original Turkish names for dishes, federation says - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

AFP: Three Turks kidnapped in Iraq released: army

"Three Turks kidnapped in Iraq released: army

(AFP) – 2 hours ago

KIRKUK, Iraq — Three Turkish workers who were kidnapped in mid-February in the northern Iraqi oil hub of Kirkuk were released on Monday after being held by a Sunni militant group, security officials said."

More:AFP: Three Turks kidnapped in Iraq released: army

Critics Challenge New Internet Controls in Turkey | Europe | English

"Critics Challenge New Internet Controls in Turkey

Dorian Jones | Instanbul April 25, 2011

Turkey already bans more websites than any other European country. Now the government is set to introduce new controls that officials say are needed to protect children. Critics fear they represent an effort control the web. "

More:Critics Challenge New Internet Controls in Turkey | Europe | English

Turkish auto suppliers to invest in Tatarstan

"Turkish auto suppliers to invest in Tatarstan

Monday, April 25, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

At least 10 Turkish auto suppliers are preparing to invest in the automotive technoparks of Tatarstan, according to the chairman of Turkey's Automotive Industry Exporters Union, OİB."

More:Turkish auto suppliers to invest in Tatarstan - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey’s Opposition Makeover

"Turkey’s Opposition Makeover

By Ayla Albayrak

Even critics of Turkey’s main opposition Republican People’s Party are admitting to pleasant surprise at the party’s new election manifesto.

For the last two elections, the party, generally known by its CHP acronym, had positioned itself as a hard-line secular and nationalist bulwark against the Islamist threat it claimed the ruling Justice and Development party, or AKP, posed to Turkey’s secular constitution. It didn’t work. At the last election in 2007, the AKP won 47% of the vote to the CHP’s 21%."

More:Turkey’s Opposition Makeover - Emerging Europe Real Time - WSJ

35 members of pro-Kurdish BDP detained in Southeast Turkey

"35 members of pro-Kurdish BDP detained in Southeast Turkey

Monday, April 25, 2011
ISTANBUL – Daily News with wires

Police detained 35 people Monday in the southeastern province of Hakkari, including the deputy mayor and other local officials, in connection with ongoing investigations into the Kurdish Communities Union, or KCK."

More:35 members of pro-Kurdish BDP detained in Southeast Turkey - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

USGC pursues solutions to Turkey’s DDGS restrictions

"USGC pursues solutions to Turkey’s DDGS restrictions
By U.S. Grains Council | April 25, 2011

Turkish imports of distiller’s dried grains with solubles, which reached a peak of 465,000 metric tons in 2008, have since been hit with a pair of regulatory restrictions, which the U.S. Grains Council is taking action to resolve."

More:Ethanol Producer Magazine | EthanolProducer.com

Greece withdraws from World Children's Games due to Turkish Cyprus' presence

"Greece withdraws from World Children's Games due to Turkish Cyprus' presence

Monday, April 25, 2011
ANKARA – Anatolia News Agency

Greece withdrew Monday from the World Children's Games in Ankara due to Turkish Cyprus’ participation to the event, according to local officials."

More:Greece withdraws from World Children's Games due to Turkish Cyprus' presence - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

In Turkey, Banks Nudged to Cool a Sizzling Economy - NYTimes.com

"In Turkey, Banks Nudged to Cool a Sizzling Economy
Osman Orsal/Reuters

By LANDON THOMAS Jr.

ISTANBUL — Is Turkey’s booming economy heading for a fall? It certainly looks that way.
Stockbrokers endure four-month waiting lists to pay as much as $150,000 for top-of-the-line Audis and BMWs — or twice the manufacturer’s price after taxes — and a real estate developer laid out $800 million for 9.7 hectares, or 24 acres, a record for land in Istanbul’s city center"

More:In Turkey, Banks Nudged to Cool a Sizzling Economy - NYTimes.com

May Day to be celebrated again in Istanbul’s Taksim Square

"May Day to be celebrated again in Istanbul’s Taksim Square
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Monday, April 25, 2011
ISTANBUL - Daily News with Wires

Istanbul authorities have granted official permission for workers to celebrate May Day in symbolic Taksim Square again this year."

More:May Day to be celebrated again in Istanbul’s Taksim Square - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Swiss energy trader EGL signs Turkish joint venture deals - Natural Gas | Platts News Article & Story

"Swiss energy trader EGL signs Turkish joint venture deals

Istanbul (Platts)--25Apr2011/1148 am EDT/1548 GMT

Switzerland-based energy trading company EGL Group has signed separate joint ventures with Turkish state gas importer and pipeline operator Botas and Turkish LPG and LNG trading group Demiroren, the three companies announced in statements released Monday."

More:Swiss energy trader EGL signs Turkish joint venture deals - Natural Gas | Platts News Article & Story

Turkish minister says environmentalists will agree with him on nuclear power

"Turkish minister says environmentalists will agree with him on nuclear power

Monday, April 25, 2011
ISTANBUL – Anatolia News Agency

Environmentalists will agree with a view that opposes nuclear plants using Chernobyl-like technology but supports new-technology reactors, Turkey’s energy minister has said."

More:Turkish minister says environmentalists will agree with him on nuclear power - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey, US see eye-to-eye on Iran, envoy says

"Turkey, US see eye-to-eye on Iran, envoy says

Monday, April 25, 2011
ISTANBUL - Anatolia News Agency

Turkey and the United States share the same vision on Iran’s nuclear future, a source of much tension between Ankara and the West, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey said in remarks published Monday."

More:Turkey, US see eye-to-eye on Iran, envoy says - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey mulls steps to boost foreign trade

"Turkey mulls steps to boost foreign trade

Monday, April 25, 2011
ANKARA – Hürriyet Daily News

Turkey will increase its exports to $500 billion by 2023, the country’s prime minister announced Monday at a conference that brought together Turkish trade counselors stationed in 85 countries to discuss boosting the country’s exports."

More:Turkey mulls steps to boost foreign trade - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey Not Prepared to Give up on Nuclear Energy | Electric.co.uk News

"Turkey Not Prepared to Give up on Nuclear Energy
Posted on: April 25th, 2011 by Jason Drew

According to the Turkish energy minister, Turkey is not about to give up on nuclear energy. In fact, he went on to defend nuclear energy in Turkey as a whole. The minister, Taner Yildiz, said that Turkey is the only country without access to nuclear energy among the top 30 developed countries in the world. This is something that has to change."

More:Turkey Not Prepared to Give up on Nuclear Energy | Electric.co.uk News

University in southern Turkey to build solar field

"University in southern Turkey to build solar field

Monday, April 25, 2011
BETÜL ÇAL
ANTALYA - Hürriyet Daily News

The Antalya Metropolitan Municipality is starting to construct a solar field in the Mediterranean province to “collect sun for Turkey,” marking a step toward cheap, clean and unlimited energy for the country."

More:University in southern Turkey to build solar field - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

AFP: Turkey arrests 35 Kurds

"Turkey arrests 35 Kurds

(AFP) – 4 hours ago

ANKARA — An off-duty soldier died after being shot in southeast Turkey, while 35 Kurds were arrested Monday in the region with suspected links to urban wing of the separatist Kurdish rebels.

Two off-duty sergeants, wearing civilian clothes, were shot on Sunday by unidentified gunmen in the town of Yuksekova in Hakkari province, with one dying of his wounds in hospital on Monday, Anatolia news agency reported."

More:AFP: Turkey arrests 35 Kurds

AKP, CHP vow to bolster Turkey's ties with EU, Washington - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

"AKP, CHP vow to bolster Turkey's ties with EU, Washington

Monday, April 25, 2011
SEVİL KÜÇÜKKOŞUM
ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News

Turkey’s ruling party and main opposition both remain committed to the country’s European Union accession bid, but are divided over their reasons for seeking membership in the bloc, according to their respective electoral platforms."

More:AKP, CHP vow to bolster Turkey's ties with EU, Washington - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Report: 35 detained in Turkey for alleged links to Kurdish rebels

"Report: 35 detained in Turkey for alleged links to Kurdish rebels

By The Associated Press – 6 hours ago

ANKARA, Turkey — A news report says police in Turkey have detained some 35 people, including an acting mayor, as part of an investigation into a group prosecutors accuse of ties to Kurdish rebels."

More:The Canadian Press: Report: 35 detained in Turkey for alleged links to Kurdish rebels

Turkish Wine: Some Initial Tasting Notes - Vinography: A Wine Blog

"Turkish Wine: Some Initial Tasting Notes

turkish_wine.jpgExploring new wine regions continues to be one of my greatest thrills as a wine lover and wine writer. And when I say new wine regions, I mean new to me, of course.

I wish I were writing these words above the bustling streets of Istanbul or out in the countryside off the Aegean, but sadly my first explorations of Turkish wine had to be as an armchair traveler. Or should I say, by-the-bottle traveler?"

More:Turkish Wine: Some Initial Tasting Notes - Vinography: A Wine Blog

Turkish arrogance towards Cyprus

"Turkish arrogance towards Cyprus
FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE
• Sun, Apr 24, 2011
President of the Republic of Cyprus Demetris Christofias confirmed on Thursday that he has sent letters to the UN Secretary General and the Presidents of the European Council, Commission and Parliament, denouncing the arrogance with which Turkish officials are behaving towards Cyprus."

More:Turkish arrogance towards Cyprus

At Europe’s doorstep, Turkey’s role in Middle East changes and evolves

"At Europe’s doorstep, Turkey’s role in Middle East changes and evolves

By Palash R. Ghosh | April 24, 2011 6:56 PM EDT

Turkey has become a major regional and economic player in the Near East. As a leading vibrant Muslim society, the Turks offer a solid blueprint for Arab nations seeking to modernize, while still maintaining Islamic roots. However, Turks are not Arabs and their relationship with its Middle Eastern neighbors has been fraught with tensions, crises and conflicting objectives."

More:At Europe’s doorstep, Turkey’s role in Middle East changes and evolves - International Business Times

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Ankara falls in line with other top NATO partners

"Ankara falls in line with other top NATO partners

Ankara, 24 April - Turkey's Foreign Ministry decided to give up its non-interventionist stance and to join the United States and the European Union in pointing the finger at the Syrian government for the violent events produced by the armed uprising. The Foreign Ministry released a statement calling on the Syrian authorities to “act with maximum restraint, refrain from excessive use of force and choose the appropriate means of response to mass demonstrations”."

More:Arab Monitor - Sito di informazione dal mondo arabo

Off-duty soldiers attacked in southeast Turkey: report - FOCUS Information Agency

"Off-duty soldiers attacked in southeast Turkey: report
24 April 2011 | 21:46 | FOCUS News Agency

Ankara. Two off-duty soldiers were shot and injured in Turkey's Kurdish-majority southeast Sunday as scores took to the streets in fresh violent protests, Anatolia news agency reported, as cited by AFP."

More:Off-duty soldiers attacked in southeast Turkey: report - FOCUS Information Agency

Turks increasingly commemorate Armenian massacre

"Turks increasingly commemorate Armenian massacre

(AP) – 1 hour ago

ISTANBUL (AP) — Tourists flocking to see carpets and calligraphy at one of Istanbul's most renowned museums were met Sunday by a rare public display of opinion on perhaps the darkest episode of Turkey's history, the massacres of Armenians during World War I."

More:The Associated Press: Turks increasingly commemorate Armenian massacre

AFP: Turkey condemns Obama for Armenia remarks

"Turkey condemns Obama for Armenia remarks

(AFP) – 8 hours ago

ANKARA — Turkey on Sunday voiced 'deep regret' over US President Barack Obama's remarks on Armenian massacres under the Ottoman Empire, slamming them as 'one-sided'.

'The statement distorts the historical facts. Therefore, we find it very problematic and deeply regret it... One-sided statements that interpret controversial historical events by a selective sense of justice prevent understanding of the truth,' the foreign ministry said."

More:AFP: Turkey condemns Obama for Armenia remarks

Turks Honor Armenian Massacre Victims

"Turks Honor Armenian Massacre Victims

24.04.2011
Karine Simonian

Hundreds of Turks rallied in downtown Istanbul on Sunday to remember more than one million Armenians massacred in the Ottoman Empire nearly a century ago.

Kneeling on the ground in the city’s central Taksim Square, they silently lit candles and held red carnations to the accompaniment of Armenian melancholy music played through loudspeakers. They then laid the flowers on a big banner that said “This pain is our pain.”"

More:Turks Honor Armenian Massacre Victims

Election in Turkey: Implications — domestic, regional and international

"Election in Turkey: Implications — domestic, regional and international
By Henry P. Williams III
Published: April 24, 2011

Turkey continues to struggle to find a balance in the 21st century between its Turkic and Islamic roots and the westernizing and secularization that have governed much of the life of its people since the founding of its republic in 1923."

More:Election in Turkey: Implications — domestic, regional and international | Daily Progress

Obama treads carefully between Armenia and Turkey - The Oval: Tracking the Obama presidency

"Obama treads carefully between Armenia and Turkey
08:58 AM

By David Jackson, USA TODAY

Once again, President Obama stepped carefully into the historic dispute between Turkey and Armenia, but he still got criticized."

More:Obama treads carefully between Armenia and Turkey - The Oval: Tracking the Obama presidency

Russian tourists in Turkey to increase 20 pct with visa-free travel

"Russian tourists in Turkey to increase 20 pct with visa-free travel

Sunday, April 24, 2011
ANKARA - Anatolia News Agency

Turkey expects to draw more Russian tourists this year by as high as 20 percent with the onset of a new visa-free travel regime between the two countries, said Cumhur Güven Taşbaşı, director of promotion at the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism."

More:Russian tourists in Turkey to increase 20 pct with visa-free travel - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Tension in Turkey spreads to Children’s Day celebrations

"Tension in Turkey spreads to Children’s Day celebrations

Sunday, April 24, 2011
ANKARA Daily News Parliament Bureau

Political tension in the run-up to June elections spilled over Saturday into ceremonies marking April 23, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, in Ankara as a number of politicians and high-ranking officials refused to greet each other."

More:Tension in Turkey spreads to Children’s Day celebrations - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey joins US, EU in calls to Syria to stop killings

"Turkey joins US, EU in calls to Syria to stop killings

Sunday, April 24, 2011
ANKARA – Hürriyet Daily News
More than a hundred reported deaths among protesters demonstrating against the regime in Syria over the weekend draw sharp responses from Turkey, the US, the EU and other world powers. Turkey’s ruling AKP calls for maximum restraint, but the main opposition CHP says it’s not enough, a diplomatic initiative should be launched"

More:Turkey joins US, EU in calls to Syria to stop killings - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish police apprehend suspects in jewelry heist

"Turkish police apprehend suspects in jewelry heist

Sunday, April 24, 2011
ISTANBUL – Doğan News Agency (DHA)

Turkish police have apprehended an alleged gang of international jewelry thieves that stole 20 kilograms of gold out of an armored vehicle in Istanbul on April 12 thanks to evidence provided by security cameras."

More:Turkish police apprehend suspects in jewelry heist - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Murdered Italian activist commemorated in Istanbul's Taksim Square

"Murdered Italian activist commemorated in Istanbul's Taksim Square

Sunday, April 24, 2011
ISTANBUL – Daily News with Wires

Members of the Humanitarian Relief Foundation, or İHH, held a ceremony in Istanbul’s Taksim Square on Sunday to commemorate Italian aid worker Vittorio Arrigoni, who was murdered in Gaza on April 14."

More:Murdered Italian activist commemorated in Istanbul's Taksim Square - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

CHP a mere 'trainee' in politics, says Turkey's PM

"CHP a mere 'trainee' in politics, says Turkey's PM

Sunday, April 24, 2011
ISTANBUL - Daily News with Wires

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a series of rallies Sunday in Istanbul, challenging the opposition’s ability to govern the country and defending the legislature’s 10 percent election barrier."

More:CHP a mere 'trainee' in politics, says Turkey's PM - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish kebab restaurants stand against Italian regulation

"Turkish kebab restaurants stand against Italian regulation

Sunday, April 24, 2011
FLORENCE – Anatolia News Agency

Owners of Turkish kebab houses in Florence, the capital city of Italy’s Tuscany region, are standing against a new regulation by the Italian government that bans new kebab houses in the ancient city."

More:Turkish kebab restaurants stand against Italian regulation - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

‘Turkey chance for aging Europe’

"‘Turkey chance for aging Europe’

Sunday, April 24, 2011
ANKARA – Anatolia News Agency

Turkey’s young, dynamic, high-quality labor force has to ability to solve problems of the European Union as it strives to maintain its competitive power in the global economy, according to Turkey's Secretariat General for the European Union Affairs."

More:‘Turkey chance for aging Europe’ - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Hoards Celebrate 'Bulgarian Easter' in Istanbul: Hoards Celebrate 'Bulgarian Easter' in Istanbul - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

"Hoards Celebrate 'Bulgarian Easter' in Istanbul
Society | April 24, 2011, Sunday

Thousands of Bulgarians celebrated Easter in Istanbul, Turkey, Saturday into Sunday with the mass traditionally held at the St. Stefan church."

More:Hoards Celebrate 'Bulgarian Easter' in Istanbul: Hoards Celebrate 'Bulgarian Easter' in Istanbul - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar Raided in Fake Handbag Swoop, Vatan Says - Bloomberg

"Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar Raided in Fake Handbag Swoop, Vatan Says
By Mark Bentley - Apr 24, 2011 10:40 AM GMT+0300

Turkish police raided 30 stores in Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, seizing thousands of handbags alleged to be copies of Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior, Vatan newspaper reported."

More:Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar Raided in Fake Handbag Swoop, Vatan Says - Bloomberg

Two men, a young woman and Ankara

"Two men, a young woman and Ankara

Saturday, April 23, 2011
EMRAH GÜLER
ISTANBUL – Hürriyet Daily News
In his second feature ‘Bizim Büyük Çaresizliğimiz’ (Our Grand Despair), director Seyfi Teoman takes the capital city of Ankara as a central character and asks the city to heal the wounds of a delicate relationship among three people"

More:Two men, a young woman and Ankara - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

These days we're all talking Turkey

"These days we're all talking Turkey
Before the doors of the first exhibition of contemporary Turkish art in London had even opened, nearly half of the 70 or so works had been sold.

- Sent using Google Toolbar"

More:These days we're all talking Turkey - Telegraph

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Turkey's Christians display wealth of diverse Easter practices

"Turkey's Christians display wealth of diverse Easter practices

Saturday, April 23, 2011
VERCİHAN ZİFLİOĞLU
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
With a diverse array of superstitions, traditions and customs, Anatolian Christians used to practice a variety of Easter traditions. Syriacs in the southeast used to burn threads in ovens to symbolize the resurrection, while Armenians painted eggs and burned beeswax prepared on Holy Saturday. Greeks in Istanbul, meanwhile, used to have open-air feasts on Easter Sunday"

More:Turkey's Christians display wealth of diverse Easter practices - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Obama pays tribute to Armenian victims

"Obama pays tribute to Armenian victims

(AP) – 54 minutes ago

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is honoring Armenian victims on the anniversary of their massacre in Turkey nearly a century ago. But he is stopping short of calling it a genocide."

More:The Associated Press: Obama pays tribute to Armenian victims

Turkey approves Kurdish candidates

"Turkey approves Kurdish candidates

Saturday, April 23, 2011

[Turkey approves Kurdish candidates]
ANKARA: Turkey on Thursday approved the election bids of several prominent Kurds after their initial disqualification sparked violent Kurdish protests that flared for a third day across the southeast."

More:Turkey approves Kurdish candidates

PKK Gets Customs Tax From Donkey Drug Traffickers, Hurriyet Says - Bloomberg

"PKK Gets Customs Tax From Donkey Drug Traffickers, Hurriyet Says
By Mark Bentley -

The Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, set up customs posts in the mountains near Turkey’s border with Iran to collect taxes from smugglers bringing drugs such as heroin by donkey or other means, Hurriyet said. "

More:PKK Gets Customs Tax From Donkey Drug Traffickers, Hurriyet Says - Bloomberg

Rivals kick off Turkish election campaign - Europe - Al Jazeera English

"Rivals kick off Turkish election campaign
Turkish prime minister Erdogan launches campaign to win a third term while opposition leader pledges new constitution."

More:Rivals kick off Turkish election campaign - Europe - Al Jazeera English

In Turkey, surveyors map a WWI battlefield

"In Turkey, surveyors map a WWI battlefield

(AP) – 2 hours ago

ISTANBUL (AP) — The World War I battlefield of the Gallipoli campaign, where throngs gather each April to remember the fallen, is a place of lore, an echo of ancient warfare that took place on the same soil. Now researchers are mapping dugouts, trenches and tunnels in the most extensive archaeological survey of a site whose slaughter helped forge the identity of young nations."

More:The Associated Press: In Turkey, surveyors map a WWI battlefield

Istanbul Seen Through the Eyes of Armenian Photographers

"Istanbul Seen Through the Eyes of Armenian Photographers

Vahe Sarukhanyan
22:02, April 22, 2011

A photo exhibition entitled 'We Love Your Istanbul from the 19 Century till Today', has recently opened at the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church in the Istanbul neighbourhood of Beyoglu."

More:Istanbul Seen Through the Eyes of Armenian Photographers | Hetq online

First Lady of Turkey visited stabbed artist, fighting against demolition of Armenia-Turkish monument in Kars

"First Lady of Turkey visited stabbed artist, fighting against demolition of Armenia-Turkish monument in Kars

April 23, 2011 | 09:28

Turkish President Abdullah Gul’s spouse visited famous Turkish artist Bedri Baykam, who had recently been stabbed in the street."

More:First Lady of Turkey visited stabbed artist, fighting against demolition of Armenia-Turkish monument in Kars | Armenia News - NEWS.am

Yerevan to host international conference on Armenia-Turkey relations

"Yerevan to host international conference on Armenia-Turkey relations
April 23, 2011 - 09:44 AMT 04:44 GMT

PanARMENIAN.Net - On April 25-26, Russian-Armenian (Slavonian) University (RAU) will host an international conference on Armenia-Turkey relations, their influence on geopolitical development of the region and media coverage of the situation."

More:Yerevan to host international conference on Armenia-Turkey relations - PanARMENIAN.Net

Turkish Government Will Not Pay Ecclestone’s Price | Rapid News Network

"Turkish Government Will Not Pay Ecclestone’s Price

Contributed by Michito Yasuda on April 22 at 7:06 p.m.

After seven years could this be the end ?

Unless the Turkish Government is able to re-structure it’s deal with Formula 1 (F1) boss Bernie Ecclestone, or come up with millions of more Euro’s, The Grand Prix of Turkey in Istanbul could come to an end. According to Turkish media reports, no agreement could be reached regarding the financial agreement, and Accordingly, the government is not prepared to pay Formula 1 Boss Bernie Ecclestone double what they are now paying, and pay 26 million Euros to host the race in 2012."

More:Turkish Government Will Not Pay Ecclestone’s Price | Rapid News Network

World children to compete in Ankara

"World children to compete in Ankara

Friday, April 22, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News
World children to compete in Ankara

Ankara will host children from 90 countries in the first weeklong World Children's Games starting Sunday."

More:World children to compete in Ankara - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkish civil society calls for revival of Turkey's EU talks

"Turkish civil society calls for revival of Turkey's EU talks

Friday, April 22, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Turkey’s European Union membership must remain a resolute objective while EU leaders and institutions must be serious and keep their promises on the accession process, according to hundreds of representatives from Turkish civil society."

More:Turkish civil society calls for revival of Turkey's EU talks - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Renowned Turkish theologian testifies in court

"Renowned Turkish theologian testifies in court

Friday, April 22, 2011
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet

A renowned Turkish theologian, whose home was raided in relation to the ongoing Ergenekon investigation, testified in court Friday for more than five hours."

More:Renowned Turkish theologian testifies in court - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Shifting factors for April 24 in Washington

"Shifting factors for April 24 in Washington

Friday, April 22, 2011

April 24 is the date Armenians around the world commemorate the “Armenian genocide,” this year coincides with the Eastern Sunday, a Resurrection day in Christian faith."

More:Shifting factors for April 24 in Washington - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

'EU needs Turkey more than we need them,' Bağış says

"EU needs Turkey more than we need them,' Bağış says

Friday, April 22, 2011
ÇAĞLA PINAR TUNÇEL
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

The European Union needs Turkey more than Turkey needs to be part of the bloc, Turkey's chief negotiator for EU talks said Thursday in Istanbul."

More:'EU needs Turkey more than we need them,' Bağış says - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Friday, April 22, 2011

ASALA threats show Armenian diaspora committed to terrorism – expert

"ASALA threats show Armenian diaspora committed to terrorism – expert

Fri 22 April 2011 12:03 GMT | 15:03 Local Time

Fikrat Sadikhov
Armenian terrorists from ASALA have once again threatened to kill Turkish diplomats if Ankara continues to support Azerbaijan in Karabakh conflict."

More:News.Az - ASALA threats show Armenian diaspora committed to terrorism – expert

Claire Berlinski, Ed.: Meanwhile, in Turkey ...

"Claire Berlinski, Ed.: Meanwhile, in Turkey ...
By Ricochet

Having set the country alight, the high court has reversed its decision on the independent Kurdish candidates. Consider the weirdness of that: Imagine the US Supreme Court issuing a decision and then reversing it several days later, having thought better of it. "

More:Claire Berlinski, Ed.: Meanwhile, in Turkey ... | Benzinga.com

Turkey’s Libya power play - South Eastern Europe - The Sofia Echo

"Turkey’s Libya power play
Fri, Apr 22 2011 09:00 CET
byClive Leviev-Sawyer

The argument can be made that when it comes to exercising their foreign policies right now, only three countries in the Middle East – broadly defined – really matter. One is Iran, the other Israel and the third, Turkey."

More:Turkey’s Libya power play - South Eastern Europe - The Sofia Echo

Ankara prosecutor returns ‘Coup Diaries’ to Istanbul counterpart

"Ankara prosecutor returns ‘Coup Diaries’ to Istanbul counterpart

Friday, April 22, 2011
ISTANBUL - Daily News with Wires

The Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office has made a non-jurisdiction decision regarding the coup investigation based on the so-called “Coup Diaries” and returned the files to its Istanbul counterpart Friday. The Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office sent the file to Ankara with the same decision last year."

More:Ankara prosecutor returns ‘Coup Diaries’ to Istanbul counterpart - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Treasury sets talks with France, Turkey on Libya | Reuters

"Treasury sets talks with France, Turkey on Libya

WASHINGTON | Fri Apr 22, 2011 8:47am EDT

(Reuters) - The U.S. Treasury Department said on Friday that a senior official will visit Turkey and France next week to discuss how to apply pressure on Libya."

More:Treasury sets talks with France, Turkey on Libya | Reuters

Bulgaria: Turkey Moves to Protect Itself from Bulgaria's FMD Outbreak - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

"Turkey Moves to Protect Itself from Bulgaria's FMD Outbreak
Health | April 22, 2011, Friday
Bulgaria: Turkey Moves to Protect Itself from Bulgaria's FMD Outbreak
Turkey is moving to immunize the livestock along its Bulgarian border over FMD. Photo by BGNES

Turkish regions along the Bulgarian border are taking measures to prevent the spread of food-and-mouth disease from Bulgaria even though the Bulgarian authorities claim the infection came from Turkey."

More:Bulgaria: Turkey Moves to Protect Itself from Bulgaria's FMD Outbreak - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency

Turkcell shares suspended on Istanbul bourse

"Turkcell shares suspended on Istanbul bourse

Friday, April 22, 2011
ISTANBUL – Daily News with wires

The Istanbul Stock Exchange, or ISE, announced Friday that shares of Turkey’s biggest mobile-phone operator, Turkcell, had been temporarily suspended upon a request of the company.

The company decided to suspend its shares to prevent its investors from making losses, Anatolia news agency reported Friday. Turkcell will remain suspended from trade on the ISE will until further notice from the company, according the announcement from the ISE."

More:Turkcell shares suspended on Istanbul bourse - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Duma ratifies Russian-Turkish agreement on nuclear energy

"Duma ratifies Russian-Turkish agreement on nuclear energy

The State Duma on Friday ratified an intergovernmental agreement with Turkey on cooperation in the field of nucelar energy for peaceful purposes, RIA Novost reports. The agreement was signed in Ankara on 6 August 2009 and aims to update the legal framework of cooperation of Russia and Turkey in this field."

More:Duma ratifies Russian-Turkish agreement on nuclear energy | Vestnik Kavkaza

Turkey Infrastructure Report Q2 2011 (April 22, 2011) | MarketPublishers.com

"Turkey Infrastructure Report Q2 2011
Date: Feb, 2011

BMI View: Our revised forecasts for Turkey's infrastructure sector indicate that in 2012 the sector will overtake residential and non-residential construction in making the largest contribution to Turkey's total construction industry value, accounting for 50.3% of the total. Transport is a key thrust behind value creation for the industry and there is further upside for the energy and utilities. Major developments over the previous quarter include:

In January 2011, Hurriet Daily News reported that the Turkey’s Privatisation Administration (ÖİB) is planning the sale of some 2,000km of roads, two Bosporus bridges, Salipazari real estate in central Istanbul, as well as both the Derince and Izmir ports. "

More:Turkey Infrastructure Report Q2 2011 (April 22, 2011) | MarketPublishers.com

Expert: Armenian-Turkish relations resume their normal course

"Expert: Armenian-Turkish relations resume their normal course
April 22, 2011 - 13:12 AMT 08:12 GMT

PanARMENIAN.Net - Armenian-Turkish relations, specifically what concerns the protocols, resume their normal course, an expert said."

More:Expert: Armenian-Turkish relations resume their normal course - PanARMENIAN.Net

Price-hike threatens 2012 Turkish GP | Planet F1 | Formula One News

"Price-hike threatens 2012 Turkish GP

Friday 22nd April 2011

Istanbul will reportedly be dropped from the F1 calendar after May's race after officials refused to agree to Bernie Ecclestone's price hike.

The head of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, Murat Yalcintas, reportedly told the Hurriyet Daily that the Turkish government has said no to Ecclestone's increased fee. "

More:Price-hike threatens 2012 Turkish GP | Planet F1 | Formula One News

Greenpeace says it is occupying oil rig off Istanbul to prevent it from drilling in the Arctic

"Greenpeace says it is occupying oil rig off Istanbul to prevent it from drilling in the Arctic

By The Associated Press – 31 minutes ago

ANKARA, Turkey — Greenpeace activists climbed aboard an oil rig off Istanbul on Friday, in a bid to prevent it from leaving for Greenland to begin deep-water drilling in the Arctic, the environmental group said."

More:The Canadian Press: Greenpeace says it is occupying oil rig off Istanbul to prevent it from drilling in the Arctic

The Kurdish Issue

"The Kurdish Issue
The Impact on the Politics of Iraq and Turkey and Their Bilateral Relations Regarding Kurds Post-Saddam Hussein Regime
by Sonia Roy
April 22, 2011

Introduction

Kurds are the largest stateless minority in the world, with an estimated 30 million Kurds in a geographic area encompassing territories in Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Syria, and Armenia. "

More:The Kurdish Issue | Foreign Policy Journal

Istanbul Diary: My Meeting with ICG Analyst Sabine Freizer | Hetq online

"Istanbul Diary: My Meeting with ICG Analyst Sabine Freizer

Vahe Sarukhanyan
05:33, April 22, 2011

Raining again this morning; as per the norm here in Istanbul.

We took the small red “nostalgic” tram at Taksim Square for the ride down Istiklal towards Beyoglu. Not to confuse readers, I should note that all this is taking place on the European side of Istanbul, which is divided by the Golden Horn into the old and new districts."

More:Istanbul Diary: My Meeting with ICG Analyst Sabine Freizer | Hetq online

Turkey's EU negotiator visits Greek Orthodox church in Istanbul | General | World Bulletin

"Turkey's EU negotiator visits Greek Orthodox church in Istanbul
Turkey's chief EU negotiator celebrated Easter of all Orthodox Christians in Turkey as he visited Greek Orthodox church "

More:Turkey's EU negotiator visits Greek Orthodox church in Istanbul | General | World Bulletin

Turkey’s Libya power play

"Turkey’s Libya power play
Fri, Apr 22 2011 09:00 CET
byClive Leviev-Sawyer

The argument can be made that when it comes to exercising their foreign policies right now, only three countries in the Middle East – broadly defined – really matter. One is Iran, the other Israel and the third, Turkey."

More:Turkey’s Libya power play - South Eastern Europe - The Sofia Echo

Turkish State Minister visits Armenian church in Istanbul

"Turkish State Minister visits Armenian church in Istanbul

April 22, 2011 | 10:41

Turkish State Minister and Chief EU negotiator Egemen Bagis visited Christ The King Armenian church in Kadikoy, Istanbul."

More:Turkish State Minister visits Armenian church in Istanbul | Armenia News - NEWS.am

No Istanbul Grand Prix in 2012

"No Istanbul Grand Prix in 2012 - Turkish media
Reuters

Fri, 22 Apr 07:04:00 2011

Istanbul will not host a Formula One Grand Prix in 2012 due to a disagreement between Turkish officials and F1 commercial supremo Bernie Ecclestone over payments to stage the race, Turkish media reported on Friday. "

More:No Istanbul Grand Prix in 2012 - Turkish media - Yahoo! Eurosport

Toyota closes Turkey plant

"Toyota closes Turkey plant

21/04 18:57 CET

Production lines have halted at Toyota’s assembly plant near Istanbul in Turkey due to a shortage of parts from Japan.

The factory – which produces the Verso and Auris models – employs 2,600 workers."

More:Toyota closes Turkey plant | euronews, corporate

Duma to ratify nuclear deal with Turkey

"Duma to ratify nuclear deal with Turkey

22.04.2011, 06.04

MOSCOW, April 22 (Itar-Tass) -- The Russian State Duma will consider on Friday the ratification of the 2009 nuclear cooperation agreement with Turkey.

The document outlines a wide range of cooperation guidelines in peaceful nuclear energy, including research and development, controlled thermonuclear fusion, design, construction, operation and decommissioning of reactors, nuclear materials supply. "

More:ITAR-TASS

Kurds Renew Movement for Civil Rights in Turkey - NYTimes.com

"Kurds Renew Their Movement for Rights and Respect in Turkey
Associated Press

By LANDON THOMAS Jr.
Published: April 21, 2011

DIYARBAKIR, Turkey — As more than 5,000 Kurds bent their heads to the ground in prayer on the main square of this provincial capital in Turkey’s volatile southeast, the voice of the imam rang out."

More:Kurds Renew Movement for Civil Rights in Turkey - NYTimes.com

Turkey might be like Norway, minister says

"Turkey might be like Norway, minister says

Thursday, April 21, 2011
ISTANBUL- Hürriyet Daily News
Turkey might be like Norway, minister says

Europe will realize the need for Turkey to grow and increase its competitiveness or the nation might consider staying out of the European Union in the future, said the Turkish Economy Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan."

More:Turkey might be like Norway, minister says - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Final lineups settled in Turkey and Bulgaria – UEFA.com

"Final lineups settled in Turkey and Bulgaria
Published: Thursday 21 April 2011, 18.43CET
Beşiktaş JK meet İstanbul BB SK in the Turkish Cup final on 11 May while a penalty shoot-out earned PFC Slavia Sofia a Bulgarian Cup showpiece game against PFC CSKA Sofia. "

More:Final lineups settled in Turkey and Bulgaria – UEFA.com

Be Muslim for a month in Istanbul: pray five times a day and fast | Travel | The Guardian

"Be Muslim for a month in Istanbul: pray five times a day and fast

A chance to be immersed in Islam, particularly Sufi traditions and the mystic Rumi - without having to convert

It has the ingredients of a conventional holiday – experiencing the culture and hospitality of one of the most exciting cities in the world. But few getaways encourage its participants to pray five times a day or try their hand at fasting, especially when those people are not Muslim."

More:Be Muslim for a month in Istanbul: pray five times a day and fast | Travel | The Guardian

Experts slam AKP plans to add two new cities to Istanbul

"Experts slam AKP plans to add two new cities to Istanbul

Thursday, April 21, 2011
ERISA DAUTAJ ŞENERDEM
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Plans to add two new cities to Istanbul will lead to unsustainable population growth and environmental devastation, experts have said following the ruling Justice and Development Party, or AKP’s, announcement of the proposal.

More:Experts slam AKP plans to add two new cities to Istanbul - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Initiative keeping an eye out for child victims in Turkey's east

"Initiative keeping an eye out for child victims in Turkey's east

Thursday, April 21, 2011
ÖZGÜR ÖĞRET
ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

A Turkish civil society platform that has drawn broad support is striving to raise awareness throughout the country on the plight of minors killed directly or indirectly by security services in the southeast, members have said."

More:Initiative keeping an eye out for child victims in Turkey's east - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Thursday, April 21, 2011

President calls for solution as Turkey awaits decision on candidates

"President calls for solution as Turkey awaits decision on candidates

Thursday, April 21, 2011
ANKARA - Hürriyet Daily News

Turkish President Abdullah Gül issued a strong message Thursday to the Supreme Election Board, or YSK, implicitly urging a solution to the crisis surrounding its decision to veto the candidacy of 12 independent deputies."

More:President calls for solution as Turkey awaits decision on candidates - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey: Kurdish Candidates Can Run for President - FoxNews.com

"Turkey: Kurdish Candidates Can Run for President

Published April 21, 2011

ANKARA, Turkey -- Turkey's top election body on Thursday reversed a decision that had barred several Kurdish candidates from running in a parliamentary vote in June -- a move likely to ease violence that has killed one protester and left dozens wounded."

More:Turkey: Kurdish Candidates Can Run for President - FoxNews.com

INTERVIEW-Rabobank eyes Turkey, looking at bank license By Reuters

"INTERVIEW-Rabobank eyes Turkey, looking at bank license
2011-04-21 16:10:46 GMT (Reuters)

By Sara Webb

UTRECHT, Netherlands, April 21 (Reuters) - Dutch lender Rabobank is keen to apply for a banking license in Turkey because of the potential for financing the agriculture and food sector, its chief financial officer said on Thursday."

More:INTERVIEW-Rabobank eyes Turkey, looking at bank license By Reuters

Blood, flames engulf southeastern Turkey as clashes continue

"Blood, flames engulf southeastern Turkey as clashes continue
Font Size: Larger|Smaller
Thursday, April 21, 2011
ISTANBUL - Daily News with wires

Tensions continued in eastern and southeastern Turkey as many waited anxiously for a new decision from the Supreme Election Board, or YSK, which had vetoed 12 independent candidates on Monday, sparking nationwide protests."

More:Blood, flames engulf southeastern Turkey as clashes continue - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Turkey encouraging US officials to act 'fairly' ahead of April 24

"Turkey encouraging US officials to act 'fairly' ahead of April 24
Font Size: Larger|Smaller
Thursday, April 21, 2011
ANKARA-Hürriyet Daily News

Turkey expects the U.S. administration to act in a fair and impartial manner in the run-up to April 24, on which Armenians around the world commemorate the “Armenian genocide,” a Turkish Foreign Ministry official has said."

More:Turkey encouraging US officials to act 'fairly' ahead of April 24 - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review

Toyota cuts European, U.S. output | The Journal Gazette | Fort Wayne, IN

"Toyota cuts European, U.S. output

Toyota Motor Corp.’s auto assembly factory in Turkey was preparing to halt production as part of an eight-day suspension across Europe because of parts shortages, a senior official said Wednesday. "

More:Toyota cuts European, U.S. output | The Journal Gazette | Fort Wayne, IN

Gold rush in Turkish energy market

"Gold rush in Turkish energy market
Energy Consultancy and Risk Management's innovative solutions are paving the way to a more sustainable Turkish energy market

With energy demand increasing more than seven percent a year, Turkey offers a prosperous future for global energy market investors. Necessary steps to establish a liberalised market are being taken in a very decisive manner. As a result, the trade volume of the Turkish power exchange market is expected to exceed $5bn in 2011. Within two years, once the privatisation process is complete and an intra-day market is active, it is not unrealistic to expect the trade volume to triple. "

More:Gold rush in Turkish energy market

Turkey: Sikorksy wins helicopter contract - Forbes.com

"Turkey: Sikorksy wins helicopter contract
By SELCAN HACAOGLU , 04.21.11, 10:17 AM EDT

ANKARA, Turkey -- U.S. helicopter maker Sikorsky Aircraft won a Turkish contract worth $3.5 billion (2.4 billion euros) on Thursday and the two will now fine tune last elements of the deal, the defense minister said."

More:Turkey: Sikorksy wins helicopter contract - Forbes.com