Airstrike deaths deepen rift between Kurds, Turks
The Associated Press
ISTANBUL, Turkey — Angry Kurds on Saturday assaulted a local official who sought to offer condolences in a village in Turkey where 35 civilians were mistakenly killed in a military airstrike meant to target Kurdish rebels.
More:Airstrike deaths deepen rift between Kurds, Turks | CTV Edmonton
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Turkey to pay less for Russian gas
Turkey to pay less for Russian gas
Published: 12/30/2011
Speaking at a press conference after agreeing to allow Russia to build a pipeline through Turkey, Energy and Natural Resources Minister Taner Yildiz said that Turkey received a discount on Russian gas to be valid until the end of contract terms in 2021 and 2025.
More:Turkey to pay less for Russian gas
Published: 12/30/2011
Speaking at a press conference after agreeing to allow Russia to build a pipeline through Turkey, Energy and Natural Resources Minister Taner Yildiz said that Turkey received a discount on Russian gas to be valid until the end of contract terms in 2021 and 2025.
More:Turkey to pay less for Russian gas
Huntsman Announces Acquisition of Turkish Polyurethanes Systems House - MarketWatch
Huntsman Announces Acquisition of Turkish Polyurethanes Systems House
THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Dec. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Huntsman Corporation HUN +0.10% announced today that it has acquired EMA Kimya Sistemleri Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S., a polyurethanes systems house in Istanbul, Turkey. The EMA systems house has the capacity to manufacture polyester polyols and blend MDI polyurethane systems used primarily in the insulation, automotive, adhesives, coatings, elastomers and furniture industries. 2010 revenues were approximately $17 million.
More:Huntsman Announces Acquisition of Turkish Polyurethanes Systems House - MarketWatch
THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Dec. 30, 2011 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Huntsman Corporation HUN +0.10% announced today that it has acquired EMA Kimya Sistemleri Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S., a polyurethanes systems house in Istanbul, Turkey. The EMA systems house has the capacity to manufacture polyester polyols and blend MDI polyurethane systems used primarily in the insulation, automotive, adhesives, coatings, elastomers and furniture industries. 2010 revenues were approximately $17 million.
More:Huntsman Announces Acquisition of Turkish Polyurethanes Systems House - MarketWatch
$500m power plant to be built in Turkey - Power Engineering International
$500m power plant to be built in Turkey
30/12/2011
By Diarmaid Williams
International Digital Editor
Global Yatirim Holding AS (GLYHO), a Turkish group with interests in energy, port operations and finance, have hired China National Electric Engineering Co. to build a 270-MW thermal power plant in southeast Turkey for $500m.
More:$500m power plant to be built in Turkey - Power Engineering International
30/12/2011
By Diarmaid Williams
International Digital Editor
Global Yatirim Holding AS (GLYHO), a Turkish group with interests in energy, port operations and finance, have hired China National Electric Engineering Co. to build a 270-MW thermal power plant in southeast Turkey for $500m.
More:$500m power plant to be built in Turkey - Power Engineering International
Friday, December 30, 2011
Turkish Leader Defends Military After Deaths - WSJ.com
Turkish Leader Defends Military After Deaths
Warplanes Kill 35 Civilians, Unleashing Riots and Vitriol
BY AYLA ALBAYRAK
ISTANBUL—Turkey's prime minister stood by his military while promising an investigation into the killing of 35 villagers by Turkish warplanes, after the incident triggered antigovernment protests and brought an unusual message of condolence by the armed forces.
More:Turkish Leader Defends Military After Deaths - WSJ.com
Warplanes Kill 35 Civilians, Unleashing Riots and Vitriol
BY AYLA ALBAYRAK
ISTANBUL—Turkey's prime minister stood by his military while promising an investigation into the killing of 35 villagers by Turkish warplanes, after the incident triggered antigovernment protests and brought an unusual message of condolence by the armed forces.
More:Turkish Leader Defends Military After Deaths - WSJ.com
Turkish judge orders age test for accused - The Irish Times - Fri, Dec 30, 2011
Turkish judge orders age test for accused
SCOTT JAMISON
A JUDGE has ruled a Turkish man accused of stabbing two Northern Irish women to death earlier this year must have a bone marrow test to determine his age.
More:Turkish judge orders age test for accused - The Irish Times - Fri, Dec 30, 2011
SCOTT JAMISON
A JUDGE has ruled a Turkish man accused of stabbing two Northern Irish women to death earlier this year must have a bone marrow test to determine his age.
More:Turkish judge orders age test for accused - The Irish Times - Fri, Dec 30, 2011
Turkey’s Current Account Deficit and economic reform
Turkey’s Current Account Deficit and economic reform
Author: Emre Deliveli · December 30th, 2011
It is very easy to see the lagging Turkish productivity I discussed in this week’s Hurriyet Daily News column, which was also posted here at the blog, thanks to the excellent explanation by Murat Ucer of Global Source / Turkey Data Monitor. He also links the problem to the current account deficit, the country’s Achilles’ heel:
More:EconoMonitor : EconoMonitor » Turkey’s Current Account Deficit and economic reform
Author: Emre Deliveli · December 30th, 2011
It is very easy to see the lagging Turkish productivity I discussed in this week’s Hurriyet Daily News column, which was also posted here at the blog, thanks to the excellent explanation by Murat Ucer of Global Source / Turkey Data Monitor. He also links the problem to the current account deficit, the country’s Achilles’ heel:
More:EconoMonitor : EconoMonitor » Turkey’s Current Account Deficit and economic reform
Turkey's Erdogan Promises Probe of Airstrike - WSJ.com
Turkey's Erdogan Promises Probe of Airstrike
Warplanes Kill 35 Civilians, Unleashing Riots and Vitriol
BY AYLA ALBAYRAK
ISTANBUL—Thousands of people demonstrated all day in the biggest Kurdish city in southeast Turkey, Diyarbakir, on Friday, two days after Turkish warplanes killed 35 villagers in an airstrike targeting Kurdish rebels on the Iraqi border.
More:Turkey's Erdogan Promises Probe of Airstrike - WSJ.com
Warplanes Kill 35 Civilians, Unleashing Riots and Vitriol
BY AYLA ALBAYRAK
ISTANBUL—Thousands of people demonstrated all day in the biggest Kurdish city in southeast Turkey, Diyarbakir, on Friday, two days after Turkish warplanes killed 35 villagers in an airstrike targeting Kurdish rebels on the Iraqi border.
More:Turkey's Erdogan Promises Probe of Airstrike - WSJ.com
IsraCast: Israel Turkey and Armenian Dilemma
Israel, Turkey & Armenian Dilemma
Friday, December 30, 2011
Israel Ponders Recognition Of Armenian Massacre And Her Strategic Need To Improve Strained Relations With Turkey
Issue Remains Open After Prime Minister Netanyahu & Foreign Minister Lieberman Appeal To Knesset Education Committee Not To Conduct Session
More:IsraCast: Israel Turkey and Armenian Dilemma
Friday, December 30, 2011
Israel Ponders Recognition Of Armenian Massacre And Her Strategic Need To Improve Strained Relations With Turkey
Issue Remains Open After Prime Minister Netanyahu & Foreign Minister Lieberman Appeal To Knesset Education Committee Not To Conduct Session
More:IsraCast: Israel Turkey and Armenian Dilemma
Sultanahamet worth seeing in Istanbul
Sultanahamet worth seeing in Istanbul
Friday, December 30, 2011
We went because: On a previous trip to Greece, we ventured off to Istanbul. What an adventure. We had to go back - history, food, shopping.
More:Sultanahamet worth seeing in Istanbul
Friday, December 30, 2011
We went because: On a previous trip to Greece, we ventured off to Istanbul. What an adventure. We had to go back - history, food, shopping.
More:Sultanahamet worth seeing in Istanbul
EconoMonitor : The Kapali Carsi » Prioritizing Turkey’s reform agenda
Prioritizing Turkey’s reform agenda
Author: Emre Deliveli · December 30th, 2011 · Comments (0) Share This Print 1 0
I have finally finished catching up: Below is my latest Hurriyet Daily News column, which you can also read at the Daily News website.
I have another detailed addendum, with an explanation of the links between the country’s Achilles heel, which is the current account deficit, and reform, among other things. However, I have already written most of it, so it will be up fairly shortly, let’s say, in the next couple of hours. So on to the column:
More:EconoMonitor : The Kapali Carsi » Prioritizing Turkey’s reform agenda
Author: Emre Deliveli · December 30th, 2011 · Comments (0) Share This Print 1 0
I have finally finished catching up: Below is my latest Hurriyet Daily News column, which you can also read at the Daily News website.
I have another detailed addendum, with an explanation of the links between the country’s Achilles heel, which is the current account deficit, and reform, among other things. However, I have already written most of it, so it will be up fairly shortly, let’s say, in the next couple of hours. So on to the column:
More:EconoMonitor : The Kapali Carsi » Prioritizing Turkey’s reform agenda
Companies in China, Turkey said to be interested in building hydroelectric power plants in Belarus | БЕЛОРУССКИЕ НОВОСТИ
Companies in China, Turkey said to be interested in building hydroelectric power plants in Belarus
30.12.2011 / 13:31 / English
Companies in China and Turkey are interested in the construction of hydroelectric power plants in Belarus, Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadzyuk told the government’s news agency BelTA on Thursday.
More:Companies in China, Turkey said to be interested in building hydroelectric power plants in Belarus | БЕЛОРУССКИЕ НОВОСТИ
30.12.2011 / 13:31 / English
Companies in China and Turkey are interested in the construction of hydroelectric power plants in Belarus, Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadzyuk told the government’s news agency BelTA on Thursday.
More:Companies in China, Turkey said to be interested in building hydroelectric power plants in Belarus | БЕЛОРУССКИЕ НОВОСТИ
Angry Kurds bury victims of Turkish attack - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Angry Kurds bury victims of Turkish attack
Erdogan voices regret and army offers condolence but PKK calls for "uprisings" over air raid that killed 35 civilians.
Last Modified: 30 Dec 2011 14:36
Turkish rights groups have called for a UN-sponsored investigation after Turkish fighter jets killed 35 villagers in an attack on the Iraqi border that the government has called an operational mistake.
The groups' preliminary report into Wednesday's incident says that most of those killed near the border village of Uludere were between the ages of 12 and 18.
More:Angry Kurds bury victims of Turkish attack - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Erdogan voices regret and army offers condolence but PKK calls for "uprisings" over air raid that killed 35 civilians.
Last Modified: 30 Dec 2011 14:36
Turkish rights groups have called for a UN-sponsored investigation after Turkish fighter jets killed 35 villagers in an attack on the Iraqi border that the government has called an operational mistake.
The groups' preliminary report into Wednesday's incident says that most of those killed near the border village of Uludere were between the ages of 12 and 18.
More:Angry Kurds bury victims of Turkish attack - Europe - Al Jazeera English
Limak of Turkey Gets $425 Million Loan to Buy Iskenderun Port - Bloomberg
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Limak of Turkey Gets $425 Million Loan to Buy Iskenderun Port
By Ercan Ersoy - Dec 30, 2011 7:43 AM ET
Limak Holding AS of Turkey purchased the port of Iskenderun from the government for $372 million after obtaining a $425 million loan.
The Ankara-based company, which has construction, energy and airport interests, got the 13 1/2-year loan from six banks and made the payment to the government’s asset sales agency today, it said in an e-mailed statement.
More:Limak of Turkey Gets $425 Million Loan to Buy Iskenderun Port - Bloomberg
Limak of Turkey Gets $425 Million Loan to Buy Iskenderun Port
By Ercan Ersoy - Dec 30, 2011 7:43 AM ET
Limak Holding AS of Turkey purchased the port of Iskenderun from the government for $372 million after obtaining a $425 million loan.
The Ankara-based company, which has construction, energy and airport interests, got the 13 1/2-year loan from six banks and made the payment to the government’s asset sales agency today, it said in an e-mailed statement.
More:Limak of Turkey Gets $425 Million Loan to Buy Iskenderun Port - Bloomberg
Turkish rights groups want UN probe into deadly raid - Israel News, Ynetnews
Turkish rights groups want UN probe into deadly raid
Published: 12.30.11, 13:32 / Israel News
Turkish rights groups called on Friday for a UN-sponsored investigation after Turkish warplanes killed 35 villagers in an airstrike targeting Kurdish rebels on the Iraqi border that the government has called an operational mistake.
More:Turkish rights groups want UN probe into deadly raid - Israel News, Ynetnews
Published: 12.30.11, 13:32 / Israel News
Turkish rights groups called on Friday for a UN-sponsored investigation after Turkish warplanes killed 35 villagers in an airstrike targeting Kurdish rebels on the Iraqi border that the government has called an operational mistake.
More:Turkish rights groups want UN probe into deadly raid - Israel News, Ynetnews
Turkey: funerals held after air strike
Turkey: funerals held after air strike
By CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA, Associated Press – 30 minutes ago
ISTANBUL (AP) — Thousands of mourners gathered in southeast Turkey on Friday for the funerals of 35 Kurdish civilians who were killed in a botched raid by Turkish military jets that mistook the group for Kurdish rebels based in Iraq.
More:The Associated Press: Turkey: funerals held after air strike
By CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA, Associated Press – 30 minutes ago
ISTANBUL (AP) — Thousands of mourners gathered in southeast Turkey on Friday for the funerals of 35 Kurdish civilians who were killed in a botched raid by Turkish military jets that mistook the group for Kurdish rebels based in Iraq.
More:The Associated Press: Turkey: funerals held after air strike
Saab in talks with Turkish government: Magazine
Saab in talks with Turkish government: Magazine
FRANKFURT - Saab is in talks with the Turkish government as it seeks an investor to revive the bankrupt Swedish carmaker, German magazine auto motor und sport said, citing sources close to Saab's management.
More:Saab in talks with Turkish government: Magazine
FRANKFURT - Saab is in talks with the Turkish government as it seeks an investor to revive the bankrupt Swedish carmaker, German magazine auto motor und sport said, citing sources close to Saab's management.
More:Saab in talks with Turkish government: Magazine
Turkish November Trade Gap Narrows for First Time in 2 Years - Bloomberg
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Turkish November Trade Gap Narrows for First Time in 2 Years
By Steve Bryant - Dec 30, 2011 3:20 AM ET
Turkey’s trade defici (TUTBALBN)t narrowed from a year earlier to $7.5 billion in November, the first annual contraction in two years, as export growth outpaced imports.
The deficit compared with a revised $7.8 billion in November 2010, the statistics office in Ankara said on its website today. The last time the gap narrowed was in October 2009. The figure was less than the median estimate of $7.9 billion from four analysts in a Bloomberg survey.
More:Turkish November Trade Gap Narrows for First Time in 2 Years - Bloomberg
Turkish November Trade Gap Narrows for First Time in 2 Years
By Steve Bryant - Dec 30, 2011 3:20 AM ET
Turkey’s trade defici (TUTBALBN)t narrowed from a year earlier to $7.5 billion in November, the first annual contraction in two years, as export growth outpaced imports.
The deficit compared with a revised $7.8 billion in November 2010, the statistics office in Ankara said on its website today. The last time the gap narrowed was in October 2009. The figure was less than the median estimate of $7.9 billion from four analysts in a Bloomberg survey.
More:Turkish November Trade Gap Narrows for First Time in 2 Years - Bloomberg
Russia-Turkey deal on South Stream dashes Ukraine’s hopes | New Europe
Russia-Turkey deal on South Stream dashes Ukraine’s hopes
Article | December 29, 2011 - 5:19pm | By Kostis Geropoulos
On 28 December, Turkey gave its formal permission to build the South Stream gas pipeline through its Exclusive Economic Zone for transporting Russian gas into European markets.
More:Russia-Turkey deal on South Stream dashes Ukraine’s hopes | New Europe
Article | December 29, 2011 - 5:19pm | By Kostis Geropoulos
On 28 December, Turkey gave its formal permission to build the South Stream gas pipeline through its Exclusive Economic Zone for transporting Russian gas into European markets.
More:Russia-Turkey deal on South Stream dashes Ukraine’s hopes | New Europe
Turkish markets narrowly mixed, neutral to trade data | Reuters
Turkish markets narrowly mixed, neutral to trade data
ISTANBUL, Dec 30 (Reuters) - The Turkish lira traded steady against the dollar and the benchmark yield declined slightly on Friday while there was a neutral market reaction to central bank repo auctions and better-than-expected trade data.
More:Turkish markets narrowly mixed, neutral to trade data | Reuters
ISTANBUL, Dec 30 (Reuters) - The Turkish lira traded steady against the dollar and the benchmark yield declined slightly on Friday while there was a neutral market reaction to central bank repo auctions and better-than-expected trade data.
More:Turkish markets narrowly mixed, neutral to trade data | Reuters
Three Istanbul hotels lovingly preserve their Ottoman past
Three Istanbul hotels lovingly preserve their Ottoman past
By Lynn Levine, Postmedia News December 30, 2011
As the latest destination among trendsetters and globetrotters, Istanbul has, in the past few years, exponentially increased the number of boutique and designer hotels stocked with state-ofthe-art amenities, modern decor and spa facilities. It seems that everywhere you look, MP3 docking stations and flatscreen TVs abound.
More:Three Istanbul hotels lovingly preserve their Ottoman past
By Lynn Levine, Postmedia News December 30, 2011
As the latest destination among trendsetters and globetrotters, Istanbul has, in the past few years, exponentially increased the number of boutique and designer hotels stocked with state-ofthe-art amenities, modern decor and spa facilities. It seems that everywhere you look, MP3 docking stations and flatscreen TVs abound.
More:Three Istanbul hotels lovingly preserve their Ottoman past
Words behind the glass
Words behind the glass
On an edifying visit to the museum of literature tucked away in the garden of the Topkapi Palace.
By Benny Ziffer
ISTANBUL - The guards at Topkapi Palace looked at me in surprise when I asked them the whereabouts of the Alay Kosku - the exhibition pavilion where, according to what I had read in the newspaper Zaman, a museum named for the Turkish writer Ahmet Hamdi Tanpinar had recently opened. Eventually, it was one of the clerks in the palace museum shop who directed me to the fancy building with the rounded-pointed roof in the back of the Topkapi garden, with a steep mound leading to its entrance. Only there, after the strenuous climb, was it possible to read clearly the sign stating that this was indeed the museum designed to celebrate Turkish writers in general, and hallow the name of Tanpinar specifically, a writer who died in 1962 and whose standing in the history of Turkish literature is akin to that of Agnon's in Hebrew literature. Except that Tanpinar did not win a Nobel Prize.
More:Words behind the glass - Haaretz Daily Newspaper | Israel News
On an edifying visit to the museum of literature tucked away in the garden of the Topkapi Palace.
By Benny Ziffer
ISTANBUL - The guards at Topkapi Palace looked at me in surprise when I asked them the whereabouts of the Alay Kosku - the exhibition pavilion where, according to what I had read in the newspaper Zaman, a museum named for the Turkish writer Ahmet Hamdi Tanpinar had recently opened. Eventually, it was one of the clerks in the palace museum shop who directed me to the fancy building with the rounded-pointed roof in the back of the Topkapi garden, with a steep mound leading to its entrance. Only there, after the strenuous climb, was it possible to read clearly the sign stating that this was indeed the museum designed to celebrate Turkish writers in general, and hallow the name of Tanpinar specifically, a writer who died in 1962 and whose standing in the history of Turkish literature is akin to that of Agnon's in Hebrew literature. Except that Tanpinar did not win a Nobel Prize.
More:Words behind the glass - Haaretz Daily Newspaper | Israel News
Turkish Stocks: Global Yatirim, Garanti Move in Istanbul - Businessweek
Turkish Stocks: Global Yatirim, Garanti Move in Istanbul
December 29, 2011, 12:03 PM EST
By Aydan Eksin
Dec. 29 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey’s benchmark ISE National 100 Index rose 1 percent to 52,053.62 at the 5:30 p.m. close in Istanbul.
More:Turkish Stocks: Global Yatirim, Garanti Move in Istanbul - Businessweek
December 29, 2011, 12:03 PM EST
By Aydan Eksin
Dec. 29 (Bloomberg) -- Turkey’s benchmark ISE National 100 Index rose 1 percent to 52,053.62 at the 5:30 p.m. close in Istanbul.
More:Turkish Stocks: Global Yatirim, Garanti Move in Istanbul - Businessweek
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Turkey: Has Gülen Movement Replaced Deep State? | EurasiaNet.org
Turkey: Has Gülen Movement Replaced Deep State?
December 29, 2011 - 11:00am, by Justin Vela
The December 26 trial of arrested Turkish journalists Ahmet Şık and Nedim Şener has pushed a shadowy organization known as the Gülen movement to the forefront of public attention in Turkey. The group’s influence has long been an open secret. Now, its weight is being felt at a time when the country’s democratic credentials are increasingly being called into question.
More:Turkey: Has Gülen Movement Replaced Deep State? | EurasiaNet.org
December 29, 2011 - 11:00am, by Justin Vela
The December 26 trial of arrested Turkish journalists Ahmet Şık and Nedim Şener has pushed a shadowy organization known as the Gülen movement to the forefront of public attention in Turkey. The group’s influence has long been an open secret. Now, its weight is being felt at a time when the country’s democratic credentials are increasingly being called into question.
More:Turkey: Has Gülen Movement Replaced Deep State? | EurasiaNet.org
UPDATE 1-Turkish lira extends losses, c.bank auction eyed | Reuters
UPDATE 1-Turkish lira extends losses, c.bank auction eyed
ISTANBUL, Dec 29 (Reuters) - The yield on Turkey's benchmark bond dipped on Thursday after the central bank held its first one-week intraday repo auction, while the lira weakened against the dollar despite the bank selling a higher-than-usual amount of dollars at its forex auction.
More:UPDATE 1-Turkish lira extends losses, c.bank auction eyed | Reuters
ISTANBUL, Dec 29 (Reuters) - The yield on Turkey's benchmark bond dipped on Thursday after the central bank held its first one-week intraday repo auction, while the lira weakened against the dollar despite the bank selling a higher-than-usual amount of dollars at its forex auction.
More:UPDATE 1-Turkish lira extends losses, c.bank auction eyed | Reuters
Protesters clash with police in Istanbul
Protesters clash with police in Istanbul
Thursday, December 29, 2011
(12-29) 08:29 PST ANKARA, Turkey (AP) --
Protesters have clashed with police during a protest in Istanbul denouncing Turkish air strikes in northern Iraq that killed 35 people.
The Dogan news agency says police used tear gas and water cannons on Thursday to disperse stone-throwing protesters demonstrating near the city's main square.
More:Protesters clash with police in Istanbul
Thursday, December 29, 2011
(12-29) 08:29 PST ANKARA, Turkey (AP) --
Protesters have clashed with police during a protest in Istanbul denouncing Turkish air strikes in northern Iraq that killed 35 people.
The Dogan news agency says police used tear gas and water cannons on Thursday to disperse stone-throwing protesters demonstrating near the city's main square.
More:Protesters clash with police in Istanbul
Turkey: Privatization of Ankara Gas Company started - Turkey - ANSAMed.it
Turkey: Privatization of Ankara Gas Company started
29 December, 16:14
(ANSAmed) - ANKARA, 29 DECEMBER - Privatization procedures of Ankara's gas distribution company Baskent Natural Gas Distribution started. Baskent Natural Gas Distribution has more than one million consumers and a distribution network of 8,000 km, distributing three billion m3 of natural gas each year. Baskent Natural Gas Distribution is the second most extended natural gas distribution network in Turkey and its licenses are valid until 2037.
More:Turkey: Privatization of Ankara Gas Company started - Turkey - ANSAMed.it
29 December, 16:14
(ANSAmed) - ANKARA, 29 DECEMBER - Privatization procedures of Ankara's gas distribution company Baskent Natural Gas Distribution started. Baskent Natural Gas Distribution has more than one million consumers and a distribution network of 8,000 km, distributing three billion m3 of natural gas each year. Baskent Natural Gas Distribution is the second most extended natural gas distribution network in Turkey and its licenses are valid until 2037.
More:Turkey: Privatization of Ankara Gas Company started - Turkey - ANSAMed.it
Turkey: Is Kemalism extinct?
Turkey: Is Kemalism extinct?
Syed Mansur Hashim
What has been happening in Turkey since the Justice and Development party (AKP) came to power has given fuel to a lot of debate in the international press. The views on steps taken by AKP to demilitarise Turkey's key institutions and make fundamental changes in the way things are done and run in the country have led to claims that vary wildly depending on who one talks to.
More:Turkey: Is Kemalism extinct?
Syed Mansur Hashim
What has been happening in Turkey since the Justice and Development party (AKP) came to power has given fuel to a lot of debate in the international press. The views on steps taken by AKP to demilitarise Turkey's key institutions and make fundamental changes in the way things are done and run in the country have led to claims that vary wildly depending on who one talks to.
More:Turkey: Is Kemalism extinct?
'Are You Using GMOs?' Turkish Consumers Ask Top Milk, Dairy, and Chicken Producers : TreeHugger
'Are You Using GMOs?' Turkish Consumers Ask Top Milk, Dairy, and Chicken Producers
Jennifer Hattam
Anti-GMO activists in Turkey lost a round last week when the country's Biosecurity Commission approved the import of 13 varieties of genetically modified corn meal. But they aren't going down without a fight.
More:'Are You Using GMOs?' Turkish Consumers Ask Top Milk, Dairy, and Chicken Producers : TreeHugger
Jennifer Hattam
Anti-GMO activists in Turkey lost a round last week when the country's Biosecurity Commission approved the import of 13 varieties of genetically modified corn meal. But they aren't going down without a fight.
More:'Are You Using GMOs?' Turkish Consumers Ask Top Milk, Dairy, and Chicken Producers : TreeHugger
Istanbul and Slow Food. A soul of waves and salt
Istanbul and Slow Food. A soul of waves and salt ita eng
Francesco Martino | Istanbul
29 December 2011
In Istanbul, the lüfer ("bluefish" in English) is not just a species of fish. It symbolises the connection between the city, its sea and its history. Unfortunately, this symbol may now disappear because of unregulated fishing. Therefore, the Slow Food convivium Fikir Sahibi Damaklar responds with a ruler, asking for fishing to be limited to adult bluefish.
More:Istanbul and Slow Food. A soul of waves and salt
Francesco Martino | Istanbul
29 December 2011
In Istanbul, the lüfer ("bluefish" in English) is not just a species of fish. It symbolises the connection between the city, its sea and its history. Unfortunately, this symbol may now disappear because of unregulated fishing. Therefore, the Slow Food convivium Fikir Sahibi Damaklar responds with a ruler, asking for fishing to be limited to adult bluefish.
More:Istanbul and Slow Food. A soul of waves and salt
Turkish Airstrikes Kill 35 Along Smuggling Route - NYTimes.com
Turkish Airstrikes Kill 35 Along Smuggling Route
Ihlas News Agency/European Pressphoto Agency
By SEBNEM ARSU
ISTANBUL — Turkish airstrikes killed at least 35 people in the Kurdish border region with Iraq on Thursday in what the army said was an operation aimed at separatist fighters. Local villagers said the dead were instead young diesel smugglers who had been misidentified by the Turkish military.
More:Turkish Airstrikes Kill 35 Along Smuggling Route - NYTimes.com
Ihlas News Agency/European Pressphoto Agency
By SEBNEM ARSU
ISTANBUL — Turkish airstrikes killed at least 35 people in the Kurdish border region with Iraq on Thursday in what the army said was an operation aimed at separatist fighters. Local villagers said the dead were instead young diesel smugglers who had been misidentified by the Turkish military.
More:Turkish Airstrikes Kill 35 Along Smuggling Route - NYTimes.com
Turkish-Armenian friendship nearly 1,000 years old - Minister
Turkish-Armenian friendship nearly 1,000 years old - Minister
Thu 29 December 2011 06:03 GMT | 1:03 Local Time
The building was restored within the scope of projects of 2010 Istanbul European Capital of Culture.
More:News.Az - Turkish-Armenian friendship nearly 1,000 years old - Minister
Thu 29 December 2011 06:03 GMT | 1:03 Local Time
The building was restored within the scope of projects of 2010 Istanbul European Capital of Culture.
More:News.Az - Turkish-Armenian friendship nearly 1,000 years old - Minister
Roger Friedland: Islam, Gender and Democracy in Turkey
Islam, Gender and Democracy in Turkey
Secular republicans saw, and some still see, the woman's headscarf -- interpreted by pious Muslims as a religious obligation -- as the wedge by which Islamic law will enter the Turkish republic. One practice, its secular critics worry, will lead to another. Mustafa Akyol, a young modernist Muslim thinker, disagrees. "The headscarf is expected from Muslims," he tells my students who have come here from New York University-Abu Dhabi, "but it is up to rational choice, like fasting for Ramadan. Forcing someone to wear it would be a sin. Sins should not be punished as if they were crimes." But that does not calm secular Turks. Providing public warrant for women who want to avoid an Islamic sin, they fear, is ultimately going to open the door to punishing Islamic crimes -- like apostasy or adultery.
More:Roger Friedland: Islam, Gender and Democracy in Turkey
Secular republicans saw, and some still see, the woman's headscarf -- interpreted by pious Muslims as a religious obligation -- as the wedge by which Islamic law will enter the Turkish republic. One practice, its secular critics worry, will lead to another. Mustafa Akyol, a young modernist Muslim thinker, disagrees. "The headscarf is expected from Muslims," he tells my students who have come here from New York University-Abu Dhabi, "but it is up to rational choice, like fasting for Ramadan. Forcing someone to wear it would be a sin. Sins should not be punished as if they were crimes." But that does not calm secular Turks. Providing public warrant for women who want to avoid an Islamic sin, they fear, is ultimately going to open the door to punishing Islamic crimes -- like apostasy or adultery.
More:Roger Friedland: Islam, Gender and Democracy in Turkey
Turkish air strike kills 35 in Iraq, say officials - Europe - World - The Independent
Turkish air strike kills 35 in Iraq, say officials
Suzan Fraser
Turkey's air force attacked
suspected Kurdish rebel targets across the border in Iraq, the military
said Thursday, but Kurdish officials claimed many of the roughly 35
people killed were teenaged smugglers mistaken for guerrillas.
More:Turkish air strike kills 35 in Iraq, say officials - Europe - World - The Independent
Suzan Fraser
Turkey's air force attacked
suspected Kurdish rebel targets across the border in Iraq, the military
said Thursday, but Kurdish officials claimed many of the roughly 35
people killed were teenaged smugglers mistaken for guerrillas.
More:Turkish air strike kills 35 in Iraq, say officials - Europe - World - The Independent
In Turkey's Last Armenian Village, a Place to Get Away From it All | PRI's The World
In Turkey’s Last Armenian Village, a Place to Get Away From it All
By Matthew Brunwasser ⋅ December 28, 2011 ⋅
The province used to be part of Syria once, but was ceded to Turkey in 1939.
It is an ethically diverse province and even includes a village with a 100 percent ethnic Armenian population.
The capital of the province is the city of Antakya.
More:In Turkey's Last Armenian Village, a Place to Get Away From it All | PRI's The World
By Matthew Brunwasser ⋅ December 28, 2011 ⋅
The province used to be part of Syria once, but was ceded to Turkey in 1939.
It is an ethically diverse province and even includes a village with a 100 percent ethnic Armenian population.
The capital of the province is the city of Antakya.
More:In Turkey's Last Armenian Village, a Place to Get Away From it All | PRI's The World
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Historical Armenian Church re-opens in Istanbul
Historical Armenian Church re-opens in Istanbul
Wed Dec 28, 2011 10:19PM GMT
Natalie Carney, Press TV, Istanbul
Attended by dignitaries and leading government ministers, the re-opening of the Vortvots vorodman church in Istanbul was an important moment for both the Armenian and Turkish people.
Built in 1828, but abandoned 100 years ago, during the conflict between Armenia and the Ottoman Empire, its restoration was part of Istanbul's 2010 European capitol of Culture's heritage and preservation projects.
More:PressTV - Historical Armenian Church re-opens in Istanbul
Wed Dec 28, 2011 10:19PM GMT
Natalie Carney, Press TV, Istanbul
Attended by dignitaries and leading government ministers, the re-opening of the Vortvots vorodman church in Istanbul was an important moment for both the Armenian and Turkish people.
Built in 1828, but abandoned 100 years ago, during the conflict between Armenia and the Ottoman Empire, its restoration was part of Istanbul's 2010 European capitol of Culture's heritage and preservation projects.
More:PressTV - Historical Armenian Church re-opens in Istanbul
Istanbul hoteliers enjoy significant increases in profitability
Istanbul hoteliers enjoy significant increases in profitability
Written by Ozgur Tore
Wednesday, 28 December 2011 20:26
The latest HotStats survey by TRI Hospitality Consulting shows that despite a 1.5 percentage point decline in room occupancy, hoteliers in Istanbul were able to successfully record a 17.6% increase in achieved average room rate to €193.97.
More:Istanbul hoteliers enjoy significant increases in profitability
Written by Ozgur Tore
Wednesday, 28 December 2011 20:26
The latest HotStats survey by TRI Hospitality Consulting shows that despite a 1.5 percentage point decline in room occupancy, hoteliers in Istanbul were able to successfully record a 17.6% increase in achieved average room rate to €193.97.
More:Istanbul hoteliers enjoy significant increases in profitability
Turkish Lira Slides to Record, Yields Surge on Concern Over Bank Policy - Bloomberg
Turkish Lira Slides to Record, Yields Surge on Concern Over Bank Policy
By Selcuk Gokoluk - Dec 28, 2011 11:22 AM ET
The lira hit a record low against the dollar and yields surged after the central bank said it will stop lending at the benchmark interest rate on some days, raising uncertainty about monetary policy.
More:Turkish Lira Slides to Record, Yields Surge on Concern Over Bank Policy - Bloomberg
By Selcuk Gokoluk - Dec 28, 2011 11:22 AM ET
The lira hit a record low against the dollar and yields surged after the central bank said it will stop lending at the benchmark interest rate on some days, raising uncertainty about monetary policy.
More:Turkish Lira Slides to Record, Yields Surge on Concern Over Bank Policy - Bloomberg
Visas in Europe: Keep out
Keep out
Europe’s restrictive visa policies irk some big neighbours
Dec 31st 2011 | from the print edition
EARLY in December the Russian embassy in London hosted a “visa-free” barbecue to draw attention to the European Union’s visa regime. Russia says the system contradicts the spirit of the 1975 Helsinki declaration, which pledged to make exit and entry easier. An EU/Russia summit a week later returned to the theme. Visa liberalisation is also a priority for Turkey, which has been relaxing the rules for many of its eastern neighbours.
More:Visas in Europe: Keep out | The Economist
Europe’s restrictive visa policies irk some big neighbours
Dec 31st 2011 | from the print edition
EARLY in December the Russian embassy in London hosted a “visa-free” barbecue to draw attention to the European Union’s visa regime. Russia says the system contradicts the spirit of the 1975 Helsinki declaration, which pledged to make exit and entry easier. An EU/Russia summit a week later returned to the theme. Visa liberalisation is also a priority for Turkey, which has been relaxing the rules for many of its eastern neighbours.
More:Visas in Europe: Keep out | The Economist
Turkey, France and Armenia: Watch your words | The Economist
A French proposal to outlaw genocide-denial infuriates Turkey
Dec 31st 2011 | ISTANBUL | from the print edition
No closer to resting in peace
FEW Turks had heard of Valérie Boyer, a deputy for Nicolas Sarkozy’s ruling UMP party in France. That was until she sponsored a bill that would make it a crime in France to deny that the mass killings of Ottoman Armenians in 1915 constituted genocide. On December 21st France’s lower chamber approved the bill, which would make denying any officially recognised genocide punishable by a one-year prison sentence and a fine of €45,000 ($59,000). Within hours Turkish hackers had defaced Ms Boyer’s website. The deputy says she has been inundated with death and rape threats. (Separately, the Israeli Knesset has begun discussing whether to recognise the 1915 killings as genocide.)
More:Turkey, France and Armenia: Watch your words | The Economist
Dec 31st 2011 | ISTANBUL | from the print edition
No closer to resting in peace
FEW Turks had heard of Valérie Boyer, a deputy for Nicolas Sarkozy’s ruling UMP party in France. That was until she sponsored a bill that would make it a crime in France to deny that the mass killings of Ottoman Armenians in 1915 constituted genocide. On December 21st France’s lower chamber approved the bill, which would make denying any officially recognised genocide punishable by a one-year prison sentence and a fine of €45,000 ($59,000). Within hours Turkish hackers had defaced Ms Boyer’s website. The deputy says she has been inundated with death and rape threats. (Separately, the Israeli Knesset has begun discussing whether to recognise the 1915 killings as genocide.)
More:Turkey, France and Armenia: Watch your words | The Economist
12 for 2012: Turkey’s tightrope | beyondbrics | News and views on emerging markets from the Financial Times – FT.com
12 for 2012: Turkey’s tightrope
December 28, 2011 5:10 pm
By Murat Üçer
Thanks to ample external financing and lots of government-backed economic stimulus over the past two years, Turkey’s output is some 10 per cent higher than pre-crisis levels. For sure, this is something to boast about.
More:12 for 2012: Turkey’s tightrope | beyondbrics | News and views on emerging markets from the Financial Times – FT.com
December 28, 2011 5:10 pm
By Murat Üçer
Thanks to ample external financing and lots of government-backed economic stimulus over the past two years, Turkey’s output is some 10 per cent higher than pre-crisis levels. For sure, this is something to boast about.
More:12 for 2012: Turkey’s tightrope | beyondbrics | News and views on emerging markets from the Financial Times – FT.com
Turkey warns France of more action over genocide bill | Reuters
Turkey warns France of more action over genocide bill
ANKARA | Wed Dec 28, 2011 9:41pm GMT
(Reuters) - Turkey Wednesday warned France it would take further action against Paris should the French senate pass a bill making it a crime to deny the 1915 mass killings of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey constituted genocide.
More:Turkey warns France of more action over genocide bill | Reuters
ANKARA | Wed Dec 28, 2011 9:41pm GMT
(Reuters) - Turkey Wednesday warned France it would take further action against Paris should the French senate pass a bill making it a crime to deny the 1915 mass killings of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey constituted genocide.
More:Turkey warns France of more action over genocide bill | Reuters
Mandatory Turkish puts Kurdish pupils at disadvantage | World news | The Guardian
Mandatory Turkish puts Kurdish pupils at disadvantage
An estimated 11-15 million Kurds live in Turkey but it is illegal for school children to use Kurdish in the classroom
In a village in eastern Turkey at 8.30 in the morning, around 20 children gather outside a small square building for the daily anit, the student pledge: "I am a Turk, I am honest, I am hardworking."
More:Mandatory Turkish puts Kurdish pupils at disadvantage | World news | The Guardian
An estimated 11-15 million Kurds live in Turkey but it is illegal for school children to use Kurdish in the classroom
In a village in eastern Turkey at 8.30 in the morning, around 20 children gather outside a small square building for the daily anit, the student pledge: "I am a Turk, I am honest, I am hardworking."
More:Mandatory Turkish puts Kurdish pupils at disadvantage | World news | The Guardian
Silenced Kurdish storytellers sing again | World news | The Guardian
Silenced Kurdish storytellers sing again
It is one of the few places in Turkey where neither blasting pop music nor flatscreen televisions entertain visitors: in the House of Dengbêj, the professional reciters of epics have gathered. One singer, his hand cupped behind his ear, recites a love story in song, unaccompanied by musical instruments.
More:Silenced Kurdish storytellers sing again | World news | The Guardian
It is one of the few places in Turkey where neither blasting pop music nor flatscreen televisions entertain visitors: in the House of Dengbêj, the professional reciters of epics have gathered. One singer, his hand cupped behind his ear, recites a love story in song, unaccompanied by musical instruments.
More:Silenced Kurdish storytellers sing again | World news | The Guardian
The U.S. Interest in Addressing Germany's PKK Problem
The U.S. Interest in Addressing Germany's PKK Problem
By Cuneyt Yilmaz
December 28, 2011
The presence of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in Europe is fast becoming a prism through which the Turks view their ties with Europe, especially in Germany.
U.S.-Turkish relations are experiencing a period of close cooperation. At the same time, Turkey's ties with its European allies are under pressure. The presence of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in Europe is fast becoming a prism through which the Turks view their ties with Europe, especially in Germany, where the PKK has a significant infrastructure. The United States can encourage action against PKK networks in Germany and subsequently take credit for such action with the Turkish public, thus preventing further deterioration in ties between America's European allies and Turkey at a time of improving U.S.-Turkish relations.
More: Washington Institute
By Cuneyt Yilmaz
December 28, 2011
The presence of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in Europe is fast becoming a prism through which the Turks view their ties with Europe, especially in Germany.
U.S.-Turkish relations are experiencing a period of close cooperation. At the same time, Turkey's ties with its European allies are under pressure. The presence of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in Europe is fast becoming a prism through which the Turks view their ties with Europe, especially in Germany, where the PKK has a significant infrastructure. The United States can encourage action against PKK networks in Germany and subsequently take credit for such action with the Turkish public, thus preventing further deterioration in ties between America's European allies and Turkey at a time of improving U.S.-Turkish relations.
More: Washington Institute
Techno-Camp in Turkey results in pilot program | The Jamestown Sun | Jamestown, North Dakota
Techno-Camp in Turkey results in pilot program
The five-day TechnoCamp opened up a new world for people with disabilities in Turkey. Turkey’s inaugural camp was an opportunity to raise awareness of how assistive technology can benefit these individuals. This would be done by recreating the one-week event that is currently offered each summer at Elks Camp Grassick in North Dakota.
More:Techno-Camp in Turkey results in pilot program | The Jamestown Sun | Jamestown, North Dakota
The five-day TechnoCamp opened up a new world for people with disabilities in Turkey. Turkey’s inaugural camp was an opportunity to raise awareness of how assistive technology can benefit these individuals. This would be done by recreating the one-week event that is currently offered each summer at Elks Camp Grassick in North Dakota.
More:Techno-Camp in Turkey results in pilot program | The Jamestown Sun | Jamestown, North Dakota
South Stream Wins Nod From Turkey - WSJ.com
South Stream Wins Nod From Turkey
BY JACOB GRONHOLT-PEDERSEN
MOSCOW—Turkey agreed Wednesday to allow construction of the South Stream gas pipeline across its Black Sea waters, according to OAO Gazprom, a decision that removes a major obstacle for Russia to proceed with a project that could increase Europe's dependence on Russian natural-gas supplies.
More:South Stream Wins Nod From Turkey - WSJ.com
BY JACOB GRONHOLT-PEDERSEN
MOSCOW—Turkey agreed Wednesday to allow construction of the South Stream gas pipeline across its Black Sea waters, according to OAO Gazprom, a decision that removes a major obstacle for Russia to proceed with a project that could increase Europe's dependence on Russian natural-gas supplies.
More:South Stream Wins Nod From Turkey - WSJ.com
“Nightmare year” for women’s rights in Turkey - TrustLaw
“Nightmare year” for women’s rights in Turkey
28 Dec 2011 12:52
By Lisa Anderson
NEW YORK (TrustLaw) - In the wake of a report that 160 women were murdered in Turkey in 2011 by male partners or relatives, some are calling for women at risk to be given free guns and lessons in how to use them.
More:“Nightmare year” for women’s rights in Turkey - TrustLaw
28 Dec 2011 12:52
By Lisa Anderson
NEW YORK (TrustLaw) - In the wake of a report that 160 women were murdered in Turkey in 2011 by male partners or relatives, some are calling for women at risk to be given free guns and lessons in how to use them.
More:“Nightmare year” for women’s rights in Turkey - TrustLaw
Turkey Gov aims to make Istanbul a major hub for the United Nations
Turkey Gov aims to make Istanbul a major hub for the United Nations
Balkans.com Business news correspondent - 28.12.2011
In signing a cooperation protocol with the Istanbul Municipality Government, Turkey's Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu said the government aims to make Istanbul a major hub for the United Nations and world financial and cultural organizations reports Hurriyet Daily News.
More:Balkans.com Business News : Turkey Gov aims to make Istanbul a major hub for the United Nations
Balkans.com Business news correspondent - 28.12.2011
In signing a cooperation protocol with the Istanbul Municipality Government, Turkey's Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu said the government aims to make Istanbul a major hub for the United Nations and world financial and cultural organizations reports Hurriyet Daily News.
More:Balkans.com Business News : Turkey Gov aims to make Istanbul a major hub for the United Nations
Turk lira gains vs dlr, shares slip in thin trade | Reuters
Turk lira gains vs dlr, shares slip in thin trade
ISTANBUL, Dec 28 (Reuters) - The Turkish lira recovered slightly against the dollar while shares edged lower on Wednesday in thin cautious trade with many market players away as investors awaited a speech by central bank Governor Erdem Basci.
More:Turk lira gains vs dlr, shares slip in thin trade | Reuters
ISTANBUL, Dec 28 (Reuters) - The Turkish lira recovered slightly against the dollar while shares edged lower on Wednesday in thin cautious trade with many market players away as investors awaited a speech by central bank Governor Erdem Basci.
More:Turk lira gains vs dlr, shares slip in thin trade | Reuters
Tanker traffic halted in Istanbul due to heavy fog | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters
Tanker traffic halted in Istanbul due to heavy fog
Wed Dec 28, 2011 7:55am GMT
ISTANBUL Dec 28 (Reuters) - Tanker traffic through Turkey's Bosphorus Strait, a key shipping channel for Russian oil, was suspended on Wednesday after heavy fog reduced visibility, shipping agent GAC said.
More:Tanker traffic halted in Istanbul due to heavy fog | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters
Wed Dec 28, 2011 7:55am GMT
ISTANBUL Dec 28 (Reuters) - Tanker traffic through Turkey's Bosphorus Strait, a key shipping channel for Russian oil, was suspended on Wednesday after heavy fog reduced visibility, shipping agent GAC said.
More:Tanker traffic halted in Istanbul due to heavy fog | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters
Turkey, Russia reach deal on South Stream pipeline | Reuters
Turkey, Russia reach deal on South Stream pipeline
ANKARA | Wed Dec 28, 2011 3:05am EST
Dec 28 (Reuters) - Turkey and Russia have reached agreement on the award of a final construction permit for the South Stream pipeline which will carry Russian gas from the Black Sea to Europe, Turkish government officials told Reuters.
More:Turkey, Russia reach deal on South Stream pipeline | Reuters
ANKARA | Wed Dec 28, 2011 3:05am EST
Dec 28 (Reuters) - Turkey and Russia have reached agreement on the award of a final construction permit for the South Stream pipeline which will carry Russian gas from the Black Sea to Europe, Turkish government officials told Reuters.
More:Turkey, Russia reach deal on South Stream pipeline | Reuters
North to act on police torture - Cyprus Mail
North to act on police torture
By Simon Bahceli Published on December 28, 2011
THE TURKISH Cypriot side has taken initial steps to criminalise police torture after a ‘parliamentary’ committee issued a demand for a change in the law that would create a sharper differentiation between the use of torture and the simple mistreatment of detainees.
More:North to act on police torture - Cyprus Mail
By Simon Bahceli Published on December 28, 2011
THE TURKISH Cypriot side has taken initial steps to criminalise police torture after a ‘parliamentary’ committee issued a demand for a change in the law that would create a sharper differentiation between the use of torture and the simple mistreatment of detainees.
More:North to act on police torture - Cyprus Mail
Turkey and America's Complicated Relationship , 28 December 2011 Wednesday 9:40
Turkey and America's Complicated Relationship
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
Standing before a war weary congress skittish about Soviet intentions, then US President Harry S. Truman requested $400m of development aid for Turkey and Greece in 1947, telling his audience that these two countries "had to choose between alternative ways of life".
More:Turkey and America's Complicated Relationship , 28 December 2011 Wednesday 9:40
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
Standing before a war weary congress skittish about Soviet intentions, then US President Harry S. Truman requested $400m of development aid for Turkey and Greece in 1947, telling his audience that these two countries "had to choose between alternative ways of life".
More:Turkey and America's Complicated Relationship , 28 December 2011 Wednesday 9:40
Hidden tide of 'honour' violence in Britain's communities - Telegraph
Hidden tide of 'honour' violence in Britain's communities
The number of women from Britain’s ethnic communities coming forward to report so-called “honour” attacks has more than doubled in three years, new figures show.
More:Hidden tide of 'honour' violence in Britain's communities - Telegraph
The number of women from Britain’s ethnic communities coming forward to report so-called “honour” attacks has more than doubled in three years, new figures show.
More:Hidden tide of 'honour' violence in Britain's communities - Telegraph
"The Epidemic of Terrorism under Turkey's Mubarak"
The Epidemic of Terrorism under Turkey's Mubarak
by Eren Buğlalılar
A new epidemic has broken out in Turkey. It's called "terrorism." This ideologically transmitted disease (ITD) appears to be extremely infectious. Otherwise how can we explain the large and growing number of terrorists in the country?
More:Eren Buğlalılar, "The Epidemic of Terrorism under Turkey's Mubarak"
by Eren Buğlalılar
A new epidemic has broken out in Turkey. It's called "terrorism." This ideologically transmitted disease (ITD) appears to be extremely infectious. Otherwise how can we explain the large and growing number of terrorists in the country?
More:Eren Buğlalılar, "The Epidemic of Terrorism under Turkey's Mubarak"
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Turkish Soaps Drive Macedonians To Istanbul
Turkish Soaps Drive Macedonians To Istanbul
Written by: Balkan Insight
December 27, 2011
By Sinisa Jakov Marusic
Turkish soap operas lure increasing numbers of Macedonian tourists to Istanbul, where they hope to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars.
More:Turkish Soaps Drive Macedonians To Istanbul
Written by: Balkan Insight
December 27, 2011
By Sinisa Jakov Marusic
Turkish soap operas lure increasing numbers of Macedonian tourists to Istanbul, where they hope to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars.
More:Turkish Soaps Drive Macedonians To Istanbul
Some Turkish settlers would be welcome in united Cyprus - Washington Times
Some Turkish settlers would be welcome in united Cyprus
By Ben Birnbaum
Any deal to unite the Greek and Turkish halves of Cyprus would require hundreds of thousands of Turkish settlers to leave the island nation, Cyprus‘ foreign minister said.
More:Some Turkish settlers would be welcome in united Cyprus - Washington Times
By Ben Birnbaum
Any deal to unite the Greek and Turkish halves of Cyprus would require hundreds of thousands of Turkish settlers to leave the island nation, Cyprus‘ foreign minister said.
More:Some Turkish settlers would be welcome in united Cyprus - Washington Times
Gazprom Turkish Agreement | Business | The Moscow Times
Gazprom Turkish Agreement
27 December 2011
Gazprom chief executive Alexei Miller and Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Taner Yildiz agreed to the main commercial terms for and volumes of gas supplies from Russia to Turkey in 2012 in Ankara on Tuesday, Interfax reported.
More:Gazprom Turkish Agreement | Business | The Moscow Times
27 December 2011
Gazprom chief executive Alexei Miller and Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Taner Yildiz agreed to the main commercial terms for and volumes of gas supplies from Russia to Turkey in 2012 in Ankara on Tuesday, Interfax reported.
More:Gazprom Turkish Agreement | Business | The Moscow Times
Why I am not convinced Turkish inflation will fall
Why I am not convinced Turkish inflation will fall
Author: Emre Deliveli · December 27th, 2011 · Comments (0) Share This Print 0 0
Actually, I am convinced it will fall. I am just not convinced that it will fall to around 5 percent, as the Central Bank of Turkey is assuming, at least not by the end of next year. I went over my main arguments at my latest Hurriyet Daily News column I posted here at the blog, but let me elaborate a bit more.
More:EconoMonitor : EconoMonitor » Why I am not convinced Turkish inflation will fall
Author: Emre Deliveli · December 27th, 2011 · Comments (0) Share This Print 0 0
Actually, I am convinced it will fall. I am just not convinced that it will fall to around 5 percent, as the Central Bank of Turkey is assuming, at least not by the end of next year. I went over my main arguments at my latest Hurriyet Daily News column I posted here at the blog, but let me elaborate a bit more.
More:EconoMonitor : EconoMonitor » Why I am not convinced Turkish inflation will fall
Greece: Top prosecutor probes Turkey-arson claim, despite denial - The Washington Post
Greece: Top prosecutor probes Turkey-arson claim, despite denial
By Associated Press, Updated: Tuesday, December 27, 9:35 AM
ATHENS, Greece — Greece’s top prosecutor on Tuesday ordered an emergency inquiry into a Turkish newspaper report that Turkish government-funded agents set forest fires in Greece in the mid-1990s.
More:Greece: Top prosecutor probes Turkey-arson claim, despite denial - The Washington Post
By Associated Press, Updated: Tuesday, December 27, 9:35 AM
ATHENS, Greece — Greece’s top prosecutor on Tuesday ordered an emergency inquiry into a Turkish newspaper report that Turkish government-funded agents set forest fires in Greece in the mid-1990s.
More:Greece: Top prosecutor probes Turkey-arson claim, despite denial - The Washington Post
Turkey May Withdraw 15 bln USD Bond Reserves from France for Armenian "Genocide" Bill
Turkey May Withdraw 15 bln USD Bond Reserves from France for Armenian "Genocide" Bill
2011-12-28 01:17:50
Turkey's Central Bank might transfer its 28.8 billion Turkish Liras (15.3 billion U.S. dollars) of investments in French bonds to other European countries as part of sanctions against France for the Armenian "genocide" bill, local media quoted economists as saying on Tuesday.
"Judging from the recent steps taken by the Turkish government and the political tone, I can expect the Turkish Central Bank could withdraw its reserves from France as part of its economic sanctions in the future," Turkish newspaper Hurriyet Daily News quoted Erol Katircioglu, professor of the economics department of Istanbul Bilgi University, as saying.
More:Turkey May Withdraw 15 bln USD Bond Reserves from France for Armenian "Genocide" Bill
2011-12-28 01:17:50
Turkey's Central Bank might transfer its 28.8 billion Turkish Liras (15.3 billion U.S. dollars) of investments in French bonds to other European countries as part of sanctions against France for the Armenian "genocide" bill, local media quoted economists as saying on Tuesday.
"Judging from the recent steps taken by the Turkish government and the political tone, I can expect the Turkish Central Bank could withdraw its reserves from France as part of its economic sanctions in the future," Turkish newspaper Hurriyet Daily News quoted Erol Katircioglu, professor of the economics department of Istanbul Bilgi University, as saying.
More:Turkey May Withdraw 15 bln USD Bond Reserves from France for Armenian "Genocide" Bill
The Not-So-Beautiful Game
The Not-So-Beautiful Game
By ANDREW FINKEL
ISTANBUL — “Welcome to hell!” was how Istanbul fans once greeted foreign soccer teams. But now it’s Turkey’s top team that finds itself in a small hell of its own making. Not only is a recent match-fixing scandal threatening the country’s premier league, but it has also forced the governing Justice and Development (AK) Party into scoring against itself. The party that was elected in 2002 as the new broom to sweep Turkey clean looks like it’s sweeping dirt under the carpet.
More:The Not-So-Beautiful Game - NYTimes.com
By ANDREW FINKEL
ISTANBUL — “Welcome to hell!” was how Istanbul fans once greeted foreign soccer teams. But now it’s Turkey’s top team that finds itself in a small hell of its own making. Not only is a recent match-fixing scandal threatening the country’s premier league, but it has also forced the governing Justice and Development (AK) Party into scoring against itself. The party that was elected in 2002 as the new broom to sweep Turkey clean looks like it’s sweeping dirt under the carpet.
More:The Not-So-Beautiful Game - NYTimes.com
Turkish Central Bank Stays Flexible, Pledges More Predictability in 2012 - Bloomberg
Turkish Central Bank Stays Flexible, Pledges More Predictability in 2012
By Steve Bryant and Ali Berat Meric - Dec 27, 2011 7:58 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank will try to make its actions more predictable next year while sticking to a monetary policy that gives it “wide freedom of action,” Governor Erdem Basci said.
More:Turkish Central Bank Stays Flexible, Pledges More Predictability in 2012 - Bloomberg
By Steve Bryant and Ali Berat Meric - Dec 27, 2011 7:58 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank will try to make its actions more predictable next year while sticking to a monetary policy that gives it “wide freedom of action,” Governor Erdem Basci said.
More:Turkish Central Bank Stays Flexible, Pledges More Predictability in 2012 - Bloomberg
Turkey won't take part in Iran strike - UPI.com
Turkey won't take part in Iran strike
Published: Dec. 27, 2011 at 6:35 AM
ANKARA, Turkey, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Turkey won't join in any Western intervention in Iran over Tehran's disputed nuclear program, Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu says.
More:Turkey won't take part in Iran strike - UPI.com
Published: Dec. 27, 2011 at 6:35 AM
ANKARA, Turkey, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Turkey won't join in any Western intervention in Iran over Tehran's disputed nuclear program, Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu says.
More:Turkey won't take part in Iran strike - UPI.com
Hoteliers in Budapest, Istanbul and Paris enjoy significant increases in profitability
Hoteliers in Budapest, Istanbul and Paris enjoy significant increases in profitability
Budapest, Istanbul and Paris registered strong increases in profit per room for November led by robust year-on-year growth in achieved average room rate, according to the latest HotStats survey by TRI Hospitality Consulting.
Despite a 1.5 percentage point decline in room occupancy, hoteliers in Istanbul were able to successfully record a 17.6% increase in achieved average room rate to €193.97. In contrast, in addition to increases in achieved average room rate performance in both Paris (+6.1%) and Budapest (+8.4%), these capital cities also successfully recorded room occupancy increases of 7.7 percentage points and 4.9 percentage points, respectively, which contributed to significant increases in Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR).
More:Hoteliers in Budapest, Istanbul and Paris enjoy significant increases in profitability
Budapest, Istanbul and Paris registered strong increases in profit per room for November led by robust year-on-year growth in achieved average room rate, according to the latest HotStats survey by TRI Hospitality Consulting.
Despite a 1.5 percentage point decline in room occupancy, hoteliers in Istanbul were able to successfully record a 17.6% increase in achieved average room rate to €193.97. In contrast, in addition to increases in achieved average room rate performance in both Paris (+6.1%) and Budapest (+8.4%), these capital cities also successfully recorded room occupancy increases of 7.7 percentage points and 4.9 percentage points, respectively, which contributed to significant increases in Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR).
More:Hoteliers in Budapest, Istanbul and Paris enjoy significant increases in profitability
Turkey Yields Rise as Bank Says Inflation May Exceed 10 Percent - Bloomberg
Turkey Yields Rise as Bank Says Inflation May Exceed 10 Percent
By Aydan Eksin - Dec 27, 2011 7:07 AM ET
Turkish bond yields rose after the central bank said inflation may exceed 10 percent in December and the first quarter, twice its target level.
Yields on the two-year benchmark notes increased 10 basis points, or 0.1 percentage point, to 10.61 percent at 1:54 p.m. in Istanbul to the highest intraday level in a week, according to the RBS Istanbul Benchmark Bond Index. The lira was little changed at 1.8929 per dollar.
More:Turkey Yields Rise as Bank Says Inflation May Exceed 10 Percent - Bloomberg
By Aydan Eksin - Dec 27, 2011 7:07 AM ET
Turkish bond yields rose after the central bank said inflation may exceed 10 percent in December and the first quarter, twice its target level.
Yields on the two-year benchmark notes increased 10 basis points, or 0.1 percentage point, to 10.61 percent at 1:54 p.m. in Istanbul to the highest intraday level in a week, according to the RBS Istanbul Benchmark Bond Index. The lira was little changed at 1.8929 per dollar.
More:Turkey Yields Rise as Bank Says Inflation May Exceed 10 Percent - Bloomberg
Turkey : High taxes on inputs hurt Turkish apparel exports - Apparel News Turkey
High taxes on inputs hurt Turkish apparel exports
December 27, 2011 (Turkey)
The competitiveness of Turkish apparel exporters is being affected by a recent increase in taxes on raw materials, according to top officials of various retail associations.
Through a new regulation in June this year, the Turkish Government imposed an additional tax of 20 percent on import of textile products into the country, excluding imports from the EU.
More:Turkey : High taxes on inputs hurt Turkish apparel exports - Apparel News Turkey
December 27, 2011 (Turkey)
The competitiveness of Turkish apparel exporters is being affected by a recent increase in taxes on raw materials, according to top officials of various retail associations.
Through a new regulation in June this year, the Turkish Government imposed an additional tax of 20 percent on import of textile products into the country, excluding imports from the EU.
More:Turkey : High taxes on inputs hurt Turkish apparel exports - Apparel News Turkey
Turkey Plans Additional Steps to End Kurdish Unrest, Sabah Says - Bloomberg
Turkey Plans Additional Steps to End Kurdish Unrest, Sabah Says
By Emre Peker - Dec 27, 2011 4:18 AM ET
Turkey is drafting a second set of proposals following its so-called democratic opening of 2009 to end Kurdish unrest in the country’s southeast, Sabah reported, without saying how it got the information.
More:Turkey Plans Additional Steps to End Kurdish Unrest, Sabah Says - Bloomberg
By Emre Peker - Dec 27, 2011 4:18 AM ET
Turkey is drafting a second set of proposals following its so-called democratic opening of 2009 to end Kurdish unrest in the country’s southeast, Sabah reported, without saying how it got the information.
More:Turkey Plans Additional Steps to End Kurdish Unrest, Sabah Says - Bloomberg
PressTV - Turkey looks into EU crisis as opportunity to join the block
Turkey looks into EU crisis as opportunity to join the block
Mon Dec 26, 2011 6:46PM GMT
Mehdi Gholizadeh, Press TV, Ankara
Top Turkish officials have held a meeting with Turkish ambassadors to discuss the economic crisis in Europe and its possible political outcomes.
Turkey's Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan said that the main reason behind the economic crisis in Europe is the European Union's institutional weakness, including a fragile banking system.
More:PressTV - Turkey looks into EU crisis as opportunity to join the block
Mon Dec 26, 2011 6:46PM GMT
Mehdi Gholizadeh, Press TV, Ankara
Top Turkish officials have held a meeting with Turkish ambassadors to discuss the economic crisis in Europe and its possible political outcomes.
Turkey's Deputy Prime Minister Ali Babacan said that the main reason behind the economic crisis in Europe is the European Union's institutional weakness, including a fragile banking system.
More:PressTV - Turkey looks into EU crisis as opportunity to join the block
Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church: Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency
Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church
Culture | December 27, 2011, Tuesday| 698 views
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Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church: Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church
A number of schools and organizations across Bulgaria are taking part in a large-scale donation campaign titled "Let's Preserve the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church in Istanbul."
More:Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church: Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency
Culture | December 27, 2011, Tuesday| 698 views
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Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church: Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church
A number of schools and organizations across Bulgaria are taking part in a large-scale donation campaign titled "Let's Preserve the Bulgarian St. Stephen Church in Istanbul."
More:Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church: Bulgaria Campaigns to Restore Istanbul Iron Church - Novinite.com - Sofia News Agency
Israel’s Turkish dilemma: To lead with head or heart?
Israel’s Turkish dilemma: To lead with head or heart?
By HERB KEINON
12/27/2011 01:56
Analysis: Open Knesset debate over officially recognizing Armenian genocide was gut responding to deteriorated Turkish-Israeli ties.
More:Israel’s Turkish dilemma: To lead... JPost - Diplomacy & Politics
By HERB KEINON
12/27/2011 01:56
Analysis: Open Knesset debate over officially recognizing Armenian genocide was gut responding to deteriorated Turkish-Israeli ties.
More:Israel’s Turkish dilemma: To lead... JPost - Diplomacy & Politics
'Turkish passport,' untold tale of Holocaust survivors - FRANCE 24
'Turkish passport,' untold tale of Holocaust survivors
AFP - Unbeknownst to many, Turkish diplomats on duty around Europe saved hundreds of Jews during World War II by giving them Turkish passports, enabling them to travel to safety in Turkey.
More:'Turkish passport,' untold tale of Holocaust survivors - FRANCE 24
AFP - Unbeknownst to many, Turkish diplomats on duty around Europe saved hundreds of Jews during World War II by giving them Turkish passports, enabling them to travel to safety in Turkey.
More:'Turkish passport,' untold tale of Holocaust survivors - FRANCE 24
A filmmaker must be like a missionary: Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Turkish director - The Economic Times
A filmmaker must be like a missionary: Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Turkish director
Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan won the best director's award at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival for his film, Three Monkeys. In fact, Ceylan's first short film, Cocoon, was screened in the 1995 Cannes Film Festival. Distant, made in 2002, swung the Grand Jury Prize and the Best Actor Prize at Cannes and was critically acclaimed internationally.
More:A filmmaker must be like a missionary: Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Turkish director - The Economic Times
Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan won the best director's award at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival for his film, Three Monkeys. In fact, Ceylan's first short film, Cocoon, was screened in the 1995 Cannes Film Festival. Distant, made in 2002, swung the Grand Jury Prize and the Best Actor Prize at Cannes and was critically acclaimed internationally.
More:A filmmaker must be like a missionary: Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Turkish director - The Economic Times
Turkey-Azerbaijan sign gas pipeline MOU - Natural Gas | Platts News Article & Story
Turkey-Azerbaijan sign gas pipeline MOU
Istanbul (Platts)--26Dec2011/958 pm EST/258 GMT
Turkey and Azerbaijan on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding concerning the construction of the Trans Anatolian Gas Pipeline (TANAP) to export Azerigas to European markets through Turkey, a spokesman for Turkey's energy ministry confirmed to Platts.
More:Turkey-Azerbaijan sign gas pipeline MOU - Natural Gas | Platts News Article & Story
Istanbul (Platts)--26Dec2011/958 pm EST/258 GMT
Turkey and Azerbaijan on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding concerning the construction of the Trans Anatolian Gas Pipeline (TANAP) to export Azerigas to European markets through Turkey, a spokesman for Turkey's energy ministry confirmed to Platts.
More:Turkey-Azerbaijan sign gas pipeline MOU - Natural Gas | Platts News Article & Story
Turkey plans to divert water from Tbilisi river | Environment | Democracy & Freedom Watch
Turkey plans to divert water from Tbilisi river
by Rusiko Machaidze | Dec 26
TBILISI, DFWatch – The river which runs through Tbilisi might have its waters levels lowered, because a Turkish power company wants to tap its energy higher up.
The Mtkvari, Georgia’s largest river, may be substantially weakened. This could cause problems not only for Georgians, but also in neighboring Azerbaijan, where it feeds the main drinking water supply the Mingechauri reservoir.
More:Turkey plans to divert water from Tbilisi river | Environment | Democracy & Freedom Watch
by Rusiko Machaidze | Dec 26
TBILISI, DFWatch – The river which runs through Tbilisi might have its waters levels lowered, because a Turkish power company wants to tap its energy higher up.
The Mtkvari, Georgia’s largest river, may be substantially weakened. This could cause problems not only for Georgians, but also in neighboring Azerbaijan, where it feeds the main drinking water supply the Mingechauri reservoir.
More:Turkey plans to divert water from Tbilisi river | Environment | Democracy & Freedom Watch
Monday, December 26, 2011
Israel hints that Turkey was guilty of its own 'holocaust' - Middle East - World - The Independent
Israel hints that Turkey was guilty of its own 'holocaust'
Matthew Kalman
In a step that will further inflame already fraught relations between Israel and Turkey, parliamentarians in Jerusalem have publicly debated for the first time whether to recognise Turkish responsibility for the genocide of 1.5 million Armenians in 1915.
More:Israel hints that Turkey was guilty of its own 'holocaust' - Middle East - World - The Independent
Matthew Kalman
In a step that will further inflame already fraught relations between Israel and Turkey, parliamentarians in Jerusalem have publicly debated for the first time whether to recognise Turkish responsibility for the genocide of 1.5 million Armenians in 1915.
More:Israel hints that Turkey was guilty of its own 'holocaust' - Middle East - World - The Independent
Dubai-based luxury hospitality company to manage hotel in Istanbul
Dubai-based luxury hospitality company to manage hotel in Istanbul
Written by Ozgur Tore
Monday, 26 December 2011 22:34
The oldest luxury hotel in Istanbul, which formerly accommodated passengers travelling on the Orient Express train has been acquired by owner of World Travel Channel; Demet Sabanci Çetindoğan.
nightAccording to a source in Dubai, the Dubai-based luxury hospitality company; Jumeirah is soon signing agreement with Mrs. Çetindoğan to manage the Pera Palace Hotel.
More:Dubai-based luxury hospitality company to manage hotel in Istanbul
Written by Ozgur Tore
Monday, 26 December 2011 22:34
The oldest luxury hotel in Istanbul, which formerly accommodated passengers travelling on the Orient Express train has been acquired by owner of World Travel Channel; Demet Sabanci Çetindoğan.
nightAccording to a source in Dubai, the Dubai-based luxury hospitality company; Jumeirah is soon signing agreement with Mrs. Çetindoğan to manage the Pera Palace Hotel.
More:Dubai-based luxury hospitality company to manage hotel in Istanbul
Turkey to face up to 1915 incident of Armenia in objective, fair way: FM - Xinhua | English.news.cn
Turkey to face up to 1915 incident of Armenia in objective, fair way: FM
English.news.cn 2011-12-27 06:02:55
ANKARA, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) --- Turkey was ready to confront the 1915 incident of Armenia only if in an objective and fair way, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Monday.
When reviewing the history, historians should be involved and all archives should be make sure to be open, Davutoglu was quoted by semi-official Anatolia news agency as saying.
More:Turkey to face up to 1915 incident of Armenia in objective, fair way: FM - Xinhua | English.news.cn
English.news.cn 2011-12-27 06:02:55
ANKARA, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) --- Turkey was ready to confront the 1915 incident of Armenia only if in an objective and fair way, Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Monday.
When reviewing the history, historians should be involved and all archives should be make sure to be open, Davutoglu was quoted by semi-official Anatolia news agency as saying.
More:Turkey to face up to 1915 incident of Armenia in objective, fair way: FM - Xinhua | English.news.cn
Israeli lawmakers weigh recognizing Armenian genocide - chicagotribune.com
Israeli lawmakers weigh recognizing Armenian genocide
Jeffrey Heller Reuters
9:04 a.m. CST, December 26, 2011
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli lawmakers debated on Monday recognizing the 1915 mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks as genocide but were warned by the Foreign Ministry about further damage to frayed relations with Turkey.
More:Israeli lawmakers weigh recognizing Armenian genocide - chicagotribune.com
Jeffrey Heller Reuters
9:04 a.m. CST, December 26, 2011
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli lawmakers debated on Monday recognizing the 1915 mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks as genocide but were warned by the Foreign Ministry about further damage to frayed relations with Turkey.
More:Israeli lawmakers weigh recognizing Armenian genocide - chicagotribune.com
Turkey’s AK Party: ‘Democratization Package’ to Free Expression - Emerging Europe Real Time - WSJ
Turkey’s AK Party: ‘Democratization Package’ to Free Expression
By Ayla Albayrak
The year 2011 was “a black year” to freedom of expression in Turkey, as a Turkish journalist association put it recently.
But the Turkish government has promised amendments to laws which restrict freedom of expression in a so-called Democratization Package, to be launched after the New Year. The promise was made over the weekend by Deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay.
More:Turkey’s AK Party: ‘Democratization Package’ to Free Expression - Emerging Europe Real Time - WSJ
By Ayla Albayrak
The year 2011 was “a black year” to freedom of expression in Turkey, as a Turkish journalist association put it recently.
But the Turkish government has promised amendments to laws which restrict freedom of expression in a so-called Democratization Package, to be launched after the New Year. The promise was made over the weekend by Deputy Prime Minister Besir Atalay.
More:Turkey’s AK Party: ‘Democratization Package’ to Free Expression - Emerging Europe Real Time - WSJ
Israel Risks Turkish Ire with Recognition of Armenian Genocide - NYTimes.com
Israel Risks New Turkish Ire with Recognition of Armenian Genocide
By ETHAN BRONNER
Published: December 26, 2011
JERUSALEM — The Israeli parliament on Monday held its first public debate on whether to commemorate the Turkish genocide of Armenians a century ago, an emotionally resonant and politically fraught topic for Israel, founded on the ashes of the Holocaust and trying to salvage frayed ties with Turkey.
More:Israel Risks Turkish Ire with Recognition of Armenian Genocide - NYTimes.com
By ETHAN BRONNER
Published: December 26, 2011
JERUSALEM — The Israeli parliament on Monday held its first public debate on whether to commemorate the Turkish genocide of Armenians a century ago, an emotionally resonant and politically fraught topic for Israel, founded on the ashes of the Holocaust and trying to salvage frayed ties with Turkey.
More:Israel Risks Turkish Ire with Recognition of Armenian Genocide - NYTimes.com
Is model Turkey sliding into authoritarianism? - CSMonitor.com
Is model Turkey sliding into authoritarianism?
The trial of prize-winning Turkish journalist Nedim Sener resumed today. His case, along with many others, are raising concerns about Turkey and its model democracy in the Middle East.
More:Is model Turkey sliding into authoritarianism? - CSMonitor.com
The trial of prize-winning Turkish journalist Nedim Sener resumed today. His case, along with many others, are raising concerns about Turkey and its model democracy in the Middle East.
More:Is model Turkey sliding into authoritarianism? - CSMonitor.com
Turkey: Energy And Infrastructure Forecast For 2012 - Analysis
Turkey: Energy And Infrastructure Forecast For 2012 – Analysis
Written by: Eurasia Review
December 26, 2011
By Haluk Direskeneli
In this article, I aim to forecast our local energy markets for the New Year 2012. The future of the economy and business is shaped by expectations. Market expectations are important in the economic forecasts as well as investments.
More:Turkey: Energy And Infrastructure Forecast For 2012 - Analysis
Written by: Eurasia Review
December 26, 2011
By Haluk Direskeneli
In this article, I aim to forecast our local energy markets for the New Year 2012. The future of the economy and business is shaped by expectations. Market expectations are important in the economic forecasts as well as investments.
More:Turkey: Energy And Infrastructure Forecast For 2012 - Analysis
Turkish Central Bank Says Daily Sales Will Be $50 Million - Bloomberg
Turkish Central Bank Says Daily Sales Will Be $50 Million
By Steve Bryant and Selcuk Gokoluk - Dec 26, 2011 3:50 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank said it plans to sell $50 million a day in daily dollar sale auctions unless there are “exceptional” circumstances, sparking speculation that this year’s second worst performing currency may sink.
More:Turkish Central Bank Says Daily Sales Will Be $50 Million - Bloomberg
By Steve Bryant and Selcuk Gokoluk - Dec 26, 2011 3:50 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank said it plans to sell $50 million a day in daily dollar sale auctions unless there are “exceptional” circumstances, sparking speculation that this year’s second worst performing currency may sink.
More:Turkish Central Bank Says Daily Sales Will Be $50 Million - Bloomberg
Turkey and Azerbaijan sign deal for pipeline to bring Azeri gas to Europe - The Washington Post
Turkey and Azerbaijan sign deal for pipeline to bring Azeri gas to Europe
By Associated Press, Updated: Monday, December 26, 8:52 AM
ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey and Azerbaijan on Monday signed an agreement to establish a consortium that would build a pipeline to transport 16 billion cubic meters (565 billion cubic feet) per year of Azeri gas to Turkey and Europe.
More:Turkey and Azerbaijan sign deal for pipeline to bring Azeri gas to Europe - The Washington Post
By Associated Press, Updated: Monday, December 26, 8:52 AM
ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey and Azerbaijan on Monday signed an agreement to establish a consortium that would build a pipeline to transport 16 billion cubic meters (565 billion cubic feet) per year of Azeri gas to Turkey and Europe.
More:Turkey and Azerbaijan sign deal for pipeline to bring Azeri gas to Europe - The Washington Post
Turkish Lira Advances First Time in Four Days in Istanbul Trade - Bloomberg
Turkish Lira Advances First Time in Four Days in Istanbul Trade
By Selcuk Gokoluk - Dec 26, 2011 2:13 AM ET
The lira gained for the first day in four and headed for the biggest increase in six days.
The currency strengthened 0.4 percent to 1.8931 per dollar at 9:08 a.m. in Istanbul, trimming this year’s losses to 18.5 percent, the second worst performance among more than 20 emerging market currencies tracked by Bloomberg.
More:Turkish Lira Advances First Time in Four Days in Istanbul Trade - Bloomberg
By Selcuk Gokoluk - Dec 26, 2011 2:13 AM ET
The lira gained for the first day in four and headed for the biggest increase in six days.
The currency strengthened 0.4 percent to 1.8931 per dollar at 9:08 a.m. in Istanbul, trimming this year’s losses to 18.5 percent, the second worst performance among more than 20 emerging market currencies tracked by Bloomberg.
More:Turkish Lira Advances First Time in Four Days in Istanbul Trade - Bloomberg
News.Az - France's stance on Armenia complex before Turkey's rising power - Davutoglu
France's stance on Armenia complex before Turkey's rising power - Davutoglu
Mon 26 December 2011 06:40 GMT | 1:40 Local Time
Ahmet Davutoglu
Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu reacted to France's stance on Armenia by saying that it is a complex before Turkey's rising power.
More:News.Az - France's stance on Armenia complex before Turkey's rising power - Davutoglu
Mon 26 December 2011 06:40 GMT | 1:40 Local Time
Ahmet Davutoglu
Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu reacted to France's stance on Armenia by saying that it is a complex before Turkey's rising power.
More:News.Az - France's stance on Armenia complex before Turkey's rising power - Davutoglu
Netherlands party challenges Turkey’s NATO membership
Netherlands party challenges Turkey’s NATO membership
By BENJAMIN WEINTHAL, JERUSALEM POST CORRESPONDENT
12/26/2011 05:00
Ankara accused of ‘abandoning’ Israel and France by Dutch Freedom Party.
Talkbacks (6)
BERLIN – The Dutch Freedom Party, the Netherlands’s third largest political party, urged the Foreign Affairs and Defense Ministries last week to reconsider Turkey’s continued membership in NATO.
More:Netherlands party challenges Turkey’s NA... JPost - International
By BENJAMIN WEINTHAL, JERUSALEM POST CORRESPONDENT
12/26/2011 05:00
Ankara accused of ‘abandoning’ Israel and France by Dutch Freedom Party.
Talkbacks (6)
BERLIN – The Dutch Freedom Party, the Netherlands’s third largest political party, urged the Foreign Affairs and Defense Ministries last week to reconsider Turkey’s continued membership in NATO.
More:Netherlands party challenges Turkey’s NA... JPost - International
Agthia buys Turkish bottled water producer
Agthia buys Turkish bottled water producer
Transaction is likely to close during first half
By Deena Kamel Yousef, Staff Reporter
Dubai : Abu Dhabi state-backed food and beverage company Agthia Group has acquired Turkish spring water producer Pelit Su in a deal signed yesterday, the UAE company announced.
The transaction is expected to close during the first half of 2012, Agthia said in a statement yesterday. The value of the deal will remain undisclosed until the transaction is closed next year, the company's public relations officer said.
More:gulfnews : Agthia buys Turkish bottled water producer
Transaction is likely to close during first half
By Deena Kamel Yousef, Staff Reporter
Dubai : Abu Dhabi state-backed food and beverage company Agthia Group has acquired Turkish spring water producer Pelit Su in a deal signed yesterday, the UAE company announced.
The transaction is expected to close during the first half of 2012, Agthia said in a statement yesterday. The value of the deal will remain undisclosed until the transaction is closed next year, the company's public relations officer said.
More:gulfnews : Agthia buys Turkish bottled water producer
Turkey, GCC economic relations gain momentum - Arab News
Turkey, GCC economic relations gain momentum
By ARAB NEWS
Published: Dec 26, 2011 01:44 Updated: Dec 26, 2011 01:52
JEDDAH: The relationship between Turkey and the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) economies is emerging as one of the most promising new economic axes in the world. The countries in question share a number of important historical, cultural and demographic commonalities but also matching opportunities and needs in the economic sphere. Both Turkey and the GCC have internationally fast population growth. About 60 percent of Turkey's 72 million population is below 30 years of age. In Saudi Arabia, the corresponding proportion is an even higher 70 percent. Both regions adhere to a highly technocratic paradigm of policy making, partly as a result of past challenges. Particularly transformative experiences in point were the Turkish crisis of 2001 and the long period of low oil prices that hit the GCC economies in the 1980s and 1990s. This has ensured remarkable economic resilience during the global crisis, according to a report "Turkey and the GCC: A strengthening Relationship" issued by the National Commercial Bank (NCB).
More:Turkey, GCC economic relations gain momentum - Arab News
By ARAB NEWS
Published: Dec 26, 2011 01:44 Updated: Dec 26, 2011 01:52
JEDDAH: The relationship between Turkey and the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) economies is emerging as one of the most promising new economic axes in the world. The countries in question share a number of important historical, cultural and demographic commonalities but also matching opportunities and needs in the economic sphere. Both Turkey and the GCC have internationally fast population growth. About 60 percent of Turkey's 72 million population is below 30 years of age. In Saudi Arabia, the corresponding proportion is an even higher 70 percent. Both regions adhere to a highly technocratic paradigm of policy making, partly as a result of past challenges. Particularly transformative experiences in point were the Turkish crisis of 2001 and the long period of low oil prices that hit the GCC economies in the 1980s and 1990s. This has ensured remarkable economic resilience during the global crisis, according to a report "Turkey and the GCC: A strengthening Relationship" issued by the National Commercial Bank (NCB).
More:Turkey, GCC economic relations gain momentum - Arab News
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Travel: Turkey - Features - Scotsman.com
Travel: Turkey
By Neil Geraghty
Published on Monday 26 December 2011 00:00
We’re thinking about the other Turkey this Christmas, and an epic train journey through incredible landscapes
The Istanbul to Kars Dogu Express was not exactly streaking across Anatolia. The train was already two hours late and for the umpteenth time had sputtered to a creaking halt, this time somewhere along the upper reaches of the Euphrates near Erzincan. I’d long since shaken off Istanbul’s frantic chaos and was sleepily sipping a tulip-shaped glass of tea in the restaurant car. For a maintenance check the engineer couldn’t have picked a more scenic spot. The splintered cliffs of the Euphrates Gorge were glowing pink in the autumn sunshine while in verdant meadows flanking the bubbling river, groves of poplars were swaying in the breeze. As the engineer ambled along the tracks checking the underside of the carriages, one of the waiters jumped out and disappeared into a hedgerow. He’d spotted a wild grape vine and a few minutes later returned with several bunches of glistening black grapes. After washing them, he brought a bunch to my table with a beaming smile. Bursting with bittersweet freshness they were the perfect afternoon snack. A few minutes later the train lurched into motion and I settled back to enjoy a lazy afternoon of magnificent landscapes and endearingly friendly service.
More:Travel: Turkey - Features - Scotsman.com
By Neil Geraghty
Published on Monday 26 December 2011 00:00
We’re thinking about the other Turkey this Christmas, and an epic train journey through incredible landscapes
The Istanbul to Kars Dogu Express was not exactly streaking across Anatolia. The train was already two hours late and for the umpteenth time had sputtered to a creaking halt, this time somewhere along the upper reaches of the Euphrates near Erzincan. I’d long since shaken off Istanbul’s frantic chaos and was sleepily sipping a tulip-shaped glass of tea in the restaurant car. For a maintenance check the engineer couldn’t have picked a more scenic spot. The splintered cliffs of the Euphrates Gorge were glowing pink in the autumn sunshine while in verdant meadows flanking the bubbling river, groves of poplars were swaying in the breeze. As the engineer ambled along the tracks checking the underside of the carriages, one of the waiters jumped out and disappeared into a hedgerow. He’d spotted a wild grape vine and a few minutes later returned with several bunches of glistening black grapes. After washing them, he brought a bunch to my table with a beaming smile. Bursting with bittersweet freshness they were the perfect afternoon snack. A few minutes later the train lurched into motion and I settled back to enjoy a lazy afternoon of magnificent landscapes and endearingly friendly service.
More:Travel: Turkey - Features - Scotsman.com
Tensions between Turkey's ruling AKP and Gulenics fester - The National
Tensions between Turkey's ruling AKP and Gulenics fester
Thomas Seibert
Dec 26, 2011
ISTANBUL // Cracks have appeared between Turkey's ruling party and the movement of an Islamic preacher that has been an influential supporter of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the prime minister.
The movement led by Fethullah Gulen, a 70-year-old preacher who lives in the United States, has been a key supporter of the Erdogan government, which is led by pious Muslims and has roots in political Islam. Some critics say the Gulencis, as the supporters of Mr Gulen are called in Turkey, have gained vast influence over state institutions.
More:Tensions between Turkey's ruling AKP and Gulenics fester - The National
Thomas Seibert
Dec 26, 2011
ISTANBUL // Cracks have appeared between Turkey's ruling party and the movement of an Islamic preacher that has been an influential supporter of Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the prime minister.
The movement led by Fethullah Gulen, a 70-year-old preacher who lives in the United States, has been a key supporter of the Erdogan government, which is led by pious Muslims and has roots in political Islam. Some critics say the Gulencis, as the supporters of Mr Gulen are called in Turkey, have gained vast influence over state institutions.
More:Tensions between Turkey's ruling AKP and Gulenics fester - The National
Istanbul CVB honored Convention Ambassadors of Istanbul
Istanbul CVB honored Convention Ambassadors of Istanbul
Written by Ozgur Tore
Sunday, 25 December 2011 21:16
Held under the patronage of Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Ertugrul Günay, Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau (ICVB) organized the second edition of “Become a Convention Ambassador of Istanbul” program gathering and award ceremony at Haliç Congress Center.
109 convention ambassadors that contributed Istanbul being the world’s 7th Convention City in 2010 received plaques for appreciation on Thursday, December 22, 2011.
More:Istanbul CVB honored Convention Ambassadors of Istanbul
Written by Ozgur Tore
Sunday, 25 December 2011 21:16
Held under the patronage of Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Ertugrul Günay, Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau (ICVB) organized the second edition of “Become a Convention Ambassador of Istanbul” program gathering and award ceremony at Haliç Congress Center.
109 convention ambassadors that contributed Istanbul being the world’s 7th Convention City in 2010 received plaques for appreciation on Thursday, December 22, 2011.
More:Istanbul CVB honored Convention Ambassadors of Istanbul
Abu Dhabi firm buys Turkish water producer - Boston.com
Abu Dhabi firm buys Turkish water producer
December 25, 2011
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—Abu Dhabi state-backed food and drink company Agthia Group is buying Turkish spring water producer Pelit Su for an undisclosed amount.
More:Abu Dhabi firm buys Turkish water producer - Boston.com
December 25, 2011
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates—Abu Dhabi state-backed food and drink company Agthia Group is buying Turkish spring water producer Pelit Su for an undisclosed amount.
More:Abu Dhabi firm buys Turkish water producer - Boston.com
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Turkish artists protest demolishing historic movie theatre in Istanbul -- Shanghai Daily | 上海日报 -- English Window to China New
Turkish artists protest demolishing historic movie theatre in Istanbul
ISTANBUL, Dec. 24 (Xinhua) -- About 1,000 Turkish artists, writers and film makers staged a protest against the demolishing of a 127-year-old movie theatre in Istanbul's famous Istiklal avenue on Saturday.
More:Turkish artists protest demolishing historic movie theatre in Istanbul -- Shanghai Daily | 上海日报 -- English Window to China New
ISTANBUL, Dec. 24 (Xinhua) -- About 1,000 Turkish artists, writers and film makers staged a protest against the demolishing of a 127-year-old movie theatre in Istanbul's famous Istiklal avenue on Saturday.
More:Turkish artists protest demolishing historic movie theatre in Istanbul -- Shanghai Daily | 上海日报 -- English Window to China New
Turkish Ambassador Speaks on Israel and Turkey | J-Wire
Turkish Ambassador Speaks on Israel and Turkey
December 25, 2011 by J-Wire Staff
Read on for article
The Ambassador of Turkey to Australia, His Excellency Oguz Ozge, has addressed The Capital Jewish Forum in Melbourne on “Israel and Turkey”.
This event was held at the Obscura Gallery in Melbourne with members of the Jewish community having the opportunity to hear Ambassador Ozge speak on ‘Israel and Turkey: Where to from here?’. A range of topics was also covered in the ensuing Q&A session.
More:Turkish Ambassador Speaks on Israel and Turkey | J-Wire
December 25, 2011 by J-Wire Staff
Read on for article
The Ambassador of Turkey to Australia, His Excellency Oguz Ozge, has addressed The Capital Jewish Forum in Melbourne on “Israel and Turkey”.
This event was held at the Obscura Gallery in Melbourne with members of the Jewish community having the opportunity to hear Ambassador Ozge speak on ‘Israel and Turkey: Where to from here?’. A range of topics was also covered in the ensuing Q&A session.
More:Turkish Ambassador Speaks on Israel and Turkey | J-Wire
Turkey to Raise Maximum Rates on Credit Cards, Hurriyet Reports - Bloomberg
Turkey to Raise Maximum Rates on Credit Cards, Hurriyet Reports
By Emre Peker - Dec 24, 2011 7:45 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank raised the maximum monthly interest rate on Turkish lira credit card debt while leaving dollar- and euro-denominated borrowing costs unchanged, Hurriyet reported, citing the Official Gazette.
More:Turkey to Raise Maximum Rates on Credit Cards, Hurriyet Reports - Bloomberg
By Emre Peker - Dec 24, 2011 7:45 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank raised the maximum monthly interest rate on Turkish lira credit card debt while leaving dollar- and euro-denominated borrowing costs unchanged, Hurriyet reported, citing the Official Gazette.
More:Turkey to Raise Maximum Rates on Credit Cards, Hurriyet Reports - Bloomberg
Turkish Parliament Raises Lawmakers’ Pension Pay, Hurriyet Says - Bloomberg
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Turkish Parliament Raises Lawmakers’ Pension Pay, Hurriyet Says
By Emre Peker - Dec 24, 2011 9:28 AM ET
Turkey passed a measure to increase the monthly pension payments for lawmakers by as much as 2.6 times to 7,700 liras ($4,050), Hurriyet reported.
The measure, approved by the national assembly in Ankara, equalized retirement paychecks for all deputies, which previously ranged from 3,000 liras to 5,000 liras, the newspaper said. Retired lawmakers will be eligible for monthly payments equal to 60 percent of the president’s retirement package until the end of 2020, according to the report.
More:Turkish Parliament Raises Lawmakers’ Pension Pay, Hurriyet Says - Bloomberg
Turkish Parliament Raises Lawmakers’ Pension Pay, Hurriyet Says
By Emre Peker - Dec 24, 2011 9:28 AM ET
Turkey passed a measure to increase the monthly pension payments for lawmakers by as much as 2.6 times to 7,700 liras ($4,050), Hurriyet reported.
The measure, approved by the national assembly in Ankara, equalized retirement paychecks for all deputies, which previously ranged from 3,000 liras to 5,000 liras, the newspaper said. Retired lawmakers will be eligible for monthly payments equal to 60 percent of the president’s retirement package until the end of 2020, according to the report.
More:Turkish Parliament Raises Lawmakers’ Pension Pay, Hurriyet Says - Bloomberg
Report: AFP photographer released in Turkey
Report: AFP photographer released in Turkey
(AP) – 8 hours ago
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkey's state-run news agency says authorities have released an AFP photographer, along with 12 other people who were detained as part of an investigation into a group prosecutors accuse of having links to Kurdish rebels.
More:The Associated Press: Report: AFP photographer released in Turkey
(AP) – 8 hours ago
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkey's state-run news agency says authorities have released an AFP photographer, along with 12 other people who were detained as part of an investigation into a group prosecutors accuse of having links to Kurdish rebels.
More:The Associated Press: Report: AFP photographer released in Turkey
Turkish ambassador to France returns home after approval of Armenian bill - Xinhua | English.news.cn
Turkish ambassador to France returns home after approval of Armenian bill
English.news.cn 2011-12-23 22:48:22
ANKARA, Dec. 23 (Xinhua) -- The Turkish ambassador to France returned home on Friday, as he was recalled in retaliation to the approval of a bill at the French parliament that made it a crime to deny Armenian allegations regarding the Ottoman era incidents of 1915, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported.
More:Turkish ambassador to France returns home after approval of Armenian bill - Xinhua | English.news.cn
English.news.cn 2011-12-23 22:48:22
ANKARA, Dec. 23 (Xinhua) -- The Turkish ambassador to France returned home on Friday, as he was recalled in retaliation to the approval of a bill at the French parliament that made it a crime to deny Armenian allegations regarding the Ottoman era incidents of 1915, the semi-official Anatolia news agency reported.
More:Turkish ambassador to France returns home after approval of Armenian bill - Xinhua | English.news.cn
Europe Needs Turkey, 24 December 2011 Saturday 10:30
Europe Needs Turkey
Saturday, 24 December 2011
Official Ankara officially response to Paris after the lower house of the French Parliament adopted the law on a criminal penalty for the denial of the so-called "Armenian genocide".
In response to the "humane" decision of the French Parliament, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Ankara imposes the first stage of sanctions, consisting of eight points, against Paris.
More:Europe Needs Turkey, 24 December 2011 Saturday 10:30
Saturday, 24 December 2011
Official Ankara officially response to Paris after the lower house of the French Parliament adopted the law on a criminal penalty for the denial of the so-called "Armenian genocide".
In response to the "humane" decision of the French Parliament, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Ankara imposes the first stage of sanctions, consisting of eight points, against Paris.
More:Europe Needs Turkey, 24 December 2011 Saturday 10:30
Turkey to Revise its Diaspora Concept: FM, 24 December 2011 Saturday 10:0
Turkey to Revise its Diaspora Concept: FM
Saturday, 24 December 2011
Turkey renews its rhetoric that it applied within its action plan against Armenian initiatives on the incidents of 1915. Ankara constitutes its action plan on raising awareness in the international arena on overall incidents of the World War I-era in a way that includes what all Ottoman people suffered.
More:Turkey to Revise its Diaspora Concept: FM, 24 December 2011 Saturday 10:0
Saturday, 24 December 2011
Turkey renews its rhetoric that it applied within its action plan against Armenian initiatives on the incidents of 1915. Ankara constitutes its action plan on raising awareness in the international arena on overall incidents of the World War I-era in a way that includes what all Ottoman people suffered.
More:Turkey to Revise its Diaspora Concept: FM, 24 December 2011 Saturday 10:0
Dutch language gaining ground in mosques | Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Dutch mosques are beginning to phase out Arabic-only sermons. Research at Utrecht University has shown that Surinamese Muslims are leading in this respect.
Researcher Nico Landman told the ANP agency that such a development is logical, seeing that Dutch is the language that the Surinamese commonly speak in the Netherlands. There are approximately 20 Surinamese mosques in the Netherlands.
More:Dutch language gaining ground in mosques | Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Researcher Nico Landman told the ANP agency that such a development is logical, seeing that Dutch is the language that the Surinamese commonly speak in the Netherlands. There are approximately 20 Surinamese mosques in the Netherlands.
More:Dutch language gaining ground in mosques | Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Friday, December 23, 2011
Turkey Responds to French Law With Genocide Accusations - NYTimes.com
Turkey’s Leader Counters French Law With Accusations of Colonial-Era Genocide
Daniel Etter for The New York Times
Posters of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose role in advancing Turkey's economy and society have won him wide admiration in the Arab world.
By DAN BILEFSKY
ISTANBUL — In a deepening diplomatic rupture, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey accused France on Friday of genocide against Algerians in the period of French colonial rule, one day after France made it a crime to deny the Armenian genocide by the Ottoman Turks.
More:Turkey Responds to French Law With Genocide Accusations - NYTimes.com
Daniel Etter for The New York Times
Posters of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose role in advancing Turkey's economy and society have won him wide admiration in the Arab world.
By DAN BILEFSKY
ISTANBUL — In a deepening diplomatic rupture, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey accused France on Friday of genocide against Algerians in the period of French colonial rule, one day after France made it a crime to deny the Armenian genocide by the Ottoman Turks.
More:Turkey Responds to French Law With Genocide Accusations - NYTimes.com
Turkey Blocks Web Pages Touting Darwin's Evolution Theory | Europe | English
Turkey Blocks Web Pages Touting Darwin's Evolution Theory
Dorian Jones | Istanbul, Turkey
The blocking by Turkish state authorities of Web pages advocating the theory of evolution has put the focus on wider concerns by teachers and academics that the ideas of Darwin increasingly are being undermined by the Islamic-rooted government.
More:Turkey Blocks Web Pages Touting Darwin's Evolution Theory | Europe | English
Dorian Jones | Istanbul, Turkey
The blocking by Turkish state authorities of Web pages advocating the theory of evolution has put the focus on wider concerns by teachers and academics that the ideas of Darwin increasingly are being undermined by the Islamic-rooted government.
More:Turkey Blocks Web Pages Touting Darwin's Evolution Theory | Europe | English
Turkey Accuses France of Genocide | Europe | English
Turkey Accuses France of Genocide
Turkey has responded angrily to a French parliament vote making it a crime to publicly deny as genocide the mass killings of Armenians during the Ottoman era in Turkey nearly a century ago.
More:Turkey Accuses France of Genocide | Europe | English
Turkey has responded angrily to a French parliament vote making it a crime to publicly deny as genocide the mass killings of Armenians during the Ottoman era in Turkey nearly a century ago.
More:Turkey Accuses France of Genocide | Europe | English
Israel cancels defense deal over Turkey's ties to Iran - Washington Times
Israel cancels defense deal over Turkey’s ties to Iran
By Abraham Rabinovich — Special to The Washington Times
JERUSALEM — Israel's Defense Ministry announced Thursday the last-minute cancellation of a $140 million contract with Turkey over fears that a sophisticated aerial surveillance system could end up in Iran’s hands.
More:Israel cancels defense deal over Turkey's ties to Iran - Washington Times
By Abraham Rabinovich — Special to The Washington Times
JERUSALEM — Israel's Defense Ministry announced Thursday the last-minute cancellation of a $140 million contract with Turkey over fears that a sophisticated aerial surveillance system could end up in Iran’s hands.
More:Israel cancels defense deal over Turkey's ties to Iran - Washington Times
Turkish newspapers furious with France | euronews, world news
Turkish newspapers furious with France
The decision by the French Parliament to pass a law punishing those who deny that the bloody events of 1915 in the last days of the Ottoman era were a “genocide” of Armenians has been the main issue in Turkey’s press agenda.
More:Turkish newspapers furious with France | euronews, world news
The decision by the French Parliament to pass a law punishing those who deny that the bloody events of 1915 in the last days of the Ottoman era were a “genocide” of Armenians has been the main issue in Turkey’s press agenda.
More:Turkish newspapers furious with France | euronews, world news
Turkey Imposes Sanctions Against France
Turkey Imposes Sanctions Against France
AZERBAIJAN (Baku), Dec 23 (Bernama) -- Turkey imposes sanctions against France, the first phase of which includes termination of all bilateral visits in the economy, energy and military spheres, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.
More:BERNAMA - Turkey Imposes Sanctions Against France
AZERBAIJAN (Baku), Dec 23 (Bernama) -- Turkey imposes sanctions against France, the first phase of which includes termination of all bilateral visits in the economy, energy and military spheres, Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said.
More:BERNAMA - Turkey Imposes Sanctions Against France
Cyprus president calls for end to Turkish gunboat diplomacy
Cyprus president calls for end to Turkish gunboat diplomacy
"If Turkey does not change its gunboat diplomacy and stop playing the part of regional police officer there will be consequences which, for sure, will not be good neither for the whole region nor the Turkish people and foremost, the Turkish Cypriots," he said.
FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE
• Fri, Dec 23, 2011
President Christofias has called on Turkey to abandon its "gunboat diplomacy" and instead adopt a policy of conciliation and compromise.
The President made the remarks during visits to National Guard and Hellenic Forces of Cyprus camps to wish the soldiers and the officers for Christmas and the New Year.
More:Cyprus president calls for end to Turkish gunboat diplomacy
"If Turkey does not change its gunboat diplomacy and stop playing the part of regional police officer there will be consequences which, for sure, will not be good neither for the whole region nor the Turkish people and foremost, the Turkish Cypriots," he said.
FAMAGUSTA GAZETTE
• Fri, Dec 23, 2011
President Christofias has called on Turkey to abandon its "gunboat diplomacy" and instead adopt a policy of conciliation and compromise.
The President made the remarks during visits to National Guard and Hellenic Forces of Cyprus camps to wish the soldiers and the officers for Christmas and the New Year.
More:Cyprus president calls for end to Turkish gunboat diplomacy
BBC News - Turkey's businessmen rue government stance on Syria
Turkey's businessmen rue government stance on Syria
By Jonathan Head BBC News, Gaziantep
Sanko Park Mall in Gaziantep The Sanko Park Mall is quiet on Fridays, the day Syrians used to come
There is a joke going around business circles in the south-eastern Turkish city of Gaziantep these days. "We no longer have zero problems with our neighbours," it goes, "we now have zero neighbours without problems."
More:BBC News - Turkey's businessmen rue government stance on Syria
By Jonathan Head BBC News, Gaziantep
Sanko Park Mall in Gaziantep The Sanko Park Mall is quiet on Fridays, the day Syrians used to come
There is a joke going around business circles in the south-eastern Turkish city of Gaziantep these days. "We no longer have zero problems with our neighbours," it goes, "we now have zero neighbours without problems."
More:BBC News - Turkey's businessmen rue government stance on Syria
Turkish lira eases, bank association meeting eyed | Reuters
Turkish lira eases, bank association meeting eyed
ISTANBUL, Dec 23 (Reuters) - The Turkish lira was weaker versus the dollar and the benchmark bond yield slightly declined in early over-the-counter trade on Friday while investors monitored a meeting of Banks Association of Turkey.
More:Turkish lira eases, bank association meeting eyed | Reuters
ISTANBUL, Dec 23 (Reuters) - The Turkish lira was weaker versus the dollar and the benchmark bond yield slightly declined in early over-the-counter trade on Friday while investors monitored a meeting of Banks Association of Turkey.
More:Turkish lira eases, bank association meeting eyed | Reuters
Ankara Sees Iran Hand in Iraq Tensions, 23 December 2011 Friday 9:27
Ankara Sees Iran Hand in Iraq Tensions
Friday, 23 December 2011
Turkey believes Tehran is behind the Iraqi PM’s recent challenge to Vice President al-Hashimi as it hopes to protect its regional hegemony in the wake of an international campaign against its closest regional ally, Syria.
More:Ankara Sees Iran Hand in Iraq Tensions, 23 December 2011 Friday 9:27
Friday, 23 December 2011
Turkey believes Tehran is behind the Iraqi PM’s recent challenge to Vice President al-Hashimi as it hopes to protect its regional hegemony in the wake of an international campaign against its closest regional ally, Syria.
More:Ankara Sees Iran Hand in Iraq Tensions, 23 December 2011 Friday 9:27
Turkey condemns Syria, says Assad turning country into 'bloodbath' | WBEZ
Turkey condemns Syria, says Assad turning country into 'bloodbath'
The Associated Press | Dec. 22, 2011
ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey's Foreign Ministry has issued a statement strongly condemning the continued attacks against civilians in Syria despite an agreement with the Arab League to halt the bloodshed.
More:Turkey condemns Syria, says Assad turning country into 'bloodbath' | WBEZ
The Associated Press | Dec. 22, 2011
ANKARA, Turkey — Turkey's Foreign Ministry has issued a statement strongly condemning the continued attacks against civilians in Syria despite an agreement with the Arab League to halt the bloodshed.
More:Turkey condemns Syria, says Assad turning country into 'bloodbath' | WBEZ
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Istanbul's first Mondrian will open in 2014 - Travel Weekly
Istanbul's first Mondrian will open in 2014
By Danny King
Morgans Hotel Group reached an agreement that will pave the way for a Mondrian hotel to open in Istanbul in 2014.
The 128-room hotel, which will be developed by the Bella Group and managed by Morgans, will be located in Istanbul's Old City and will include a spa built out of a renovated Turkish bath.
More:Istanbul's first Mondrian will open in 2014 - Travel Weekly
By Danny King
Morgans Hotel Group reached an agreement that will pave the way for a Mondrian hotel to open in Istanbul in 2014.
The 128-room hotel, which will be developed by the Bella Group and managed by Morgans, will be located in Istanbul's Old City and will include a spa built out of a renovated Turkish bath.
More:Istanbul's first Mondrian will open in 2014 - Travel Weekly
Hilton Breaks a Record in Istanbul
Hilton Breaks a Record in Istanbul
Written by Ozgur Tore
Friday, 23 December 2011 01:33
Hilton Worldwide breaks a record in Istanbul by officially opening Hilton Garden Inn Istanbul Golden Horn.
Vice President Eastern Europe Israel, Russia & Turkey at Hilton Worldwide; Mr. Didier Martin announced that Istanbul marked a first in Europe by having 4 Hilton brands in a city. Mr. Martin said Thursday that Istanbul now has Hilton, Conrad, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Hilton Garden Inn.
More:Hilton Breaks a Record in Istanbul
Written by Ozgur Tore
Friday, 23 December 2011 01:33
Hilton Worldwide breaks a record in Istanbul by officially opening Hilton Garden Inn Istanbul Golden Horn.
Vice President Eastern Europe Israel, Russia & Turkey at Hilton Worldwide; Mr. Didier Martin announced that Istanbul marked a first in Europe by having 4 Hilton brands in a city. Mr. Martin said Thursday that Istanbul now has Hilton, Conrad, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Hilton Garden Inn.
More:Hilton Breaks a Record in Istanbul
Israel cancels air surveillance deal with Turkey: Haaretz
Israel cancels air surveillance deal with Turkey: Haaretz
December 23, 2011 02:55 AM
Agence France Presse
JERUSALEM: Israel has cancelled the sale of air surveillance equipment to Turkey over fears that it might fall into the hands of countries hostile to the Jewish state, the Haaretz daily said on Thursday.
More:THE DAILY STAR :: News :: Middle East :: Israel cancels air surveillance deal with Turkey: Haaretz
December 23, 2011 02:55 AM
Agence France Presse
JERUSALEM: Israel has cancelled the sale of air surveillance equipment to Turkey over fears that it might fall into the hands of countries hostile to the Jewish state, the Haaretz daily said on Thursday.
More:THE DAILY STAR :: News :: Middle East :: Israel cancels air surveillance deal with Turkey: Haaretz
BBC News - French bill re-opens old wounds with Turkey
French bill re-opens old wounds with Turkey
By Jonathan Marcus Defence & Diplomatic Correspondent, BBC News
A man waves a Turkish flag as he takes part in a rally in front of the French Consulate in Istanbul The revived French proposal has angered Turks
In 1915, the French Navy evacuated Armenian refugees from the Turkish coast to save them from almost certain death.
More:BBC News - French bill re-opens old wounds with Turkey
By Jonathan Marcus Defence & Diplomatic Correspondent, BBC News
A man waves a Turkish flag as he takes part in a rally in front of the French Consulate in Istanbul The revived French proposal has angered Turks
In 1915, the French Navy evacuated Armenian refugees from the Turkish coast to save them from almost certain death.
More:BBC News - French bill re-opens old wounds with Turkey
Turkey: Fallout from French-Turkish Spat Over Genocide Bill Could be Widespread | EurasiaNet.org
Turkey: Fallout from French-Turkish Spat Over Genocide Bill Could be Widespread
December 22, 2011 - 2:19pm, by Yigal Schleifer
Add France to the countries that Turkey now has strained relations with. Following a successful vote today in France's lower house of Parliament which made it a crime to deny that the mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman forces in 1915 was a genocide, Ankara has recalled its ambassador in Paris and announced a set of "sanctions" against the French. The move only worsens what had been an increasingly tense French-Turkish relationship. From Reuters:
More:Turkey: Fallout from French-Turkish Spat Over Genocide Bill Could be Widespread | EurasiaNet.org
December 22, 2011 - 2:19pm, by Yigal Schleifer
Add France to the countries that Turkey now has strained relations with. Following a successful vote today in France's lower house of Parliament which made it a crime to deny that the mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman forces in 1915 was a genocide, Ankara has recalled its ambassador in Paris and announced a set of "sanctions" against the French. The move only worsens what had been an increasingly tense French-Turkish relationship. From Reuters:
More:Turkey: Fallout from French-Turkish Spat Over Genocide Bill Could be Widespread | EurasiaNet.org
Rihanna Slams Dutch Magazine for Using N-Word - NAM
Rihanna Slams Dutch Magazine for Using N-Word
Posted: Dec 22, 2011 Review it on NewsTrust
Before Tuesday, pop singer Rihanna’s millions of fans probably had never heard of a Dutch fashion magazine called Jackie. But a lot changed in 24 hours.
The fashion magazine, with a circulation of about 60,000, published a 100-word feature on page 45 about the singer’s good-girl-gone-bad style. The title? “De Niggabitch.” Within hours several things happened: Rihanna’s angry response went out publicly via Twitter, the magazine editor resigned, and the world got a good look at the Netherlands’ deterioration.
More:Rihanna Slams Dutch Magazine for Using N-Word - NAM
Posted: Dec 22, 2011 Review it on NewsTrust
Before Tuesday, pop singer Rihanna’s millions of fans probably had never heard of a Dutch fashion magazine called Jackie. But a lot changed in 24 hours.
The fashion magazine, with a circulation of about 60,000, published a 100-word feature on page 45 about the singer’s good-girl-gone-bad style. The title? “De Niggabitch.” Within hours several things happened: Rihanna’s angry response went out publicly via Twitter, the magazine editor resigned, and the world got a good look at the Netherlands’ deterioration.
More:Rihanna Slams Dutch Magazine for Using N-Word - NAM
International book fair held in Istanbul (SETimes.com)
International book fair held in Istanbul
22/12/2011
The recent TUYAP fair hosted nearly 600 publishers at a book fair in Istanbul.
Cigdem Bugdayci for Southeast European Times in Istanbul -- 22/12/11
photo
Organised by the TUYAP Fair and Exhibition Organization in partnership with the Turkish Publishers Association, the 30th International Istanbul Book Fair was held in November at the TUYAP Fair and Convention Center in Istanbul. It hosted up to 600 publishing houses, NGOs and 197 activities and several hundred autograph sessions.
More:International book fair held in Istanbul (SETimes.com)
22/12/2011
The recent TUYAP fair hosted nearly 600 publishers at a book fair in Istanbul.
Cigdem Bugdayci for Southeast European Times in Istanbul -- 22/12/11
photo
Organised by the TUYAP Fair and Exhibition Organization in partnership with the Turkish Publishers Association, the 30th International Istanbul Book Fair was held in November at the TUYAP Fair and Convention Center in Istanbul. It hosted up to 600 publishing houses, NGOs and 197 activities and several hundred autograph sessions.
More:International book fair held in Istanbul (SETimes.com)
Cagaptay: Turkey moves far beyond Europe – Global Public Square - CNN.com Blogs
Cagaptay: Turkey moves far beyond Europe
Editor's Note: Soner Cagaptay is a Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and is the co-author, with Scott Carpenter, of Regenerating the U.S.-Turkey Partnership.
By Soner Cagaptay – Special to CNN
The Turks are selling pasta to the Italians, educating Papua-New Guineans in their universities, building airports in Egypt, running schools in Nigeria and establishing diplomatic missions in Latin America. Turkey has not felt and acted like the confident global player it is today since the heyday of the Ottoman Empire in the sixteenth century.
More:Cagaptay: Turkey moves far beyond Europe – Global Public Square - CNN.com Blogs
Editor's Note: Soner Cagaptay is a Senior Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and is the co-author, with Scott Carpenter, of Regenerating the U.S.-Turkey Partnership.
By Soner Cagaptay – Special to CNN
The Turks are selling pasta to the Italians, educating Papua-New Guineans in their universities, building airports in Egypt, running schools in Nigeria and establishing diplomatic missions in Latin America. Turkey has not felt and acted like the confident global player it is today since the heyday of the Ottoman Empire in the sixteenth century.
More:Cagaptay: Turkey moves far beyond Europe – Global Public Square - CNN.com Blogs
Retail digital signage: Turkish in-store networks cover food, checkouts, aisles
Retail digital signage: Turkish in-store networks cover food, checkouts, aisles
Thursday, 22 December 2011 15:14
YCD Migros Turk retail supermarket in-store digital signage
Turkish supermarket and hypermarket chains Migros and Microcenter, both owned by Migros Turk Group, have rolled out an extensive retail digital signage network in the country’s biggest city.
More:Retail digital signage: Turkish in-store networks cover food, checkouts, aisles
Thursday, 22 December 2011 15:14
YCD Migros Turk retail supermarket in-store digital signage
Turkish supermarket and hypermarket chains Migros and Microcenter, both owned by Migros Turk Group, have rolled out an extensive retail digital signage network in the country’s biggest city.
More:Retail digital signage: Turkish in-store networks cover food, checkouts, aisles
French Lawmakers Pass Genocide Law on Armenians - ABC News
French Lawmakers Pass Genocide Law on Armenians
By ELAINE GANLEY Associated Press
PARIS December 22, 2011 (AP)
French lawmakers easily passed a measure Thursday to make it a crime in France to deny that the mass killings of Armenians in 1915 by Ottoman Turks amounted to genocide. State TV in Turkey, which had promised retaliation if the bill passed, said the country's ambassador to France would be withdrawn.
More:French Lawmakers Pass Genocide Law on Armenians - ABC News
By ELAINE GANLEY Associated Press
PARIS December 22, 2011 (AP)
French lawmakers easily passed a measure Thursday to make it a crime in France to deny that the mass killings of Armenians in 1915 by Ottoman Turks amounted to genocide. State TV in Turkey, which had promised retaliation if the bill passed, said the country's ambassador to France would be withdrawn.
More:French Lawmakers Pass Genocide Law on Armenians - ABC News
Turkey: boiling on a low heat | beyondbrics | News and views on emerging markets from the Financial Times – FT.com
Turkey: boiling on a low heat
December 22, 2011 2:39 pm by Daniel Dombey
Turkey’s central bank pronounced itself satisfied with its own policy on Thursday. But outside Ankara the logic behind the stance is sometimes seen as being of the Alice in Wonderland variety.
More:Turkey: boiling on a low heat | beyondbrics | News and views on emerging markets from the Financial Times – FT.com
December 22, 2011 2:39 pm by Daniel Dombey
Turkey’s central bank pronounced itself satisfied with its own policy on Thursday. But outside Ankara the logic behind the stance is sometimes seen as being of the Alice in Wonderland variety.
More:Turkey: boiling on a low heat | beyondbrics | News and views on emerging markets from the Financial Times – FT.com
Turkey recalls France envoy over genocide bill
Turkey recalls France envoy over genocide bill
By REUTERS
12/22/2011 17:05
Vote sparks Turkish outrage, Ankara threatens reprisal; bill goes to French Senate, unclear if it will pass.
PARIS - France took the first step on Thursday to criminalizing the denial of genocide, including the 1915 mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks, prompting Ankara to recall its ambassador for consultations.
Tension has risen over the draft law put forward by members of President Nicolas Sarkozy's ruling party, with Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan warning there would be grave political and economic consequences if the bill passed.
More:Turkey recalls France envoy over genocid... JPost - International
By REUTERS
12/22/2011 17:05
Vote sparks Turkish outrage, Ankara threatens reprisal; bill goes to French Senate, unclear if it will pass.
PARIS - France took the first step on Thursday to criminalizing the denial of genocide, including the 1915 mass killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks, prompting Ankara to recall its ambassador for consultations.
Tension has risen over the draft law put forward by members of President Nicolas Sarkozy's ruling party, with Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan warning there would be grave political and economic consequences if the bill passed.
More:Turkey recalls France envoy over genocid... JPost - International
French Turks protest ahead of 'genocide bill' debate - International - World - Ahram Online
French Turks protest ahead of 'genocide bill' debate
In a recent political row between France and Turkey over an anti-genocide bill pushed for by Nicolas Sarkozy, Franco-Turks demonstrate in central Paris against what they deem a ploy by the ruling party to win votes
More:French Turks protest ahead of 'genocide bill' debate - International - World - Ahram Online
In a recent political row between France and Turkey over an anti-genocide bill pushed for by Nicolas Sarkozy, Franco-Turks demonstrate in central Paris against what they deem a ploy by the ruling party to win votes
More:French Turks protest ahead of 'genocide bill' debate - International - World - Ahram Online
Rising Intolerance in Turkish Society , 22 December 2011 Thursday 9:50
Rising Intolerance in Turkish Society
Thursday, 22 December 2011
Incidents of religious and ethnically based violence continue to sow unease in Turkey, raising the question of whether a country that pitches itself as a cultural and religious mosaic is becoming more and more intolerant.
More:Rising Intolerance in Turkish Society , 22 December 2011 Thursday 9:50
Thursday, 22 December 2011
Incidents of religious and ethnically based violence continue to sow unease in Turkey, raising the question of whether a country that pitches itself as a cultural and religious mosaic is becoming more and more intolerant.
More:Rising Intolerance in Turkish Society , 22 December 2011 Thursday 9:50
Has the Committee to Protect Journalists Betrayed Turkey’s Journalists? - The Daily Beast
Has the Committee to Protect Journalists Betrayed Turkey’s Journalists?
Dec 21, 2011 5:48 PM EST
Has the New York–based Committee to Protect Journalists failed to stand up for dozens of imprisoned journalists in Turkey?
On Dec. 8, the New York–based Committee to Protect Journalists released its annual prison census of imprisoned journalists. Turkey, according to the report, was currently imprisoning eight journalists. It did not take long for Turkey’s Minister of Justice Sadullah Ergin to cite this number as justification that “there is no press freedom issue in Turkey.”
More:Has the Committee to Protect Journalists Betrayed Turkey’s Journalists? - The Daily Beast
Dec 21, 2011 5:48 PM EST
Has the New York–based Committee to Protect Journalists failed to stand up for dozens of imprisoned journalists in Turkey?
On Dec. 8, the New York–based Committee to Protect Journalists released its annual prison census of imprisoned journalists. Turkey, according to the report, was currently imprisoning eight journalists. It did not take long for Turkey’s Minister of Justice Sadullah Ergin to cite this number as justification that “there is no press freedom issue in Turkey.”
More:Has the Committee to Protect Journalists Betrayed Turkey’s Journalists? - The Daily Beast
Turkey condemns Syria's oppressive policies - Xinhua | English.news.cn
Turkey condemns Syria's oppressive policies
English.news.cn 2011-12-22 16:06:03
ANKARA, Dec. 22 (Xinhua) -- Turkey on Thursday condemned the oppressive policies of Syrian administration, a Turkish official statement said.
The Syrian administration continued to resort to violence despite the Arab League (AL) observer protocol, which has caused serious concerns about the real intention of the administration, said a statement released by the Turkish Foreign Ministry.
More:Turkey condemns Syria's oppressive policies - Xinhua | English.news.cn
English.news.cn 2011-12-22 16:06:03
ANKARA, Dec. 22 (Xinhua) -- Turkey on Thursday condemned the oppressive policies of Syrian administration, a Turkish official statement said.
The Syrian administration continued to resort to violence despite the Arab League (AL) observer protocol, which has caused serious concerns about the real intention of the administration, said a statement released by the Turkish Foreign Ministry.
More:Turkey condemns Syria's oppressive policies - Xinhua | English.news.cn
Turkish troops kill 21 Kurdish militants in 5-day operation - AlertNet
Turkish troops kill 21 Kurdish militants in 5-day operation
21 Dec 2011 12:53
ISTANBUL, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Turkish troops have killed 21 Kurdish militants, including a regional commander, in southeastern Turkey during a large-scale operation now into its fifth day, security officials said on Wednesday.
More:Turkish troops kill 21 Kurdish militants in 5-day operation - AlertNet
21 Dec 2011 12:53
ISTANBUL, Dec 21 (Reuters) - Turkish troops have killed 21 Kurdish militants, including a regional commander, in southeastern Turkey during a large-scale operation now into its fifth day, security officials said on Wednesday.
More:Turkish troops kill 21 Kurdish militants in 5-day operation - AlertNet
TURKEY, REMARKABLE RISE IN FRUIT AND VEGETABLES EXPORTS
TURKEY, REMARKABLE RISE IN FRUIT AND VEGETABLES EXPORTS
Turkish vegetable export has grown a lot in the past years, from 628 million kilos in 2006 to 958 million kilos in 2010. Around half of the export consists of tomatoes, with cucumber and onion in second and third place.
22/12/2011 11:39
The production of vegetables in Turkey shows an upward trend, with tomatoes being the main product. The production of fruit (+25%) has increased more than the vegetable production, as reported by Freshplaza.com.
Fruit and vegetables exports have increased greatly, while impors of vegetables in Turkey is limited. The import of fruit is larger, with bananas being the main product.
More:Green Med Journal - The Mediterranean Fresh Produce Magazine
Turkish vegetable export has grown a lot in the past years, from 628 million kilos in 2006 to 958 million kilos in 2010. Around half of the export consists of tomatoes, with cucumber and onion in second and third place.
22/12/2011 11:39
The production of vegetables in Turkey shows an upward trend, with tomatoes being the main product. The production of fruit (+25%) has increased more than the vegetable production, as reported by Freshplaza.com.
Fruit and vegetables exports have increased greatly, while impors of vegetables in Turkey is limited. The import of fruit is larger, with bananas being the main product.
More:Green Med Journal - The Mediterranean Fresh Produce Magazine
French Assembly Debates Armenian Genocide as Turkey Lobbies - Businessweek
French Assembly Debates Armenian Genocide as Turkey Lobbies
December 22, 2011, 7:10 AM EST
By Gregory Viscusi and Emre Peker
(Updates to show that debate has started, adds Erdogan quote in fourth paragraph.)
Dec. 22 (Bloomberg) -- France’s parliament began to debate a bill making it a crime to deny the Armenian genocide, as Turkey warns that its booming economy gives it the capacity to hurt companies such as Airbus SAS and Electricite de France SA.
More:French Assembly Debates Armenian Genocide as Turkey Lobbies - Businessweek
December 22, 2011, 7:10 AM EST
By Gregory Viscusi and Emre Peker
(Updates to show that debate has started, adds Erdogan quote in fourth paragraph.)
Dec. 22 (Bloomberg) -- France’s parliament began to debate a bill making it a crime to deny the Armenian genocide, as Turkey warns that its booming economy gives it the capacity to hurt companies such as Airbus SAS and Electricite de France SA.
More:French Assembly Debates Armenian Genocide as Turkey Lobbies - Businessweek
Israel, Turkey Reactivate Air Force Ties - Defense/Security - News - Israel National News
Israel, Turkey Reactivate Air Force Coordination
Israel and Turkey are reactivating their military ties, beginning with a coordination mechanism between the two air forces.
By Chana Ya'ar
Israel and Turkey are reactivating their military ties, beginning with a coordination mechanism between the two air forces. The link exists to prevent aerial mishaps and potential disasters between aircraft from the two nations over the Mediterranean Sea.
More:Israel, Turkey Reactivate Air Force Ties - Defense/Security - News - Israel National News
Israel and Turkey are reactivating their military ties, beginning with a coordination mechanism between the two air forces.
By Chana Ya'ar
Israel and Turkey are reactivating their military ties, beginning with a coordination mechanism between the two air forces. The link exists to prevent aerial mishaps and potential disasters between aircraft from the two nations over the Mediterranean Sea.
More:Israel, Turkey Reactivate Air Force Ties - Defense/Security - News - Israel National News
UPDATE 1-Turkey's Vakifbank sees sector loan growth slowing in 2012 | Reuters
UPDATE 1-Turkey's Vakifbank sees sector loan growth slowing in 2012
Thu Dec 22, 2011 6:58am EST
(Adds details)
Dec 22 (Reuters) - Growth in assets and loans in Turkey's banking sector will slow down and bank profits may decline in 2012, largely due to measures taken by the central bank, state-run lender Vakifbank's Chief Executive Officer Suleyman Kalkan said on Thursday.
More:UPDATE 1-Turkey's Vakifbank sees sector loan growth slowing in 2012 | Reuters
Thu Dec 22, 2011 6:58am EST
(Adds details)
Dec 22 (Reuters) - Growth in assets and loans in Turkey's banking sector will slow down and bank profits may decline in 2012, largely due to measures taken by the central bank, state-run lender Vakifbank's Chief Executive Officer Suleyman Kalkan said on Thursday.
More:UPDATE 1-Turkey's Vakifbank sees sector loan growth slowing in 2012 | Reuters
Ambassador: Ukraine, Turkey to agree on mutual visa-free travel
Ambassador: Ukraine, Turkey to agree on mutual visa-free travel
Today at 12:18 | Interfax-Ukraine
ANKARA - Ukraine and Turkey are planning to agree on the introduction of the visa-free regime for the entry of their nationals to the territory of both countries, Ukrainian Ambassador to Turkey Serhiy Korsunsky has said.
More:Kyiv Post. Independence. Community. Trust - Ukraine - Ambassador: Ukraine, Turkey to agree on mutual visa-free travel
Today at 12:18 | Interfax-Ukraine
ANKARA - Ukraine and Turkey are planning to agree on the introduction of the visa-free regime for the entry of their nationals to the territory of both countries, Ukrainian Ambassador to Turkey Serhiy Korsunsky has said.
More:Kyiv Post. Independence. Community. Trust - Ukraine - Ambassador: Ukraine, Turkey to agree on mutual visa-free travel
Turkish Central Bank Says It Plans to Keep Policy Tight on Inflation Risk - Bloomberg
Turkish Central Bank Says It Plans to Keep Policy Tight on Inflation Risk
By Steve Bryant - Dec 22, 2011 7:34 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged for a fifth month and said it will keep bank borrowing costs high to restrain inflation and slow credit growth.
The central bank held the one-week repo rate at 5.75 percent today, according to a statement on the website of the Ankara-based institution. That matched the estimate of all 13 economists surveyed by Bloomberg. The bank will release minutes of the meeting within five working days.
More:Turkish Central Bank Says It Plans to Keep Policy Tight on Inflation Risk - Bloomberg
By Steve Bryant - Dec 22, 2011 7:34 AM ET
Turkey’s central bank kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged for a fifth month and said it will keep bank borrowing costs high to restrain inflation and slow credit growth.
The central bank held the one-week repo rate at 5.75 percent today, according to a statement on the website of the Ankara-based institution. That matched the estimate of all 13 economists surveyed by Bloomberg. The bank will release minutes of the meeting within five working days.
More:Turkish Central Bank Says It Plans to Keep Policy Tight on Inflation Risk - Bloomberg
Hariri holds talks with Turkey's Erdogan, Davutoglu
Hariri holds talks with Turkey's Erdogan, Davutoglu
December 21, 2011 01:06 PM (Last updated: December 21, 2011 11:29 PM)
BEIRUT: Lebanon's former Prime Minister Saad Hariri held talks in Ankara Wednesday with Turkey's top officials about the nine-month crisis in Syria, sounding pessimistic over the troubled country's willingness to implement the Arab League plan.
More:THE DAILY STAR :: News :: Politics :: Hariri holds talks with Turkey's Erdogan, Davutoglu
December 21, 2011 01:06 PM (Last updated: December 21, 2011 11:29 PM)
BEIRUT: Lebanon's former Prime Minister Saad Hariri held talks in Ankara Wednesday with Turkey's top officials about the nine-month crisis in Syria, sounding pessimistic over the troubled country's willingness to implement the Arab League plan.
More:THE DAILY STAR :: News :: Politics :: Hariri holds talks with Turkey's Erdogan, Davutoglu
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Police raid throws Turkish TV ratings into chaos | News | Research
Police raid throws Turkish TV ratings into chaos
21 December 2011 | By James Verrinder
TURKEY— The Turkish TV ratings industry is in a state of confusion after police raided the offices of ratings provider AGB Nielsen and two TV production companies amid claims that panel members’ details were leaked to third parties who sought to bribe them.
More:Police raid throws Turkish TV ratings into chaos | News | Research
21 December 2011 | By James Verrinder
TURKEY— The Turkish TV ratings industry is in a state of confusion after police raided the offices of ratings provider AGB Nielsen and two TV production companies amid claims that panel members’ details were leaked to third parties who sought to bribe them.
More:Police raid throws Turkish TV ratings into chaos | News | Research
Will Europe Shrink from the Arab Spring? - Brookings Institution
Will Europe Shrink from the Arab Spring?
European Union, The Arab Awakening and Middle East Unrest, Democracy Promotion, The Euro Crisis, Europe
December 21, 2011 —
Will the Arab Spring finally end the European Union’s lethargic approach to the southern Mediterranean and lead to more serious support for democratization? Don’t hold your breath. There are three key reasons why “business as usual” with only cosmetic changes is likely to remain the norm.
More:Will Europe Shrink from the Arab Spring? - Brookings Institution
European Union, The Arab Awakening and Middle East Unrest, Democracy Promotion, The Euro Crisis, Europe
December 21, 2011 —
Will the Arab Spring finally end the European Union’s lethargic approach to the southern Mediterranean and lead to more serious support for democratization? Don’t hold your breath. There are three key reasons why “business as usual” with only cosmetic changes is likely to remain the norm.
More:Will Europe Shrink from the Arab Spring? - Brookings Institution
Turkish road accident kills 25
Turkish road accident kills 25
(AP) – 1 hour ago
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — A passenger bus collided with a truck on a single lane road in southeast Turkey on Wednesday, killing 25 people, an official said.
Gov. Mustafa Toprak of Diyarbakir province said 16 other passengers were injured in the accident on a road linking Diyarbakir with the neighboring Batman province. He said some of the injured were in serious condition.
More:The Associated Press: Turkish road accident kills 25
(AP) – 1 hour ago
ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — A passenger bus collided with a truck on a single lane road in southeast Turkey on Wednesday, killing 25 people, an official said.
Gov. Mustafa Toprak of Diyarbakir province said 16 other passengers were injured in the accident on a road linking Diyarbakir with the neighboring Batman province. He said some of the injured were in serious condition.
More:The Associated Press: Turkish road accident kills 25
Turkey Arrests Journalists It Ties to Outlawed Group - WSJ.com
Turkey Arrests Journalists It Ties to Outlawed Group
BY AYLA ALBAYRAK
ISTANBUL—Twenty-six journalists were among the suspects arrested on Tuesday in a crackdown on an organization tied to Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, a media watchdog said, heightening criticism of the country's record on press freedom.
More:Turkey Arrests Journalists It Ties to Outlawed Group - WSJ.com
BY AYLA ALBAYRAK
ISTANBUL—Twenty-six journalists were among the suspects arrested on Tuesday in a crackdown on an organization tied to Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, a media watchdog said, heightening criticism of the country's record on press freedom.
More:Turkey Arrests Journalists It Ties to Outlawed Group - WSJ.com
News.Az - Turkey welcomes Ali Hasanov's protest against France
Turkey welcomes Ali Hasanov's protest against France
Wed 21 December 2011 14:09 GMT | 9:09 Local Time
Text size: bigger smaller
75130
Ali Hasanov
Turkish media widely features statements of official Azerbaijani representatives.
Head of social and political department at the Presidential Administration Ali Hasanov's remarks on France which were covered by "Cihan" Information Agency was features in many Turkish media outlets, Gun.Az reports.
More:News.Az - Turkey welcomes Ali Hasanov's protest against France
Wed 21 December 2011 14:09 GMT | 9:09 Local Time
Text size: bigger smaller
75130
Ali Hasanov
Turkish media widely features statements of official Azerbaijani representatives.
Head of social and political department at the Presidential Administration Ali Hasanov's remarks on France which were covered by "Cihan" Information Agency was features in many Turkish media outlets, Gun.Az reports.
More:News.Az - Turkey welcomes Ali Hasanov's protest against France
Huge Turkish hospital chain sold for £650m
Huge Turkish hospital chain sold for £650m
Malaysian sovereign fund Khazanah Nasional has bought a controlling stake in Turkish hospital chain Acibadem, now the world’s second largest group in terms of bed capacity.
Acibadem’s current owners Abraaj Capital have agreed to transfer a 60% stake to Khazanah’s healthcare arm, Integrated Healthcare Holdings, and 15% equity to Khazanah directly. The value of the transaction is reported to be around $650 million (£413 million).
More:HealthInvestor - Article: Huge Turkish hospital chain sold for £650m
Malaysian sovereign fund Khazanah Nasional has bought a controlling stake in Turkish hospital chain Acibadem, now the world’s second largest group in terms of bed capacity.
Acibadem’s current owners Abraaj Capital have agreed to transfer a 60% stake to Khazanah’s healthcare arm, Integrated Healthcare Holdings, and 15% equity to Khazanah directly. The value of the transaction is reported to be around $650 million (£413 million).
More:HealthInvestor - Article: Huge Turkish hospital chain sold for £650m
Multi Development opens shopping center Forum Kayseri
Multi Development opens shopping center Forum Kayseri
Forum Kayseri, designed and developed by Multi Development Turkey together with Union Investment, opens its doors on December 21, 2011. 150,000 m² of construction area, 65,000 m² gla and parking for 2.000 vehicles, Forum Kayseri has an investment value of € 250 million, is Multi’s 10th mall developed in Turkey, and will be managed by Multi Mall Management.
More:Multi Development opens shopping center Forum Kayseri
Forum Kayseri, designed and developed by Multi Development Turkey together with Union Investment, opens its doors on December 21, 2011. 150,000 m² of construction area, 65,000 m² gla and parking for 2.000 vehicles, Forum Kayseri has an investment value of € 250 million, is Multi’s 10th mall developed in Turkey, and will be managed by Multi Mall Management.
More:Multi Development opens shopping center Forum Kayseri
Logitrans 2011 exhibition exceeds expectations in Istanbul
Logitrans 2011 exhibition exceeds expectations in Istanbul
December 21 - The fifth transport logistics exhibition, Logitrans held this month in Istanbul, has exceeded the expectations of its organisers, with more than 12,000 visitors, which represented an increase of 37 percent over 2010.
"This good result clearly demonstrates the importance of Turkey for the international shipping industry and logistics. Its function as a bridge to Asia is also very important for the European market, as confirmed by the increase experienced by the volume of visitors and exhibitors, especially from Germany and Italy, "said Gerhard Gerritzen, a member of the board of Messe Munich, co-ordinator of the event.
More:Heavy Lift - News
December 21 - The fifth transport logistics exhibition, Logitrans held this month in Istanbul, has exceeded the expectations of its organisers, with more than 12,000 visitors, which represented an increase of 37 percent over 2010.
"This good result clearly demonstrates the importance of Turkey for the international shipping industry and logistics. Its function as a bridge to Asia is also very important for the European market, as confirmed by the increase experienced by the volume of visitors and exhibitors, especially from Germany and Italy, "said Gerhard Gerritzen, a member of the board of Messe Munich, co-ordinator of the event.
More:Heavy Lift - News
Minister denies link to model
Minister denies link to model
By Simon Bahceli Published on December 21, 2011
TURKISH Cypriot ‘foreign minister’ Huseyin Ozgurgun yesterday flatly denied having had any connection whatsoever with a fashion model for whom he is said to have secured a public sector job.
More:Minister denies link to model - Cyprus Mail
By Simon Bahceli Published on December 21, 2011
TURKISH Cypriot ‘foreign minister’ Huseyin Ozgurgun yesterday flatly denied having had any connection whatsoever with a fashion model for whom he is said to have secured a public sector job.
More:Minister denies link to model - Cyprus Mail
France and Turkey set for diplomatic crisis - FRANCE 24
France and Turkey set for diplomatic crisis
In today's French papers, there are exclusive reports from inside Syria. We look at why French MPs have decided to really upset Ankara. There is a scandal over poisonous breast implants, and joy for Paris Saint-Germain fans as David Beckham signs on the dotted line.
More:France and Turkey set for diplomatic crisis - FRANCE 24
In today's French papers, there are exclusive reports from inside Syria. We look at why French MPs have decided to really upset Ankara. There is a scandal over poisonous breast implants, and joy for Paris Saint-Germain fans as David Beckham signs on the dotted line.
More:France and Turkey set for diplomatic crisis - FRANCE 24
EU To Invest EUR1 Billion For Reforms In Western Balkans, Turkey And Iceland
EU To Invest EUR1 Billion For Reforms In Western Balkans, Turkey And Iceland
Written by: Eurasia Review
December 21, 2011
The European Commission finalised Tuesday a series of aid programmes to support reforms in countries wishing to join the EU. The funding, totalling almost EUR 1 billion, comes under the 2011 budget of the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA), and will be available to Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, as well as Kosovo1, Turkey, and Iceland.
More:EU To Invest EUR1 Billion For Reforms In Western Balkans, Turkey And Iceland
Written by: Eurasia Review
December 21, 2011
The European Commission finalised Tuesday a series of aid programmes to support reforms in countries wishing to join the EU. The funding, totalling almost EUR 1 billion, comes under the 2011 budget of the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA), and will be available to Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, as well as Kosovo1, Turkey, and Iceland.
More:EU To Invest EUR1 Billion For Reforms In Western Balkans, Turkey And Iceland
President basescu recommends china and turkey to romanian exporters
President Basescu recommends China and Turkey to Romanian exporters
Date: 21-12-2011
President Basescu recommends China and Turkey to Romanian exporters Romanian President Traian Basescu advised the Romanian exporters to focus on other markets than the European Union as well, giving China, Turkey, the Arab or African countries as examples, as diversification is one of the solutions to level the balance of payments.
More:President basescu recommends china and turkey to romanian exporters
Date: 21-12-2011
President Basescu recommends China and Turkey to Romanian exporters Romanian President Traian Basescu advised the Romanian exporters to focus on other markets than the European Union as well, giving China, Turkey, the Arab or African countries as examples, as diversification is one of the solutions to level the balance of payments.
More:President basescu recommends china and turkey to romanian exporters
OfficialWire: Sibel Edmonds: For The Supposed ‘Islamic’ Turkish Government US-NATO Come Before Islam
Turkey’s Sudden 180 Degree Turn on Syria
Published on 20 December 2011 Comments (Be the first)
by Sibel Edmonds
(OfficialWire)
WASHINGTON, D.C. (USA)
OfficialWire News Bureau
In the last few years a commonly and frequently used catch phrase among US policy makers and movers and shakers of the think tank industry when it comes to their ‘vision’ for the new Middle East has been ‘Moderate Islam.’ However, there is a literal and rational definition of ‘Moderately Islamic Government,’ then there is the real meaning, interpretation, implications and application of the term meant and used by the US and its Western extension when it comes to the New World Order. In a recent excellent analysis Professor James Petras sums up the US Empire’s new vehicle of choice for its global order in the Muslim world today:
More:OfficialWire: Sibel Edmonds: For The Supposed ‘Islamic’ Turkish Government US-NATO Come Before Islam
Published on 20 December 2011 Comments (Be the first)
by Sibel Edmonds
(OfficialWire)
WASHINGTON, D.C. (USA)
OfficialWire News Bureau
In the last few years a commonly and frequently used catch phrase among US policy makers and movers and shakers of the think tank industry when it comes to their ‘vision’ for the new Middle East has been ‘Moderate Islam.’ However, there is a literal and rational definition of ‘Moderately Islamic Government,’ then there is the real meaning, interpretation, implications and application of the term meant and used by the US and its Western extension when it comes to the New World Order. In a recent excellent analysis Professor James Petras sums up the US Empire’s new vehicle of choice for its global order in the Muslim world today:
More:OfficialWire: Sibel Edmonds: For The Supposed ‘Islamic’ Turkish Government US-NATO Come Before Islam
Officials meet with 17 firms in Turkey
Officials meet with 17 firms in Turkey
GARY HUFFENBERGER
Staff Writer
A regional delegation of officials is back from Turkey and is pleased with how their nonstop weeklong trade mission went in the Eurasian country with a population of approximately 70 million people.
More:Officials meet with 17 firms in Turkey
GARY HUFFENBERGER
Staff Writer
A regional delegation of officials is back from Turkey and is pleased with how their nonstop weeklong trade mission went in the Eurasian country with a population of approximately 70 million people.
More:Officials meet with 17 firms in Turkey
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Turkey Steps Up Presence in Africa | Nigeria Intel
Turkey Steps Up Presence in Africa
Posted by James Kimer on December 20, 2011.
For several years now, Turkey has been an economic and diplomatic rising star in the Middle East and Caucasus, deepening its global leadership credentials by heading up conflict negotiations and closing business deals that are beyond the reach of Western countries, Russia, or China. With further instability and power vacuums being created across the region as a result of the Arab Spring, Ankara has stepped in to fulfill a role of leadership not seen since the Ottoman empire. The next region of focus for Turkish foreign policy? Sub-Saharan Africa – especially those countries featuring a large Islamic population.
More:Turkey Steps Up Presence in Africa | Nigeria Intel
Posted by James Kimer on December 20, 2011.
For several years now, Turkey has been an economic and diplomatic rising star in the Middle East and Caucasus, deepening its global leadership credentials by heading up conflict negotiations and closing business deals that are beyond the reach of Western countries, Russia, or China. With further instability and power vacuums being created across the region as a result of the Arab Spring, Ankara has stepped in to fulfill a role of leadership not seen since the Ottoman empire. The next region of focus for Turkish foreign policy? Sub-Saharan Africa – especially those countries featuring a large Islamic population.
More:Turkey Steps Up Presence in Africa | Nigeria Intel
Turkey's foreign policy in free fall - Washington Times
Turkey’s foreign policy in free fall
Turkey’s foreign policy vision is best captured by its foreign minister’s motto: “Zero problems with neighbors.”
But with the predominantly Muslim country facing escalating crises with Syria, Iran, Iraq and Israel, Turkish opposition leaders say the rhetoric has not matched the reality.
More:Turkey's foreign policy in free fall - Washington Times
Turkey’s foreign policy vision is best captured by its foreign minister’s motto: “Zero problems with neighbors.”
But with the predominantly Muslim country facing escalating crises with Syria, Iran, Iraq and Israel, Turkish opposition leaders say the rhetoric has not matched the reality.
More:Turkey's foreign policy in free fall - Washington Times
Turkey Detains Dozens of Pro-Kurdish Activists - NYTimes.com
Turkey Detains Dozens of Pro-Kurdish Activists
By SEBNEM ARSU and DAN BILEFSKY
Published: December 20, 2011
ISTANBUL — The police detained at least 38 people, many of them journalists, in dawn raids across Turkey on Tuesday as part of an investigation into a network accused of being the political wing of an outlawed Kurdish separatist rebel group.
More:Turkey Detains Dozens of Pro-Kurdish Activists - NYTimes.com
By SEBNEM ARSU and DAN BILEFSKY
Published: December 20, 2011
ISTANBUL — The police detained at least 38 people, many of them journalists, in dawn raids across Turkey on Tuesday as part of an investigation into a network accused of being the political wing of an outlawed Kurdish separatist rebel group.
More:Turkey Detains Dozens of Pro-Kurdish Activists - NYTimes.com
Istanbul Council Members Instigate and Call for Foreign Intervention in Syria's Affairs - SANA, Syria
Istanbul Council Members Instigate and Call for Foreign Intervention in Syria's Affairs
Dec 20, 2011
DAMASCUS, (SANA)-Istanbul Council has proved that it doesn't care or consider any initiative or plan to put an end to the current events in Syria. Following Syria's signing on the observers' protocol on Monday, the Istanbul Council members hurried to call for referring the Syrian file to the UN Security Council, saying the Protocol has no meaning for them.
More:Istanbul Council Members Instigate and Call for Foreign Intervention in Syria's Affairs - SANA, Syria
Dec 20, 2011
DAMASCUS, (SANA)-Istanbul Council has proved that it doesn't care or consider any initiative or plan to put an end to the current events in Syria. Following Syria's signing on the observers' protocol on Monday, the Istanbul Council members hurried to call for referring the Syrian file to the UN Security Council, saying the Protocol has no meaning for them.
More:Istanbul Council Members Instigate and Call for Foreign Intervention in Syria's Affairs - SANA, Syria
Turkey and France step up row on ‘genocide’ - FT.com
Turkey and France step up row on ‘genocide’
By Hugh Carnegy in Paris and Daniel Dombey in Istanbul
France has warned Turkey against any commercial reprisals in an escalating dispute over a French bid to make it a crime to deny that a genocide of Armenians took place in the final days of the Ottoman Empire almost a century ago.
More:Turkey and France step up row on ‘genocide’ - FT.com
By Hugh Carnegy in Paris and Daniel Dombey in Istanbul
France has warned Turkey against any commercial reprisals in an escalating dispute over a French bid to make it a crime to deny that a genocide of Armenians took place in the final days of the Ottoman Empire almost a century ago.
More:Turkey and France step up row on ‘genocide’ - FT.com