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Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Erdogan Shakeup Erases $24 Billion as Turkish Stocks Lead Rout - Bloomberg

Erdogan Shakeup Erases $24 Billion as Turkish Stocks Lead Rout
Tugce Ozsoy

Turkish stocks slumped the most in more than two years in May as the political turmoil that prompted the premier to resign sent investors fleeing the country’s assets.

More:Erdogan Shakeup Erases $24 Billion as Turkish Stocks Lead Rout - Bloomberg

Turkey counts cost of conflict as Kurdish militant battle rages on | Reuters

Turkey counts cost of conflict as Kurdish militant battle rages on
ISTANBUL | By Daren Butler

Turkey's conflict with Kurdish militants, said to have killed more than 5,000 people since July, has also destroyed at least 6,000 buildings that will cost approaching 1 billion lira ($340 million) to rebuild, according to a government estimate.

More:Turkey counts cost of conflict as Kurdish militant battle rages on | Reuters

Turkey are unfancied but capable of surprise at Euro 2016 - ESPN FC

Euro 2016 team preview: Turkey are unfancied but capable of surprise
ESPN FC's Alexis Nunes profiles Turkey's Euro 2016 campaign, led by Barcelona midfielder Arda Turan.

Group D: Spain | Czech Republic | Turkey | Croatia

The 2008 semifinalists return to the tournament after missing out last time around, but expectations are not especially high for a deep run. If they can get through the group, though, Turkey have the talent to trouble anyone on a given day.

More:Turkey are unfancied but capable of surprise at Euro 2016 - ESPN FC

Turkey officially designates Gulen religious group as terrorists | Reuters

Turkey officially designates Gulen religious group as terrorists

President Tayyip Erdogan officially designated the religious movement of U.S.-based Islamic cleric Fethullah Gulen a terrorist group and said he would pursue its members whom he accuses of trying to topple the government.

More:Turkey officially designates Gulen religious group as terrorists | Reuters

PayPal to halt operations in Turkey after losing license, impacts ‘hundreds of thousands’ | TechCrunch

PayPal to halt operations in Turkey after losing license, impacts ‘hundreds of thousands’

Turkey has been making moves to bring tech business in the country under more localised control, and today big U.S. online payments company PayPal became the latest casualty. The company announced that it is suspending business operations in Turkey effective June 6, after failing to obtain a new license for its services.

More:PayPal to halt operations in Turkey after losing license, impacts ‘hundreds of thousands’ | TechCrunch

Crunch Time in the EU-Turkey Relationship - Carnegie Europe - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Crunch Time in the EU-Turkey Relationship
Posted by: Marc Pierini Tuesday, May 31, 2016

In the past four weeks, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has moved closer to an executive presidency and Turkey’s rule-of-law architecture has moved farther away from EU standards. Simultaneously, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has voiced criticisms of Turkey’s policies, and Turkish leaders have responded with more threats to cancel the refugee deal Ankara sealed with the EU in March 2016. Because the Turkish president is going down the authoritarian road with new powers for himself and more restrictions on the rule of law, Turkey can no longer entertain the EU’s criteria, be they on visa liberalization or on accession.

More:Crunch Time in the EU-Turkey Relationship - Carnegie Europe - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Ankara warns Berlin over Armenian bill - DIPLOMACY

Ankara warns Berlin over Armenian bill

ANKARA

Ankara has warned Berlin over a bill regarding the century-old killings of Anatolian Armenians during World War I, asking legislators not to jeopardize Turkish-German relations by passing a motion in the Bundestag on June 2 that declares the killings as “genocide.”

More:Ankara warns Berlin over Armenian bill - DIPLOMACY

Monday, May 30, 2016

Leadership row in Turkey's nationalist opposition helps Erdogan | Reuters

Leadership row in Turkey's nationalist opposition helps Erdogan

Turkey's nationalist opposition on Monday blocked a move by party dissidents to hold a special congress next month to try to oust its veteran leader, dragging out a dispute that is key to President Tayyip Erdogan's ambitions for greater powers.

More:Leadership row in Turkey's nationalist opposition helps Erdogan | Reuters

Turkey says it could seize IS stronghold with US - Europe - Stripes

Turkey says it could seize IS stronghold with US

ISTANBUL — Turkey's foreign minister says joint U.S.-Turkish military action could oust the Islamic State group from Syria.

More:Turkey says it could seize IS stronghold with US - Europe - Stripes

Turkey's Erdogan accuses Russia of arming PKK militants - The Express Tribune

Turkey's Erdogan accuses Russia of arming PKK militants

ANKARA:
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has accused Russia of providing anti-aircraft weaponry and rockets to militants of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), the pro-government Star newspaper and other local media reported on Monday.

More:Turkey's Erdogan accuses Russia of arming PKK militants - The Express Tribune

Is the Cyprus crisis over? - YUSUF KANLI

Is the Cyprus crisis over?

“I won’t play… They have taken my toy.” The weeping of Greek Cyprus leader Nikos Anastasiades has been soothed for now and the two leaders will resume their social encounters by coming together at a June 2 International Children’s Day event at the Nicosia buffer zone with the participation of children and young people from the Greek and Turkish halves of the eastern Mediterranean island.

More:Is the Cyprus crisis over? - YUSUF KANLI

It’s the Islam, stupid! - NEVŞİN MENGÜ

It’s the Islam, stupid!

Well actually it is not, at least not in the case of Turkey. Actually, political Islam died the day the Justice and Development Party (AKP) got elected. A discourse featuring fair prospects of “justice” turned out to be a version of authoritarian crony capitalism.

More:It’s the Islam, stupid! - NEVŞİN MENGÜ

Eyes in Turkey glued to price of US dollar - ECONOMICS

Eyes in Turkey glued to price of US dollar

Mustafa Sönmez - mustafasnmz@hotmail.com

With the formation of the Binali Yıldırım government, the foreign exchange rate and interest rates seem set to be given a new direction. The pulse of the new government, in the second half of the year, will be set by the price of the dollar. Both domestic risks and the risks in the Middle East, as well as the Fed’s stance, are determining the price of the dollar. The dollar, as a matter of fact, is the most important parameter affecting Turkey’s state of affairs.

More:Eyes in Turkey glued to price of US dollar - ECONOMICS

Fears for Turkish border as ISIS make HUGE gains | World | News | Daily Express

ISIS close in on Turkish border after series of deadly attacks
THE Islamic State has made huge advances along the Turkish border, raising fears that the potential EU member state could soon be under all-out attack.

More:Fears for Turkish border as ISIS make HUGE gains | World | News | Daily Express

Sunday, May 29, 2016

A time-strapped guide for transit travellers in Turkey | Traveller24

A time-strapped guide for transit travellers in Turkey

The city of Istanbul has made no secret about it that they would like to become the new centre of the world.

More:A time-strapped guide for transit travellers in Turkey | Traveller24

The real threat to Europe lies in the Aegean — FT.com

The real threat to Europe lies in the Aegean

In its negotiations with Turkey over the refugee crisis Europe has lost the moral high ground

More:The real threat to Europe lies in the Aegean — FT.com

Erdogan ally wins vote of confidence in Turkish parliament - San Francisco Chronicle

Erdogan ally wins vote of confidence in Turkish parliament
May 29, 2016 Updated: May 29, 2016 5:11am

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkey's new government, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's loyal ally, has easily won a vote of confidence in parliament.

More:Erdogan ally wins vote of confidence in Turkish parliament - San Francisco Chronicle

BACKGROUND The Ottoman conquest of Istanbul and why for Erdogan it is a big deal | EUROPE ONLINE

BACKGROUND The Ottoman conquest of Istanbul and why for Erdogan it is a big deal
Europe
29.05.2016
By our dpa-correspondent and Europe Online auf Facebook posten Auf Twitter posten
Istanbul (dpa) - In its final days, Constantinople was a shadow of its former glorious self, destined to fall into the hands of a new master.

Once the largest and wealthiest city in Europe, serving for more than 1,000 years as the capital of the Byzantine, or Eastern Roman, Empire, it had been ravaged, including in a devastating sacking by Crusaders from Western Europe in 1204.

More:BACKGROUND The Ottoman conquest of Istanbul and why for Erdogan it is a big deal | EUROPE ONLINE

Saturday, May 28, 2016

Discrimination against women in last names - MELİS ALPHAN

Discrimination against women in last names

In 2014, journalist Aslı Çakır Birol applied to the Directorate of Civil Registry with her lawyer Hülya Gülbahar, stating that her last name was changed against her will due to marriage. She demanded a new identity card prepared in her maiden name as Aslı Çakır.

More:Discrimination against women in last names - MELİS ALPHAN

Activists angry with the Commission on Divorce - The Journal of Turkish Weekly

Activists angry with the Commission on Divorce

The Parliamentary Commission on Divorce of Grand National Assembly of Turkey released a draft commission report on May 16

More:Activists angry with the Commission on Divorce - The Journal of Turkish Weekly

Friday, May 27, 2016

Why U.S. Soldiers Wore a Kurdish Rebel Insignia - The Atlantic

Why U.S. Soldiers Wore a Kurdish Rebel Insignia

They are conducting joint operations in Syria with the YPG. Turkey, which regards the group as a terrorist organization, was irate.

re:MoWhy U.S. Soldiers Wore a Kurdish Rebel Insignia - The Atlantic

This woman may be biggest opposition to Erdogan - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

This woman may be biggest opposition to Erdogan

After weeks of uncertainty and foot-dragging, the Appeals Court this week made a critical ruling, setting the stage for a potential shakeup in Turkish politics that may block President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s drive for an executive presidency. The court gave the green light for the Nationalist Action Party (MHP) to hold a convention requested by in-house dissidents seeking to remake the party, whose erosion in recent years has played directly into Erdogan’s hands. Leading the dissidents is Meral Aksener, a rare female heavyweight on Turkey’s political scene, whose fortunes may now change not only the MHP’s but also Turkey’s course.

More:This woman may be biggest opposition to Erdogan - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Turkey's Oppression Machine - Recep Tayyip Erdoğan | Taffan Ako Sharif

Turkey's Oppression Machine - Recep Tayyip Erdoğan

It was not too long ago that we were all expecting the Turkish state to be accepted into the European Union. While President Erdogan and his party AKP had the majority of the governmental power, the economy grew rapidly in the country.

More:Turkey's Oppression Machine - Recep Tayyip Erdoğan | Taffan Ako Sharif

Turkish PM to head economic coordination, further clipping Simsek's wings | Reuters

Turkish PM to head economic coordination, further clipping Simsek's wings

Prime Minister Binali Yildirim will chair meetings of Turkey's Economic Coordination Board, the government said on Friday, in what appeared to be a further trimming of the powers of Deputy Prime Minister Mehmet Simsek.

More:Turkish PM to head economic coordination, further clipping Simsek's wings | Reuters

U.S. fight over Zarrab's release rekindles Turkey bribe plot - Chicago Tribune

U.S. fight over Zarrab's release rekindles Turkey bribe plot
Patricia Hurtado,Benjamin Harvey and Isobel Finkel, (c) 2016, Bloomberg(c) 2016, Bloomberg

The U.S. government's efforts to deny bail to a 33-year-old gold trader has rekindled allegations of a multi-million dollar bribery scheme involving Turkey's former EU minister, a charity close to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the chief executive officer of a major state bank.

More:U.S. fight over Zarrab's release rekindles Turkey bribe plot - Chicago Tribune

Thursday, May 26, 2016

Erdogan Critic Unfazed by Threats of Prosecution, Death | Jewish & Israel News Algemeiner.com

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Thursday, May 26th | 18 Iyyar 5776

For 17 days this month, Dutch columnist Ebru Umar was held against her will in Turkey, and legally barred from leaving the country. Her alleged crime: insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. But after extended negotiations between the two governments, the controversial, outspoken Umar finally returned home to Amsterdam on May 11.

More:Erdogan Critic Unfazed by Threats of Prosecution, Death | Jewish & Israel News Algemeiner.com

Turkey and NATO as seen from Ankara | openDemocracy

Turkey and NATO as seen from Ankara
Stefano M. Torelli 26 May 2016

Turkey is currently experiencing the paradox of being integrated into the western security and defense system, while not sharing some of the most basic western objectives.

More:Turkey and NATO as seen from Ankara | openDemocracy

Turkey Is About to Change

Turkey Is About to Change
05/26/2016 02:24 pm ET | Updated 2 hours ago

Kaya Genc

ISTANBUL — How will the emergence of Turkey’s Binali Yıldırım as the country’s latest prime minister affect Turkish foreign policy? Many analysts here are focused on the domestic policy implications of Yıldırım’s ascension to the prime ministerial job, but foreign policy may be the central field Turkey watchers should be looking at these days. In his first parliamentary group speech on May 24, Yıldırım announced his new foreign policy strategy. “We will increase the number of our friends; we will decrease the number of our enemies,” he said.

More:Turkey Is About to Change

Europe’s murky deal with Turkey | The Economist

Europe’s murky deal with Turkey
The EU is gambling its reputation to secure its borders
May 28th 2016 | BRUSSELS AND ISTANBUL | From the print edition

Timekeeper

IT WAS meant to be a game-changer. When a deal between the European Union and Turkey was struck in March with the aim of limiting the numbers of asylum-seekers coming to Europe, many in Brussels felt cautiously optimistic. Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, claimed it offered a “sustainable, pan-European solution”. In exchange for visa-free travel for some of its citizens, €6 billion ($7 billion) in refugee aid and revived talks on possible future accession to the EU, Turkey was to take back migrants who had made their way to Greece and try to secure its borders. Faced with perhaps another million refugees making their way to Europe this year, it appeared to be the only way to bring some order to the chaos.

More:Europe’s murky deal with Turkey | The Economist

Worldview: Erdogan's dangerous game

Worldview: Erdogan's dangerous game

by Trudy Rubin, Inquirer Columnist @trudyrubin

How do you deal with "allies" who are stabbing you in the back on security issues even as they claim they are helping?

Think Pakistan - which received bipartisan U.S. backing for decades even as it sheltered the Taliban and Osama bin Laden. Or Saudi Arabia, whose citizens and charities still fund jihadis.

More:Worldview: Erdogan's dangerous game

Why Erdogan is on a Nationalist Path - The Globalist

Why Erdogan is on a Nationalist Path

Erdogan’s embrace of nationalist rhetoric and actions could have important repercussions on Turkish foreign policy.

More:Why Erdogan is on a Nationalist Path - The Globalist

US prosecutors say businessman with ′close ties′ to Turkey′s Erdogan poses flight risk | News | DW.COM | 26.05.2016

US prosecutors say businessman with 'close ties' to Turkey's Erdogan poses flight risk

A US case against an Iranian-Turkish gold trader stands to reveal details of corruption in the Turkish government. The case is being closely watched in Turkey.

More:US prosecutors say businessman with ′close ties′ to Turkey′s Erdogan poses flight risk | News | DW.COM | 26.05.2016

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Europe's First Migrant Political Party Accused Of Being Mouthpiece For Turkey

Europe’s First Migrant Political Party Accused Of Being Mouthpiece For Turkey

by Oliver JJ Lane25 May 201684

The Denk Partij (Think Party) is the first political force in Europe established by migrants for migrants, but it is attracting controversy for their approach to the Turkish regime, Israel and anti-Semitism, and the Armenian genocide.

More:Europe's First Migrant Political Party Accused Of Being Mouthpiece For Turkey

The PKK Could Spark Turkish-Russian Military Escalation - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

The PKK Could Spark Turkish-Russian Military Escalation

Andrew J. Tabler and Soner Cagaptay

May 25, 2016

Russia and Syria's dormant ties with the group have been reawakened by the civil war, raising the prospect of dangerous weapons proliferation and potential escalation into direct conflict with Turkey.

More:The PKK Could Spark Turkish-Russian Military Escalation - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

Vote Leave: stop offending Turkish people to further your own agenda | Voices | The Independent

Vote Leave: stop offending Turkish people to further your own agenda

Vote Leave's xenophobic comments about Turkish people are misleading referendum voters by claiming that they are joining the EU, when this possibility is highly unlikely

More:Vote Leave: stop offending Turkish people to further your own agenda | Voices | The Independent

Erdoganomics in Turkey Threatens Simsek’s Market Credentials - Bloomberg

Erdoganomics in Turkey Threatens Simsek’s Market Credentials
Onur Ant

Investors who cheered the survival of Turkish Deputy Premier Mehmet Simsek will probably find he can no longer be a market-friendly counterweight to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s economic policies.

More:Erdoganomics in Turkey Threatens Simsek’s Market Credentials - Bloomberg

An autopsy of the new Turkish government - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

An autopsy of the new Turkish government

The new Turkish government under Prime Minister Binali Yildirim, the stalwart loyalist to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was announced May 24. As expected, the government consists entirely of Erdogan faithful. What is surprising is that some ministers who were predicted to lose their portfolios actually stayed on.

More:An autopsy of the new Turkish government - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Can Turkey Assimilate Its Refugees? | Foreign Affairs

Can Turkey Assimilate Its Refugees?
Lessons from History
By Ryan Gingeras

The neighborhood of Bağlariçi is some six miles north of Ankara’s city center. Like most of its suburban quarters, its apartment blocks and high streets are neither distinct nor very old. Superficially, the neighborhood is a testament to the city’s rapid growth over the last decade. Recent events, however, have shown that Bağlariçi is emblematic of a profound new trend in Turkish society.

More:Can Turkey Assimilate Its Refugees? | Foreign Affairs

Death Watch for Democracy in Israel and Turkey? - Opinion - Haaretz - Israel News Haaretz.com

Death Watch for Democracy in Israel and Turkey?

By methodically eroding liberal democracy, Netanyahu and Erdogan could endanger their states' domestic and international legitimacy. At least if the current diplomatic moves bear fruit they’ll have each other.

More:Death Watch for Democracy in Israel and Turkey? - Opinion - Haaretz - Israel News Haaretz.com

Where is Turkey Headed? « LobeLog

Where is Turkey Headed?

by Robert Olson

The recent sacking of Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, coupled with recently passed parliamentary bills and laws, confirms that Turkey is headed for one-man dictatorial rule. This rule will not be similar to dictators or regimes that have come to power through military coups. An Erdogan-led regime would have nearly 50 percent voter approval and be led by a Justice and Development Party (AKP) that, during the past 13 years, has raised the per capita income of Turkey’s citizens 50 percent with a substantial increase in living standards.

More:Where is Turkey Headed? « LobeLog

Despite migration deal, Turkey’s EU membership is distant hope — FT.com

Despite migration deal, Turkey’s EU membership is distant hope

Politicians on both sides of the negotiations doubt that accession is a credible outcome

More:Despite migration deal, Turkey’s EU membership is distant hope — FT.com

Despite migration deal, Turkey’s EU membership is distant hope — FT.com

Despite migration deal, Turkey’s EU membership is distant hope

Politicians on both sides of the negotiations doubt that accession is a credible outcome

More:Despite migration deal, Turkey’s EU membership is distant hope — FT.com

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Erdogan's Nationalist Path to a Full Presidential System - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

Erdogan's Nationalist Path to a Full Presidential System

Soner Cagaptay

May 24, 2016

By further hardening his approach toward Kurdish nationalism at home and in Syria, Erdogan hopes to woo Turkish ultranationalists and legally enshrine his executive power, but his efforts could clash with U.S. policy on the war next door.

More:Erdogan's Nationalist Path to a Full Presidential System - The Washington Institute for Near East Policy

How Turkey is learning to provide for urban Syrian refugees - CSMonitor.com

How Turkey is learning to provide for urban Syrian refugees
Path to progress

With more Syrians choosing to, or forced to, stay in Turkey, an already overburdened state bureaucracy is trying to accommodate a burgeoning urban refugee population.

More:How Turkey is learning to provide for urban Syrian refugees - CSMonitor.com

Turkey’s Authoritarian Turn | Jacobin

Turkey’s Authoritarian Turn

Erdoğan’s grip on power in Turkey is tightening. How did it come to this and how can his government be challenged?

More:Turkey’s Authoritarian Turn | Jacobin

Dutch companies to give jobs to Syrian refugees in Turkey - NL Times

Dutch companies to give jobs to Syrian refugees in Turkey
Posted on May 24, 2016 by Janene Pieters

Dutch companies in Turkey are also considering Syrian refugees when looking to fill vacancies, Minister Lilianne Ploumen of Foreign Trade announced. Currently there are 240 vacancies that are open to refugees. “That is beautiful”, she said.

More:Dutch companies to give jobs to Syrian refugees in Turkey - NL Times

Where is Turkey Headed? « LobeLog

Where is Turkey Headed?

by Robert Olson

The recent sacking of Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, coupled with recently passed parliamentary bills and laws, confirms that Turkey is headed for one-man dictatorial rule. This rule will not be similar to dictators or regimes that have come to power through military coups. An Erdogan-led regime would have nearly 50 percent voter approval and be led by a Justice and Development Party (AKP) that, during the past 13 years, has raised the per capita income of Turkey’s citizens 50 percent with a substantial increase in living standards.

More:Where is Turkey Headed? « LobeLog

Turk opposition party to hold congress in possible setback for Erdogan | TODAYonline

Turk opposition party to hold congress in possible setback for Erdogan

ANKARA - Turkey's nationalist opposition said on Tuesday it would hold an extraordinary congress aimed at resolving a leadership dispute, a move that could dash President Tayyip Erdogan's ambitions of winning greater powers.

More:Turk opposition party to hold congress in possible setback for Erdogan | TODAYonline

Cyprus leader calls off peace meeting after snub

Cyprus leader calls off peace meeting after snub

NICOSIA - Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades on Tuesday cancelled scheduled peace talks with the Turkish Cypriot leader over what he sees as attempts to recognise the Turkish-held north of the divided island.

More:Cyprus leader calls off peace meeting after snub

Turkey Central Bank Cuts Key Interest Rate for Third Month in a Row - WSJ

Turkey Central Bank Cuts Key Interest Rate for Third Month in a Row

Decision comes hours after new government is unveiled

More:Turkey Central Bank Cuts Key Interest Rate for Third Month in a Row - WSJ

Turkey’s New Premier Charts Mission With Cabinet Shuffle - WSJ

Turkey’s New Premier Charts Mission With Cabinet Shuffle

New government signals continuity in economy and foreign policies; will focus on President Erdogan’s priorities

More:Turkey’s New Premier Charts Mission With Cabinet Shuffle - WSJ

‘Meet Europe’s Best’ by Turkish Airlines

‘Meet Europe’s Best’ by Turkish Airlines

Monday, 23 May 2016 13:04
Published by Ozgur Tore

Turkey’s flag carrier Turkish Airlines that offers the highest number of international destinations and also countries in a flight network also takes an active interest in Europe’s sporting and cultural events. As the Official Airline Partner to UEFA EURO 2016, the carrier announced a new campaign named ‘Meet Europe’s Best’.

More:‘Meet Europe’s Best’ by Turkish Airlines

Refugees and the Technology of Exile by David Lepeska — Spring 2016: Looking Back | Moving Forward | The Wilson Quarterly

Refugees and the Technology of Exile
By David Lepeska

Apps, real-time translation services, and other online tools are helping Syrians and other refugees in Turkey forge new lives for themselves.

More:Refugees and the Technology of Exile by David Lepeska — Spring 2016: Looking Back | Moving Forward | The Wilson Quarterly

Sliding Lira Threatens Plan to Spur Turkey Growth With Rate Cuts - Bloomberg

Sliding Lira Threatens Plan to Spur Turkey Growth With Rate Cuts
Tugce Ozsoy

Turkey’s currency is jeopardizing the government’s plan to revive the economy via interest-rate cuts.

More:Sliding Lira Threatens Plan to Spur Turkey Growth With Rate Cuts - Bloomberg

How Ankara and the PKK misread civilians’ reactions to ongoing violence - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

How Ankara and the PKK misread civilians’ reactions to ongoing violence

Armed violence is the most used instrument of power for organizations such as the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) to impose their political agendas. But in recent months there have been signs that the PKK is having trouble managing this violence. The latest example came May 10 in the Durumlu village of Turkey's Diyarbakir’s Sur district, when a massive explosion killed 16 civilians.

More:How Ankara and the PKK misread civilians’ reactions to ongoing violence - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Turkey's female journalists now risk parental rights for critical reporting - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Turkey's female journalists now risk parental rights for critical reporting

Turkish female journalist Arzu Yildiz was this week sentenced to 20 months in prison for her reporting on alleged Turkish arms shipments to Syria, a highly controversial issue that has riled Ankara and landed both journalists and judicial officials in jail. The court, however, did not stop there, and stripped Yildiz also of her parental rights. While the imprisonment of journalists may have become commonplace in Turkey, now ranking 151st on the World Press Freedom Index, the restriction of Yildiz’s parental rights marks a new milestone in the extent the pressure on journalists has reached, affecting even their familial ties and social standing.

More:Turkey's female journalists now risk parental rights for critical reporting - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

‘A photo changed fate of Syrian migrants,’ says Hürriyet chairwoman - RIGHTS

‘A photo changed fate of Syrian migrants,’ says Hürriyet chairwoman

İpek Yezdani – ISTANBUL

When the Syrian refugee crisis started, most people were busy with the number of refugees and the cost associated to it, Hürriyet Chairwoman Vuslat Doğan Sabancı has said, adding that this was the case until Doğan News Agency reporter Nilüfer Demir photographed the body of a little child, Aylan Kurdi, washed ashore in Turkey.

More:‘A photo changed fate of Syrian migrants,’ says Hürriyet chairwoman - RIGHTS

Italy calls for joint action with Turkey in tackling refugee crisis - EUROPE

Italy calls for joint action with Turkey in tackling refugee crisis

Deniz Çiyan - ISTANBUL

Italy has proposed tackling the challenges of various aspects of the refugee crisis together with Turkey in order to achieve a comprehensive and lasting solution to the issue.

More:Italy calls for joint action with Turkey in tackling refugee crisis - EUROPE

New Brexit tactic: Target Turkey - CNN.com

Brexit campaign stirs up fear of Turks
Phil Black-Profile-Image1

By Phil Black, CNN

(CNN)The poster's message isn't subtle: The Turks are coming.
The image shows a British passport as an open door with a trail of footprints passing through. The words declare with certainty that Turkey and 76 million people who live there are joining the European Union.

More:New Brexit tactic: Target Turkey - CNN.com

World leaders meet in Istanbul to fix ‘broken’ aid system - France 24

World leaders meet in Istanbul to fix ‘broken’ aid system

Global leaders met in Istanbul on Monday to tackle a “broken” humanitarian system that has left 130 million people in need of aid, a near insurmountable task for a two-day summit that critics say risks achieving little.

More:World leaders meet in Istanbul to fix ‘broken’ aid system - France 24

Monday, May 23, 2016

Erdogan vs. the world - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Erdogan vs. the world

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ouster of Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu to clear his own path to absolute power has left many wondering what effect the move will have on Turkey's foreign policy orientation and its relations with the West in particular.

More:Erdogan vs. the world - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Turkey Threatens to Suspend Agreements With EU - ABC News

Turkey Threatens to Suspend Agreements With EU

By suzan fraser and geir moulson, associated press

ANKARA, Turkey — May 23, 2016, 12:52 PM ET

German Chancellor Angela Merkel told Turkey's president on Monday that Ankara must fulfill all the European Union's conditions to secure visa-free travel for its citizens, but Turkey responded that it would suspend agreements with the EU if the bloc does not keep its promises.

More:Turkey Threatens to Suspend Agreements With EU - ABC News

Turkey and EU at Odds Over Funding Delivery - WSJ

Turkey and EU at Odds Over Funding Delivery

Disagreement comes amid tensions over Ankara’s antiterrorism law, vote to strip lawmakers’ immunity

More:Turkey and EU at Odds Over Funding Delivery - WSJ

Turkey and EU at Odds Over Funding Delivery - WSJ

Turkey and EU at Odds Over Funding Delivery

Disagreement comes amid tensions over Ankara’s antiterrorism law, vote to strip lawmakers’ immunity

More:Turkey and EU at Odds Over Funding Delivery - WSJ

Dutch prime minister meets Erdogan at UN summit, talks about refugees, Umar - DutchNews.nl

Dutch prime minister meets Erdogan at UN summit, talks about refugees, Umar
Europe
May 23, 2016

Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte has had informal talks with Turkey’s president Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the fringes of the current UN humanitarian summit in Istanbul.

More:Dutch prime minister meets Erdogan at UN summit, talks about refugees, Umar - DutchNews.nl

Merkel to meet Erdogan as UN aid summit opens in Istanbul | News | DW.COM | 23.05.2016

Merkel to meet Erdogan as UN aid summit opens in Istanbul

The German chancellor is likely to press her Turkish counterpart on the EU migrant deal as world leaders discuss aid issues. "Doctors Without Borders" (MSF) has pulled out of the conference, saying it will be inadequate.

More:Merkel to meet Erdogan as UN aid summit opens in Istanbul | News | DW.COM | 23.05.2016

Turkey as a new model? - NURAY MERT

Turkey as a new model?

“Totalitarianism differs essentially from other forms of political oppression known to us such as despotism, tyranny and dictatorship. Wherever it rose to power, it developed entirely new political institutions and destroyed all social, legal and political traditions of the country.” (Hannah Arendt, “The Origins of Totalitarianism”)

More:Turkey as a new model? - NURAY MERT

Investors eye new economy administration, rate decision in Turkey - BUSINESS

Investors eye new economy administration, rate decision in Turkey

ANKARA/ISTANBUL

Investors are playing a waiting game to see whether Deputy Prime Minister Mehmet Şimşek, who is seen as an anchor of investor confidence, will be retained in a new Turkish cabinet and what decision the Central Bank might take on interest rates in its upcoming meeting.

More:Investors eye new economy administration, rate decision in Turkey - BUSINESS

Has Turkey become a scapegoat in the fiery Brexit debate? - Al Arabiya English

Has Turkey become a scapegoat in the fiery Brexit debate?

By Menekse Tokyay

With controversies over its democracy and external challenges such as the flow of migrant, Turkey’s place in Europe has again become a debate for Euroskeptics in Britain.

More:Has Turkey become a scapegoat in the fiery Brexit debate? - Al Arabiya English

Leaders, NGOs meet in Istanbul for first humanitarian summit | New Straits Times | Malaysia General Business Sports and Lifestyle News

Leaders, NGOs meet in Istanbul for first humanitarian summit
By AFP - 23 May 2016 @ 10:11 AM

ISTANBUL: World leaders and aid groups meet in Istanbul on Monday for an unprecedented UN-backed humanitarian summit seeking to transform the world’s response to crises triggered by conflict and climate change.

More:Leaders, NGOs meet in Istanbul for first humanitarian summit | New Straits Times | Malaysia General Business Sports and Lifestyle News

A May to be remembered in Turkey - YUSUF KANLI

A May to be remembered in Turkey

May was a very important month for Turkish democracy. For decades, Turks marked the May 27 anniversary of the 1960 coup as the “Liberty and Constitution Day.” What’s more, after the 1950 multi-party election, May 14 was marked unofficially as the “Democracy Day,” even by people who suffered most under the Democratic Party (DP), which was voted into power in 1950 and which transformed from a democratic government into a majoritarian dictatorship.

More:A May to be remembered in Turkey - YUSUF KANLI

Tayyip Erdogan asks Yildirim to form new govt | World | thenews.com.pk

Tayyip Erdogan asks Yildirim to form new govt
May 23, 2016

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan asked the new leader of the ruling AK Party, Binali Yildirim, to form a new government on Sunday, according to a presidential statement, confirming him as the country’s new prime minister.

More:Tayyip Erdogan asks Yildirim to form new govt | World | thenews.com.pk

Erdoğan calls on Europe to take in more Syrian refugees | World news | The Guardian

Erdoğan calls on Europe to take in more Syrian refugees

In an article for the Guardian, Turkish president says Europe not doing enough to redistribute the 3 million Syrians living in Turkey

More:Erdoğan calls on Europe to take in more Syrian refugees | World news | The Guardian

Sunday, May 22, 2016

EU referendum: Row over Turkey's membership bid escalates - BBC News

EU referendum: Row over Turkey's membership bid escalates

The UK would be powerless to prevent Turkey joining the EU despite the "security risks" its membership could bring, a defence minister has said.

Penny Mordaunt said the migrant crisis would hasten talks over Turkey's EU bid and see more criminals entering the UK.

More:EU referendum: Row over Turkey's membership bid escalates - BBC News

Security forces seize bomb-laden vehicle in SE Turkey

Security forces seize bomb-laden vehicle in SE Turkey

Driver, a PKK terrorist, was killed at security checkpoint, says Diyarbakir governorship

More:Security forces seize bomb-laden vehicle in SE Turkey

Report: Merkel concerned about Turkish policies against the Kurds | EUROPE ONLINE

Report: Merkel concerned about Turkish policies against the Kurds
Europe
22.05.2016
By our dpa-correspondent and Europe Online
Berlin (dpa) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel criticized a move by the Turkish parliament to remove immunity from prosecution from around a quarter of lawmakers in an article published in Sunday‘s Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

More:Report: Merkel concerned about Turkish policies against the Kurds | EUROPE ONLINE

Turkey divided as ruling party anoints new leader - BBC News

Turkey divided as ruling party anoints new leader

21 May 2016 Last updated at 23:52 BST

Turkey's ruling AK Party is meeting to anoint a new party leader who will also become prime minister - after Ahmet Davutoglu stepped down following long-rumoured tensions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

More:Turkey divided as ruling party anoints new leader - BBC News

Turkey Makes a Dubious Host For Talks on Gender Equality

Turkey Makes a Dubious Host For Talks on Gender Equality
By Nihal Kayali , Christina Asquith On 5/22/16 at 8:00 AM

Thousands of world leaders, international organizations and aid workers will convene in Istanbul on Monday for the inaugural World Humanitarian Summit. As gender equality in crises features prominently on the agenda, Turkish women may wonder whether Turkey is a credible host to discuss topics like “stopping sexual violence” and “empowering women.”

More:Turkey Makes a Dubious Host For Talks on Gender Equality

Gaziantep: Murder, paranoia in Turkey’s economic powerhouse

Gaziantep: Murder, paranoia in Turkey’s economic powerhouse

Prominent activists have been killed in broad daylight in attacks claimed by IS

More:Gaziantep: Murder, paranoia in Turkey’s economic powerhouse

Saturday, May 21, 2016

New Turkish bill denounced as power grab – EurActiv.com

New Turkish bill denounced as power grab

May 20, 2016 (updated: May 20, 2016)

Turkey’s parliament on Friday (20 May) adopted a highly divisive bill that will lift immunity for dozens of pro-Kurdish and other MPs and could see them thrown out of parliament.

More:New Turkish bill denounced as power grab – EurActiv.com

Erdogan vs. the world - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Erdogan vs. the world

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ouster of Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu to clear his own path to absolute power has left many wondering what effect the move will have on Turkey's foreign policy orientation and its relations with the West in particular.


More:Erdogan vs. the world - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

China’s slowdown and Turkey’s window of opportunity - GÜVEN SAK

China’s slowdown and Turkey’s window of opportunity

China is changing, and the world feels the shockwaves, far and wide. This process hurts the Turkish economy, but much less than other emerging economies. I hear lots of complaining in Ankara and Istanbul, but I think if Turkey plays its cards well, the benefits could outweigh the costs.

More:China’s slowdown and Turkey’s window of opportunity - GÜVEN SAK

Greek judge says Turkey is unsafe rules against sending Syrian migrant back

Greek judge says Turkey is unsafe, rules against sending Syrian migrant back

Big News Network.com
Sunday 22nd May, 2016

ATHENS, Greece - Greek judges have ruled that a Syrian refugee should not be sent back to Turkey.

Amnesty International has said that migrants in Turkey are not safe as they do not have basic human rights and could be taken to Syria.

More:Greek judge says Turkey is unsafe rules against sending Syrian migrant back

Friday, May 20, 2016

Educational and labor productivity problems in Turkey’s economy - GÜNEŞ KÖMÜRCÜLER

Educational and labor productivity problems in Turkey’s economy

A young population has played a crucial role in Turkey’s economic story in a bid to positively differentiate itself in the region. The country, however, faces the serious risk of losing this advantage in a substantial way unless some crucial steps are taken immediately to increase the quality of education and labor productivity.

More:Educational and labor productivity problems in Turkey’s economy - GÜNEŞ KÖMÜRCÜLER

Educational and labor productivity problems in Turkey’s economy - GÜNEŞ KÖMÜRCÜLER

Educational and labor productivity problems in Turkey’s economy

A young population has played a crucial role in Turkey’s economic story in a bid to positively differentiate itself in the region. The country, however, faces the serious risk of losing this advantage in a substantial way unless some crucial steps are taken immediately to increase the quality of education and labor productivity.

More:Educational and labor productivity problems in Turkey’s economy - GÜNEŞ KÖMÜRCÜLER

Turkish parliament passes bill stripping MPs of immunity | Middle East Eye

Turkish parliament passes bill stripping MPs of immunity

Majority of MPs back bill targeted at pro-Kurdish deputies which passes without need for a referendum, leaving 138 MPs facing prosecution

More:Turkish parliament passes bill stripping MPs of immunity | Middle East Eye

Why the EU migrant deal matters to Turkey’s Erdogan - even if it fails

Why the EU migrant deal matters to Turkey’s Erdogan - even if it fails
Anthony Skinner, Director and Head of Political Strategy, Verisk Maplecroft
OMMENTSStart the Discussion

A deal which involves Turkey controlling the flow of Syrian migrants to Europe entered a new phase of volatility on 5th May, just a day after the European Commission recommended visa-free travel for Turkish nationals seeking to go to Europe. News broke that Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu had been forced to resign.

More:Why the EU migrant deal matters to Turkey’s Erdogan - even if it fails

In Turkey, European travel hopes dissolve | Europe | DW.COM | 20.05.2016

In Turkey, European travel hopes dissolve

Turkish nationals eager to travel to Europe untrammelled by wads of visa applications appear to have had their hopes dashed by a power struggle in the ruling party. Tom Stevenson reports from Istanbul.

More:In Turkey, European travel hopes dissolve | Europe | DW.COM | 20.05.2016

In Turkey, European travel hopes dissolve | Europe | DW.COM | 20.05.2016

In Turkey, European travel hopes dissolve

Turkish nationals eager to travel to Europe untrammelled by wads of visa applications appear to have had their hopes dashed by a power struggle in the ruling party. Tom Stevenson reports from Istanbul.

More:In Turkey, European travel hopes dissolve | Europe | DW.COM | 20.05.2016

Turkey to Encourage Visits from 1 Million Chinese in 2016 Through Better Tourism : News : Yibada

Turkey to Encourage Visits from 1 Million Chinese in 2016 Through Better Tourism

Sarah Sincero | May 20, 2016 03:40 AM EDT

Turkey sets its goal to woo over 1 million Chinese tourists as a solution to the decreasing number of European and Russian visitors this year.

More:Turkey to Encourage Visits from 1 Million Chinese in 2016 Through Better Tourism : News : Yibada

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Turkey anger over EU envoy remarks on migrant deal | News | DW.COM | 19.05.2016

Turkey anger over EU envoy remarks on migrant deal

Hansjoerg Haber altered an old German proverb to describe how the EU migrant deal had run into trouble. His remarks were criticized by the Ankara government.

More:Turkey anger over EU envoy remarks on migrant deal | News | DW.COM | 19.05.2016

It doesn’t really matter who the next Turkish prime minister is. Erdogan is the only man in town | Voices | The Independent

It doesn’t really matter who the next Turkish prime minister is. Erdogan is the only man in town

As Erdogan attempts to become the next Atatürk, he risks the future relations with the West

Robert Ellis

On Sunday Turkey’s ruling AK (Justice and Development) Party will hold an extraordinary convention to elect a new chairman and prime minister. But don’t hold your breath, party loyalist, Binali Yildirim, has been nominated and there is no reason to believe he will not be elected with acclaim.

More:It doesn’t really matter who the next Turkish prime minister is. Erdogan is the only man in town | Voices | The Independent

Erdogan’s march to absolute power has Berlin’s blessing — FT.com

Erdogan’s march to absolute power has Berlin’s blessing

The president’s choice of Yildirim for prime minister will not check his aims, writes Marc Pierini

More:Erdogan’s march to absolute power has Berlin’s blessing — FT.com

Erdogan Tightens Grip on Turkey as Loyalist Set to Be Premier - Bloomberg

Erdogan Tightens Grip on Turkey as Loyalist Set to Be Premier
Onur Ant

Binali Yildirim, a close ally of Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is set to become the country’s new prime minister -- an appointment that will significantly strengthen the president’s grip on power.

More:Erdogan Tightens Grip on Turkey as Loyalist Set to Be Premier - Bloomberg

Turkey Project | Center for Strategic and International Studies

Turkey Project

The Turkey Project tracks Turkish domestic politics, foreign policy, and the economy through publications and high-level meetings.

More:Turkey Project | Center for Strategic and International Studies

What did the West get wrong about Turkey? - MURAT YETKİN

What did the West get wrong about Turkey?

An experienced analyst, who has for years worked on Turkey monitoring the investment environment for a major international financial entity, was disappointed after speaking to a number of decision-makers in Istanbul’s financial world. The analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity, said he asked all of them about the situation of the free press in the country, but observed that it was not on their radar as a big risk. “We manage risks for investments,” he added, saying he believed that problems of the free press and free judiciary should be of concern to all.

More:What did the West get wrong about Turkey? - MURAT YETKİN

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

CDR (Commercial Dispute Resolution) - In search of a smart judiciary in Turkey and Europe by Mehmet Gun ▪ Gün + Partners - Articles

In search of a smart judiciary in Turkey and Europe
Mehmet Gun ▪ Gün + Partners 18 May, 2016

Mehmet Gün, senior partner at Gün + Partners, Istanbul, traverses the gaps in Turkish and continental civil procedure, where inefficient disclosure rules are choking an overloaded justice system arguably leading to double procedural standards and high budgetary costs for some EU member states.

More:CDR (Commercial Dispute Resolution) - In search of a smart judiciary in Turkey and Europe by Mehmet Gun ▪ Gün + Partners - Articles

Will Turkey let UN officials snoop in the southeast? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Will Turkey let UN officials snoop in the southeast?

Turkey’s US and European allies continue to maintain a near silence over the country’s steady descent into a human rights nightmare, even as respected global watchdogs chronicle the abuses taking place there on an almost daily basis. Whether it is silencing the media, torture during detention or mass violence against civilians in the mainly Kurdish southeast, according to rights defenders, Turkey is beginning to resemble the Middle East dictatorships that it was once touted as a model for them to follow.

More:Will Turkey let UN officials snoop in the southeast? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Investors growing concerned about Turkey's new policy team | Reuters

Investors growing concerned about Turkey's new policy team
ISTANBUL | By Asli Kandemir and Nevzat Devranoglu

Reuters/Murad Sezer

With just days left until Turkey is due to name a new cabinet, President Tayyip Erdogan's advisers have renewed the call for lower interest rates - a sign, some investors fear, of a more populist policy team to come.

More:Investors growing concerned about Turkey's new policy team | Reuters

German Court Bans Bulk of Satirical Poem About Turkish Leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan - WSJ

German Court Bans Bulk of Satirical Poem About Turkish Leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Judges in Hamburg say TV sketch aired by comedian Jan Böhmermann violated Turk’s rights

More:German Court Bans Bulk of Satirical Poem About Turkish Leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan - WSJ

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Can we see Turkey’s tourism as a brand? - FATİH ÇEKİRGE

Can we see Turkey’s tourism as a brand?

Turkey is a brand. In fact, all the countries in the world are a brand in this huge stock exchange of humanity. They are a brand with their science, human resources and production. Each country is a value with the television, mobile phone and automobile brands it produces.

More:Can we see Turkey’s tourism as a brand? - FATİH ÇEKİRGE

Turkey parliament to begin debating hotly-contested immunity bill - Times LIVE

Turkey parliament to begin debating hotly-contested immunity bill
AFP | 17 May, 2016 08:48

The Turkish parliament begins debating a hugely controversial bill that would strip dozens of deputies of their parliamentary immunity and which pro-Kurdish deputies say is directly aimed at driving them out of the legislature.

More:Turkey parliament to begin debating hotly-contested immunity bill - Times LIVE

The risks of Erdogan’s pursuit of one-man rule - FT.com

The risks of Erdogan’s pursuit of one-man rule

The EU has a huge stake in Turkey’s social and economic stability

More:The risks of Erdogan’s pursuit of one-man rule - FT.com

Nobel laureate Sancar to donate Nobel medal replica to Istanbul University - SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Nobel laureate Sancar to donate Nobel medal replica to Istanbul University

ISTANBUL

Aziz Sancar will donate a replica of his Nobel Prize in Chemistry medal and certificate to Istanbul University, from which he graduated back in 1969.

More:Nobel laureate Sancar to donate Nobel medal replica to Istanbul University - SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Turkish president’s blame game on refugees irritates the West - BARÇIN YİNANÇ

Turkish president’s blame game on refugees irritates the West

Syrian refugees first started coming to Turkey in limited numbers in 2011. By January 2012, the number was close to 10,000.

More:Turkish president’s blame game on refugees irritates the West - BARÇIN YİNANÇ

EU, Turkey row over terror puts deal at risk - EUROPE

EU, Turkey row over terror puts deal at risk

VIENNA / COPENHAGEN

A row between Turkey and the European Union over the former’s anti-terror law has put a deal between the parties to curb migrant flows into the bloc in exchange for visa liberalization at risk.

More:EU, Turkey row over terror puts deal at risk - EUROPE

Istanbul jumped into the 8th position in ICCA rankings

Istanbul jumped into the 8th position in ICCA rankings

Istanbul has solidified its place in “The World’s Top 10 Congress Destinations” since 2010, hosting 148 congresses in 2015, 18 congresses increase over 2014, making the city the 8th most popular congress destination worldwide. This result points to 14% rise comparing to 2014 which 130 congresses were held.

More:Istanbul jumped into the 8th position in ICCA rankings

Monday, May 16, 2016

Has Europe had enough of Erdogan? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Has Europe had enough of Erdogan?

The collision between Turkey and the European Union (EU) was not unexpected, arriving as it did before mid-May. Now, attention has turned to the next looming crisis, between Ankara and Berlin.

More:Has Europe had enough of Erdogan? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Daily chart: Sykes-Picot 100 years on | The Economist

Sykes-Picot 100 years on
May 16th 2016, 16:41 by DATA TEAM

Timekeeper

THE MODERN frontiers of the Arab world only vaguely resemble the blue and red grease-pencil lines secretly drawn on a map of the Levant on May 16th 1916, at the height of the first world war. Sir Mark Sykes and François Georges-Picot were appointed by the British and French governments respectively to decide how to apportion the lands of the Ottoman empire, which had entered the war on the side of Germany and the central powers. The Russian foreign minister, Sergei Sazonov, was also involved.

More:Daily chart: Sykes-Picot 100 years on | The Economist

Turkish Police Blocked Entry to a Party Meeting That Threatened Erdogan's Presidential Plans | VICE News

Turkish Police Blocked Entry to a Party Meeting That Threatened Erdogan's Presidential Plans

By Tess Owen
May 15, 2016 | 10:50 pm

Turkish police sealed off a hotel in Ankara on Sunday to prevent dissident members of an opposition party from holding a snap meeting, which, if it went ahead, could potentially thwart President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's plans to expand his power and authority.

More:Turkish Police Blocked Entry to a Party Meeting That Threatened Erdogan's Presidential Plans | VICE News

Turkish Military’s Influence Rises Again - WSJ

Turkish Military’s Influence Rises Again

A force that once ousted civilian leaders now shapes President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s moves in Syria and against Kurdish insurgents at home

More:Turkish Military’s Influence Rises Again - WSJ

How Turkey’s recent political shakeup will have wide-ranging impact - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

How Turkey’s recent political shakeup will have wide-ranging impact

Following Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu’s announcement May 5 that he was resigning as head of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) and giving up the premiership, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan continues to consolidate power.

More:How Turkey’s recent political shakeup will have wide-ranging impact - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Merkel Accused of Opening Germany to Turkish 'Blackmail'

Merkel Accused of Opening Germany to Turkish 'Blackmail'
By Reuters On 5/15/16 at 11:09 PM

German politicians accused Chancellor Angela Merkel of making Europe overly dependent on Turkey in the migrant crisis, leaving the bloc vulnerable to blackmail by President Tayyip Erdogan.

More:Merkel Accused of Opening Germany to Turkish 'Blackmail'

Comment: ‘The media in Turkey is deeply divided’ | SBS News

Comment: ‘The media in Turkey is deeply divided’

Was the shooting attempt on Can Dündar just ‘a piece of theatre’ or a serious attack on press freedom? SBS Turkish Radio Producer Ismail Kayhan analyses coverage on both sides of the Turkish media.

More:Comment: ‘The media in Turkey is deeply divided’ | SBS News

Davutoglu’s Demise | Chronicles Magazine

Davutoglu’s Demise View all posts from this blog

By:Srdja Trifkovic | May 16, 2016

Ahmet Davutoglu has served Recep Tayyip Erdogan loyally for over a decade, first as his chief advisor (2003-2009), then as foreign minister (2009-2014), and finally as prime minister until his forced resignation on May 5. Loyalty is no longer enough: Erdogan now demands unquestioning obedience from his team, and Davutoglu’s willingness to provide it has become uncertain.

More:Davutoglu’s Demise | Chronicles Magazine

Is the Islamic State Trying to Draw Turkey into Syria?

Is the Islamic State Trying to Draw Turkey into Syria?
S.G. Grimaldi and Selim Koru
May 13, 2016

There is a duel going on in Turkey’s southern province of Kilis. Since the beginning of the year, forces of the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) have fired katyusha rockets into Kilis. The Turkish Armed Forces (Türk Silahlı Kuvvetleri, TSK) have responded with artillery fire and airstrikes, reportedly killing at least 862 ISIL fighters this year. Still, rockets have landed in Kilis every day in May. According to a combination of data from Metin Gurcan and Aaron Stein, as of May 8, 21 people have been killed and at least 88 wounded on the Turkish side of the border this year. There is growing anger at the local and national government over the disruption to daily life. Simultaneously, ISIL released a statement that it will soon show the consequences for Turkish state actions in a video featuring a TSK soldier captured in July 2015. Both sides appear to be escalating their reactions, culminating on the night of May 8, with the Turkish military for the first time announcing it had conducted a ground incursion into Syria. According to the pro-government daily Yeni Şafak, 15 to 20 Turkish special forces units entered ISIL-controlled territory to target rocket launchers. The raid was followed by airstrikes from coalition forces and with the knowledge of the United States and Russia.

More:Is the Islamic State Trying to Draw Turkey into Syria?

Live Q&A: What impact will the Istanbul summit have on humanitarian response? | Global Development Professionals Network | The Guardian

Live Q&A: What impact will the Istanbul summit have on humanitarian response?

Join an expert panel on Thursday 19 May, 1-3pm to discuss the opportunities for change at the upcoming World Humanitarian Summit

If there is one thing the sector can agree on, it is that the need for serious discussion about humanitarian response has never been greater. Over the past decade the number of people affected by humanitarian crisis has almost doubled. At the same time the money needed to resource effective action is dangerously lacking with a shortfall of billions. Many argue that the system is broken and it is time for creative, and even radical, reform.

More:Live Q&A: What impact will the Istanbul summit have on humanitarian response? | Global Development Professionals Network | The Guardian

Migrants from the Caribbean fly 6,000 miles to Turkey in bid to enter Europe | Daily Mail Online

Now hundreds of migrants from the Caribbean fly 6,000 miles to Turkey in bid to enter Europe while posing as being from Somalia

They fly to Istanbul then perilously cross Aegean Sea to Greek islands
On arrival some claim to be from Somalia, Syria or even Afghanistan
They say there are cheap flights and they don’t need visas for Turkey

By Tom Kelly In Lesbos For The Daily Mail

Hundreds of migrants from the Caribbean are travelling more than 6,000 miles to enter the European Union through Greece, the Mail can reveal.

More:Migrants from the Caribbean fly 6,000 miles to Turkey in bid to enter Europe | Daily Mail Online

JURIST - Turkish authorities prevent opposition party congress

Turkish authorities prevent opposition party congress
Sunday 15 May 2016 at 1:13 PM ET by Miracle Jones
tp
© WikiMedia (turkish government)

[JURIST] Turkish state police on Sunday prevented members from the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) [official site, in Turkish] from holding a party congress in direct opposition to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan [official profile], by sealing off a hosting hotel. Police put up barricades and sealed the hotel to prevent party members from gaining access to the hotel where they had planned to hold a congress to challenge the allegedly growing power [Reuters report] of Erdogan.

More:JURIST - Turkish authorities prevent opposition party congress

Pulling no punches: Turkey’s Kurds 2016-05-16 | Espresso

Pulling no punches: Turkey’s Kurds

This week lawmakers will vote on rescinding parliamentary immunity, enabling the prosecution of dozens of politicians from the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic Party (HDP) on charges of supporting banned militant groups. The HDP says President Recep Tayyip Erdogan simply wants to crush Turkey’s most vocal political opposition. The issue has already led to brawls: silver-haired MPs throwing punches, leg kicks and water bottles. Violence outside parliament is still more ominous.

More:Pulling no punches: Turkey’s Kurds 2016-05-16 | Espresso

Turkey’s Balkan Role Uncertain After Davutoglu :: Balkan Insight

Turkey’s Balkan Role Uncertain After Davutoglu

The resignation of Premier Ahmet Davutoglu - architect of Turkey’s assertive foreign in the Balkans - raises questions about who will now fill this role in future.

More:Turkey’s Balkan Role Uncertain After Davutoglu :: Balkan Insight

World cities meet in Turkey for joint efforts to tackle extremism - LOCAL

World cities meet in Turkey for joint efforts to tackle extremism

Güneş Kömürcüler - ANTALYA

Some 170 city administrators and authorities from 25 countries shared their experiences in fighting against violent extremism and building social cohesion in a bid to prevent radicalism in the first Strong Cities Network (SCN) Summit in the Mediterranean resort of Antalya on May 11-12.

More:World cities meet in Turkey for joint efforts to tackle extremism - LOCAL

Turkey and Ukraine sign joint plane manufacturing project - Daily Sabah

Turkey and Ukraine sign joint plane manufacturing project
DAILY SABAH
ISTANBUL
Published 10 hours ago

Previously, Turkey’s domestic airplane production project, TRJET’s, introduction to the international press was made at the Paris Air Show 2015 Aviation Fair. Previously, Turkey’s domestic airplane production project, TRJET’s, introduction to the international press was made at the Paris Air Show 2015 Aviation Fair.
Turkey and Ukraine reached an official agreement for the joint manufacturing of passenger and cargo planes. The agreement also involves areas such as industry, technology, energy, agriculture and transport

More:Turkey and Ukraine sign joint plane manufacturing project - Daily Sabah

Sunday, May 15, 2016

Pakistan -Tukey Military Cooperation: Turkey to modernise PAF’s F-16 fleet

T
Pakistani Air-force F16's
hTe multi-faceted relations between Turkey and Pakistan are burgeoning in defence field as the former has agreed to modernise the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) F-16 fleet which will cost Islamabad $75 million, said a senior official of Turkey-Asia Pacific Councils of Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) on Saturday.

Both countries have struck a deal in an aviation project under which Istanbul will modernise Pakistan’s air fighter planes and some of them have already been flown to Turkey, said regional coordinator Volkan Yuzer while giving briefing to a group of visiting journalists hailing from Asia-Pacific countries.

He said Turkey was manufacturing engines of the F-16 jets, besides making some of their spare parts as well.

Questioned on the great business opportunities in Pakistan, he said, at least 100 Turkish companies were already doing successful business in Pakistan. These companies have invested $2.7 billion on various projects in Pakistan until 2014.

More Turkish investment, he said, was expected in energy, infrastructure and beverages projects. He disclosed that Turkish Coca Cola Company was expected to bring in $250 million investment in Pakistan in next three years.

Responding to a question, he said there was a great potential for investment in Pakistan’s dairy industry as it was one of leading milk-producing countries in the world. He said Fontera company, a big name in this industry, was interested to make investment in the dairy industry but he did not divulge more details.

To a question on signing of the Free Trade Agreement by September this year, he said both sides were working out details of the agreement. When asked how would it impact trade between the two countries which now hovers around $600 million, he said it was expected to increase to $1 billion, besides seeing a surge in Turkish investment in Pakistan.
Read more: Turkey to modernise PAF’s F-16 fleet | DailyTimes

Saturday, May 14, 2016

Eurovision Song Festival: Jamala’s ‘political’ song wins Eurovision for Ukraine in Stockholm

Music, kitsch and politics took centre stage at the 61st edition of the Eurovision Song Contest in Stockholm on Saturday night.

The competition was won by Ukraine with 534 points.

The country’s candidate, 32-year-old jazz singer Jamala, had called on Europeans to support her to show they were “not indifferent to suffering” in Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.

She said her song, “1944”, was not only about the deportation of the Crimean Tatar population during World War II, but also about the events of the past two years in the peninsula, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.

Australia came second with 511 points with “The Sound of Silence” by Dami Im, while Russia – a pre-contest favourite, was third with Sergei Lazarev’s “You Are The Only One” on 491 points.

The final was broadcast to an estimated 200 million viewers in Europe and beyond – including, for the first time, in the United States.

Read more: Jamala’s ‘political’ song wins Eurovision for Ukraine in Stockholm | euronews, world news

Friday, May 13, 2016

Turkish Tourism Ministry: "Turkey will build 10 hotels in Iran"

10 Turkish hotels allowed to be build in Iran
Turkish investors will be allowed to build at least 10 hotels in Iran, a Turkish tourism ministry official said on Friday, as the two countries look to increase bilateral trade after international sanctionson Iran were lifted in January.

The hotels would be built in Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, Tabriz and Mashhad, the official said, under the terms of an agreement with Iran signed during a Turkish delegation's visit to Tehran that started on Thursday.

The agreement includes incentives for investment and allows more charter flights between the neighboring countries, he said.

Read more: Tourism ministry: Turkey will build 10 hotels in Iran - eTurboNews.com

Turkish Airlines Interested in Buying Croatia Airlines

Turkish Airlines, one of the world's fastest growing airlines, on Tuesday started with direct flights between Istanbul and Dubrovnik. Abdulkerim Cay, director of human resources at Turkish Airlines, took part in the inaugural flight ceremonies. According to him, Turkish nAirlines is seriously considering buying Croatia Airlines, reports tportal.hr on May 13, 2016.

Read more: Turkish Airlines Interested in Buying Croatia Airlines

Thursday, May 12, 2016

Merkel vs. Erdogan: A Clinic in Modern Clan Conflict - Forbes

Merkel vs. Erdogan: A Clinic in Modern Clan Conflict

Stratfor

Editor’s Note: The Global Affairs column is curated by Stratfor’s editorial board, a diverse group of thinkers whose expertise inspires rigorous and innovative thought in our analyses. Though their opinions are their own, they inform and sometimes even challenge our beliefs. We welcome that challenge, and we hope our readers do too.

More:Merkel vs. Erdogan: A Clinic in Modern Clan Conflict - Forbes

Erdogan is not the prince of Europe | Europe | For Europe, Against the EU | spiked

Erdogan is not the prince of Europe

Tom Slater

Bashing Turkey distracts us from the crisis of European values.

ews of Turkish prime minister Ahmet Davutoglu’s resignation has renewed concerns that Turkey is edging ever closer to outright dictatorship. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, whose ruling AKP Party reclaimed its majority last year, has for years been trying to give the largely ceremonial Turkish presidency binding executive power. Davutoglu, while paying lip service to Erdogan’s plan, was thought to be reluctant to push for the new system. And, in what has been called a ‘palace coup’, Davutoglu’s now been ousted, with Erdogan’s son-in-law, Berat Albayrak, a likely successor.

More:Erdogan is not the prince of Europe | Europe | For Europe, Against the EU | spiked

Dutch professor renounces Turkish award, brands Erdogan 'de-facto dictator' — RT News

Dutch professor renounces Turkish award, brands Erdogan 'de-facto dictator'
Published time: 12 May, 2016 11:12

A Dutch professor, given a medal for advocating Turkish integration into the EU, is returning the award. He now says that under "de-facto dictator" Erdogan, Turkey cannot be a member of the European bloc.

More:Dutch professor renounces Turkish award, brands Erdogan 'de-facto dictator' — RT News

EU, Germany: Ball in Turkey's Court on Visa Waiver Issue - ABC News

EU, Germany: Ball in Turkey's Court on Visa Waiver Issue

By geir moulson, associated press

BERLIN — May 12, 2016, 7:47 AM ET

Top European Union and German officials made clear Thursday that Turkey must back off from its refusal to change its anti-terror laws if it hopes to secure visa-free travel to Europe for Turkish citizens.

More:EU, Germany: Ball in Turkey's Court on Visa Waiver Issue - ABC News

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

A ‘low profile’ Turkish prime minister? - MURAT YETKİN

A ‘low profile’ Turkish prime minister?

Turkish political literature has introduced a new phrase, “low profile prime minister,” since Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu announced he was leaving his post and the chairmanship of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Parti) in a snap congress on May 22.

More:A ‘low profile’ Turkish prime minister? - MURAT YETKİN

Erdogan’s Unique Recipe Of Nearly Absolute Power

Erdogan’s Unique Recipe Of Nearly Absolute Power

Why was President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's supposed ally forced out of the Prime Minister post? The answer lies in the particular ambitions of this Turkish leader.

More:Erdogan’s Unique Recipe Of Nearly Absolute Power

For Turkey’s Erdogan, Free Speech No Laughing Matter

For Turkey’s Erdogan, Free Speech No Laughing Matter

Jamie Dettmer

May 11, 2016 2:05 PM

A German court is refusing to silence a top media executive who has defended a satirical poem that makes fun of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

More:For Turkey’s Erdogan, Free Speech No Laughing Matter

As long as Erdogan is in charge | Jordan Times

As long as Erdogan is in charge

May 11,2016
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said early this week that his country’s strategic goal was membership in the European Union, and expressed the hope that granting Turkish citizens visa-free travel within the EU would advance the accession process.

More:As long as Erdogan is in charge | Jordan Times

Turkey President Erdogan and the Dangers of ‘Vegetarian Lions’ - Bloomberg

What ‘Vegetarian Lions’ Say About Erdogan’s Plans for Turkey
The lions need to update their software, apparently.
Isobel Finkel

May 11, 2016 — 4:38 AM EDT

“No one has the right to turn Turkey into a country of lions condemned to a vegetarian diet.”

Confused? In President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s usage, a lion subsisting on salad is like a country running old software even though it's got strong hardware.

More:Turkey President Erdogan and the Dangers of ‘Vegetarian Lions’ - Bloomberg

Turkey? In the EU?

Turkey? In the EU?

by Uzay Bulut
May 11, 2016 at 6:00 am

"What is the conquest?" Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan asked his audience. "The conquest is Hijrah [expansion of Islam through emigration, following the example of Muhammad, the founder of Islam, and his followers from Mecca to Medina]. The conquest is Al-Andalus [Muslim Spain]. ... The conquest is Salah al-Din al-Ayubbi [Saladin]. ... It is to hoist the flag of Islam in Jerusalem again. ... The conquest is to have the courage, tenacity and sagacity to defy the entire world even at the hardest times."

More:Turkey? In the EU?

Recep Tayyip Erdogan seeks limitless power — FT.com

Recep Tayyip Erdogan seeks limitless power

The Turkish president has wilfully cut himself off from any free flow of critical information

More:Recep Tayyip Erdogan seeks limitless power — FT.com

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

EU to look into fine print of Turkey’s terror legislation - EUROPE

EU to look into fine print of Turkey’s terror legislation

Emine Kart - ANKARA

The European Union’s top diplomat based in Ankara said Brussels will have to see the final version of Turkey’s legislation on terrorism before making a final decision on the prospective deal to liberalize visa requirements for Turkish citizens visiting Schengen member countries.

More:EU to look into fine print of Turkey’s terror legislation - EUROPE

EP stops work on Turkey visa waiver

EP stops work on Turkey visa waiver

By Nikolaj Nielsen and Eszter Zalan
Strasbourg, BRUSSELS, 10. May, 22:48

MEPs have stopped work on plans to give Turks visa-free access to the EU’s Schengen zone, putting a wider migrant deal in doubt.

More:EP stops work on Turkey visa waiver

Dutch Columnist Detained Over Tweets Leaves Turkey - ABC News

Dutch Columnist Detained Over Tweets Leaves Turkey

By The Associated Press

THE HAGUE, Netherlands — May 10, 2016, 5:01 PM ET

A newspaper columnist who was briefly detained in Turkey and then banned from leaving the country during an investigation into tweets deemed insulting to the president has been allowed to return to the Netherlands.

More:Dutch Columnist Detained Over Tweets Leaves Turkey - ABC News

Flash - Security fears push Turkish Airlines into loss - France 24

Security fears push Turkish Airlines into loss

© AFP/File | Turkish Airlines is the 10th largest airline in the world
ISTANBUL (AFP) -

Turkish flag carrier Turkish Airlines on Tuesday posted a massive loss as concerns over security in Turkey and the region took their toll on the ambitious airline.

Turkish Airlines said its net loss in the first quarter amounted to $421 million, compared with a net profit of $153 million in the same period last year.

More:Flash - Security fears push Turkish Airlines into loss - France 24

Turkey Beyond Borders | Foreign Affairs

Turkey Beyond Borders
A History of Ankara's Attempts to Control the Frontier
By Ryan Gingeras

At times, the battle against the Islamic State (ISIS) has seemed to hinge on the 560-mile line that divides Turkey and Syria. The United States and Russia have frequently urged Ankara to seal off its southern border in order to cut off supplies and volunteers destined for the radical group. For much of the conflict, Turkish officials have responded coolly to such calls. Some have argued that closing off the border is impossible. ISIS has seized significant portions of territory on the Syrian side of the perimeter, and walling off, or manning, such a distance would be expensive and require a huge number of security personnel. Further, stopping all traffic out of Syria would also mean turning away refugees en masse.

More:Turkey Beyond Borders | Foreign Affairs

Erdogan says Europe a safe haven for political wings of ...

Erdogan says Europe a safe haven for political wings of terrorist groups
by Reuters
Tuesday, 10 May 2016 16:31 GMT

By Tulay Karadeniz and Ece Toksabay

ANKARA, May 10 (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan accused European nations on Tuesday of being safe havens for the political wings of terrorist groups and said it was a "black comedy" for the Europe Union to lecture Ankara on changing its anti-terrorism laws.

More:Erdogan says Europe a safe haven for political wings of ...

Turkish Airlines Posts Biggest Loss as Direct Traffic Slumps - Bloomberg

Turkish Airlines Posts Biggest Loss as Direct Traffic Slumps
Tugce Ozsoy
May 10, 2016 — 2:37 AM EDT

Turkey’s national airline reported the biggest loss since at least 1999 in the first quarter as geopolitical risks and security concerns pressured direct traffic into the country.

More:Turkish Airlines Posts Biggest Loss as Direct Traffic Slumps - Bloomberg

A Turkish reshuffle spells trouble for Europe | European Council on Foreign Relations

A Turkish reshuffle spells trouble for Europe

Asli Aydintasbas
10th May, 2016

Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu’s sudden departure from the corridors of power may not necessarily mark an end to the refugee deal with Europe — but it will certainly raise the stakes for Europe in its dealings with Ankara.

More:A Turkish reshuffle spells trouble for Europe | European Council on Foreign Relations

What Next for Turkey After Erdogan Power Play? · Global Voices

What Next for Turkey After Erdogan Power Play?

On 7 March 2016, Turkey's Prime Minister Davutoglu met European Parliament President Martin Schulz: “For the benefit of refugees we need to cooperate with Turkey” Source: European Parliament.

Ahmet Davutoglu was disliked by many in Turkey. As he steps down as Turkey's Prime Minister amid an apparent confrontation with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, he will fail to distance himself from the grave human cost of the government military operation in Eastern Turkey and a crackdown on media and the opposition.

More:What Next for Turkey After Erdogan Power Play? · Global Voices

Turkish early election prospects may hinge on opposition leadership row - Channel NewsAsia

Turkish early election prospects may hinge on opposition leadership row

Tayyip Erdogan's ambitions for a swift move to strong presidential rule could suffer if dissidents in Turkey's nationalist opposition succeed in a party leadership challenge that could bolster their party's electoral support.

More:Turkish early election prospects may hinge on opposition leadership row - Channel NewsAsia

Step by step toward a ‘one man’ regime in Turkey | Europe | DW.COM | 09.05.2016

Step by step toward a ‘one man’ regime in Turkey

Prime Minister Davutoglu’s resignation has created chaos in Ankara. Experts that spoke to DW agree that given Erdogan’s pursuit of a presidential system, Turkey’s transformation into a ‘one man’ regime is imminent.

More:Step by step toward a ‘one man’ regime in Turkey | Europe | DW.COM | 09.05.2016

Pentagon Unclear on Which 'Terrorist Groups' It Vows to Fight with Turkey - Breitbart

Pentagon Unclear on Which ‘Terrorist Groups’ It Vows to Fight with Turkey

by Edwin Mora9 May 2016Washington, D.C. 26
The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) stands against “any terrorist group” that attacks Turkey, a Pentagon spokesperson indicated to Breitbart News.

More:Pentagon Unclear on Which 'Terrorist Groups' It Vows to Fight with Turkey - Breitbart

Social Media Rife With Myths About European Refugee Crisis

Social Media Rife With Myths About European Refugee Crisis

Heather Murdock

May 09, 2016 4:45 PM
CAIRO—

Modar, a Syrian refugee, arrived in Europe last fall wearing a secondhand shirt he purchased in Damascus for $1. The shirt was clean, unwrinkled and stylish.

More:Social Media Rife With Myths About European Refugee Crisis

Turkish president urges every company to hire one unemployed person | World news | The Guardian

Turkish president urges every company to hire one unemployed person

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan unveils plan to tackle joblessness, telling business leaders they cannot take their money to the grave

More:Turkish president urges every company to hire one unemployed person | World news | The Guardian

How Turkey plans to boost halal tourism - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

How Turkey plans to boost halal tourism

The second international halal tourism conference took place in Konya, Turkey, May 3-5. The first conference was held in Spain in 2014. The choice of Konya, the city of Rumi, was not by accident. In December 2015, the Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers designated Konya the capital of Islamic tourism for 2016.

More:How Turkey plans to boost halal tourism - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Turkey-EU deal not a piece of cake - MURAT YETKİN

Turkey-EU deal not a piece of cake

The visa-free travel scheme between Turkey and the European Union continues to be a problem, amid challenging statements from both sides.

More:Turkey-EU deal not a piece of cake - MURAT YETKİN

EU Membership Strategic Goal for Turkey: Erdogan - ABC News

EU Membership Strategic Goal for Turkey: Erdogan

By The Associated Press

ISTANBUL — May 9, 2016, 12:02 PM ET

Turkey's president said Monday that membership in the European Union is one of Turkey's strategic goals and hopes visa-free travel will bring the country closer to achieving that.

More:EU Membership Strategic Goal for Turkey: Erdogan - ABC News

Monday, May 09, 2016

Austria Crises: Shock as Austrian Chancellor Faymann quits -

Austrian Chancellor Werner Faymann has resigned after losing the support of Social Democratic party colleagues.

Mr
Faymann came to power in 2008 but has faced criticism within his party
since the far right won the first round of presidential elections last
month.



He told a news conference that Austria needed a chancellor who had his party "fully behind him".

Deputy Chancellor Reinhold Mitterlehner is to take over as chancellor on an interim basis.



Mr
Mitterlehner, the leader of the junior party in the governing
coalition, told Austrian news agency APA that he saw no need for fresh
elections.



Read more: Shock as Austrian Chancellor Faymann quits - BBC News

Sunday, May 08, 2016

Erdogan’s Turkey - NURAY MERT

Erdogan’s Turkey

Now, it is Erdoğan’s Turkey, like it or not. I have been writing about the authoritarian tilt in Turkey for six years. We are now at the end of the story, after the parliamentary regime’s last prime minister was deposed in a curious way last week by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

More:Erdogan’s Turkey - NURAY MERT

Turkish economy hit hard by political uncertainty | CCTV America

Turkish economy hit hard by political uncertainty

May 8, 2016

Prior to the announcement, rumors of the Prime Minister’s resignation already impacted the Turkish currency. By Friday, the Lira saw its worst weekly fall in almost 14 months. The Istanbul Stock Exchange witnessed intense volatility.

More:Turkish economy hit hard by political uncertainty | CCTV America

Economic A-Team Down to Last Man as Erdogan Exerts His Power - Bloomberg

Economic A-Team Down to Last Man as Erdogan Exerts His Power

May 8, 2016 — 5:00 PM EDT

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Mehmet Simsek is the last man standing from the team feted by investors as the driving force behind the nation’s rapid growth years.

More:Economic A-Team Down to Last Man as Erdogan Exerts His Power - Bloomberg

Turkey left to fight Islamic State alone, Erdogan says - Yahoo7

Turkey left to fight Islamic State alone, Erdogan says

AFP on May 9, 2016, 6:18 am

Istanbul (AFP) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Sunday accused the international coalition battling the Islamic State group in Syria of leaving his country to fight the jihadists alone on its own soil.

More:Turkey left to fight Islamic State alone, Erdogan says - Yahoo7

Turkey’s deep state just became more mysterious | The National

Turkey’s deep state just became more mysterious

Joseph Dana

May 8, 2016 Updated: May 8, 2016 04:52 PM

Few observers of Turkish politics are surprised that prime minister Ahmet Davutoglu has announced that he will step down at the end of the month. The direction of travel in Turkish politics has been clear for some time. Having engineered a move from prime minister to president in 2014, Recep Tayyip Erdogan appears to be willing to stop at nothing to solidify his grip on power.

More:Turkey’s deep state just became more mysterious | The National

Turkey's European Mega-Mosque Complete, Erdogan To Preside Over Opening Ceremony

Turkey’s European Mega-Mosque Complete, Erdogan To Preside Over Opening Ceremony

by Virginia Hale7 May 2016998
Turkey has announced that the country’s president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, will be present at the official opening ceremony of a controversial new mosque in the Netherlands at which 2,500 people will be praying.

More:Turkey's European Mega-Mosque Complete, Erdogan To Preside Over Opening Ceremony

Saturday, May 07, 2016

Reuters - Turkey's Erdogan pours cold water on hopes of progress on EU deal

Turkey’s Erdogan pours cold water on hopes of progress on EU deal

Reuters, 07/05 17:19 CET

ISTANBUL (Reuters) – Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday poured more cold water on hopes for progress with Europe on a deal to curb migration, suggesting Ankara would not change its anti-terrorism laws just to meet European Union requirements.

More:Reuters - Turkey's Erdogan pours cold water on hopes of progress on EU deal

Opinion: Erdogan wants to rule Turkey without Davutoglu | Opinion | DW.COM | 07.05.2016

Opinion: Erdogan wants to rule Turkey without Davutoglu

Recep Tayyip Erdogan has won his power struggle with Ahmet Davutoglu. But, DW's Reinhard Baumgarten writes, the battle made clear that resistance to Turkey's president is growing - even within his own party.

More:Opinion: Erdogan wants to rule Turkey without Davutoglu | Opinion | DW.COM | 07.05.2016

Erdogan Accuses Europe of 'Sidelining Democracy' - The New Indian Express

Erdogan Accuses Europe of 'Sidelining Democracy'

By AFP

ISTANBUL: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan today accused European nations of hypocrisy in pressing his country on terror laws while "sidelining democracy" at home in their own fight against terrorism.

More:Erdogan Accuses Europe of 'Sidelining Democracy' - The New Indian Express

What next for Turkey’s AKP after Davutoglu's exit? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

What next for Turkey’s AKP after Davutoglu's exit?

In Turkey, prime ministers normally lose their job when they lose an election, or they lose the majority of the seats in the parliament due to a break down in their party. Turkey’s current Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu had none of those problems. He had won a sweeping election victory just six months ago and his party is more intact than ever. Yet, still he had to give a farewell speech on May 5. He announced that there will be a surprise snap party congress in 17 days to chose the new party leader, but he himself will not run. “This is not my decision,” he said, “but a necessity.”

More:What next for Turkey’s AKP after Davutoglu's exit? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Is Washington enabling despotism in Turkey? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East

Is Washington enabling despotism in Turkey?

"We would expect that Turkey will follow its own democratic procedures … I am not going to speak to the specifics of an internal process there inside Turkey. Gotta go." With these dismissive comments, US State Department spokesman John Kirby ducked questions at a press briefing last week about a Turkish government-inspired bill to strip lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity and clear the path for their prosecution over alleged crimes.

More:Is Washington enabling despotism in Turkey? - Al-Monitor: the Pulse of the Middle East