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Saturday, October 07, 2006

The New Anatolian - 'Kirkuk referendum could trigger civil war'

"'Kirkuk referendum could trigger civil war'

The New Anatolian / Ankara
07 October 2006

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A referendum set for late next year over the oil-rich city of Kirkuk, Iraq shouldn't go ahead, according to ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party Balikesir Deputy Turhan Comez, who warns it could trigger a civil war."

More:The New Anatolian - 'Kirkuk referendum could trigger civil war'

Female Imams in German Mosques Get a Mixed Reception | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 07.10.2006

"Female Imams in German Mosques Get a Mixed Reception
A group of Muslim women in headscarves
Großansicht des Bildes mit der Bildunterschrift: A female Imam can better reach Muslim women, argue some

Turkey's religious council has already sent 13 women to Germany to serve in mosques. There have been requests for more, even if some reject teaching from a woman."

More:Female Imams in German Mosques Get a Mixed Reception | Germany | Deutsche Welle | 07.10.2006

Wilson Warned by Turkish Foreign Ministry Office

"Wilson Warned by Turkish Foreign Ministry Office
By Zaman, Ankara
Saturday, October 07, 2006
zaman.com

The Turkish Foreign Ministry office has warned Ross Wilson, the United States ambassador to Ankara, not to make statements about Turkey’s domestic politics after Wilson characterized in his speech the recent debates over religious fundamentalism as a “cacophony.”"

More:Wilson Warned by Turkish Foreign Ministry Office

The New Anatolian - Justice minister: Article 301 may be changed

"Justice minister: Article 301 may be changed

The New Anatolian / Ankara
07 October 2006

Justice Minister Cemil Cicek on Friday signaled that controversial Article 301 of the Turkish Penal Code (TCK) may be changed.

'We're not saying that Article 301 can't be changed, as it may be,' said Cicek. 'But we have yet to decide how.' "

More:The New Anatolian - Justice minister: Article 301 may be changed

Turkey loses another friend - Turkish Daily News Oct 07, 2006

"Turkey loses another friend
Saturday, October 7, 2006

The main reason Turkey began its membership negotiations was that between 2002 and 2004 there was Gerhard Schroeder in Germany, Silvio Berlusconi in Italy, Jacques Chirac in France and Tony Blair in the United Kingdom. If these leaders had not supported Turkey, we would still be waiting in line. "

More:Turkey loses another friend - Turkish Daily News Oct 07, 2006

Week of building bridges with Europe - Turkish Daily News Oct 07, 2006

"Week of building bridges with Europe
Saturday, October 7, 2006

Three European capitals -- Brussels, Paris and Berlin -- talked about Turkey this week. With the anniversary of the start of talks with the European Union, Turkey was on the agenda for an entire week with its politics, arts, and hopes for the future. "

More:Week of building bridges with Europe - Turkish Daily News Oct 07, 2006

Armenian News - PanARMENIAN.Net | Armenian News Agency - Ankara Warns: «France Will Lose Turkey» upon Adoption of Armenian Genocide Law

"Ankara Warns: «France Will Lose Turkey» upon Adoption of Armenian Genocide Law

/PanARMENIAN.Net/ Turkey warned France that relations between the two countries will be heavily damaged if the French Parliament adopts a law on penalty for denial of the Armenian Genocide. Turkish MFA Spokesperson Namik Tan stated that the adoption of the law on the Armenian Genocide «will imperil the outcome of the work for many years – the investments, and if this wording is appropriate, France will lose Turkey.» «The Armenian issue has poisoned bilateral relations in the past, however the law will inflict an irreversible damage upon our relations,» Tan states, RFE/RL reports.

October 12 the French Parliament will discuss a bill, providing for criminal penalty for denial of the Armenian Genocide in the form of a fine of $57 thousand or imprisonment up to 5 years."

Armenian News - PanARMENIAN.Net | Armenian News Agency - Ankara Warns: «France Will Lose Turkey» upon Adoption of Armenian Genocide Law

Backing for armed forces rebuffs EU - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"Backing for armed forces rebuffs EU

By Andrew Borowiec
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
October 7, 2006

NICOSIA, Cyprus -- Outgoing Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer threw his prestige behind the generals who insist on the military's supreme role in an escalating war between secular and religious forces. "

More:Backing for armed forces rebuffs EU - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

Friday, October 06, 2006

Middle East Online-Sarkozy: Turkey's EU entry would end political Europe

"Sarkozy: Turkey's EU entry would end political Europe

French interior minister says Turkey’s entry into EU would worsen problem of Muslim integration in Europe."

More:Middle East Online

Journeyman Pictures : short films : Turkish Tea

"Turkey - Turkish Tea - A 5 x 25 mini series min [6 October 2006]

In this beautifully made, whimsical series, we travel through Turkey - the land where East meets West. The more we learn, the less we understand. Veering off the tourist track and capturing the stories of passers by, ‘Turkish Tea’ deftly weaves a tapestry of a multifaceted society. Meet ‘Crazy Ali’, the philosopher-poet; Mustafa, who lives in a cave, and the doctor who teaches people to laugh. With its vibrant soundtrack and stunning cinematography, this delicately crafted series picks out the historical depth and poetry lurking in every corner of Turkey."

More:Journeyman Pictures : short films : Turkish Tea

Balkanende: Cyprus Issue not Criteria for Turkey’s Entry to EU

"Balkanende: Cyprus Issue not Criteria for Turkey’s Entry to EU
By Basri Dogan, Amsterdam
Friday, October 06, 2006
zaman.com

A year after the start of negotiations, Turkey and the European Union are struggling to avoid clashes over the Cyprus issue.

Dutch Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkanende said recent developments regarding Turkey’s EU bid were natural as he recalled Cyprus is not part of the Copenhagen Criteria."

More:Balkanende: Cyprus Issue not Criteria for Turkey’s Entry to EU

Turkey is heaven for foreigners - Turkish Daily News Oct 06, 2006

"Turkey is heaven for foreigners
Friday, October 6, 2006

Many athletes and coaches of different nationalities have obtained Turkish citizenship and are now competing and working for Turkey's success.

Brazilian-born Fenerbahce's attacking midfielder Mehmet (Marco) Aurelio is one of the latest to acquire Turkish nationality. Aurelio, who became a Turkish citizen in July, was called to the national team squad by coach Fatih Terim and made his debut for Turkey against Luxemburg. "

More:Turkey is heaven for foreigners - Turkish Daily News Oct 06, 2006

[ www.armenialiberty.org -Romanian Leader Rules Out Armenian Genocide Recognition

"Romanian Leader Rules Out Armenian Genocide Recognition

Irina Hovannisian

Romania will not join France and other Western states in officially accepting the massacres of Armenians in Ottoman Turkey as genocide, Romanian President Traian Basescu said on Tuesday.
"

More:[ www.armenialiberty.org ] Thursday 5, October 2006

Turkish designer’s show draws attention at Paris Fashion Week - Turkish Daily News Oct 06, 2006

"Turkish designer’s show draws attention at Paris Fashion Week
Friday, October 6, 2006

Turkish fashion designer Hüseyin Çağlayan presented his collection at the ongoing Paris Fashion Week, where world-famous fashion designers are showcasing their 2007 spring-summer collections, reported the Anatolia news agency."

More:Turkish designer’s show draws attention at Paris Fashion Week - Turkish Daily News Oct 06, 2006

Turkey to star at book fair despite writers' rows | Reuters.com

"Turkey to star at book fair despite writers' rows

By Jeffrey Goldfarb

FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Turkey will be the featured country at the Frankfurt Book Fair in 2008, a choice that could invite controversy after two recent court cases raised questions about freedom of expression in the European Union candidate.

The fair could stir up even more debate as it courts China as a potential guest for 2009, with fair officials suggesting that the sensitive topics of Taiwan and Tibet would have to be part of the programme's focus in such an eventuality."

More:Turkey to star at book fair despite writers' rows | Reuters.com

‘Admitting Turkey Will Be a Test of How Secular the EU Is’

"‘Admitting Turkey Will Be a Test of How Secular the EU Is’
By Soner Cagaptay
DW-WORLD.DE, October 4, 2006

DW-WORLD.DE: The United States has always been a strong advocate of Turkey joining the European Union. Europe agreed to formally begin accession talks a year ago, but the tide of public opinion, especially in Germany and France, is against Turkey. At best, Europeans view the US as meddling in EU internal affairs, since the decision to admit Turkey is up to all 25, soon to be 27 members (Bulgaria and Romania are set to join in 2007). Why should Turkey's status in Europe matter to the Americans?

Soner Cagaptay: Regardless of what European leaders and bureaucrats say publicly about internal meddling, US support for Turkey does make an enormous difference behind closed doors. Without American support, Turkey would not be where it is today; it would have never reached the point of starting accession talks with the EU last year"

More:Article or Op-Ed

Expatica - Turkish to boycott election over Armenian 'genocide'

"Turkish to boycott election
over Armenian 'genocide'

5 October 2006

AMSTERDAM — A large section of the Turkish community in the Netherlands is planning to boycott voting at the 22 November national elections.

The director of Turkish lobby group IOT, Ahmet Azdural, said primarily young Turkish immigrants feel that the nation's political parties don’t listen to other opinions."

More:Expatica - Living in, moving to, or working in Netherlands, plus News in English

The World From Berlin: Avoiding an EU-Turkey Ice Age - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

"Avoiding an EU-Turkey Ice Age

German Chancellor Merkel is meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan on Thursday afternoon to discuss Turkey's accession to the EU. Commentators agree on the importance of these talks, but some worry that failure could cause an unacceptable cooling-off in Turkish-European relations."

More:The World From Berlin: Avoiding an EU-Turkey Ice Age - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News

Kocharyan also Opposes French Genocide Bill

"Kocharyan also Opposes French Genocide Bill
By Ali Ihsan Aydin, Paris
Thursday, October 05, 2006
zaman.com

Armenian President Robert Kocharyan reportedly opposes the French draft law that will penalize the denial of the alleged Armenian genocide."

More:Kocharyan also Opposes French Genocide Bill

Barroso: Sudden "no" to Turkey may seem Islamophobic | International News | Reuters.com

"Barroso: Sudden 'no' to Turkey may seem Islamophobic
Thu Oct 5, 2006 8:31am ET138

PARIS (Reuters) - European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso warned European Union countries on Thursday that a sudden refusal to let Turkey join the 25-nation bloc could make the European Union seem hostile to Islam.

Barroso's comments, published in the French weekly Le Point, follow a warning on Wednesday by EU enlargement chief Olli Rehn that advocating a 'privileged partnership' with Turkey instead of full membership weakened the EU's credibility.

Some European countries have expressed concern at the idea of the bloc taking on more members after it decided to admit Bulgaria and Romania from next year. Others have suggested a watered down membership for the poor, mainly Muslim state."

More:Barroso: Sudden "no" to Turkey may seem Islamophobic | International News | Reuters.com

abanci: Fanatics in Turkey and Abroad Should not Determine our Agenda

"Sabanci: Fanatics in Turkey and Abroad Should not Determine our Agenda
By Economy News Desk
Thursday, October 05, 2006
zaman.com

Discussions are still taking place about Turkey’s future membership in the European Union, an organization that started accession talks with the Turkish government on October 3, 20005.

Omer Sabanci, head of the Turkish Industrialists and Businessmen Association, or TUSIAD, reiterated the point of Turkey having the utmost willingness to join the European Union, as formalized in its decision dated Oct. 3.

There are extremists both in Europe and in Turkey setting the agenda for us, complained Sabanci, but pledged full support to the Turkish government in its march towards the European Union. "

More:abanci: Fanatics in Turkey and Abroad Should not Determine our Agenda

Turkish Fashion Exhibition brings colour to London

"Turkish Fashion Exhibition brings colour to London

The annual Turkish Fashion and Fabric Exhibition was well received as it kicked off in Earls Court, London this week."

More:English

Report: Turkey to Deploy Troops in Lebanon - New York Times

"Report: Turkey to Deploy Troops in Lebanon

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) -- Turkey will send its first deployment of peacekeepers to Lebanon next week by dispatching about 260 soldiers to join the international force, private NTV television reported on Thursday.

The Turkish troops would be the first Muslim forces to deploy in Lebanon as part of the expanded U.N. peacekeeping operation there."

More:Report: Turkey to Deploy Troops in Lebanon - New York Times

The New Anatolian - Joint call for French common sense in 'genocide' stance

"Joint call for French common sense in 'genocide' stance

The New Anatolian / Paris
05 October 2006

The Turkish participants in Turkey-Europe Week in Paris to mark the anniversary of the start of membership talks on Wednesday called on France to behave with common sense on the issue of the Armenian genocide claims."

More:The New Anatolian - Joint call for French common sense in 'genocide' stance

Comment is free: Averting a crash on the European express

"Averting a crash on the European express

Turkey's application to join the European Union can still be salvaged, despite the opposition of rightwing populists.

The declaration in Brussels this week by the European commissioner responsible for negotiations on Turkey's application to join the EU that "there is still time to prevent a train crash" which would bring the talks to a sudden halt is good news. Olli Rehn knows in just five weeks time the European Commission must decide whether or not to recommend that membership negotiations with Turkey should continue or be called off. Little wonder then that the Turkish prime minister, Recep Erdogan, also found time this week to stop off en route from Washington to Ankara to lobby Tony Blair for continued support for Turkey's EU application. A great deal will hang on the final decision - to be taken by EU heads of government at their December summit in Brussels - about the entire future of Turkey's accession negotiations."

More:Comment is free: Averting a crash on the European express

Bloomberg.com: Germany-Merkel Visits Erdogan Amid Concern Turkey Is Turning From EU

"Merkel Visits Erdogan Amid Concern Turkey Is Turning From EU

By Mark Bentley and Claudia Rach

Oct. 5 (Bloomberg) -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel embarks on her first official visit to Turkey for talks with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan today amid concern the Muslim nation is losing faith in the European Union and turning east."

More:Bloomberg.com: Germany

Turkey Rejects Recognition of Cyprus - Prensa Latina

"Turkey Rejects Recognition of Cyprus

Ankara, Oct 5 (Prensa Latina) Turkey´s Prime Minister Recep Tayyib Erdogan, challenged the European Union on Thursday, by maintaining his country´s refusal to recognize the Greek part of Cyprus if it continues denying the Turkish part.

Open relations with the Republic of Cyprus is one of the requirements EU asked of Turkey in order to admit it after 2010."

More:Turkey Rejects Recognition of Cyprus - Prensa Latina

BBC NEWS | Europe | Merkel presses Turkey over Cyprus

"Merkel presses Turkey over Cyprus
German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Mrs Merkel has expressed doubts over Turkey joining the EU
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has urged Turkey to lift its boycott of Cyprus, during a visit to Ankara."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Merkel presses Turkey over Cyprus

Thursday, October 05, 2006

The New Anatolian - Will Turks or far-right get seats in Austrian cliffhanger elections?

"Will Turks or far-right get seats in Austrian cliffhanger elections?

The New Anatolian / Vienna
05 October 2006

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Two of the total 14 Turkish-origin candidates who ran in Sunday's cliffhanger general elections in Austria are awaiting the official results to see if they have secured seats in Parliament by ousting a far-right party's candidates. "

More:The New Anatolian - Will Turks or far-right get seats in Austrian cliffhanger elections?

People's Daily Online -- Turkey, EU to work together to maintain negotiation process: EU official

"Turkey, EU to work together to maintain negotiation process: EU official

European Union's Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn on Wednesday expressed his belief that Turkey and the EU would work together to find solution to several problems which will enable the parties to maintain the negotiation process.

Rehn, who came to Ankara to mark the first anniversary of the opening of entry talks between Turkey and the EU, made the remarks at a joint news conference with Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul in Turkish capital Ankara. "

More:People's Daily Online -- Turkey, EU to work together to maintain negotiation process: EU official

Gulf Times – Freedom of expression is non-negotiable: EU

"Freedom of expression is non-negotiable: EU
Published: Thursday, 5 October, 2006, 10:12 AM Doha Time

ANKARA: Turkey must take steps to ensure freedom of expression if it wants to join the European Union, European Enlargement Commissioner Ollie Rehn said yesterday, adding the issue was non-negotiable.
“This is not a bargaining issue. Freedom of expression is one of the fundamental values of the EU,” Rehn told the NTV television news channel. “It will be in Turkey’s interest to guarantee freedom of expression.”
Brussels has recently raised concerns over free speech in Turkey after a string of intellectuals were brought to trial under a much-criticised article of the penal code."

More:Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Europe/World

JTW News - Safak: Dutch and French Interventions will Harm All Attempts to Build Dialogue

"Safak: Dutch and French Interventions will Harm All Attempts to Build Dialogue

Thursday , 05 October 2006

* Freedom of expression in Turkey, freedom of expression in Holland

View: Elif SAFAK, Turkish Daily News
October 2006

These days Turkey is busily discussing Article 301 of the Turkish Penal Code. While the major party in opposition disappointingly resists any attempts to change this law and the government tries to navigate a nifty solution that will ideally satisfy both the voters and the EU top officials, Turkey's columnists left and right are industriously probing the implications of the article and making suggestions as to what to replace it with. Although the number of people complaining about the harmful effects of Article 301 has visibly increased, among the cultural, political and military elite, there are also those who claim that this article needs to be left intact to discipline and penalize any potential “traitors.”"

More:JTW News - Safak: Dutch and French Interventions will Harm All Attempts to Build Dialogue

Those who attack EU today will long for it tomorrow - Turkish Daily News Oct 05, 2006

"Those who attack EU today will long for it tomorrow
Thursday, October 5, 2006

Today, no one has anything good to say about the EU. Tomorrow, when the EU negotiations derail, I would like to hear what these critics will say. Do you know why those who attack the EU in order to harm the AKP will be so remorseful? "

More:Those who attack EU today will long for it tomorrow - Turkish Daily News Oct 05, 2006

The Raw Story | Turks in Netherlands reject politics over Armenian issue, report

"Turks in Netherlands reject politics over Armenian issue, report

dpa German Press Agency
Published: Thursday October 5, 2006

Amsterdam- The large Turkish minority in the Netherlands is considering a boycott of the Dutch elections in November as a result of pressure on Turkish candidates to acknowledge that Armenians suffered genocide in 1915, the daily Volkskrant reported Thursday. 'Many of the 400,000 Turks in the Netherlands regard themselves as no longer welcome and are turning their backs on politics,' Sabri Kenan Bagci, chairman of the IOT organization that speaks for Turkish interests, told the daily Volkskrant."

More:The Raw Story | Turks in Netherlands reject politics over Armenian issue, report

Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign

"Turkey promises to take Finnish Cyprus initiative seriously
A glimmer of hope could be seen on Wednesday in the increasingly strained relations between Turkey and the European Union, after Turkey promised to give a chance to Finland's initiative on Cyprus.
Turkey's Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül gave the green light to talks aimed at averting a crisis between Turkey and the EU that could be looming at the end of the year.
Speaking at a press conference in Ankara alongside Olli Rehn the European Commissioner for Enlargement, Gül praised Finland's "well-meaning and constructive" input as the current holder of the rotating EU Presidency. "

More:Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign

The Raw Story | Turks in Netherlands reject politics over Armenian issue, report

"Turks in Netherlands reject politics over Armenian issue, report

dpa German Press Agency
Published: Thursday October 5, 2006

Amsterdam- The large Turkish minority in the Netherlands is considering a boycott of the Dutch elections in November as a result of pressure on Turkish candidates to acknowledge that Armenians suffered genocide in 1915, the daily Volkskrant reported Thursday. 'Many of the 400,000 Turks in the Netherlands regard themselves as no longer welcome and are turning their backs on politics,' Sabri Kenan Bagci, chairman of the IOT organization that speaks for Turkish interests, told the daily Volkskrant."

More:The Raw Story | Turks in Netherlands reject politics over Armenian issue, report

Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign

"Turkey promises to take Finnish Cyprus initiative seriously
A glimmer of hope could be seen on Wednesday in the increasingly strained relations between Turkey and the European Union, after Turkey promised to give a chance to Finland's initiative on Cyprus.
Turkey's Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül gave the green light to talks aimed at averting a crisis between Turkey and the EU that could be looming at the end of the year.
Speaking at a press conference in Ankara alongside Olli Rehn the European Commissioner for Enlargement, Gül praised Finland's "well-meaning and constructive" input as the current holder of the rotating EU Presidency. "

More:Helsingin Sanomat - International Edition - Foreign

JTW News - Merkel’s Delicate Visit to Turkey

"Merkel’s Delicate Visit to Turkey
Print
Thursday , 05 October 2006

Emre Ozkan – JTW, Ankara / Turkey experiences busy diplomatic traffic these days. After Erdogan’s visit to the US and the UK (Bush and Blair), the German Chancellor Angela Merkel began a two-day visit to Turkey on October 5th to discuss Turkey’s EU membership process, Iran’s nuclear programme, and Iraq. "

More:JTW News - Merkel’s Delicate Visit to Turkey

theparliament.com - Merkel bids to soothe EU-Turkey relations

"Merkel bids to soothe EU-Turkey relations

German leader Angela Merkel heads to Turkey for a two day visit at a tense time for Ankara’s EU membership bid.

The chancellor starts a two day trip to Turkey on Thursday.

Berlin’s centre-right led government is sceptical about Turkey’s EU entry and has warned Ankara that it must recognise Cyprus.

“If Ankara does not comply, relevant aspects of the membership procedure will be suspended and others are likely,” FT Europe reports a German official as saying."

More:theparliament.com - Merkel bids to soothe EU-Turkey relations

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

62,500 Foreigners Own Properties In Turkey

"62,500 Foreigners Own Properties In Turkey
Published: 10/4/2006

ALANYA - According to a report, prepared by Alanya Chamber of Commerce and Industry Deputy Chairman Huseyin Erkek, the number of foreigners who possess estates in Turkey is 62,500 as in private and corporate body. The area of sold real properties is 285 million squaremeters."

More:62,500 Foreigners Own Properties In Turkey

Is Turkey Changing Sides? By Jack Kelley

"Is Turkey Changing Sides?
Perspective on the news by Jack Kelley

In the Qandil (Kandil) Mountains, where Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Syria all meet lies the ancestral homeland of the Kurds, known in history as the Medes, who were partners with Persia in defeating Babylon.

The Kurds call this area Kurdistan, but the land they refer to technically belongs to the four neighbors mentioned above, none of whom want to give it up. Turkey is perhaps the most determined, having suffered numerous terrorist attacks at the hand of the PUK, a group of militant Kurdish separatists. One of the reasons that Turkey refused to help in the current war in Iraq is that the USA refused to deny the Kurds a voice in governing post-war Iraq. "

More:Is Turkey Changing Sides? By Jack Kelley

swissinfo - Swiss Justice Minister Christoph Blocher has caused a storm in Switzerland after attacking Swiss anti-racism laws while on official visit

"Blocher's remarks cause a storm in Switzerland

The Swiss Justice Minister has attacked Swiss anti-racism laws that have led to investigations against two Turks for allegedly denying the 1915 Armenian massacre.

Christoph Blocher made his comments during an official visit to Turkey on Wednesday to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Turkey's adoption of the Swiss civil code. His words raised a storm of protest back home."

More:swissinfo - Swiss Justice Minister Christoph Blocher has caused a storm in Switzerland after attacking Swiss anti-racism laws while on official visit in Turkey.

EU Should Not Interfere In Armenia And Turkey, Sener

"EU Should Not Interfere In Armenia And Turkey, Sener
Published: 10/4/2006

BRUSSELS - Turkish State Minister & Deputy Prime Minister Abdullatif Sener warned the EU and some other countries not to interfere in Turkish-Armenian relations."

More:EU Should Not Interfere In Armenia And Turkey, Sener

Turkish firms hampered by reputation for bribery - Business - Middle East Times

"Turkish firms hampered by reputation for bribery
AFP

October 4, 2006

BRUSSELS -- Companies in Turkey have one of the world's worst reputations for paying bribes abroad, while firms in France and Italy are notorious for the practice in Africa, an anti-corruption group said Wednesday.

In its 2006 index ranking the perceived tendency of companies in the world's 30 leading export nations to pay foreign bribes, Transparency International placed Turkey fourth worst, just ahead of Russia, China, and India. "

More:Turkish firms hampered by reputation for bribery - Business - Middle East Times

Chirac's Genocide Remarks Intimidate French Firms

"Chirac's Genocide Remarks Intimidate French Firms
By Ali Ihsan Aydin, Paris
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
zaman.com

Reactions to French President Jacques Chirac, who implied during his Yerevan visit that Turkey should recognize the alleged Armenian genocide to become an EU member, are growing."

More:Chirac's Genocide Remarks Intimidate French Firms

The New Anatolian - Cengiz Candar - Erdogan's White House flirt versus Ankara elite

"Erdogan's White House flirt versus Ankara elite
Cengiz Candar

ccandar@superonline.com
04 October 2006

The clouds from the fire of the military top brass and the president fell upon Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to the White House. Looking at Turkey's newspaper columns and the headlines attests to this fact."

More:The New Anatolian - Cengiz Candar - Erdogan's White House flirt versus Ankara elite

Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Opinion

"Turks’ interest in EU fades
Published: Wednesday, 4 October, 2006, 11:41 AM Doha Time

By Paul de Bendern

ISTANBUL: The European Union information office in Istanbul has a fresh coat of paint, the furniture is new and a row of computers is on offer to tempt passers-by to discover more about the wealthy bloc that Turkey hopes to join.

But the receptionist is staring at an empty room - a reflection of a big drop in Turkish support for membership."

More:Gulf Times – Qatar’s top-selling English daily newspaper - Opinion

Swiss gov't backs Erdoğan's proposal to Armenia - Turkish Daily News Oct 04, 2006

"Swiss gov't backs Erdoğan's proposal to Armenia
Wednesday, October 4, 2006

Blocher says proposed Turkish-Armenian committee should include independent international experts as well
"

More:Swiss gov't backs Erdoğan's proposal to Armenia - Turkish Daily News Oct 04, 2006

Anti-secularist groups in power for first time in decades, says Baykal - Turkish Daily News Oct 04, 2006

"Anti-secularist groups in power for first time in decades, says Baykal
Wednesday, October 4, 2006

Speaking to his party group yesterday in Parliament, the CHP leader claimed the government was allowing Talabani to rule the country "

More:Anti-secularist groups in power for first time in decades, says Baykal - Turkish Daily News Oct 04, 2006

Today.Az - Turan Morali: "Not U.S. but EU itself will solve Turkey's membership"

"Turan Morali: 'Not U.S. but EU itself will solve Turkey's membership'

US does not intend to give an open and strong message on Turkey's EU membership, Turkish ambassador to Azerbaijan Turan Morali told journalists.

Commenting on Turkish Prime Minister Rajab Tayyib Erdogan's visit in US, the ambassador said that the problem of Turkey's acceptance to the European Union will be solved within the organization."

More:Today.Az - Turan Morali: "Not U.S. but EU itself will solve Turkey's membership"

swissinfo - Christoph Blocher is visiting Turkey, which adopted the Swiss civil code 80 years ago

"Turkey marks 80 years of Swiss civil codeAdd story to my swissinfo panel

Swiss Justice Minister Christoph Blocher has spoken of his pride that Turkey adopted Switzerland's civil code 80 years ago - in a speech at Ankara University.

Ahead of the visit, swissinfo spoke to historian and Turkey expert Hans-Lukas Kieser about how the Islamic sense of justice and European legislation came together.

Blocher's trip to Turkey comes at a time of strained relations between the two countries.
"

More:swissinfo - Christoph Blocher is visiting Turkey, which adopted the Swiss civil code 80 years ago

Ramadan in Germany: 'My heart has grown cold in this place'

"Ramadan in Germany: 'My heart has grown cold in this place'

Norderstedt, Germany - At a mosque in Germany's northernmost state, the men's eyes sparkle for a moment as they watch pictures on Turkish television of thousands of people ending the day's Ramadan fast in Istanbul.

Here in Germany it is a far cry from the bustle and excitement of that great iftar, the Muslim's sundown meal in the month of day-long fasting. Two dozen men have gathered here to eat a more modest iftar. "

More:Ramadan in Germany: 'My heart has grown cold in this place'

ITPBusiness.net {Features: Turkish delight}

"Turkish delight

by Joseph Mortimer
Advanced Tools

Istanbul is a melting pot of Arabic and European traditions and influences that appeal to Middle East nationals and ex-pats alike.
Since the Turkish government made the decision to grant GCC citizens visas on arrival on September 1, 2002, the country has witnessed an influx of holidaymakers from this region."

More:ITPBusiness.net {Features: Turkish delight}

JTW News - Should Turkey Not Enter the European Union?

"Should Turkey Not Enter the European Union?
Print
Wednesday , 04 October 2006

View: Sedat Laciner

Until now, I have strongly defended Turkey’s EU membership. I have thought that this would significantly contribute to Turkey, the EU, the world peace, stability and economy. However, the recent developments make me question my thoughts on the issue. I can’t help but ask myself if I am wrong? "

More:JTW News - Should Turkey Not Enter the European Union?

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

Turk jailed for life for 'honor killing' of sister - Women - Middle East Times

Turk jailed for life for 'honor killing' of sister - Women - Middle East Times: "Turk jailed for life for 'honor killing' of sister
AFP

October 3, 2006

BERLIN -- A 25-year-old Turkish man was sentenced to life imprisonment by a German court Friday for murdering his sister in a so-called honor killing because she was in a relationship with a German.
"

World Politics Watch |Turkey and Europe: An Invitation To Dance?

"Turkey and Europe: An Invitation To Dance?
Handan T. Satiroglu | Bio | 03 Oct 2006
World Politics Watch Exclusive

ANKARA, Turkey -- Not since the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire -- the seat of the 400-year old Turkish Muslim caliphate -- have Europeans been so preoccupied with Turkey. As poor Muslim immigrants from the Middle East and Africa flood the gates of Europe in search of work, the prospect of Turkey's accession into the EU has provoked the EU's most heated existential crisis to date."

More:World Politics Watch |Turkey and Europe: An Invitation To Dance?

President Bush Welcomes Prime Minister Erdogan of Turkey to the White House

"President Bush Welcomes Prime Minister Erdogan of Turkey to the White House
Oval Office


video screen capture
multimedia

President's Remarks
video image view


Fact sheet In Focus: Global Diplomacy

11:40 A.M. EDT

PRESIDENT BUSH: Mr. Prime Minister, welcome back to Washington. We just had a extensive and important dialogue about how Turkey and the United States can and must work together to achieve peace. We talked about our determined efforts to fight terror and extremism. We talked about our common efforts to bring stability to the Middle East."

More"President Bush Welcomes Prime Minister Erdogan of Turkey to the White House

EurasiaNet Eurasia Insight - Turkey Heads into Critical Period for EU Accession Bid

"EURASIA INSIGHT

TURKEY HEADS INTO CRITICAL PERIOD FOR EU ACCESSION BID
Mevlut Katik 10/03/06

Turkey is struggling to keep its European Union membership aspirations alive on the first anniversary of the start of accession talks. The next few days could prove pivotal for Ankara.

The EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Olli Rehn, arrived in Turkey on October 2, issuing a warning: Ankara urgently needs to "relaunch" its liberalization drive, otherwise accession talks could well end in a "train crash." Offering specifics, Rehn called on Turkish leaders to abolish or rework legislation, known as article 301, which has been used in recent attempts to muzzle free speech, as well as permit vessels and planes from Cyprus, a new EU member, to dock or land in Turkey. [For background see the Eurasia Insight archive]. In addition, Rehn said Turkey had to strengthen civilian control over the military, which has traditionally acted as a guardian of Turkey’s secularist tradition, and thus has often involved itself in Turkish politics. [For background see the Eurasia Insight archive]."

More:EurasiaNet Eurasia Insight - Turkey Heads into Critical Period for EU Accession Bid

The Anatolia Times-Turkish hijackers seek asylum: minister

"Turkish hijackers seek asylum: minister
ANKARA - The two Turks who hijacked a Turkish Airliner to Italy on Tuesday are seeking political asylum and there are no indications that they are protesting against the pope`s planned visit to Turkey as initially reported, Transport Minister Binali Yildirim said.

'The information concerning the pope was not confirmed... According to the information we just received these persons are seeking political asylum and have said so to the (Italian) police,' Yildirim told NTV television."

More:The Anatolia Times

The New Anatolian - European Commissioner opposes Chirac's 'genocide' condition for Turkey

"European Commissioner opposes Chirac's 'genocide' condition for Turkey

The New Anatolian / Yerevan
03 October 2006

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A European Commissioner and former Belgian foreign minister late Sunday opposed the French president's statements in which he stressed that recognition of the Armenian genocide claims should be a precondition to Turkey's European Union membership."

More:The New Anatolian - European Commissioner opposes Chirac's 'genocide' condition for Turkey

A Coming Papal Visit Focuses Anger Among the Turks - New York Times

"A Coming Papal Visit Focuses Anger Among the Turks

ISTANBUL, Sept. 30 — A novel was published here in May, winning more notoriety than sales, called “Assassination of a Pope.”

It was inspired not by the attempt on the life of Pope John Paul II by a Turkish gunman in 1981, but by the trip to Turkey of his successor, Benedict XVI, who is coming to this overwhelmingly Muslim country in late November primarily to meet the Orthodox patriarch, who lives in Istanbul. "

More:A Coming Papal Visit Focuses Anger Among the Turks - New York Times

The Turkish military and EU: A case of misapprehension - Turkish Daily News Oct 03, 2006

"The Turkish military and EU: A case of misapprehension
Tuesday, October 3, 2006

Turkey has once again begun to debate its regime. After a hiatus of a few years, the threats of 'fundamentalism and separatism,' as defined in our political literature, are once again dominating the agenda. "

More:The Turkish military and EU: A case of misapprehension - Turkish Daily News Oct 03, 2006

Hürriyet - Erdogan warns Bush: Kirkuk must be awarded special status

"Erdogan warns Bush: Kirkuk must be awarded special status

In the meeting between Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and US President George W. Bush yesterday, the subject of the Northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk did arise, in light of the Kurdish-backed push to have Kirkuk added to the autonomous Kurdish-run region of Northern Iraq. PM Erdogan expressed concern on this issue to Bush, noting that the Ankara stance was that Kirkuk should be awarded a special status. "

More:Hürriyet - Erdogan warns Bush: Kirkuk must be awarded special status

The Darfur Challenge: A Turkish Opportunity?

"The Darfur Challenge: A Turkish Opportunity?
by
Richard Falk and Hilal Elver

Since 2003, the Darfur region of western Sudan, roughly the size of France, has been the scene of the world’s worst humanitarian catastrophe.

So far reliable estimates put the death toll at least as high as 200,000, plus more than 2 million displaced from their homes, living precariously in camps, and wholly dependent for survival on international humanitarian assistance. In addition, there are 208,000 refugees from Darfur living across the border in Chad, and almost half of the overall population of 6 million in Darfur is malnourished, and at imminent risk of famine due to disrupted food supplies."

More:The Darfur Challenge: A Turkish Opportunity?

Turkey to see first TV documentary on Ottomans - Turkish Daily News Oct 03, 2006

"Turkey to see first TV documentary on Ottomans
Tuesday, October 3, 2006

Turkish state television TRT said on Monday it will soon air its first documentary on the surviving members of the exiled Ottoman dynasty, triggering questions from the country's secular circles on whether such a film is necessary."

More:Turkey to see first TV documentary on Ottomans - Turkish Daily News Oct 03, 2006

EUobserver.com-Bush says Turkish EU membership in US 'interest'

"Bush says Turkish EU membership in US 'interest'
03.10.2006 - 09:50 CET | By Mark Beunderman
One year after the start of Turkey's accession talks with the EU, US president George W. Bush has said it is 'in the interest' of Washington that Ankara joins the bloc.

The US leader made his remarks after meeting Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday – a day before the anniversary date of 3 October which marks the kick-off of Turkey's official EU membership negotiations one year ago."

More:EUobserver.com

The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul takes lead in various charity programs - Turkish Daily News Oct 03, 2006

"The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul takes lead in various charity programs
Tuesday, October 3, 2006

Many people in Turkey remember their social responsibilities only during the holy month of Ramadan, but The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul has been working year round on countless social projects in various fields such as education and social services since its opening."

More:The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul takes lead in various charity programs - Turkish Daily News Oct 03, 2006

Backstory: Teetering in the treetops in Turkey | csmonitor.com

"Backstory: Teetering in the treetops in Turkey
Above ancient Olympos dangle dozens of treehouses. But be warned: They're not for the fussy.
By Amelia Thomas | Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor
OLYMPOS, TURKEY – I'd heard tell of a place, on the southern coast of Turkey, where travelers live in trees. Where, deep in the forest, lie the fragmented remains of a 2,000-year-old city. Where the mountainside flickers with mythical eternal flames that spring spontaneously from the rocky ground, and where an azure sea, dotted with antique wooden barks, just begs to be dipped into.

It sounded like something from 'The Lord of the Rings,' and when we rolled up in time to watch the sun set behind the craggy peaks that frame the bay of ancient Olympos, it was easy to imagine Gollum springing about."

More:Backstory: Teetering in the treetops in Turkey | csmonitor.com

Monday, October 02, 2006

SABAH Newspaper English Edition - National - Erdoğan and Bush discuss PKK without mentioning its name

"Erdoğan and Bush don't mention PKK's name

White House meeting of Erdoğan and Bush went longer and warmer than expected. Two leaders agreed on fighting with PKK without mentioning the terror organization's name.

The meeting of Erdoğan and Bush which was planned to long normally one hour was extended 45 minutes. Two leaders discussed all issues including Iran, Iraq and Middle East. After the meeting, Bush said: 'we will fight with terrorist organizations.'"

More:SABAH Newspaper English Edition - National - Erdoğan and Bush discuss PKK without mentioning its name

EU enlargement chief arrives in Turkey to discuss troubled EU membership bid - iht,europe,Turkey EU - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"EU enlargement chief arrives in Turkey to discuss troubled EU membership bid
The Associated Press

Published: October 2, 2006

ANKARA, Turkey The European Union's top official in charge of enlargement arrived in Turkey on Monday for a three-day visit expected to focus on the country's troubled bid to join the EU.

A year ago, Turkey opened membership talks with the aim of becoming the EU's only Muslim member nation, but its refusal to allow Greek Cypriot ships and planes to enters its ports threatens to put those talks on hold.
"

More:EU enlargement chief arrives in Turkey to discuss troubled EU membership bid - iht,europe,Turkey EU - Europe - International Herald Tribune

Travel Video Television News-TURKEY INVITES SHOPPERS TO LOOK BEYOND ISTANBUL'S GRAND BAZAAR

"TURKEY INVITES SHOPPERS TO LOOK BEYOND ISTANBUL'S GRAND BAZAAR
Oct 02, 06 | 3:26 pm

Istanbul, Turkey, October 2, 2006 - Ever since its days at the center of the Silk Road connecting Europe and Asia, Turkey has offered shoppers an incomparable selection of goods presented in a variety of inviting environments, from open street markets and covered bazaars, to modern shopping malls and designer boutiques."

More:Travel Video Television News

Bush, Turkish PM renew resolve on counter-terrorism | Politics News | Reuters.com

"Bush, Turkish PM renew resolve on counter-terrorism
Mon Oct 2, 2006 4:55pm ET173

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Bush and Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan on Monday renewed their resolve to cooperate against terrorism, as Turkey pushes to step up diplomatic pressure on Kurdish guerrillas."

More:Bush, Turkish PM renew resolve on counter-terrorism | Politics News | Reuters.com

Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Turkish Military in New Power Play

"Turkish Military in New Power Play


Monday October 2, 2006 8:16 PM

AP Photo IST108

By SELCAN HACAOGLU

Associated Press Writer

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Turkey's top general on Monday accused the Islamic-rooted ruling party of nurturing fundamentalism, in harsh comments that may indicate a renewed resolve by the military to force its way into the center of the country's political life."

More:Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Turkish Military in New Power Play

United Press International - Intl. Intelligence - Analysis: Turkey, unifier of East & West

"Analysis: Turkey, unifier of East & West
By CLAUDE SALHANI
UPI International Editor

WASHINGTON, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Sunday that 'global peace is under the threat of global terrorism.'

Mankind is suffering greatly because of a serious lack of communication between different cultures, Erdogan said. 'We will either all win, or we will all lose.'

'Darkness is never infinite,' said Erdog"

More:United Press International - Intl. Intelligence - Analysis: Turkey, unifier of East & West

BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish army rejects rebel truce

"Turkish army rejects rebel truce
Turkish General Yasar Buyukanit
The Turkish military sees itself as a guardian of secular values
Turkey's top general has rejected a unilateral ceasefire by armed Kurdish rebels, vowing to fight on 'until not a single armed terrorist is left'.

General Yasar Buyukanit, the new chief of military staff, said the PKK must 'lay down arms unconditionally and give themselves up'."

More:BBC NEWS | Europe | Turkish army rejects rebel truce

EasyBourse actualité - Bush Repeats Support For Turkey's EU Ambitions

"Bush Repeats Support For Turkey's EU Ambitions
Monday October 2nd, 2006 / 19h11

WASHINGTON -(Dow Jones)- President George W. Bush, meeting Monday with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, repeated his support for Turkey's drive to join the European Union.
'I made it very clear to the prime minister I think it's in the United States' interests that Turkey join the European Union,' Bush said at an Oval Office photo opportunity following the meeting. "

More:EasyBourse actualité - Bush Repeats Support For Turkey's EU Ambitions

JTW News - Contradictory 'Genocide' Defense from Dutch PM

"Contradictory 'Genocide' Defense from Dutch PM

Monday , 02 October 2006

The Turkey report adopted by the European Parliament, the removal of three Turkish candidates from the elections list in the Netherlands and the statements of French President Jacques Chirac in Armenia have brought the debate over the alleged Armenian genocide to the fore. "

More:JTW News - Contradictory 'Genocide' Defense from Dutch PM

JTW News - 'If our Friends don't Help us, we will do it Ourselves'

"'If our Friends don't Help us, we will do it Ourselves
Monday , 02 October 2006

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul issued important messages about the fight against the outlawed terrorist organization Kurdish Workers’ Party (PKK) on Sunday before the important White House meeting between U.S. President George W. Bush and Recep Tayyip Erdogan."

More:JTW News - 'If our Friends don't Help us, we will do it Ourselves'

Sailing through Byzantium is such a Turkish delight - Irish Independent

"Sailing through Byzantium is such a Turkish delight
Monday October 2nd 2006
click here to enlarge

Istanbul is many things to many people. But to our ORLA TIMMINS it means mashed aubergine, dozy cats and jewellery made of camel bone

ARRIVING into Istanbul, you could be forgiven for thinking that you are in any European city, but once you leave the modern Ataturk Airport, you soon realise this is a very different weekend destination."

More:Sailing through Byzantium is such a Turkish delight - Irish Independent

Turkey needs a visionary leader like Atatürk, says Ertuğrul Osman - Turkish Daily News Oct 02, 2006

"Turkey needs a visionary leader like Atatürk, says Ertuğrul Osman
Monday, October 2, 2006

A constitutional monarchy might have been established in Turkey, but the last sultan left Istanbul to avert a civil war, says Ertuğrul Osman, who would have been the last man in direct line for accession to the Ottoman throne if Turkey had not become a republic in 1923
"

More:Turkey needs a visionary leader like Atatürk, says Ertuğrul Osman - Turkish Daily News Oct 02, 2006

Turkey moves up to 20th in GDP - Turkish Daily News Oct 02, 2006

"Turkey moves up to 20th in GDP
Monday, October 2, 2006

Turkey will be ranked 20th in the world with an expected gross domestic product (GDP) of $400.4 billion in 2007, reported the Anatolian news agency.

According to a recent report released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Turkey's GDP will increase 66.4 percent from $240.6 billion in 2003 to $400.4 billion in 2007. Turkey was 22nd in GDP in 2003. "

More:Turkey moves up to 20th in GDP - Turkish Daily News Oct 02, 2006

FOXNews.com - Turkey Prime Minister to Meet With Bush - Politics | Republican Party | Democratic Party | Political Spectrum

"Turkey Prime Minister to Meet With Bush

Monday, October 02, 2006

By FOSTER KLUG, Associated Press Writer

* E-MAIL STORY
* PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION

WASHINGTON — A deep cultural misunderstanding between Western and Muslim societies is fueling radical groups around the world, Turkey's prime minister says.

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan was scheduled to meet Monday with President Bush at the White House.

In remarks Sunday night at Georgetown University, Erdogan said overcoming differences between the West and Muslims'requires global cooperation.'

'We will either all win, or we will all lose,'he said."

More:FOXNews.com - Turkey Prime Minister to Meet With Bush - Politics | Republican Party | Democratic Party | Political Spectrum

theparliament.com - France adds to EU pressure on Turkey

"France adds to EU pressure on Turkey

French president Jacques Chirac has pressed Turkey to recognise the role played by Ankara in the Armenian genocide during WW1.

Chirac’s comments came during a visit to Armenia over the weekend and could indicate a hardening of France’s stance towards Turkey’s EU membership."

More:theparliament.com - France adds to EU pressure on Turkey

Hürriyet - Former Belgian FM Michel speaks in support of Turkish EU membership

"Former Belgian FM Michel speaks in support of Turkish EU membership

Support for Turkey in the face of pressure from within the EU to accept Armenian claims of genocide has come from EU Commission member and former Belgian Foreign Minister Louis Michel. Speaking on the subject, Michel said yesterday 'New political criteria cannot be put in front of Turkey for it to gain EU membership. Turkey has great importance for the EU. It is enough just to look and see where energy lines cross eachother to understand this.' "

More:Hürriyet - Former Belgian FM Michel speaks in support of Turkish EU membership

CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Other Views :: Anti-Americanism on the rise in Turkey

"Anti-Americanism on the rise in Turkey

October 2, 2006
BY JOEL SPRAYREGEN
Concerns expressed last week by Turkish army commanders that their country's democracy is threatened underscore the importance of today's White House meeting between President Bush and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Those of us who have advocated strong Turkish-U.S. relations understand that Turkey's secular-democratic identity established it as a unique bridge between Mideast and West."

More:CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Other Views :: Anti-Americanism on the rise in Turkey

Report: Antique carpets and rugs missing from Turkish museum - iht,europe,Turkey Museum Theft - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"Report: Antique carpets and rugs missing from Turkish museum
The Associated Press

Published: October 2, 2006

ANKARA, Turkey More than 70 antique carpets and rugs have gone missing from the same museum in western Turkey where a 6th century B.C. treasure of King Croesus was stolen and replaced with a fake, Turkey's state-owned news agency reported Monday.

The Anatolia news agency said officials going through Usak museum's storehouse, could not find 71 of the 210 antique carpets and kilims, or oriental rugs, which had been removed from mosques around the province and taken to the museum for safekeeping.
"

More:Report: Antique carpets and rugs missing from Turkish museum - iht,europe,Turkey Museum Theft - Europe - International Herald Tribune

Sunday, October 01, 2006

Aljazeera.Net - Two steps forward, one step back

"Two steps forward, one step back
By Jody Sabral

Saturday 30 September 2006, 2:27 Makka Time, 23:27 GMT

Turkey's road to membership of the EU has been losing momentum ever since it entered accession talks last year, with the latest blow coming via a new report that heavily criticises the country’s record on human rights and freedom of speech."

More:Aljazeera.Net - Two steps forward, one step back

Turkey belongs in the European Union | csmonitor.com

"Turkey belongs in the European Union
Full Turkish membeship would do much to stabilize its turbulent Middle East neighborhood.
By John K. Cooley
ATHENS – It's time for policymakers of the 25 European Union (EU) nations, as well as leaders of 70 million Turks, to take a deep breath, step back, and carefully consider whether it's wise to halt or impede Turkey's effort to join the EU.

Turkey's pro-Western government, along with a majority of its business leaders and its secular-minded, Westernized military, is committed to accession. But some Turkish politicians who have favored membership for decades have recently expressed doubts because of widespread European rejection."

More:Turkey belongs in the European Union | csmonitor.com

Turkish prime minister calls for cooperation between Western and Muslim societies - iht,america,US Turkey - Americas - International Herald Tribune

"Turkish prime minister calls for cooperation between Western and Muslim societies
The Associated Press

Published: October 1, 2006

WASHINGTON Turkey's prime minister on Sunday urged better cooperation between Western and Muslim societies, saying deep cultural misunderstanding was fueling radical groups around the world.

"Global peace is under the threat of global terrorism at the moment, and mankind is suffering greatly because of ... a serious lack of communication between different cultures," Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan told an audience at Georgetown University. "We will either all win, or we will all lose." "

More:Turkish prime minister calls for cooperation between Western and Muslim societies - iht,america,US Turkey - Americas - International Herald Tribune

Portsmouth Herald Travel and Tourism News: Men In Towels

"Men In Towels

By Gordon McCollester

At quarter to five in the morning the muezzin was calling to prayer -- his chanting amplified through a loudspeaker from a minaret on one of the several mosques surrounding our hotel. When the muezzin paused, another muezzin started his chant and at this early hour we are introduced to the dueling muezzins of Istanbul."

More:Portsmouth Herald Travel and Tourism News: Men In Towels

Australian Newspaper Insults Ataturk

"Australian Newspaper Insults Ataturk
By Anka, Sidney
Sunday, October 01, 2006
zaman.com

An Australian newspaper published a cartoon showing Australian Finance Minister Peter Costello pulling Ataturk’s body from his grave.

In the cartoon, Ataturk was holding a paper that read “Armenian genocide.”"

More:Australian Newspaper Insults Ataturk

Reuters AlertNet - Turkey seeks US help on rebels as ceasefire starts

"Turkey seeks US help on rebels as ceasefire starts
01 Oct:58:13 GMT
Source: Reuters

By Daren Butler

ISTANBUL, Oct 1 (Reuters) - Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan will urge the United States to take concrete action to crack down on Kurdish guerrillas in Iraq, newspapers said on Sunday, as a unilateral rebel ceasefire went into effect."

MoreŞReuters AlertNet - Turkey seeks US help on rebels as ceasefire starts

One year on; Turkey faces EU derailment

"One year on, Turkey faces EU derailment

October 1, 2006

By Paul Taylor, European Affairs Editor

BRUSSELS, Oct 1 (Reuters) - A year after Turkey's historic opening of negotiations to join the European Union, it is hard to escape a mood of gloom and mutual estrangement.

A growing number of Europeans are not sure they want the vast, poor, overwhelmingly Muslim country to join, according to opinion polls, and an increasing number of Turks feel the EU is treating them unfairly and are looking eastwards to Iran."

More:One year on; Turkey faces EU derailment

Turkish president says Christian leaders must avoid statements offending Muslims - iht,europe,Turkey Pope - Europe - International Herald Tribune

"Turkish president says Christian leaders must avoid statements offending Muslims
The Associated Press

Published: October 1, 2006

ANKARA, Turkey Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer said Sunday Christian leaders should avoid making statements that could offend Muslims, saying the world was going through sensitive times.

Although Sezer did not make any direct reference to Pope Benedict XVI, his remarks clearly referred to the pontiff's Sept. 12 speech, which included a reference to a Byzantine emperor who characterized some teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as "evil and inhuman" such as spreading Islam "by the sword.""

More:Turkish president says Christian leaders must avoid statements offending Muslims - iht,europe,Turkey Pope - Europe - International Herald Tribune

Turkish Minister: Iraq Must Stay Together - Newsweek: World News - MSNBC.com

"'Whatever Is Necessary'
Turkey's foreign minister speaks out on terrorism, Iraq and the prospect of a negotiated end to Iran's nuclear program

By Lally Weymouth
Newsweek

Oct. 9, 2006 issue - Turkey's foreign minister, Abdullah Gul, was in New York last week and spoke bluntly with NEWSWEEK's Lally Weymouth about how the Turkish government sees the situation in Iraq. He warned that if the Iraqi Kurds did not curb the PKK terrorist group, Turkey may take matters into its own hands. Excerpts: "

More:Turkish Minister: Iraq Must Stay Together - Newsweek: World News - MSNBC.com

Turkey gives inspiration to Polish artist - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

"Turkey gives inspiration to Polish artist
Sunday, October 1, 2006

Instructor and painter Marek Brzozowski said there are many things in Turkey that inspire him in his art and that Turkey is an ideal country for any artist to find inspiration for their work.

Speaking to the Turkish Daily News prior to the Thursday opening of an exhibition of his paintings at Bilkent University's Library Art Gallery, the Polish painter said everything in Turkey inspires his imagination to create his work and that he uses everything in his environment that purpose. "

More:Turkey gives inspiration to Polish artist - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

Gourmand's corner - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

"Gourmand's corner
Sunday, October 1, 2006

Mongolian Chicken:

Ingredients (Serves 4):

2 tsp peanut oil 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp sugar 2 tsp cornstarch 10 oz boneless skinless chicken breasts cut on diagonal into 1/4"-thick by 2"-long slices 1/2 tsp minced garlic 2 tsp freshly-ground chilies 1/2 tsp finely-chopped onion 2 tsp cold water 2 tsp sugar 1 tbl peanut oil 1/3 cup chicken broth 1 tsp dark soy sauce 4 x dried mushrooms soaked in warm water for 45 minutes, rinsed, water squeezed out, stems discarded, caps halved 3 x spring onions, mainly white cut into 2" lengths 1/2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp cold water for thickening 1 tsp sesame oil 2 tsp ground bean sauce "

More:Gourmand's corner - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

The mythological story of the Chimera - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

"The mythological story of the Chimera
Sunday, October 1, 2006

In ancient Greece, there was a young man named Bellerophon, who lived in the city of Argos and possessed the looks of god. His only wish was to possess the flying horse Pegasus. One day, the gods revealed to him in a dream how he might possess the flying horse. Just as they told him, he caught the horse with a golden bridle while it was drinking water."

More:The mythological story of the Chimera - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

Turkish virtuoso Gülsin Onay talks of her love for music - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

"Turkish virtuoso Gülsin Onay talks of her love for music
Sunday, October 1, 2006

Internationally acclaimed Turkish pianist Gülsin Onay, ahead of her busy schedule in the upcoming concert season, was in Bodrum throughout August for the Gümüşlük Music Festival, where she serves as artistic advisor."

More:Turkish virtuoso Gülsin Onay talks of her love for music - Turkish Daily News Oct 01, 2006

Armenians: EU wrong on Turkey - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper

"Armenians: EU wrong on Turkey

By Andrew Borowiec
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
October 1, 2006

NICOSIA, Cyprus -- The Armenian quest for Turkey's admission that it massacred ethnic Armenians nearly a century ago has suffered a setback with an EU decision to drop the historic 'guilt clause' as a requirement for EU membership. "

More:Armenians: EU wrong on Turkey - World - The Washington Times, America's Newspaper