Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey sweep, June 2

Armenia

1. President of Armenia Serzh Sargsyan traveled to Rostov-on-Don where he met with Dimitry Medvedev today to discuss economic and regional issues.

2. Armenia President said today in his speech to Rostov -on –Don Armenian community about Turkey : “Today, we have nothing to talk about with unreliable partner, who periodically violates previous agreements”

Azerbaijan

1. The head of the delegation of Azerbaijan, MP Ganira Pashayeva, said today in her speech in the capital of Qatar in the 10th Forum in Doha that continuing its occupation policy, Armenia inflicts great damage to the regional cooperation

2. Chairman of the Center for Political Innovation and Technology Mubariz Ahmedoglu said that Azerbaijan has supported Turkey's position after the Israeli armed attack on humanitarian convoy.

3. U.S. State Department special envoy on Eurasian energy, Richard Morningstar said at the Center for Strategic Studies "there will not be South Corridor without the gas from Azerbaijan and, in particular, without gas from the second stage of development of Shah Deniz. […] We welcome recent progress on the expansion of the project and are interested in working with the Kazakh government and investors to increase the supply of oil from the Caspian region to world markets via Kazakhstan-Azerbaijan Caspian oil transportation system,"

4. Azerbaijan's gas export to different directions will be 7.8 billion cubic meters in 2010, Industry and Energy Minister Natig Aliyev said. He said the country will export 6.4 billion cubic meters of gas to Turkey, Georgia - 0.3 billion, Russia - 1 billion and Iran - 0.1 billion.

5. An Azerbaijani pressure group attempted on 2 June to picket the Israeli embassy in Baku in protest against the deadly Israeli attack on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla that was also carrying two Azerbaijani nationals.

Georgia

1. A basic draft of amendments and additions to the constitution of Georgia will be reviewed by the Venice Commission at the plenary session on June 4-5. The meeting of state constitutional commission on May 11 adopted the base variant of the draft prepared under the guidance of chairman of the commission. The project clearly defined and balanced functions of the president

and the executive power; increased function of the parliament in terms of the formation of executive power, and control of the president and the government.

2. Viktor Zubkov, the Russian first deputy prime minister, who is heading a Russian delegation at a session of the Council of the Baltic Sea States, said that the position of the Lithuanian parliament, which adopted a pro-Georgian resolution on June 1, is unacceptable to Russia.The resolution of the Lithuanian parliament speaks of support for Georgia's territorial integrity with the autonomous entities of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

3. Georgia's President Mikhail Saakashvili is paying an official visit to Romania, on June 2 and 3, to meet Romania's President Traian Basescu.

Turkey

1. Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of Turkey Yusuf Yazar said at the 17th  International Conference "Caspian Oil and Gas" held in Baku that Nabucco Pipeline project is a priority for Turkey. "Turkey wants to play a major constructive role in the transportation of gas from the Caspian region to Europe. We will take all measures to ensure the realization of this project," he said.

2. Turkey said it was expecting firm counter-terrorism messages from the senior Kurdish official Massoud Barzani in his first visit to Ankara in six years. Despite arranged meetings with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu, President Abdullah Gül preferred not to meet with Barzani.

3. A Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) official announced Wednesday statistics of the Turkish forces activities and the death toll caused by the clashes between them in May. PKK Foreign Relations Official Ahmet Deniz said Wednesday that according to the statistical figures, Turkey staged 25 land operations in May on the Kurdish region in Turkey, in addition to two air strikes.The Turkish operations resulted in 21 clashes between PKK fighters and the Turkish troops, Deniz said, before adding that "78 Turkish soldiers have been killed and nine PKK guerrillas"

4. Five guerrillas have lost their lives during clashes that erupted on May 26 and May 31 in Dersim-Bingol area and in Hatay, said the People’s Defense Forces.

5. "A joint investment bank will be established at Iran-Turkey border following the endorsement of a relevant agreement by the Turkish, Iraqi and Iranian sides," Governor-General of Iran's northwestern province of West Azarbaijan Vahid Jalalzadeh said. Iran and Turkey enjoy excellent ties at present, " and the two countries' cooperation in different sectors has experienced remarkable growth", he stressed. 

6. Turkey and Greece lifted on Tuesday night restrictions on diplomatic passages through Pazarkale border crossing in Edirne and Kastanies border, the Greek Consulate in the northwestern province of Edirne said on Wednesday.

7. The Turkish Chamber of Industry of Kayseri (KAYSO) has signed a cooperation protocol with the Chamber of Industry of Spanish city of Zaragoza on Wednesday.

8. A military base located in the districts of Işıklı and Kavuşak of the town Çukurca was attacked last night. Three soldiers were wounded. One of the wounded died late in a military hospital.

9. Shops were closed today in Idil to protest against the Turkish military operations.

10. Senior Balkan and EU leaders will gather in Sarajevo on June 2 at an EU-Balkan summit. A Turkish delegation is attending the summit.

Israel/Turkey

1. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said on June 2 that none of the countries had a privilege before international laws, adding that all countries, including Israel, were subject to these laws. Davutoglu said that human rights violations in Palestine and embargo on Gaza were crimes of humanity, and could not be pursued.

2. A Turkish military plane has taken off from Ben Gurion International Airport, carrying ten people injured in an IDF raid on the flotilla to Gaza Monday. More planes are scheduled to depart today. 3. Ankara's diplomatic confrontation with Israel over the bloody seizure of an aid ship bound for Gaza has boosted Turkey's popularity among Arabs who long to see their own governments show similar resolve.

4. The Turkish parliament on Wednesday unanimously adopted a declaration urging the UN Security Council to impose sanctions against Israel in connection with a recent deadly attack on a Gaza-bound aid convoy. "This attack is a blatant violation of the UN Charter and the international law. In this respect, the Turkish parliament expects the Security Council to adopt as soon as possible a resolution condemning Israel and imposing sanctions," the parliament said.

5. Thousands of Israeli tourists have cancelled reservations to Turkey after a deadly Israeli raid on aid ships bound for Gaza, the Turkish press Wednesday quoted Turkey’s tourism minister Tourism Minister Ertugrul Gunay as saying. "Turkey is a close destination in the Middle East for Israeli citizens to visit and holiday safely. This will still be the case in the future," he said. "We have no problems with the Israeli people."

6. More than 40 British activists detained in Israel were deported to Turkey, the Turkish Foreign Office has confirmed.

7. Turkey's parliament called on the government on June 2 to review all ties with Israel as the country prepared a huge welcome home for hundreds of Turks detained after Israel's bloody raid on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Israel agreed not to charge the activists after Turkey applied diplomatic pressure."We have clearly stated that we would review our ties with Israel if all Turks not released by the end of the day," Davutoglu told a news conference. "No one has the right to try people who were kidnapped in international waters."

8. A rocket attack by terrorists on a naval base killed seven soldiers and wounded six others in the southern province of Hatay's Iskenderun district on Monday shortly after midnight. Some Turkish politicians have speculated over a possible relationship between this incident and the Israeli attack.

9. Dozens of Jordanians gathered on Tuesday in front of the Turkish embassy in Amman to "pay tribute" to Ankara's role in the Freedom Flotilla and the victims of the Israeli raid on the humanitarian aid ships.

10. On Wednesday, the employees of UN organizations in Lebanon condemned, in a meeting held at the headquarter of United Nations in Lebanon the Israeli attack on Gaza-bound flotilla carrying humanitarian aid, according to a statement released by the organizations.

11. Turkey has taken tight security measures to protect its Jewish minority as well as Israel's diplomatic missions in response to increased tensions following Israel's raid on a Turkish-flagged aid ship, Turkish Interior Minister Besir Atalay said Wednesday.

12. The Human Rights Inspection Committee of the Turkish Parliament will send the letter condemn the Israeli attack on Gaza-bound aid flotilla to the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council, Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe (COE), and the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights.

13. In interview with Army Radio, former Israeli PM Olmert says that the current government should make a big effort to improve relationship with the world and avoid sinking into isolation. Olmert added that Israel's relationship with Turkey is strategically important. "I think it is possible to repair the relationship [with Turkey]," he said.

Armenia

1. Russian President to visit Armeniahttp://www.news.az/articles/16693Wed 02 June 2010 | 06:40 GMT Text size: Presidents of Armenia and Russia Serzh Sargsyan and Dmitry Medvedev met in Rostov-on-Don today to discuss economic and regional issues.

"Right now we are holding meetings to exchange views on the current situation, especially because it requires this from us. There are, of course, economic issues, which are always discussed during your visits (to Russia) and my visits to you ( Armenia ) ", said Dmitriy Medvedev.

He also said that he intends to share the results of some of his meetings with European colleagues, including the situation around the Armenian-Turkish settlement. "There is something to tell and something to share," said Dmitriy Medvedev.

He thanked S.Sargsyan for participation in the celebrations of the 65th anniversary of Victory in Moscow. According to Dmitriy Medvedev, it shows the "degree of closeness of our countries and the progressive development of strategic relations.”

Serzh Sargsyan, in turn, noted the importance of working meetings between the two presidents and stressed that he was proud to take part in the celebrations of the 65th anniversary of victory.

"I was proud. And the grand parade is a wonderful reminder of our common history and our military brotherhood,” President of Armenia said.

During the meeting the parties reached an agreement on Dmitry Medvedev’s upcoming visit to Armenia in August.

2. Serzh Sargsyan: today, Armenia has nothing to talk about with Turkey

http://www.panarmenian.net/eng/world/news/49425/Serzh_Sargsyan_today_Armenia_has_nothing_to_talk_about_with_Turkey

June 2, 2010 - 12:15 AMT  07:15 GMTPanARMENIAN.Net - Armenia-Russia relations are based on firm ground, having reached an exemplary level of mutual trust and understanding, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan stated.

Dwelling on Armenia-Turkey relations RA leader explained ratification process suspension by Ankara’s lack of readiness to ratify them. “To justify Protocols’ failure, Turkey is setting new preconditions. Moreover, Ankara is attempting to become involved in Karabakh conflict settlement, where it doesn’t belong in the least. Today, we have nothing to talk about with unreliable partner, who periodically violates previous agreements, Serzh Sargsyan stated in his speech to Rostov -on –Don Armenian community.

Armenia did its best to promote opening of the border with Turkey, RA leader noted. Commenting on Karabakh issue, RA President stated, “NKR people’s right for self-determination is not an object of bargain to Armenia.” . In conclusion, Armenian President called for the unity of Armenia, Artsakh and Diaspora, presidential press service reported.

Azerbaijan

1. Azerbaijani MP: Continuing its occupation policy, Armenia inflicts great damage to regional cooperation

http://en.trend.az/news/karabakh/1698431.htmlAzerbaijan, Baku, June 2 /Trend, T.Hajiyev/Continuing its occupation policy, Armenia inflicts great damage to the regional cooperation, said the head of the delegation of Azerbaijan, MP Ganira Pashayeva, in her speech in the capital of Qatar in the 10th Forum in Doha.Armenia has occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijani territory, as a result of which one million Azerbaijanis have become refugees from their ancestral lands, she said. This fact, according to Pashayeva, has no analogues in the world. As a result of Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani lands, every ninth Azerbaijani is refugee and IDP. Armenia occupied the territory, destroyed homes, schools, educational institutions, historical and cultural monuments belonging to the Azerbaijan people, she said. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. Armenian armed forces have occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan since 1992, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and 7 surrounding districts.Azerbaijan and Armenia signed a ceasefire agreement in 1994. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group - Russia, France, and the U.S. - are currently holding the peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented the U.N. Security Council's four resolutions on the liberation of the Nagorno-Karabakh region and the occupied territories."Your countries are members of the UN and its Security Council, the OSCE and its Minsk Group and other organizations. In your opinion, should not the UN Security Council and other international organizations exert pressure on Armenia to solve this problem, for the return of one million people their homes?," said Pashayeva to forum participants.She urged participants of the event not to be indifferent to the fate of people who became refugees as a result of occupation and actions of Armenia, have not been able to return to their native lands, their homes for more than 15 years. "We urge you to support Azerbaijan and make even greater efforts to help these people return their homes," said the MP. The MP said Armenia does not reckon with four UN resolutions and the resolutions of PACE, the Organization of the Islamic Conference and other organizations, does not withdraw from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan and does not allow one million Azerbaijanis to return to their lands. According to MP, international organizations should exert pressure on Armenia to implement resolutions of these organizations.The summit participants supported the fair position of Azerbaijan, noted the importance of the liberation of occupied territories, return of refugees and internally displaced persons to their homes and more efforts by international organizations to resolve the conflict.

During the forum, the participants were given the books and materials about the Azerbaijani realities and acts of vandalism in the Azerbaijani territories occupied by Armenia, Khojaly genocide.

2. Azerbaijan supported Turkey's position after Israeli armed attack on humanitarian convoy02.06.2010 19:41 http://en.trend.az/news/politics/foreign/1698398.html

Azerbaijan, Baku, June 2 /Trend, M.Aliyev/

After the Israeli armed attack on humanitarian convoy, Azerbaijan has supported Turkey's position, and it proceeds from the statehood of Azerbaijan, the country's specific role in the Middle East and Muslim world, chairman of the Center for Political Innovation and Technology Mubariz Ahmedoglu.According to him, while some Arab, Turkic-speaking countries were silent on this issue, the Foreign Ministry of Azerbaijan made a statement regarding this incident.

"Freedom Flotilla" consists of six vessels. There were about 600 human rights activists from Europe and Arab countries, including dozens of deputies on the board. The rally was organized by human rights activists from Ireland, Sweden, Greece, Turkey, Algeria and Kuwait. They intended to bring 10,000 tons of humanitarian supplies, including medicines and construction materials to the Gaza Strip.

IDF Naval Forces intercepted six ships attempting to break the naval blockade of the Gaza Strip according to the orders of the political leadership. The ships were not allowed to enter the enclave, and break the naval blockade. According to the world media, about 19 people died during Israeli special operation. Israel confirmed that nine people died.

Regarding the future of the Middle East, Ahmedoglu said that the region is out of sight of the big powers such as USA, Europe, Russia, China. "On this backdrop, Israel is considered the leading country in the region, but Turkey tries to take control over ongoing processes, and this requires a year," said the head of the center.

3. U.S. State Department Special Envoy: Realization of South Corridor without Azerbaijani gas is impossible02.06.2010 15:03 http://en.trend.az/capital/pengineering/1698009.html

Azerbaijan, Baku, June 2 / Trend A. Badalova /

It is impossible to realize the Southern Corridor project without Azerbaijani gas, U.S. State Department special envoy on Eurasian energy, Richard Morningstar said at the Center for Strategic Studies under the Azerbaijani President.

"There will not be South Corridor without the gas from Azerbaijan and, in particular, without gas from the second stage of development of Shah Deniz," Morningstar said.

He said that the projects within the Southern Corridor, such as Nabucco, ITGI, TAP, will contribute to the diversification of sources of gas and open new supply routes to Europe.

South Corridor will also provide commercial benefit to the Caucasian and Central Asian countries, he said.

Speaking about Iran as a potential gas supplier for the Southern Corridor, he said that the U.S. currently does not support and do not see the participation of this country in the project.

Morningstar also said that Russia is an important partner for the United States. He said that Russia is a key energy producer and an important player in the region. It will continue this policy.

"We want to cooperate and maintain a constructive dialogue with Russia on energy issues," he said.

He said that the U.S. welcome the progress achieved earlier on the negotiations between Turkey and Azerbaijan on the purchase and transit of gas from Shah Deniz.

"We hope that both sides will reach an agreement soon. We are convinced that the concept of the Southern Corridor will be implemented," he said.

He said the U.S. supports the creation of new export routes for the delivery of new volumes of oil extracted in Kazakhstan in the next few years.

"We welcome recent progress on the expansion of the project and are interested in working with the Kazakh government and investors to increase the supply of oil from the Caspian region to world markets via Kazakhstan-Azerbaijan Caspian oil transportation system," he said.

4. Azerbaijani minister: Country's gas export will be 8 billion cubic meters02.06.2010 10:48 http://en.trend.az/capital/pengineering/1697856.html

Azerbaijan, Baku, June 2 / Trend E.Ismayilov /

Azerbaijan's gas export to different directions will be 7.8 billion cubic meters in 2010, Industry and Energy Minister Natig Aliyev said.

He said the country will export 6.4 billion cubic meters of gas to Turkey, Georgia - 0.3 billion, Russia - 1 billion and Iran - 0.1 billion.

Azerbaijan's gas production will amount to 30 billion cubic meters in 2010, 8 billion of which will fell to the Shah Deniz field, Aliyev said.

In 2009, Azerbaijan produced 23 billion cubic meters of gas, of which 5.4 billion fell to the Shah Deniz field.

5. Azeri pressure group protests Israeli attack on aid flotilla An Azerbaijani pressure group attempted on 2 June to picket the Israeli embassy in Baku in protest against the deadly Israeli attack on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla that was also carrying two Azerbaijani nationals.Police prevented a group of activists from the Karabakh Liberation Organization (KLO) from approaching the Hyatt Park hotel, which houses the embassy, but the protesters managed to read out a resolution and chant anti-Israeli slogans, the Turan news agency reported.In the resolution, the KLO demanded the closure of the Israeli embassy in Baku and called for an end to the Israeli blockade on Gaza. The protesters chanted "Death to Israel", "We stand by Turkey and Palestine" and "Take Israel to international court" and other slogans.No protester was detained by police, Turan said.Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry said that both Azerbaijanis on board one of the vessels were safe. A spokesman for the ministry, Elxan Poluxov, told the Media Forum news agency that the ministry was trying to establish the identities of the Azerbaijanis and ensure their return home.In a statement earlier, Poluxov expressed Azerbaijan's "concern over the incident". "In this situation, we think it is necessary not to be overwhelmed by emotions. The incident should be investigated in detail, and the culprits should be punished," Poluxov said in an interview with the Day.az website on 31 May.Sources: Turan news agency, Baku, in Russian 0804 gmt 2 Jun 10; Mediaforum.az, Baku in Azeri 0749 gmt 2 June 10; Day.az, Baku in Russian 1659 gmt 31 May 1

Georgia

1. Venice commission to discuss base project of Georgian constitution

http://en.trend.az/news/politics/foreign/1698419.html

Georgia, Tbilisi, June 2 /Trend, N.Kirtskhalia/A basic draft of amendments and additions to the constitution of Georgia will be reviewed by the Venice Commission at the plenary session on June 4-5.The meeting will be attended by the chairman of the constitutional commission Avtandil Demetrashvili, its members Levan Bodzashvili and Dmitri Dzagnidze, the press service of the state constitutional commission reported.  

The meeting of state constitutional commission on May 11 adopted the base variant of the draft prepared under the guidance of chairman of the commission.The project clearly defined and balanced functions of the president and the executive power; increased function of the parliament in terms of the formation of executive power, and control of the president and the government.

2. Russian deputy premier slams Lithuanian resolution on Georgia war Text of report by Russian state news agency ITAR-TASS Vilnius, 2 June: The position of the Lithuanian parliament (Seimas), which adopted a pro-Georgian resolution on Tuesday [1 June], is unacceptable to Russia, the Russian first deputy prime minister, Viktor Zubkov, who is heading a Russian delegation at a session of the Council of the Baltic Sea States, which is taking place here, told journalists today.He expressed bewilderment at the fact that such documents are adopted on the eve of the important international forum which is being hosted by Lithuania. "The position stated in the resolution is unacceptable to both Russia and the international community," Zubkov stressed. "It distorts all the facts concerning the events of August 2008," the deputy prime minister noted. He recalled that after the crisis of 2008, an international commission, which established the chain of events and those responsible for what had happened, had worked in the South Caucasus. Zubkov noted that there was no mention of these conclusions in the resolution."Having attacked South Ossetia and Russian peacekeepers, [Georgian President Mikheil] Saakashvili destroyed his country himself," the head of the Russian delegation said. In his estimate, such resolutions urge the current Georgian leader to become engaged in new risky ventures and provocations.The resolution of the Seimas speaks of support for Georgia's territorial integrity with the autonomous entities of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, the stay on whose territory of Russian military subunits is called "illegal occupation of part of Georgia", while the current bodies of the local authorities, "pseudo-state puppet formations". The resolution calls for "the restoration of Georgia's jurisdiction over Abkhazia and South Ossetia".Source: ITAR-TASS news agency, Moscow, in Russian 1111 gmt 2 Jun 10

3. Georgia's president pays official visit to Romania 2-3 Jun Text of report in English by Romanian government news agency Agerpres Bucharest, 2 June: Georgia's President Mikhail Saakashvili is paying an official visit to Romania, on Wednesday and Thursday [2 and 3 June], to meet Romania's President Traian Basescu, the Romanian President's Press Office reports.Saakashvili will be welcomed today at 1530 [1030 gmt], local at an official ceremony at the Cotroceni Presidential Palace. In the evening, President Basescu will be extending an official diner in honour of Saakashvili.The Georgian president will also meet Romanian Prime Minister Emil Boc, Chairman of the Romanian Senate Mircea Geoana; Speaker of the Romanian Chamber of Deputies Roberta Anastase and Patriarch Daniel of the Romanian Christian Orthodox Church.On April 13, a memorandum of understanding concerning the AGRI Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania Interconnect project for the transmission of natural gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe from Azerbaijan via Georgia and Romania was signed. The project is put at 2-4 billion euros.Early this year, President Basescu told a meeting with heads of diplomatic missions accredited in Bucharest that the South Caucasus countries have a strategic importance, mentioning that an important objectives is capitalizing on the privileged relations with these countries, singling out Georgia as having a very high potential for cooperation in areas such as energy, transport and infrastructure.

"These countries getting closer to the European Union, and, in the case of Georgia, closer to NATO, has a capital importance in achieving these objectives and will contribute even to the solving of the sub-region's issues, that is the frozen conflicts there or relations with the neighbours,' said Basescu. In August 2008, President Basescu went on a tour to Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, Azerbaijan and Turkey.Romania and Georgia established diplomatic ties at the level of embassy on June 25, 1992. On February 25, 1998 Romania's embassy opened in Tbilisi. On March 26, 1996, a treaty of friendly relations and cooperation was signed between Romania and Georgia in Tbilisi by then Romanian President Ion Iliescu and Georgia's President Eduard Shevardnadze.November 23, 2005, Romania's President Basescu attended the ceremonies organized to celebrate the second anniversary of the Rose Revolution, at the invitation of Saakashvili. January 20, 2008, Basescu attended the swearing-in of Saakashvili as Georgia's president.Source: Agerpres news agency, Bucharest, in English 0817 gmt 2 Jun 10

Turkey

1. Turkish Deputy Energy Minister: Nabucco is priority for Turkey

http://en.trend.az/capital/pengineering/1697909.html

02.06.2010 11:46Azerbaijan, Baku, June 2 / Trend, N. Ismayilova /

Nabucco Pipeline project is a priority for Turkey. This project is envisaged as one of the most important parts of a strategy on diversification of gas supplies to Europe, Deputy Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of Turkey Yusuf Yazar said at the 17th  International Conference "Caspian Oil and Gas", held in Baku.

"Turkey wants to play a major constructive role in the transportation of gas from the Caspian region to Europe. We will take all measures to ensure the realization of this project," Yazar said.

Nabucco gas pipeline project is worth €7.9 billion. Participants of the project are Austrian OMV, Hungarian MOL, Bulgarian Bulgargaz, Romanian Transgaz, Turkish Botas and German RWE companies. Each of participants has equal share to the amount of 16.67 percent. Construction of gas pipeline is planned to be launched in 2011, the first supplies - in 2014. Maximal capacity of the pipeline will hit 31 billion cubic meters per year.  Nabucco Gas Pipeline International shareholders will invest 30 percent of total.

2. Turkey expects Barzani to issue strong counter-terror messageshttp://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/n.php?n=turkey-expects-barzani-to-issue-strong-counter-terror-messages-2010-06-02Wednesday, June 2, 2010

ANKARA – Hürriyet Daily NewsANKARA, June 2 (RIA Novosti)Turkey said it was expecting firm counter-terrorism messages from the senior Kurdish official in his first visit to Ankara after six years.Massoud Barzani, president of the Regional Kurdish Administration, was scheduled to arrive in Ankara late Wednesday although the Foreign Ministry did not make any written statement confirming his three-day trip to Turkey, which also includes Istanbul.Barzani’s last visit to Turkey occurred in April 2004, after which relations between Ankara and Barzani worsened due to disagreements over the status of northern Iraq and the fight against the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, which shelters in the territory.The rapprochement visit by the leader comes just days after the PKK allegedly killed six Turkish soldiers in a rocket attack on the İskenderun naval base, which has meant that the meeting will be largely low profile.Despite arranged meetings with Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu, President Abdullah Gül preferred not to meet with Barzani.The northern Iraqi leader, accompanied by local businesspeople, will hold economic- and trade-oriented meetings with Turkish businesspeople in Istanbul.“We expect cooperation against terrorism. We can’t accept any support for terror from neighboring countries,” Davutoğlu told reporters at a press conference Wednesday. “Barzani’s visit should be interpreted with this understanding.”Ankara will strongly raise the shortcomings in the cooperation against the PKK, he said. “[Barzani] already knows our attitude.”The PKK is recognized as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States and the European Union.A senior diplomatic source said: “We are waiting for strong messages from Barzani against terror at a moment when terrorist activities are rising. It’s better that Barzani visits Turkey rather than not.”Barzani is one of the most criticized regional leaders in Turkey as he has been seen as the protector of the PKK in northern Iraq. Turkey, the U.S. and Iraq have formed a trilateral mechanism to fight against the PKK, but no concrete results have been achieved so far. With its nearly 100,000-strong military force, Barzani could play a more influential role, according to many in Turkey.The U.S. pushed both parties to reconcile and overcome existing problems, encouraging them to establish strong economic and trade ties. High-level Turkish officials have visited Arbil in northern Iraq to seek opportunities and Barzani has also said his side was eager to boost relations with Turkey.Despite existing disagreements over the fight against the PKK, the status of Kirkuk and sharing oil revenues, Barzani’s visit to Ankara is seen as an important development for the regional balance, especially on the eve of withdrawal of American troops from Iraq.“The possibility of instability in Iraq after the pullout will have an effect on neighboring countries. Terrorist organizations in Iraq may cause neighboring countries to intervene,” professor Kamer Kasım, from the International Strategic Research Organisation, or USAK, said in a phone interview with the Hürriyet Daily News & Economic Review on Wednesday.Noting that the U.S. still needs stability in Iraq after the pullout from the country, Kasım said: “Turkey’s role for stability in this country is crucial. Iraq should be cleared of terrorist organizations, and economic relations should be enhanced. For better economic ties, first the

region should be secured. Barzani’s visit may lead to a relieving of the current tensions and the opening of a way for better cooperation.”

4. 5 guerrillas lost their lives in clashes in Dersim and Hatayhttp://en.firatnews.com/index.php?rupel=article&nuceID=21702 June 2010

Five guerrillas lost their lives in clashes

As the result of clashes in Dersim-Bingol area and in Hatay 5 guerrillas have lost there lives, said HPG.

According to a statement by the People’s Defense Forces (HPG), the military wing of PKK, during the military operation of Turkish Army, in the area between Nazmiye/ Pulumur (Dersim) and Yedisu (Bingol) on 26th of May, clashes erupted between Turkish soldiers and guerrilla forces. As a results of the clashes 4 guerrillas lost their lives, while an unknown number of Turkish soldiers were killed or injured.

On 31th of May a guerrilla unit attacked a radar station in Hatay, near the Kisecik village. During the ‘retaliation action’ were 2 special security forces member were killed, 1 guerrilla lost his live, said HPG.  

5. Iran, Iraq, Turkey Mulling Establishment of Joint Investment Bank

JUNE 02 2010 http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.php?nn=8903121777 TEHRAN (FNA)- Iran, Iraq and Turkey are discussing plans to set up a joint investment bank at Iran-Turkey border, an Iranian provincial official announced on Wednesday.

"A joint investment bank will be established at Iran-Turkey border following the endorsement of a relevant agreement by the Turkish, Iraqi and Iranian sides," Governor-General of Iran's northwestern province of West Azarbaijan Vahid Jalalzadeh said. 

"Considering the fact that an industrial town is due to be established at Iran-Turkey border, setting up a joint investment bank in the region is viewed as among the most urgent goals," Jalalzadeh stated. 

Iran and Turkey enjoy excellent ties at present, " and the two countries' cooperation in different sectors has experienced remarkable growth", he stressed. 

Asked about the exclusive features of a joint industrial town to be established at Iran-Turkey border, Jalalzadeh said, "Transfer of the technical and engineering know-how and technology as

well as increased investment, prosperity of the region and entrepreneurship are among the most important goals pursued by the establishment of the joint industrial border town." 

In March 2010, Makou's Governor Hamid Ahmadian announced that Iran and Turkey are due to construct an industrial town in Iran's northwestern border city of Makou. 

"Based on the agreements made (during a visit) by the Islamic Republic's officials to Turkey, the industrial zone and town is due to be established at Iran- Turkey joint borders," Ahmadian said. 

Iran and Turkey have in recent years boosted their cooperation in different fields of economy, security, trade, education and culture. 

Earlier in May, Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Village Affairs Mehmet Mehdi Eker had announced that the volume of trade exchanges between Iran and his country has increased to $5.5bln. 

Also in March, Iranian and Turkish officials signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand mutual cooperation in different industrial fields, specially in textile, auto-manufacturing and power industries. 

The agreement prioritizes cooperation in a number of fields, namely auto-manufacturing and supply of spare-parts, construction industry, agricultural machinery and equipment industries and wood and paper industries. 

Also in the document, Iran and Turkey stressed the necessity for supporting private sector and international trade in a bid to make reciprocal investments and investment in third countries. 

6. Turkey, Greece lift restrictions on diplomatic border passages http://www.worldbulletin.net/news_detail.php?id=59392   The two countries have been imposing restrictions on diplomatic and service passport owners for 28 years. Wednesday, 02 June 2010 15:48 Turkey and Greece lifted on Tuesday night restrictions on diplomatic passages through border crossings, the Greek Consulate in the northwestern province of Edirne said on Wednesday.

Turkey and Greece ended restrictions on owners of diplomatic and service passports who wanted to cross into each other's territories through Pazarkale border crossing in Edirne and Kastanies border crossing in Greece.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu and Greek Alternate Foreign Minister Dimitris Droutsas released a joint declaration on lifting the restrictions.

This means that the first of 21 agreements signed between Turkey and Greece during Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's visit to Athens on May 14-15 has entered into force.

The two countries have been imposing restrictions on diplomatic and service passport owners for 28 years.

7. Turkish, Spanish chambers sign cooperation protocol http://www.worldbulletin.net/news_detail.php?id=59387 The Chamber of Industry of Kayseri has signed a cooperation protocol with the Chamber of Industry of Spanish city of Zaragoza on Wednesday.

Wednesday, 02 June 2010 14:32The Chamber of Industry of Kayseri (KAYSO) has signed a cooperation protocol with the Chamber of Industry of Spanish city of Zaragoza on Wednesday.

Speaking at the signature ceremony, chairman of KAYSO Mustafa Boydak said that Kayseri's industry has gone beyond the borders of Turkey and cooperates with economic and industrial organizations in various corners of the world.

The cooperation agreement with Zaragoza will not be about signatures alone. The two sides will work to fulfill the articles of the agreement. A large group of industrialists from Kayseri will visit Spain in September or October. We hope that the agreement would be beneficial for our two cities and countries, Boydak said.

The Spanish Economic and Commercial Counsellor in Ankara Isaac Martin Barbero said that Kayseri and Zaragoza came to the stage of signing a protocol in a very short period of time.

Kayseri and Zaragoza have many similarities. The industrialists of the two cities can work on industry, commerce, transportation and renewable energy. We are honored to be here in Kayseri, Barbero said.

The protocol was signed by Mustafa Boydak on behalf of KAYSO and Gosia Chylak, a representative of the Zaragoza Chamber of Industry.  

8. One soldier dead in attack at army base in Hakkarihttp://en.firatnews.com/index.php?rupel=article&nuceID=21102 June 2010

One soldier dead in attack at army base in Hakkari and two wounded

A ccording to the information, the military base, located in the districts of Işıklı and Kavuşak of the town Çukurca, has come under heavy attack last night. 

According to the governor of Hakkari Muammer Türker’s statement, 3 soldiers were wounded during the attack. One of the wounded, corporal Fatih Gökkaya, died in the Hakkari Military Hospital. 

It has been reported that a large number of soldiers are being shifted to the conflict zone.

9. Shops closed in Idil to protest military operationshttp://en.firatnews.com/index.php?rupel=article&nuceID=21502 June 2010

After Sirnak, Uludere en Cizre today the shops in Idil were closed in protest of the Turkish military operation

A fter Sirnak, Uludere en Cizre today the shops in Idil were closed in protest of the Turkish military operation in the region. Through the protests the shopholders also wants to bring the withdrawing of Kurdish Leader Mr. Abdullah Ocalan from the proces, into the attention.  On 27’th of May Mr. Ocalan said “There is no sense, no gain and a lack of conditions to continue this process. I am withdrawing from the process after May 31.”

According to the reports from the region only pharmacies and bakeries remained open. The reports also say that police and military patrols have been increased and security is tightened since this morning.

10. Senior European, Balkan Leaders to Gather in Sarajevo http://www.balkaninsight.com/en/main/news/28509/   Sarajevo | 02 June 2010 |   Senior Balkan and EU leaders will gather in Sarajevo on Wednesday at a summit which is hoped to dispel fears of EU enlargement fatigue and encourage the rfegions' leaders to re-commit to reconciliation and the difficult reforms required for EU integration. The high-level meeting, which is also to be attended by representatives from the United States, Russia, Turkey and NATO, comes at a time when most Western Balkan countries fear that the Greek debt crisis might hinder their hopes to join the EU. However, the EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said ahead of the meeting that the integration of the Western Balkans “remains one of the last challenges to building a democratic and unified Europe.” “In Sarajevo, the EU will reaffirm the Balkans’ place in Europe and the European perspective for the region,” she added. EU Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fuele described the Sarajevo conference as a “timely confirmation of... the continuation of the enlargement process”. Fuele added that enlargement was “based on strong conditionalities”, but stressed that it was “first of all a political project”. The Sarajevo meeting, organised by the Spanish EU presidency, will mark the tenth anniversary of a similar gathering in Zagreb, Croatia, when the EU launched the process to stabilize and integrate the Western Balkans.

In Sarajevo, the EU and the countries of the region are expected to welcome the progress made in the past decade, but also to discuss remaining challenges, which include the need to strengthen the rule of law and to improve the fight against corruption and crime in the Balkans. Focus will also be on increasing cooperation and achieving lasting reconciliation in the region. Western Balkan countries recently started taking significant steps to overcome their past divisions. Last weekend leaders of Bosnia, Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro adopted a joint declaration in Sarajevo pledging to push each other on the path to the EU and urging European countries not to allow the enlargement process to be put on hold due to the ongoing financial crisis. The declaration was signed by the chairman of Bosnia's tripartite presidency and the presidents of Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro – Haris Silajdzic, Ivo Josipovic, Boris Tadic and Filip Vujanovic, respectively.

Israel/Turkey

1. Turkish FM says Turkey interested in region; Israel should seek peace Text of report in English by Turkish semi-official news agency Anatolia Ankara, 2 June 2010: Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said on Wednesday [2 June] that none of the countries had a privilege before the international laws, adding that all countries, including Israel, were subject to these laws.Turkey feels responsible from all developments in its region, and it cannot and will not be indifferent to these developments, added Davutoglu who held a press conference at Ankara's Esenboga Airport in his return from the USOn Monday, Israel attacked a convoy of six relief ships bound for Gaza, killing nine people including four Turks, and injuring 30 others. Turkey strongly protested Israel and recalled its ambassador.The UN Security Council, which convened in an emergency session upon Turkey's call, condemned the Israeli intervention.Turkey sent three ambulance planes and three airplanes to Israel to bring Turkish activists home. Some of the Turkish activists have already returned to Turkey after being released from a prison in Beersheba.Davutoglu said that human rights violations in Palestine and embargo on Gaza were crimes of humanity, and could not be pursued.Everybody, especially Israel, should take steps to restore permanent peace in the Middle East, noted Davutoglu, adding that Turkey would follow all developments in the region.Davutoglu said that parliamentarians Huseyin Tanriverdi and Zeyid Aslan as well as Prime Minister's chief adviser Nabi Avci and Foreign Ministry deputy undersecretary Halit Cevik went to Israel.He expressed hope that such incidents would not occur again.Source: Anatolia news agency, Ankara, in English 1112 gmt 2 Jun 10

2. First Turkish plane takes off with 10 flotilla activists on boardPublished:     06.02.10, 21:52 / Israel Newshttp://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3898276,00.html

A Turkish military plane has taken off from Ben Gurion International Airport, carrying ten people injured in an IDF raid on the flotilla to Gaza Monday. More planes are scheduled to depart in the coming hours. In addition to two military planes, three Turkish Airlines planes are also scheduled to arrive in order to pick up wounded passengers. The bodies of nine people who died in the raid were also on board the plane. (Yoav Zitun)

3. Israel tension boosts Turkey popularity with Arabshttp://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6514KE20100602Wed Jun 2, 2010 12:16pm

West Bank (Reuters) - Ankara's diplomatic confrontation with Israel over the bloody seizure of an aid ship bound for Gaza has boosted Turkey's popularity among Arabs who long to see their own governments show similar resolve.World  |  TurkeyFrom Cairo to Kuwait, Turkey's red flag has flown across the Arab world in a show of support for its response to the Israeli raid in which nine activists, at least three of them Turks, were killed as they tried to break the sea blockade of the Palestinian enclave.Ankara's reaction, including the withdrawal of its Tel Aviv ambassador, has shown up the few Arab governments that also have diplomatic ties with Israel. These include Egypt, which was already under fire for helping Israel enforce the Gaza blockade.Conscious of Arab and wider Muslim criticism of its role in enforcing the embargo, Cairo opened the Rafah crossing on Wednesday. It is the only gateway to the Gaza Strip not fully controlled by Israel, which has imposed a tight blockade on the Hamas Islamist-run territory."There is no question that the popularity of the Turkish government is rising in the Arab street," said Khaled al-Dakhil, a prominent Saudi political writer and analyst. "This is a natural result considering the impotence of Arab governments."Predominantly Muslim Turkey, a NATO member and once a close regional ally of Israel, said on Wednesday it would only normalize ties with the Jewish state once it lifts the blockade.In Cairo this week, Egyptian protesters backed Turkey while criticizing their own government. "They have blockaded! They have sold out!" chanted some of the protesters."The Turks have done more to show that this blockade has to be lifted than the people sitting up there," said Cairo protester Madiha Kurkur, pointing at Egypt's foreign ministry.ERDOGAN POPULARITY RISESAlready popular for championing the Palestinian cause, Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan has further enhanced his status through calls for the Jewish state to be punished for the sea raid. The U.N. Security Council has condemned the deaths."The time has come for the international community to say 'enough'," said Erdogan in a speech on Tuesday broadcast across the Arab world by satellite channels including Al Jazeera.Arab media last year lauded Erdogan, leader of an Islamist-leaning party, for publicly taking Israeli President Shimon Peres to task over Israel's three-week Gaza offensive.Turkey's democracy and robust economy are also admired by Arabs critical of their own rulers and levels of poverty.

For Turks, a century after they lost their Ottoman imperial grip on the region, support among the Arabs is an asset.As its bid to join the European Union has had setbacks, Ankara has sought to deepen ties with neighboring Muslim countries.Improved relations with Syria have led to the activation of a free trade agreement that in recent years has caused the countries' trade balance to balloon in Ankara's favor.Turkey's confrontation with Israel this week has reinforced a view among Arab commentators that Ankara aims to establish itself alongside Israel and Iran as one of three states with real sway in a region of weaker Arab governments."This triangle is the one that will define the fate of the region," said Hatem Abdel Qadir, a West Bank-based official in the Palestinian Fatah movement.Some see Turkey seeking to exploit the Gaza flotilla incident and the sensitivities surrounding the Palestinian cause to win more popularity among Arabs and Muslims.Lebanese political scientist As'ad AbuKhalil, writing on his blog The Angry Arab, said: "I feel that Turkey is on a campaign to win Arab public opinion."

4. Turkish parliament urges sanctions against Israel02/06/2010

http://en.rian.ru/world/20100602/159274216.html

The Turkish parliament on Wednesday unanimously adopted a declaration urging the UN Security Council to impose sanctions against Israel in connection with a recent deadly attack on a Gaza-bound aid convoy.

The Israeli military stormed the Freedom Flotilla, carrying some 10,000 tons of aid and up to 700 human rights to Gaza, in neutral waters in the Mediterranean Sea on Monday. The operation claimed the lives of at least 9 people. Arab media reports put the death toll at close to 20.

"This attack is a blatant violation of the UN Charter and the international law. In this respect, the Turkish parliament expects the Security Council to adopt as soon as possible a resolution condemning Israel and imposing sanctions," the parliament said.

The parliament also urged the Turkish government "to review political, military, trade and economic ties with Israel and take the necessary effective measures."

It also expressed its support for the premier's initiative to establish an independent international commission to investigate the circumstances of the attack.

"The Israeli government should officially apologize for the attack, bring those responsible to justice and pay compensations to the victims," the declaration says.

The statement also urged "the speedy abolishment of the inhumane blockade and embargo imposed on Gaza."

5. Thousands of Israeli tourists scrap Turkey trips: report Agence France-Presse June 2, 2010 7:03 AM

Read more: http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Thousands+Israeli+tourists+scrap+Turkey+trips+report/3101978/story.html#ixzz0pi1scqa5

ISTANBUL - Thousands of Israeli tourists have cancelled reservations to Turkey after a deadly Israeli raid on aid ships bound for Gaza, the Turkish press Wednesday quoted Turkey’s tourism minister as saying.Monday’s raid, which killed nine activists, including at least four Turks, has plunged the already fragile Turkish-Israeli ties into crisis, with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan calling the attack a "bloody massacre."In comments carried in several newspapers, Tourism Minister Ertugrul Gunay estimated that some 10,000-20,000 reservations by Israeli tourists had so far been scrapped."There are some reservation cancellations especially in the aftermath of (the raid). We understand this," Gunay said, expressing confidence that the sector would eventually recover from the current crisis."Turkey is a close destination in the Middle East for Israeli citizens to visit and holiday safely. This will still be the case in the future," he said. "We have no problems with the Israeli people."The cancellations follow a bad season last year when the number of Israeli tourists dropped after Erdogan’s memorable outburst at Israeli President Shimon Peres at an international gathering over Israel’s operations in Gaza.In 2009, 311,000 Israeli tourists visited Turkey, compared to 558,000 in 2008, according to official figures cited by the press.An infuriated Turkey recalled its ambassador and scrapped joint war games with Israel Monday after Israeli forces stormed a flotilla of ships carrying supplies to the Gaza Strip, which has been under a blockade since 2007.Most of the violence occured on the Turkish ferry, Mavi Marmara, carrying come 600 pro-Palestinian activists from 33 countries.On Tuesday, Erdogan said Israel must be punished for the raid and urged international sanctions against the Jewish state’s "lawlessness."

6. Gaza flotilla attack: British activists deported to Turkeyhttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/israel/7797588/Gaza-flotilla-attack-British-activists-deported-to-Turkey.htmlJune 02 2010

More than 40 British activists detained in Israel were being deported to Turkey, the Foreign Office has confirmed.The group, who were part of the Gaza aid convoy attempting to breach an Israeli blockade to the territory, are expected to be put on flights out of Tel Aviv in the coming hours.

Nine activists were killed and more than 670 detained following a bloody clash with the Israeli authorities on MondMany of those arrested were taken to the Be’er Sheva prison in southern Israel for questioning but were told they were being released early today.A spokesman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: “We understand that Israel plans to deport all activists today. The Israelis are saying that all activists will be deported to Turkey.“We have consular staff at the airport in Tel Aviv and our staff in Turkey are on standby to assist British Nationals when they arrive. We are in constant contact with the Israeli authorities about this matter.”One Briton, Hasan Nowarah from Glasgow, returned home on Tuesday, but the release of others was delayed after they reportedly refused to identify themselves.Mr Nowarah described scenes of terror as the flotilla of aid boats came under fire from the Israel navy.He said: “All you could see was screaming and bullets. Out of the blue as I looked around our ship, all I could see were hundreds of Zodiacs.“Hundreds of Zodiacs full of soldiers, and big ships, lots of ships, and I believe as well submarines in the sea."After being detained activists had their mobile phones and other forms of communication removed so most have been unable to speak to their families.Sally Lort-Phillips, whose daughter Alex, was on board the convoy said: “We have not heard anything yet. The Foreign Office have said the detainees will be deported today, but we do not know when that will be. We still have not managed to speak to Alex yet.”

7. Turkish lawmakers urge govt to review Israel tiesBy SELCAN HACAOGLU and AMY TEIBEL (AP) – 30 minutes agohttp://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5h-h4Pw3u51Bu89ltQS4PFFOrAedAANKARA, Turkey — Turkey's parliament called on the government Wednesday to review all ties with Israel as the country prepared a huge welcome home for hundreds of Turks detained after Israel's bloody raid on a Gaza-bound aid flotilla.In Israel, all of the nearly 700 activists from the aid ships were at Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, waiting to be deported, airport officials said. Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein said Israel decided not to prosecute any of them, writing in an order Wednesday that "keeping them here would do more damage to the country's vital interests than good."Israel has come under harsh international condemnation after its commandos stormed a six-ship aid flotilla Monday in international waters, setting off clashes that killed nine activists and wounded dozens. The activists were trying to break the three-year-old Israeli and Egyptian naval blockade of the Gaza Strip.Turkish and Greek protesters were to fly home on special planes sent by their respective governments, while others from the nearly 20 nationalities on the ships were traveling home on commercial flights. A big homecoming rally to celebrate the activists was being held later Wednesday in Istanbul's main square.The commando raid has seriously strained ties between Israel and Turkey. Turkey withdrew its ambassador, scrapped war games with Israel and demanded a U.N. Security Council meeting on the clash as a result.

Hundreds of Turks protested Israel's commando raid for a third day Wednesday and Israeli diplomats' families began packing to leave following orders from the Israeli government.The Turkish Parliament in Ankara held a heated debate on whether to impose military and economic sanctions on Israel. But lawmakers from Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling Justice and Development Party objected to the measures, apparently trying to avoid aggravating the situation.Still, in a statement approved by a show of hands, Turkish lawmakers said Israel must formally apologize for the raid, pay compensation to the victims and bring those responsible to justice."This attack was an open violation of United Nations rules and international law," Deputy Parliament Speaker Guldal Mumcu said, reading out the declaration."Turkey should seek justice against Israel through national and international legal authorities," the declaration said. "The parliament expects the Turkish government to revise the political, military and economic relations with Israel, and to take effective measures."Erdogan, meanwhile, chaired a security meeting Wednesday of the country's top military commanders to discuss the Israeli raid as well as intensified Kurdish rebel attacks in the southeast.Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Israel agreed not to charge the activists after Turkey applied diplomatic pressure."We have clearly stated that we would review our ties with Israel if all Turks not released by the end of the day," Davutoglu told a news conference. "No one has the right to try people who were kidnapped in international waters."Davutoglu also called for an international commission to investigate the nine deaths in the Israeli commando raid.A Turkish delegation was in Israel to oversee the return of the detained Turks and two Turks in serious condition would remain in Israeli hospitals with a Turkish doctor, he said."We will not leave them to the mercy of anyone," Davutoglu said.Interior Minister Besir Atalay said Turkey had beefed up security to protect its Jewish minority as well as Israel's diplomatic missions. He said security provisions were intensified at 20 points in Istanbul alone. The city has several synagogues and Jewish centers.In the past, there have been occasional attacks on Turkey's Jewish community of 23,000 people. In 2003, al-Qaida-linked suicide bombers attacked the British consulate, a British bank and two Jewish synagogues in Istanbul, killing 58 people. In 1986, gunmen killed 22 people in an attack on Istanbul's Neve Shalom synagogue.On Monday, hours after Israeli marines stormed the Turkish ship, a Turk threw a punch at an Israeli cyclist at international cycling race in northwestern Turkey. The cyclist dodged the punch and police arrested the man."Our Jewish citizens are not foreigners here. They make up an essential part of our community. We have lived together for centuries, and we will continue to do so," Davutoglu said.Most of Turkey's Jews are descendants of people expelled from Spain in 1492 for refusing to convert to Christianity, and were welcomed by Ottoman Sultan Beyazit. Other Jews found refuge in Turkey after fleeing Nazi persecution during World War II.

8. Turkish politicians link PKK attack with Israeli assault on flotilla Text of unattributed report in English headlined "Similarities between PKK, Israel attacks raise suspicions", published by Turkish newspaper Today's Zaman website on 2 June

The common characteristics of an assault carried out by the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and an Israeli attack on a humanitarian aid convoy in international waters have raised suspicions over whether the two incidents are related.A rocket attack by terrorists on a naval base killed seven soldiers and wounded six others in the southern province of Hatay's Iskenderun district on Monday shortly after midnight. After a couple of hours, Israeli commandoes attacked a six-ship convoy carrying hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists on an aid mission to the Gaza Strip and killed nine people and injured dozens.Some Turkish politicians have speculated over a possible relationship between the two deadly incidents. "We don't think the incident [Iskenderun attack] was coincidental," Justice and Development Party (AK Party) Deputy Chairman Huseyin Celik said, speaking to reporters at AK Party headquarters in Ankara on Monday."As the AK Party, we condemn the incidents strongly. Israel has torn down Gaza. They do not even let construction materials in. This will be a black mark on the history of humanity. An attack was carried out at our military unit in Iskenderun. We condemn this, too. We do not think that it is a coincidence that these two attacks took place at the same time," Celik said.The newly elected chairman of the Republican People's Party (CHP), Kemal Kilicdaroglu, also said the similarity between the incidents is meaningful. Speaking at a press conference held at party headquarters on Monday, Kilicdaroglu recalled that some circles are concerned about whether the Iskenderun attack is related to Israel. "We feel deeply sorry about the incident in Iskenderun. We must pay attention to the killings of seven soldiers. At a time when the Israeli army continues military operations, it is meaningful that such an incident took place in Turkey," he said.Felicity Party (SP) leader Numan Kurtulmus reacted harshly during a press conference held at the Istanbul branch of the party. While pointing out the timing of both incidents, Kurtulmus said he hoped the attacks were not related to each other. "Our soldiers were attacked in Turkey. I hope it was a coincidence that Israel began to attack the ship after a brutal attack on a Turkish Naval Forces base in Iskenderun. May God bless the souls of those martyrs who died in this vicious attack," he said.Source: Zaman website, Istanbul, in English 2 Jun 10

9. Jordanians express solidarity with Turkey Text of report in English by privately-owned Jordan Times website on 2 June ["Jordanians Express Solidarity With Turkey" - Jordan Times Headline]AMMAN -Dozens of Jordanians gathered on Tuesday in front of the Turkish embassy in Amman to "pay tribute" to Ankara's role in the Freedom Flotilla and the victims of the Israeli raid on the humanitarian aid ships.In the gathering, which was organized by the Jordanian Democratic Popular Unity Party (Wihda), a group of participants presented a bouquet of flowers to Turkish Ambassador in Amman Ali Koprulu, who welcomed the crowd."Your presence here today is a sign of a close friendship," the envoy told the sit-in participants, most of whom were communist, Baathist, leftist and independent activists, according to organizers.Koprulu reiterated the Turkish government's statement strongly condemning the Israeli assault on the international activists, calling for the "strongest response" to Tel Aviv.

Flotilla activists say that most of the victims are Turks, in addition to those belonging to other nations."Israel's attack on a civilian ship sailing in international waters 120 kilometres from the (Israeli) shores and carrying aid to Gaza is a barbaric act of piracy and a crime... that caused the death of many civilians," the ambassador said during the event.Flotilla organizers have said that 19 activists were killed and several others injured in the Israeli navy attack on a Turkish passenger boat taking part in the flotilla. Tel Aviv said it aimed to prevent the activists from breaching its three-year-old sea blockade on the Hamas-ruled Palestinian coastal strip. The incident drew worldwide criticism of Israel, with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan slamming the "bloody massacre" and warning Tel Aviv of "testing Turkey's patience", the Agence France-Presse reported.During yesterday's gathering in Amman, Wihda activist Fakher Daas extended the participants' "appreciation and gratitude for the courageous Turkish role and a tribute to your martyrs' blood"."From the heart of all Jordanian and Arab youths, we thank the Turkish people," he added.With Monday's attack, Israel made "new enemies" in the international community, Daas told The Jordan Times.He called on the Arab states to "make use" of the situation to pressure Tel Aviv to lift the Gaza siege and give the Palestinian people their "legitimate rights".Widad Adas, a human development researcher who took part in the event, agreed with Daas."The core of the confrontation is the Palestinian cause, but now there is a new dimension involving the international community," she told The Jordan Times. Meanwhile, a group of university students, mainly Islamists, demonstrated in front of the University of Jordan main gate in protest against the Israeli deadly attack on the flotilla.Also on Tuesday, the Jordanian Network for Civil Society Organizations strongly condemned the bloody Israeli attack on the Gaza-bound aid flotilla that took place on Monday.In a statement signed by 46 civil societies, the organization underlined that the attack is a "clear violation of international law and human rights principles" and is a "form of piracy".Source: Jordan Times website, Amman, in English 2 Jun 10

10. UN employees in Lebanon condemn Israeli attack on aid flotillaWednesday, June 2nd 2010 3:22 PM

http://www.aknews.com/en/aknews/4/151576/Beirut, June 2 (AKnews) - On Wednesday, the employees of UN organizations in Lebanon condemned, in a meeting held at the headquarter of United Nations in Lebanon (ESCWA), the Israeli attack on Gaza-bound flotilla carrying humanitarian aid, according to a statement released by the organizations.

"The employees reiterate their commitment to the principles of human rights" the statement said, expressing  "their outrage at the attack carried out by Israeli forces"

"The assault is an unacceptable violation by all laws and international conventions, particularly those relating to human rights and international humanitarian law that the United Nations, organizations, and member states are working to recognize and respect including a cut on violations in war and conflict conditions" the statement read.

The employees described the attack, in the statement, as part of the policy of the continuous siege imposed on Gaza Strip since three years by Israel.

"The employees expressed strong solidarity with the international activists who were assaulted, and their families and countries" as the statement read, calling for "immediate and unconditional release of the detained activist and to uncover the identities of the martyrs and the wounded persons.".The United Nations organizations in Lebanon called for making all possible efforts to lift the siege on Gaza, and called the UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Mon and the UN member states to deal seriously with the "unprecedented aggression", and to take all decisions and actions necessary to protect the Palestinian people and international activists from similar attacks in the future. The six-ship flotilla, carrying 10,000 tonnes of aid, left the coast of Cyprus on Sunday and was expected to arrive in Gaza on Monday before being attacked by the Israeli navy at four o'clock on Monday morning in the international waters 130 km away from Gaza.

According to Israeli media 14 to 16 people were killed in the attack. the majority of them were Turks. The Israeli attack on the convoy also set off international condemnations, and Turkey recalled its ambassador to Israel in addition to canceling three joint military practices with Israel.

11. Turkey boosts security for Jewish residents amid protests2010-06-02

http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/world/2010-06/02/c_13330137.htm

ANKARA, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Turkey has taken tight security measures to protect its Jewish minority as well as Israel's diplomatic missions in response to increased tensions following Israel's raid on a Turkish-flagged aid ship, Turkish Interior Minister Besir Atalay said Wednesday.

Security has been stepped up at 20 points in the Turkish largest city of Istanbul alone, where there are several synagogues and centers serving 23,000 Jewish residents, Atalay was quoted as saying by local Daily News on its website.

Measures have been taken at residences, consulates and places of worship in the city, according to Atalay.

The move came as hundreds of Turks protested against Israel for the third day on Wednesday.

The interior minister said no harm had been done or would be allowed to come to any Jewish

person during demonstrations staged in Turkey.

The Jewish community in Turkey is definitely worried, according to Ivo Molinas, the editor in chief of the Istanbul-based weekly publication Shalom, who said that the anger in the country could turn very easily into anti-Semitism.

"The rhetoric used by the prime minister has been very radical, " Molinas said.

12. Turkey to send condemnation letters to parliaments over Israeli attackThe human rights committee of the Turkish parliament will send a letter to several parliaments to condemn the Israeli attack on Gaza-bound aid flotilla. http://www.worldbulletin.net/news_detail.php?id=59388

The human rights committee of the Turkish parliament will send a letter to several parliaments to condemn the Israeli attack on Gaza-bound aid flotilla.

The Committee also decided to establish a sub-committee led by Uskul and travel to Israel at an appropriate time.

The Human Rights Inspection Committee of the Turkish Parliament will send the letter of condemnation to the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council, Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe (COE), and the European Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights.

In the letter, the Turkish parliament committee said that Israel staged the armed attack on open seas and violated international law.

"However, more importantly, the ships, which set sail under an international initiative of non-governmental groups and which carried hundreds of people from over 30 countries, had a humanitarian mission," the letter said.

The letter said the aim of the ships was to bring aid to people living in Gaza under blockade for 35 months, and draw the attention of international community to this isolation.

"Use of force and violence against unarmed people, including women, children and the elderly, is a serious breach of human rights and can no way be justified," the letter said.

The letter said the attack violated personal freedom and security, particularly the right to live and freedom of travel, and the right to be informed and communicate.

In the letter, the committee said people detained in Israel were subject to mal-treatment.

The committee also said Turkey believed in importance of a common stance against the attack and called on international community to join Turkey's reaction.

Israeli navy forces raided on Monday a convoy of aid ships of Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) carrying humanitarian aid for Gaza, killing nine people and injuring 30 others.

13. Olmert: Israel needs to repair ties with friendly nations after flotilla raid Published 10:20 02.06.10http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/olmert-israel-needs-to-repair-ties-with-friendly-nations-after-flotilla-raid-1.293734?localLinksEnabled=false

In interview with Army Radio, former PM Olmert says that the current government should make a big effort to improve relationship with the world and avoid sinking into isolation.

Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said on Wednesday that Israel faces a grave and worrying political situation in the wake of the IDF raid on a Gaza-bound humanitarian aid flotilla on Monday in which nine pro-Palestinian activists were killed.

"The government needs to make a big effort to rehabilitate the political situation with friendly nations that are angry at us and to avoid sinking into isolation,' Olmert told Army Radio. "We need to return the situation to what it was not too long ago when we were a friend of the world."

Olmert added that Israel's relationship with Turkey is strategically important.

"I think it is possible to repair the relationship [with Turkey]," Olmert said.

Olmert did not want to comment on the raid itself but said that the soldiers of Israel's Shayetet 13 naval commando unit are "the best of the best."

"There are none like them in terms of bravery, humanity and combat capabilities," he said.

Olmert also said that he is optimistic that he will be proven innocent various corruption accusations against him.

"I did not anticipate that I would have to spend so much time in legal proceedings after being Prime Minister, but I believe with all my heart that I will be exonerated," Olmert said.