Turkey Travel Warning

 

Washington DC - infoZine - Due to the persistent threat of terrorism, the U.S. government restricts travel by U.S. government personnel to certain areas in southeast Turkey and limits the activities of U.S. government personnel and their family members while in Istanbul and Adana. It is recommend U.S. citizens carefully consider the need to travel to Turkey at this time, and avoid travel to southeast Turkey.

This replaces the travel warning dated March 28, 2017. [infoZine]

In 2016 and 2017, numerous coordinated and spontaneous terrorist attacks involving shootings, suicide bombings, and vehicle-borne bombings in tourist areas, public spaces, private celebrations, sporting events, and government, police, and military facilities throughout Turkey resulted in hundreds of deaths. Examples from 2017 include: A fatal attack on a Turkish National Police officer in Istanbul on August 13; a bombing of a police facility in Diyarbakir on April 12; an attack against a courthouse in Izmir by two armed assailants on January 5; and a mass shooting at an Istanbul nightclub on January 1.

Additional attacks in Turkey could occur without warning at major sporting and/or cultural spectator events, tourist sites, restaurants, nightclubs, commercial centers, places of worship, and transportation hubs, including aviation services, metros, buses, bridges, bus terminals, and sea transport. Terrorist organizations in Turkey have explicitly targeted U.S. and other foreign tourists and expatriates for kidnapping and assassination. Heightened anti-American rhetoric has the potential to inspire independent actors to carry out acts of violence against U.S. citizens. We remind U.S. citizens to review their personal security plans including communications preparedness/connectivity; monitor local news for breaking events; remain vigilant at all times; and check in with loved ones after an attack or security incident.

Following a failed coup attempt in July 2016, the government of Turkey declared a state of emergency, which remains in effect. Under the state of emergency, security f orces have expanded powers, including the authority to detain any person at any time. The Turkish government has, at times, restricted internet access, restricted political gatherings, and blocked media content. Turkish authorities have detained U.S. citizens without granting access to lawyers or family members. Several U.S. citizens who were not physically detained have been either deported or legally banned from departing Turkey; most of those prevented from departing Turkey also possess Turkish citizenship.

Delays or denial of consular access to U.S. citizens detained or arrested by security forces have become more common, and U.S. Mission Turkey does not have consular access to arrested U.S. citizens who also possess Turkish citizenship. U.S. citizen employees of some non-governmental organizations in Turkey have also recently experienced increased scrutiny and denials of their residence permit applications. The Department continues to monitor the security environment for potential impact on the safety and well-being of U.S. citizens in Turkey and urges U.S. citizens to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) on travel.state.gov to stay informed. For questions about aviation security enhancements, such as the types of electronic devices allowed on U.S.-bound flights, please contact your air carrier and the Department of Homeland Security.

Under state of emergency provisions, authorities have regularly prohibited public events, especially those of a political nature. Under the current state of emergency, participation in unpermitted gatherings, protests, and/or demonstrations can result in detention or arrest. The Department recommends that U.S. citizens avoid all gatherings, protests, or demonstrations in Turkey, regardless of their purpose, due to the potential for violence or personal injury.

U.S. government personnel and their family members residing in or visiting Istanbul are restricted from congregating or traveling in large groups and are not permitted to visit these Istanbul locations without prior approval from the Consulate:

Large, crowded areas such as shopping malls and houses of worship frequented by expatriates, entertainment complexes, nightclubs, public sporting/cultural performance venues, and crowded pedestrian thoroughfares

Tourist destinations throughout Istanbul, to include historical sites, monuments, large bazaar markets, and museums

U.S. government personnel living in or visiting Turkey continue to require approval from the U.S. Embassy to visit the southeastern provinces of Hatay, Kilis, Gaziantep, Sanliurfa, Sirnak, Diyarbakir, Van, Siirt, Mus, Mardin, Batman, Bingol, Tunceli, Hakkari, Bitlis, and Elazig. Travel within Adana by U.S. government personnel may also be subject to restriction. Furthermore, the U.S. Embassy may prohibit movements by personnel, including those at U.S. Consulates, to these areas on short notice for security reasons. Due to recent acts of violence and the potential for reprisal attacks by terrorist groups due to continued Turkish military activity in Syria, we urge U.S. citizens to defer travel to large urban centers near the Turkey-Syria border. U.S. citizens should also be aware that the Government of Turkey has closed its border with Syria. The Government of Turkey prohibits border crossings from Syria into Turkey, even if the traveler entered Syria from Turkey. Turkish authorities may consider permitting the passage of individuals seeking emergency medical treatment or safety from immediate danger on a case by case basis.

For your safety:

Avoid travel to southeastern Turkey, in particular to large, urban centers near the Turkey-Syria border.

Stay away from large crowds, including at popular tourist destinations.

Exercise heightened vigilance and caution when visiting public areas, especially those heavily frequented by tourists.

Stay away from political gatherings and rallies.

Follow the instructions of local authorities in an emergency.

Stay at hotels with identifiable security measures in place.

Monitor local media.

Related Information

Specific Information for Turkey

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Contact the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, located at 110 Ataturk Boulevard, Kavaklidere, 06100 Ankara, at +90-312-455-5555, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The after-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +90-312-455-5555 or +90-212-335-9000 (U.S. Consulate General Istanbul).

Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul, located at Poligon Mahallesi, Sariyer Caddesi, No. 75, 34460, Istinye, Sariyer, at +90-212-335-9000.

Contact the U.S. Consulate in Adana, located at 212 Girne Bulvari, Guzelevler Mahallesi, Yuregir, Adana at +90-322-455-4100.

Contact the Consular Agency in Izmir at

Izmir at state.gov

.

Source: Turkey Travel Warning

Russian-built nuclear power plant in Turkey will soon be operational – Putin

Published time: 29 Sep, 2017 10:05

One of the major Russian energy projects in Turkey is ahead of schedule with the commissioning of the first reactor at the Akkuyu nuclear power plant (NPP) expected soon.

"We expect to build and launch Unit One of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant within a shorter timeframe," said Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday after meeting with Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

He added that would require a coordinated effort from both sides, including "timely issuance of all the necessary permissions, documents and licenses."

The $20 billion project is the first NPP in Turkey which is aiming to develop its own generating capacity. It should provide 17 percent of the country's electricity needs. Akkuyu should enable Ankara to reduce the cost of power generation and the cost to consumers.

Russia and Turkey signed an agreement to construct and operate the NPP in 2010.The plant will have four reactors with a capacity of 4,800 MW, and a service life of 60 years.

According to Putin, the Akkuyu project and the Turkish Stream natural gas pipeline were discussed in detail during his talks with Erdogan.

The two leaders recently attended the ceremony to start the construction of Turkish Stream's deepwater section.

All work on the project is being carried out "in strict accordance with the schedule," Putin said.

"We are ready to give them [projects –Ed.] a boost," said Erdogan, adding that the two countries aim to bring annual bilateral trade to $100 billion.

Putin also noted significant progress in economic cooperation and tourism, saying "the number of Russian tourists who choose Turkey as their holiday destination has increased 11 times, to 2.5 million people."

Source: Russian-built nuclear power plant in Turkey will soon be operational – Putin

Mitsui OSK's huge floating gas terminal detoured to Turkey

TOKYO -- Mitsui O.S.K. Lines will put its massive new offshore liquefied natural gas terminal to work in Turkey this year, instead of its original destination in Uruguay, owing to delays with the South American project. 

The Japanese shipping line ordered the roughly 40 billion yen ($355 million) floating storage and regasification unit in 2013 from South Korea's Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering and will receive the vessel next month. The offshore terminal can store 263,000 cu. meters of LNG, giving it a larger capacity than the world's 22 FSRUs already in operation, according to Mitsui O.S.K. It is the first such vessel to be solely owned by a Japanese marine shipper. 

The floating terminal was supposed to supply LNG in Uruguay but that project is behind schedule, prompting Mitsui O.S.K.'s decision to use it in Turkey for several years. It will be operated by a Turkish state-run gas company.

FSRUs are offshore terminals that receive LNG from carriers, store it, convert it to gas and send it ashore. Demand for such units is brisk in emerging countries since they can move like regular ships, allowing LNG to be delivered more quickly and cheaply than from onshore terminals.

Mitsui O.S.K. is building an LNG business to diversify its earnings base away from bulk and container shipping, which tend to be buffeted by the economic cycle.

(Nikkei)

Source: Mitsui OSK's huge floating gas terminal detoured to Turkey

Halal holidays boost Muslim tourists to Turkey

Main attractions: Muslim tourists are discovering Turkey has a lot to offer © Osman Orsal/Reuters

Turkey is attracting growing numbers of visitors from the Middle East, according to statistics gathered by the UN World Tourism Association.

The data show that tourist arrivals from the Middle East have risen from 2.1m in 2011 to 3.7m in 2015, the latest year for which figures are available.

More recent figures from the Turkish consulate general suggest strong growth in visitor numbers from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries in the first half of 2017 — an estimated 360,000 travellers, 26 per cent more than in the same period of 2016.

Despite the growing numbers, there is debate over whether Turkey should adopt an accreditation system that would rate accommodation, travel agencies, catering and transportation on how well they meet religious standards.

"Increasingly, our clients are looking for a tailored experience," says Nabeel Shariff, director of Serendipity Tailormade, a UK-based luxury travel firm that caters for Muslims.

Mr Shariff says halal tourism providers should try to provide unique solutions for Muslims from different countries. However, he says the imposition of a regulatory system could discourage liberal Muslim tourists from visiting.

© Kasia Wandycz/Paris Match/Getty Images

Halal holidays are a fast-growing sector of the global tourism industry. According to the State of the Global Islamic Economy — an annual report from Thomson Reuters in collaboration with DinarStandard, a US-based strategy and research firm — Muslim-friendly beach resorts are emerging as a high growth sector.

Turkey is the most established market for such beach resorts. The authors estimated that travellers from Saudi Arabia would be the biggest Muslim spenders on global consumer travel, laying out about $19bn in 2015.

Travellers from the UAE were expected to have spent $15bn, Qatar was the third-highest predicted source of tourist spend at $12bn, and Kuwait was ranked fourth at $9bn.

"Turkey is a natural destination," says Rafi-uddin Shikoh, chief executive at DinarStandard. "The market and opportunity is there."

He adds: "The needs of Muslim travellers mirror the needs of others in many ways. They want to travel to the same places and have common experiences.

"But certain aspects are unique to their faith, in that they want comfort in the easy availability of halal food. That is easy to find in a country like Turkey."

While religiously observant Muslim travellers demand certain minimum standards, such as prayer facilities while on holiday, Muslims do not all adhere to the same core tenets of Islamic practice.

Muslim tourists want halal food and a no-alcohol policy

Ufuk Secgin, the marketing manager for www.HalalBooking.com, says halal tourists interpret Islamic rules in varying ways. "What's common is they usually want a beach holiday and indoor and outdoor pools. They want women-only and men-only spa facilities. But while they want halal food and a no-alcohol policy, they don't want segregation in restaurants. We usually recommend agents should know the destination well before advising clients."

Luxury halal holidays are favoured by wealthy Muslim travellers from oil-rich Gulf nations. A report published two years ago by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry found that 40 per of outbound global Islamic travel spending was from five countries in the Middle East — Saudi Arabia, followed by Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait.

The same report found that Turkey was the second most popular destination for Muslim tourists after Malaysia.

Once in Turkey, the affluent Islamic tourist can head to five-star halal Turkish resorts such as Angel's Marmaris, Adin Beach Hotel and Adenya Beach Resort. The hotels tend not to attract western visitors because they only serve halal food, serve no alcohol and have segregated facilities so that women can swim in women-only pools. However, when contacted, all three hotels said they would be happy to host non-Muslim guests so long as they agreed to adhere to the halal rules of the resort.

In other resorts, Muslim visitors who would prefer to minimise the risk of compromising their religious principles, can also hire their own villa with a chef who will cook a halal menu.

Source: Halal holidays boost Muslim tourists to Turkey

More Brits are heading back to Turkey and Egypt on holiday – so how safe is it?

BRITISH holidaymakers are returning to top tourist destinations in Egypt and Turkey, despite concerns over terror attacks.

Thomas Cook has revealed that demand for trips to the two countries had continued to increase because of the cheap prices.

Alamy

Tourist demand for holidays in Turkey and Egypt has soared this year

The company's chief executive Peter Fankhauser told the BBC's Today programme that demand in Egyptian and Turkish resorts was boosting the winter holiday markets.

He said: "Both destinations are wonderful countries, with great hotels, great beaches, nice people, and it's really good value.

"People want to go back. We are not a security company; as long as we have the advice of the Foreign Office that we can fly to Egypt and Turkey, we offer a great product."

The demand for cheap breaks in the two countries is set to grow further, as Brits are likely to see the cost of their tip to Spain rise by hundreds of pounds next year, due to a combination of strong demand and the weak pound.

In the last few years, demand for holidays to Spain grew as tourists shunned traditional tourist spots in Egypt and Spain due to terror fears.

But both countries have now invested heavily into security infrastructure - so is it really safe to visit?

Egypt

Getty - Contributor

Brits have been unable to fly to Sharm El Sheikh since late 2015, due to a terror attack on a passenger plane

Air travel to Sharm El Sheikh was suspended by the Foreign Office in December 2015, after aRussian passenger plane was blown out of the sky, killing 224 people.

As a result, British tour operators stopped all holiday bookings in the area – but visiting the area isn't actually banned, just travel by air.

The Foreign office said: "We are not raising the threat level in the resort. The above advice applies only to air travel to and from Sharm el Sheikh."

FCO

Current Foreign Office travel advice for Egypt

The government also advises against all travel to the Governorate of North Sinai.

And it advises against all but essential travel to the Governorate of South Sinai except within the Sharm el Sheikh perimeter barrier, and travel west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, excluding coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh.

But there is no advice against travel to Cairo, Alexandria, the tourist areas along the Nile river (including Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings) and the Red Sea resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

As a result, Brits have recently been flocking to the resorts of Marsa Alam and Hurghada instead.

Getty - Contributor

Many Brits are now travelling to the Red Sea resort of Hurghada, pictured, instead of Sharm El Sheikh

The Red sea destination of Hurghada was traditionally more visited by German holidaymakers, while Sharm El Sheikh was the UK favourite.

A Thomas Cook spokesman told Sun Online earlier this year: "Egypt has been very popular this year. We're expecting more than double the number of UK customers compared with last year."

The newly-popular resort also suffered a setback in July, when a man suspected of ISIS links killed two women in a knife attack and injured four more.

Getty Images - Getty

231,000 British nationals visited Egypt in 2016 and most were trouble-free

Despite some high-profile terror attacks against foreigners though, it should be noted that around 231,000 British nationals visited Egypt in 2016 and most were trouble-free.

However, terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt and holidaymakers should avoid crowded places – with threats made to western nationals, institutions and businesses posted on websites and social media.

Turkey

Getty - Contributor

Istanbul in Turkey, where a nightclub shooting on NYE last year left 39 people dead

A number of attacks blighted the Turkey throughout 2016 and into the New Year, including the devastating Istanbul nightclub shooting on NYE that left 39 people dead.

It was followed later in the same week by another terror strike in Izmir – a town popular with Brit holidaymakers – as three Kalashnikov-wielding terrorists killed at least four people in a car bombing.

The government do advise against all travel to within six miles of the border with Syria and to the city of Diyarbakir, as well as all but essential travel to Sirnak, Mardin, Sanliurfa, Gaziantep, Diyarbakir, Kilis and Hatay provinces, and the provinces of Siirt, Tunceli and Hakkari.

FCO

Current Foreign Office travel advice for Turkey

However, the vast majority of the country is not under any restrictions from the Foreign Office.

British nationals made over 1.7 million visits to Turkey in 2016 and most visits were trouble free, but tourists are warned to stay alert to their surroundings and vigilant in crowded places.

The situation has calmed considerably following an attempted coup from July 15-16 last year, but the security environment remains potentially volatile and a state of emergency is in place.

Getty - Contributor

Bodrum in Turkey - a hugely popular holiday destination among Brits

In some busy areas, especially Istanbul, local authorities are stopping members of the public to conduct ID checks.

Some airlines and airports within the country also still face restrictions on what electronic goods can be taken in hand luggage.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey, but the government says that they are most likely to target the Turkish state, civilians and demonstrations.

The Turkish authorities have said that they successfully disrupted attack planning in the recent past, and earlier this month, media reports suggested that 37 terrorist suspects had been detained by police.

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Source: More Brits are heading back to Turkey and Egypt on holiday – so how safe is it?

Here're some pocket-friendly abroad destinations for Indians

New Delhi [India], September 26 (ANI): "If traveling was free, you would never see me again"- This is the line repeated often by people like your friends and colleagues, who have a serious wanderlust.

It is on your social media feed, on advertising billboards of travel portals and in books which are on therapy and finding happiness. But the sad part is that traveling is not free. It costs a lot of money a bit.

However, you can travel to a lot of places that are considered as "cheapest international destinations from India" to travel to. It won't cost you a fortune to visit these fascinating destinations.

BookMyForex have compiled a list of few cheapest destinations for Indians to travel abroad:

1. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is known for its beaches, blue waters, and clear cloudless skies. If you want to let your hair down and simply relax, this is your ideal vacation destination.

- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah

- Hostel: 500 INR/- night

- Local Travel: 50 INR or less

- Meals: 500 INR

- Drinks: 350 INR

- Sightseeing: 200 INR

- Daily budget calculation: 1600 INR

- Places to visit/things to do: Besides the lovely beaches, you can check out Sekumpul waterfalls, Gunung Kawi, and TirtaGangga.

2. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, which is at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain, is a treat to the eyes with its beautiful buildings and skyline. The Cathedral of Saint Alexander Nevsky is synonymous with Sofia.

- Currency: Bulgarian Lev

- Hostel: 500 INR /-nights

- Local Travel: 200 INR

- Meals: 600 INR on an average

- Drinks: 250 INR on an average

- Sightseeing: 250 INR

- Daily budget calculation: 1800 INR

-Places to visit/things to do: Cathedral of Saint Alexander Nevsky, Rila monastery, Boyana Church, National Gallery of foreign art, BanyaBashiMosque and National Park. Sofia has the most beautiful churches

3. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is Europe at its best. With its gothic columns, magnificent bridges and buildings, you will fall in love with this city.

- Currency: Hungarian Forint

- Hostel: 600 INR/night

- Local Travel: 175 INR

- Meals: 750 INR

- Drinks: 250 INR

- Sightseeing: 200 INR

- Daily budget calculation: 1975 INR

- Places to visit/things to do: Take a tour around the Danube, see the Hungarian opera house, the Parliament and gothic styled churches, the Chain's Bridge, Fisherman's Bastion, St. Stephen's Basilica

4. Istanbul, Turkey

History, art, an interesting mix of Christian and Islamic architecture, Turkey is by far the most photogenic in the World.

- Currency: Lira

- Hostel: 770 INR/ night

- Local Travel: 200 INR

- Meals: 600 INR

- Drinks: 600 INR

- Sightseeing: 450 INR

- Daily budget calculation: 2620 INR

- Places to visit/things to do: Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Galata Tower, Archeological museum, grand bazaar and the flea markets

5. Thimpu, Bhutan

Set in the hills, Thimphu is scenic and is almost like a picture postcard. Bhutan is said to have the happiest people in the World. Go here for its scenery and feel-good atmosphere.

- Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum

- Hostel: 1240 INR /- night approximately

- Local Travel: 310 INR

- Meals: 750 INR on an average

- Drinks: 310 INR

- Sightseeing: 250 INR

- Daily budget calculation: 2860 INR

- Places to visit/things to do: Buddha Point, Thimpu Dzong, Gangteng Monastery. Also, check out the museums too.

6. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh is a beautiful city with a surreal mix of architecture, greenery, and culture. Go here to experience this wondrous city in South East Asia.

- Currency: Cambodian Riel

- Hostel: 750 INR/- night

- Local Travel: 350 INR

- Meals: 1000 INR

- Drinks: 350 INR

- Sightseeing: 150 INR

- Daily budget calculation: 2600 INR

- Places to visit/things to do: Check out the Wildlife rescue center, the genocide museum, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National monument of Cambodia and The Killing Fields

7. Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest is an ancient city with fabulous concert halls and beautiful buildings and when you are there you can catch a concert or an orchestra performance too.

- Currency: Romanian Leu

- Hostel: 600 INR/ night

- Local Travel: 100 INR

- Meals: 700 INR

- Drinks: 350 INR

- Sightseeing: 200 INR

- Daily budget calculation: 1950 INR

- Places to visit/things to do: There are a lot of historical walking areas around the Old town like the Romanian Athen. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI

Source: Here're some pocket-friendly abroad destinations for Indians

Media Release : Trade and Investment Mission to Saudi Arabia and Turkey

MEDIA STATEMENT TRADE AND INVESTMENT MISSION TO SAUDI ARABIA AND TURKEY, 25‐28 SEPTEMBER 2017

YB Dato' Sri Mustapa Mohamed, Minister of International Trade and Industry will lead a Trade and Investment Mission to Saudi Arabia and Turkey from 25‐28 September 2017.

Covering Riyadh and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia as well as Istanbul in Turkey, this mission is one of Government's many efforts to strengthen Malaysia's economic bilateral relations with these countries.

This mission will be participated by a delegation of 30 people comprising 10 officials from MITI and agencies, as well as 20 businessmen from 12 organisations.

The programme in Saudi includes intensive discussions as follow through of many economic decisions agreed by both governments and private sector during the State Visit of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al‐Saud, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Malaysia in February this year.

YB Dato' Sri Mustapa is scheduled to meet with his counterpart, the Minister of Commerce and Investment, as well as the Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources and the Minister of Economy and Planning during his visit in Riyadh.

While in Turkey, the MITI Minister is scheduled to meet with Turkish Minister of Economy to discuss the expansion of scope under the Malaysia‐Turkey Free Trade Agreement (MTFTA) which came into force in 2015.

Apart from meeting with government officials, YB Dato' Sri Mustapa Mohamed will be engaging the local chambers of commerce and industry along with top figures from Saudi and Turkish business communities to further promote Malaysia as their ideal trade and investment partner.

In 2016, Malaysia recorded a total trade of RM13.99 billion (US$3.37 billion) with Saudi Arabia, an increase of 27.8% from RM10.95 billion (US$2.82 billion) in 2015. From this value, exports to Saudi decreased slightly by 1.4% to RM3.37 billion (US$812.54 million) from RM3.42 billion (US$880.48 million) in 2015. On the other hand, imports from Saudi increased by 41.1% to RM10.62 billion (US$2.56 billion) in 2015 from RM7.53 billion (US$ 1.94 billion).

For the period January‐July 2017, total trade between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia increased by 17.0% to RM8.38 billion (US$1.91 billion) from RM7.16 billion (US$1.75 billion) during the corresponding period in 2016. Out of this, exports increased by 41.9% to RM2.62 billion (US$597.7 million) and imports increased by 8.4% to RM5.76 billion (US$1.31 billion) compared with the corresponding period in 2016.

As for Turkey, Malaysia recorded total bilateral trade at RM8.42 billion (US$2.02 billion), an increase of 50.2% from RM5.61 billion (US$1.43 billion) in 2015. From this amount, exports to Turkey increased by 89.0% - the highest growth recorded in Malaysian exports to any West Asian country in 2016 - to RM7.17 billion (US$1.72 billion) from RM3.80 billion (US$952.75 million) in 2015. On the contrary, imports decreased by 31.2% to RM1.24 billion (US$300.36 million) from RM1.81 billion (US$473.82 million) in 2015.

For the period January‐July 2017, total trade between Malaysia and Turkey increased by 64.2% to RM7.07 billion (US$1.62 billion) from RM4.31 billion (US$1.05 billion) during the corresponding period in 2016. Out of this, exports increased by 71.5% to RM6.09 billion (US$1.39 billion) and imports increased by 30.1% to RM983.72 million (US$224.67 million) compared with the corresponding period in 2016.

Ministry of International Trade and Industry 25 September, 2017

‐END‐ About MITI:

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry was established in April 1956 then was renamed as The Ministry of Trade and Industry in February 1972. On 27 October 1990, the Ministry was separated into two Ministries which are; Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) and Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDN).

MITI is the key driver in making Malaysia the preferred destination for quality investments and enhancing the nation's rising status as a globally competitive trading nation. Its objectives and roles are oriented towards ensuring Malaysia's rapid economic development and help achieve the country's stated goal of becoming a developed nation by 2020.

Media enquiries

Ministry of International Trade & Industry Strategic Communications Unit

Tel +603 6200 0082

Fax +603 6206 4293

E‐mail [email protected]

Ministry of International Trade and Industry of Malaysia published this content on 25 September 2017 and is solely responsible for the information contained herein.Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 25 September 2017 01:14:02 UTC.

Source: Media Release : Trade and Investment Mission to Saudi Arabia and Turkey

Greek court says Syrian refugees can be returned to Turkey

ATHENS, Greece –  Greece's Supreme Court has ruled that refugees can be returned to Turkey under last year's European Union-Turkey deal, rejecting arguments by two Syrian men that Turkey is not a safe destination.

In a case with implications for thousands of refugees in Greece — and others planning to enter the country seeking asylum — the court ruled that deported refugees face no threat of torture, inhumane or degrading treatment, or punishment in Turkey.

Under the 2016 EU-Turkey agreement to stem migratory flows, refugees or migrants reaching the Greek islands from Turkey will be returned there unless they can prove sufficient reason for seeking asylum in Greece rather than Turkey.

The decision made public Friday concerned two Syrian men who had their Greek asylum applications rejected and were fighting deportation to Turkey.

Source: Greek court says Syrian refugees can be returned to Turkey

Armenia's Gyumri among cheapest flight destinations from Moscow

September 21, 2017 - 18:06 AMT

PanARMENIAN.Net - The second largest Armenian city, Gyumri has made it to the top three cheapest destinations for flights from Moscow, as evidenced by data provided by travel service OneTwoTrip.

The two most inexpensive foreign routes for travelers from Moscow are Memmingen (Germany) and Minsk, Lenta.ru reports.

The Airport in Gyumri was recently revamped to accomodate more carriers and offer bigger diversity. Prime minister Karen Karapetyan said last week that more flights will be operated from Shirak airport in the northern Armenian town.

Source: Armenia's Gyumri among cheapest flight destinations from Moscow

Inspiring Bucket List Destinations

These epic holiday hotspots are bound to inspire you to take that next adventure.Ever dreamt about skiing the French Alps or feeding a baby elephant in Thailand? If so, you have 'wanderlust'. The symptoms can vary between lack of concentration from daydreaming about slack-lining in Turkey, to jet-skiing with orcas in New Zealand. Symptoms can only be cured by taking that adventure you dream of – let these videos work to inspire you to overcome 'wanderlust' and experience it for yourself. Credit: Various via Storyful

READ MORE SEE LESS

Source: Inspiring Bucket List Destinations

Why I love Turkey, a country of countless wonders

Imagine being able to see rock formations so unusual they're known as Fairy Chimneys, visit an entire stone city 20 floors underground, sail on the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean, and explore one of the oldest and most cosmopolitan cities in the world, all in one country.

This is what you'll discover in Turkey. And it's just the beginning.

There are ancient Roman cities, ancient cliff-side tombs, tantalising cuisine, and some of the most glorious Islamic architecture to be found anywhere. My husband and I had no idea what to expect prior to visiting Turkey, but any minor misgivings we did have disappeared as soon as we arrived. Turkey is easy to love. Here are a few reasons why.

The historic capital

Istanbul engrosses you. This crowded metropolis of 14 million people has a unique character and aliveness that comes from having been at a cultural crossroads for millennia.

The view from Galata Bridge

It is the Grand Potentate of cities and whispers of the ages. People have been living here for nearly 8000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Here are some spots I enjoyed:

Sultanahmet Camii – we arrive very early at the Blue Mosque and enter a huge, silent, and serene space. It is overwhelming in its beauty, and comparable to any of the grand temples and cathedrals of the world. I stand awed, slowly taking in the spacious whole, and the gorgeous details as light streams in through the many stained glass windows. It is glorious.

The Blue Mosque

Topkapi Palace – surely one of the grandest and most beautiful of all the world's palaces. This massive walled complex containing many buildings was the home of the Ottoman sultans for 400 years. At its peak, 4000 people lived in this city within a city. From the exquisite tile work and rich décor to the jewellery and silver collections, Topkapi is now an extraordinary museum showcasing the wealth and lifestyle of the Ottoman rulers.

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The Basilica Cistern – we descend into the eerie golden darkness of an underground reservoir built 1500 years ago. As our eyes adjust to the light we see a cavernous space, soaring columns, and a rich orange light, all of which is reflected in the water. The whole effect is startlingly beautiful. And in a corner of this spectacular and unusual space is the kind of chance to 'play tourist' that we seldom take, but on this day we are inspired! We are offered the opportunity to dress-up as an Ottoman Sultan and his Sultana. How could we resist?

The Basilica Cistern

Ayasofya – is cavernous and dark. It was built 1500 years ago as an Eastern Orthodox cathedral in what was then Christian Constantinople. Unfortunately funding for restoration is a political football. I am disappointed with the dusty floor-to-ceiling scaffolding filling half the space, and the overall feeling of grimy neglect, but there are exquisite stained glass windows, and pockets of glowing beauty hidden in the dingy gloom.

READ MORE: A BEAUTIFUL TALE OF SHARING RAMADAN IN DIYARBAKIR, TURKEY

The Grand Bazaar – nothing can erase the feeling of other times, other lifestyles. It is the oldest, and one of the largest, covered markets in the world with over 4000 shops. It is steeped in stories. It is a small town, and a rabbit warren that invites you to explore its grand colonnaded spaces, endless streets, and narrow hidden alleyways.

The Grand Bazaar

The Spice Market – is crowded and alive. From the jewel hues of the Turkish delight and dried fruit to the rich aromas of the spices, the gorgeous ceramics and traditional lamps, the Spice Market is a feast for the senses.

The heart of the city is the Golden Horn, an inlet from the Bosphorus Strait, and Galata Bridge that spans it. We amble across the bridge watching the fishermen and the crowds. Walking back we catch the sunset, its light reflecting off the windows of the domed mosques and turning the waters of the Golden Horn golden. It is iconic Istanbul.

Galata Bridge

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The endless coastline

In Fethiye we take a day cruise, stopping in three different places.

We swim and snorkel in the crystal clear water, and I see schools of tiny fish, silver with a flash of blue, hundreds of them swimming in formation, turning together as if they are one being.

We eat barbequed chicken and salads prepared on the boat, and later we laze on the mats on the upper deck, languid and comatose from the heat and the activity of the day.

Energy seeps away and resting happens: deep resting in the warm sun surrounded by this blue-water world.

Enjoying the Mediterranean delights of Turkey

The otherworldly landscapes

Early morning darkness; the balloons are spread on the ground. One by one the burners are lit, creating a golden glow. As hot air fills each balloon it slowly expands and becomes upright. We lift off, so gently I hardly realize we are airborne. We glide silently up as the sun rises over a surreal landscape. We float over the land with its plateaus and valleys and strange rock formations. We soar above, and then drift alongside the tops of the Fairy Chimneys.

It is magical; the sunrise, the coloured balloons, the astonishing landscape.

Cappadocia

Cappadocia, in central Turkey, is an area covered with a volcanic rock known as tuff. Discovering that tuff is soft enough to carve, thousands of years ago people began carving dwellings in the rock, both in the cones and chimneys that dot the landscape, and underground. The entire area is riddled with tunnels and hand-hewn caves many floors deep.

VISIT CAPADOCCIA ON OUR 15-DAY 'BEST OF TURKEY' TOUR

We walk forever downwards in the dark winding tunnels of Derinkuyu, an underground city. Some of the tunnels are barely wider than we are, some so low we have to bend over to get through. Lighting is dim and sporadic. This ancient city is 200 feet deep with living quarters, storerooms, stables, and temples. At one time it sheltered as many as 20,000 people hidden underground. It is a whole different secret world.

Cappadocia

And in the Goreme Open Air Museum, a medieval monastic settlement carved into the chimneys and cones of tuff, there are some exquisite fully-restored Byzantine frescoes.

—

I hope, by now, I've convinced you that Turkey is an amazing country with much to offer.

Istanbul is one of the world's great cities.

The landscapes of Pamukkale and Cappadocia are unique and incomparable.

Pamukkale

The sun and azure seas of the Mediterranean make it the perfect place to explore the coast, and the country is filled from east to west with antiquities.

Whatever  trepidation we had about visiting Turkey due to the current world political climate, vanished when we found a beautiful, safe, diverse country, and wonderful, friendly people.

Ready to experience the same rush of adoration for this country? Check out our range of small group adventures in Turkey.

—

(Images all c/o Alison Armstrong at alisonanddon.com – except for Pamukkale image c/o Intrepid Travel.)

Why I love Turkey, a country of countless wonders was last modified: September 17th, 2017 by Alison Armstrong

Source: Why I love Turkey, a country of countless wonders

Daesh exodus threatens Turkey and the region

ANKARA: The Guardian recently reported that several dozen former Daesh fighters had crossed into southern Turkey in recent weeks, and hundreds more are massed in Syria's Idlib province waiting to cross.Although Turkey's border with Syria is closely monitored, the newspaper reported that they had crossed with the help of smugglers.As Daesh loses territory in Syria and Iraq, the exodus of its militants and their families is expected to continue, posing serious challenges to Turkey and other countries in the region.In April, Turkey announced the completion of the first phase of a wall that, when completed, is expected to cover the length of its border with Syria.Ankara recently adopted an integrated security system for its borders with war-torn countries that includes watchtowers, radars, thermal cameras, unmanned drones and night-vision.Metin Gurcan, a former military officer and security analyst at the Istanbul Policy Center, said Daesh's territorial losses in Syria and Iraq have made Turkey an appealing gateway for its fleeing militants.Last month, Australian police arrested two Daesh suspects who put a homemade bomb in their brother's luggage, camouflaged as a meat mincer, when he was about to fly from Sydney with Etihad Airways.Australian authorities said the high-grade explosives used to build the bomb, which was detected by airport security, had been sent to Australia by air cargo from Turkey."Ankara and the US-led anti-Daesh coalition can't find an institutional mechanism to coordinate the fight against extremists because they currently lack a trust-based relationship," Gurcan told Arab News.This year, Turkish police have further increased efforts to eradicate suspected Daesh cells throughout the country.According to official figures, Turkey has detained more than 5,000 suspected Daesh militants so far, and has deported some 3,290 foreign fighters from 95 countries."There's an urgent need for effective intelligence-sharing between Turk ey and the West to take precautions against possible terror attacks by these militants," Gurcan said.Sertac Canalp Korkmaz, a researcher on security studies at ORSAM, a think tank in Ankara, told Arab News: "When these foreign fighters cross Turkish territories, they'll pose a serious threat to Turkey and to their countries of destination, because they've gained significant combat experience and will have a greater capacity for lethal attacks when they return from conflict zones."He said: "The security wall that's being constructed has limited the availability of transit points that could be exploited by Daesh militants."A "proactive security policy" is needed to minimize potential threats, Korkmaz added.

ANKARA: The Guardian recently reported that several dozen former Daesh fighters had crossed into southern Turkey in recent weeks, and hundreds more are massed in Syria's Idlib province waiting to cross.Although Turkey's border with Syria is closely monitored, the newspaper reported that they had crossed with the help of smugglers.As Daesh loses territory in Syria and Iraq, the exodus of its militants and their families is expected to continue, posing serious challenges to Turkey and other countries in the region.In April, Turkey announced the completion of the first phase of a wall that, when completed, is expected to cover the length of its border with Syria.Ankara recently adopted an integrated security system for its borders with war-torn countries that includes watchtowers, radars, thermal cameras, unmanned drones and night-vision.Metin Gurcan, a former military officer and security analyst at the Istanbul Policy Center, said Daesh's territorial losses in Syria and Iraq have made Turkey an appealing gateway for its fleeing militants.Last month, Australian police arrested two Daesh suspects who put a homemade bomb in their brother's luggage, camouflaged as a meat mincer, when he was about to fly from Sydney with Etihad Airways.Australian authorities said the high-grade explosives used to build the bomb, which was detected by airport security, had been sent to Australia by air cargo from Turkey."Ankara and the US-led anti-Daesh coalition can't find an institutional mechanism to coordinate the fight against extremists because they currently lack a trust-based relationship," Gurcan told Arab News.This year, Turkish police have further increased efforts to eradicate suspected Daesh cells throughout the country.According to official figures, Turkey has detained more than 5,000 suspected Daesh militants so far, and has deported some 3,290 foreign fighters from 95 countries."There's an urgent need for effective intelligence-sharing between Turk ey and the West to take precautions against possible terror attacks by these militants," Gurcan said.Sertac Canalp Korkmaz, a researcher on security studies at ORSAM, a think tank in Ankara, told Arab News: "When these foreign fighters cross Turkish territories, they'll pose a serious threat to Turkey and to their countries of destination, because they've gained significant combat experience and will have a greater capacity for lethal attacks when they return from conflict zones."He said: "The security wall that's being constructed has limited the availability of transit points that could be exploited by Daesh militants."A "proactive security policy" is needed to minimize potential threats, Korkmaz added.

Source: Daesh exodus threatens Turkey and the region

Kuwait plays vital role in regional stability: Turkey

Premier off to Ankara on official visit

KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah waves before his departure to Turkey yesterday. — KUNA

ANKARA: Kuwait, under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, plays a vital role in maintaining regional security and stability, said Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim yesterday. In an exclusive interview, Yilidirim indicated that the visit by Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah will contribute to the development of ties as desired by both Kuwaiti and Turkish leaderships as well as people.

Bilateral relations are strong and both countries are eager to pursue more cooperative venues, said Yildirim who revealed that there were more than 40 signed agreements and memos between the two nations. He indicated that cooperation in the defense domain is one of the sectors that his country was eager to develop with Kuwait.

He added that regional challenges required such solidarity among world countries. Yildirim called for expanding the volume of commercial exchange with Kuwait, increasing the number from $1.2 billion in 2016 to $5 billion in the near future. The Turkish official also commended the increasing number of Kuwaitis seeking his country as a touristic destination, revealing that some 95,000 Kuwaitis visited Turkey since the beginning of this year.

The number will hopefully increase as Turkey issued a policy last August to offer Kuwaitis free-visa admission to the country for periods between 90 and 180 days, indicated Yildirim. Kuwaitis have also heavily sought real-estate properties in Turkey which is a positive sign for both economies, said the top Turkish official who hoped to further boost relations in the future.His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and his accompanying delegation left yesterday for Turkish capital Ankara on a state official visit. He is accompanied by First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Anas Khaled Al-Saleh, Minister of Commerce and Industry in addition to Acting Minister of State for Youth Affairs Khaled Al-Roudan, Head of Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) delegation Abdullah Al-Humaidi, Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Al-Jarallah and senior officials and the Foreign Ministery, His Highness the Prime Minister's Diwan, National Guard, Investment Promotion Authority, General Authority for Investment and Kuwaiti Ambassador to Turkey Ghassan Al-Zawawi. – KUNA

Source: Kuwait plays vital role in regional stability: Turkey

Turkey’s Pegasus Airlines to Compete With Turkish Air at New Istanbul Airport

Turkey's Pegasus Airlines plans to establish a major base at the new Istanbul airport scheduled to open late next year, helping the discount specialist to attract passengers from the European side of the city where state-owned rival Turkish Airlines currently dominates.

Pegasus is likely to station a "considerable fleet" at the airport after a third runway opens in about 2020, Chief Commercial Officer Guliz Ozturk said in an interview. While the as-yet-unnamed hub will cater to 90 million travelers a year, rising to as many as 150 million, the airline hasn't until now said it will have a significant presence, suggesting in 2014 that it wasn't keen to fly there.

Pegasus currently bases almost 60 aircraft at Istanbul's secondary Sabiha Gokcen airport on the Asian side of the Bosphorus, where the catchment totals about 8 million people, compared with 10 million on the European side, Ozturk said. It has no planes located at the city's main Ataturk hub, the home base of Turkish Air, which is set to close once the new facility is fully operational.

"We plan to fly both domestically and internationally out of the new airport if we can get the slots and infrastructure," Ozturk said in London. It's unlikely Pegasus would be able to establish a full base until the third runway is built about nine months after the first two open, she said.

Demand continues to rebound from a 2016 slump amid a spate of terrorist attacks, the executive said. Third-quarter traffic has been strong even for the summer peak, with tourist travel from the Middle East and Russia continuing to surge and West European visits picking up, albeit more slowly.

Russia Push

Pegasus also plans to add further flights at Sabiha Gokcen, which is itself getting a second runway, as the total fleet swells from 77 aircraft now to around 125 in 2023, including 25 options it plans to convert, the CCO said.

The additional capacity will be used to add more frequencies within Turkey, while the European network will also get extra daily flights plus some new destinations. In the Middle East, Russia, Ukraine and North Africa the emphasis will be more on adding routes, so long as access rights are available, she said.

Pegasus is particularly keen to win market share in Russia, where bilateral accords often allow only one airline per country — almost always the flag-carrier. That means that while it's able to serve smaller destinations such as Volgograd, Nizhny Novgorod and Samara, as well as Moscow, it can't currently fly to the second city of St. Petersburg.

The carrier will continue to depart from the low-cost norm and target transit passengers who account for 30 percent of total traffic, a consequence of Istanbul's position at a natural crossroads, Ozturk said. The most popular transit routes are Paris to Beirut and London to Tel Aviv.

The 2023 fleet is slated to comprise 100 Airbus SE A320neo-series jets from a $10 billion order placed in 2012, 11 of which have been delivered, and about 25 older Boeing Co. 737s. Bigger A321neos from the Airbus contract will start arriving in 2019, though Pegasus will remain focused on routes within six hours' flying time and has no interest in a long-range variant, Ozturk said.

Pegasus, which is 63 percent owned by private equity firm Esas Holding AS with the rest of its stock traded, currently bases eight planes in Izmir, four in Ankara and Antalya and one in Adana, plus two in northern Cyprus. Istanbul Ataturk has a handful of daily flights but no permanent aircraft.

Shares of Pegasus, as Pegasus Hava Tasimaciligi AS is known, were trading 1.1 percent lower at 30.16 liras as of 12:41 p.m. in Istanbul. The stock has more than doubled in price this year, valuing the company at 3.08 billion liras ($895 million).

This article was written by Christopher Jasper from Bloomberg and was legally licensed through the NewsCred publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to [email protected].

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Source: Turkey's Pegasus Airlines to Compete With Turkish Air at New Istanbul Airport

Counter-terrorism Bureau: Don't travel to North Korea or Turkey

Israel's Counter-terrorism Bureau issued a general travel warning "to present the public with an up-to-date picture of the situation."

The warning comes two weeks before the Jewish holidays.

"Every year, the Tishrei holidays may be an attractive target for carrying out terror attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets," the warning said.

Tishrei is the Hebrew month during which Rosh Hashana (the Jewish New Year), Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement), and Sukkot (the holiday of Tabernacles) are celebrated. The current terror wave began during the Tishrei holidays in 2015.

Travel warnings were issued for 28 countries and entry into 6 enemy countries was forbidden. There are also 10 travel warnings issued for various regions abroad.

"Currently, there is much motivation to carry out terror attacks around the world. Global jihad, especially ISIS and its followers, threatens Middle Eastern countries located near war zones. These include Turkey, Jordan, and Egypt, all of which were issued travel warnings. Western countries issued travel warnings include northern and western Europe," the Bureau said.

"The threat is mainly the result of ISIS' fighting in Syria and Iraq against the Western countries' coalition with the US."

The Bureau also warned the public to be careful and pay special attention to anything suspicious in crowded places and Jewish sites around the world.

The Sinai Peninsula is considered to be one of the areas most threatened by ISIS. According to the Counter-terrorism Bureau, the area is extremely dangerous. Israelis are advised to avoid visiting the Sinai Peninsula, and those who are currently in the area are advised to leave immediately.

Israelis are also advised not to visit Egypt, despite the thaw in relations between the two countries. The same warning applies to both Turkey and Jordan.

Though North Korea has recently become a popular tourist destination, the Counter-terrorism Bureau advises Israelis to refrain from traveling to the area.

Source: Counter-terrorism Bureau: Don't travel to North Korea or Turkey

German citizen released in Turkey, banned from travel: agency

ISTANBUL (Reuters) - A Turkish court has ordered a German citizen who was detained in southern Turkey last week to be released but banned from travel, Dogan news agency reported on Thursday.

The released person and their German spouse were detained while on holiday in Antalya, a popular tourist destination. The spouse had already been freed after questioning, Dogan said.

The agency said they had both been held as part of investigations into a network of supporters of U.S.-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, blamed by Turkish authorities for a failed military coup last year, and Kurdish militants in Syria. Gulen has denied any link to the failed coup.

Thursday's reported release means 10 German citizens remain in Turkish detention on political charges.

The arrests have raised tensions between Ankara and Berlin and led Chancellor Angela Merkel to call for a review of relations and of Turkey's EU accession talks.

The detainees include dual German-Turkish citizen Deniz Yucel, who has been held for more than 200 days.

(Writing by Ezgi Erkoyun; Editing by Dominic Evans and Alison Williams)

Source: German citizen released in Turkey, banned from travel: agency

Turkey: Enough lemons to export all year round

In Turkey, lemons are produced for a period of 6 months; however, the volume of fruit harvested is so high that most medium and large producers usually store them in their cold rooms to continue supplying their customers during the rest of the year. "We produce about 1,000 tonnes of lemons a month, of which we export almost 90%," explains Emir Öztürk, head of Zebzeci.

Destinations such as the UK, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Dubai, India, Vietnam, South Asia, Bulgaria, Belarus, Russia or Armenia receive lemons of Turkish origin on a weekly basis. "We are in an excellent location for the logistics. Turkey is close to Europe and also to Asia, which makes transport much easier and cheaper, "explains Öztürk.

However, not all countries come into play throughout the year, since not all lemon producers have their goods ready at the same time. "For us, both Spain and Morocco are very competitive in the international arena." The fact is that both countries produce large quantities of this citrus fruit, and in the Spanish case, the fact that they don't have to pay certain taxes (because they belong to the EU) makes them the biggest competitor.

For more information: 

Emir Öztürk

Zebzeci

Tel.: +90 5412257720

Publication date: 9/8/2017Author: Mara AguileraCopyright: www.freshplaza.com

Source: Turkey: Enough lemons to export all year round

Germany has no right to hamper Turkey's joining Customs Union: Zeybekci

(MENAFN - Trend News Agency ) Baku, Azerbaijan, Sept. 7

By Rufiz Hafizoglu – Trend:

#Germany has no right to hinder Turkey's joining the EU Customs Union, Turkish media quoted #Economy Minister Nihat Zeybekci as saying Sept. 7.

He noted that #Turkey is not negotiating accession to the EU Customs Union with Germany.

Zeybekci said that, in spite of all German efforts, #Turkey continues the work to join the Customs Union.

Earlier, Chancellor Angela Merkel said #Germany sees no possibility to continue the talks with #Turkey to establish a Customs Union.

#Turkey is the only non-EU country which is in a Customs Union with the EU.

The talks on updating EU-Turkey Customs Union started in Brussels on June 13.

---

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MENAFN0709201701870000ID1095832067

Source: Germany has no right to hamper Turkey's joining Customs Union: Zeybekci

The best cheap holiday destinations for September and October where it's still sunny - and they're all under £200 for a week's stay

The summer holiday season may be over and winter is fast approaching, but that doesn't mean you need to give up on a sunny getaway just yet.

In fact, if you're able to travel outside of the school holiday dates, now is the perfect time to bag a bargain holiday to sunnier shores.

There are plenty of destinations where it's still hot and sunny - but with the added bonus of fewer crowds meaning you get more of the beach and pool to yourself!

No need to fight it out with your fellow Brits to reserve a prime poolside spot like these holidaymakers .

The best part? Prices drastically drop once back to school season kicks off, and you could find yourself making significant savings on your sunshine holiday compared to what you'd have faced in August.

We teamed up with TravelSupermarket to find the top 10 cheapest destinations - and they all come in at just under £200!

1. Costa Brava, Spain Aiguablava beach in Costa Brava (Image: LOOK)

During the school holidays, Costa Brava isn't always the cheapest summer destination - but now the kids are back at school, prices have dramatically dropped and it's now one of the best value hotspots on offer!

Temperatures are still hot enough that you can laze on a beach, but not so unbearable that you can't go exploring the picturesque towns or breathtaking coves in the popular region.

Average temperature: 22C but this can still go up to 28C.

How much? Prices from £140 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from Luton or East Midlands on 27 September and stay seven days, room only, at the 3-star Golf Beach hotel in Pals from £149 per per person. Prices from £155 if you fly from Manchester or £171 from Newcastle.

2. Costa del Sol, Spain Torremolinos beach in Costa del Sol (Image: Photolibrary RM)

Costa del Sol boasts some brilliant sandy beaches and resorts if you're after a relaxed beach break. Meanwhile, for those wanting a bit more adventure then it's worth heading to nearby Motril and Nerja where you'll find highlights including the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Oh, and there's also the picturesque spa town of Lanjaron where you can escape the Brit-focused resorts and soak up some authentic Spanish culture.

Average temperature: 22C but this can still go up to 26C.

How much? Prices from £148 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Stansted on 26 September for 7 nights, room only, from £148 per person staying at the Castillo Lanjaron hotel in Lanjaron near Motril. Prices from £170 if you fly from East Midlands, £175 from Manchester or £192 from Newcastle.

3. Algarve, Portugal The steps to the beach in Lagos, Portugal (Image: Moment RF)

From Albufeira's world-famousnightlife to charming towns such as Lagos, the Algarve is a firm tourist favourite because of the wide range of holiday types on offer.

There are some great beaches whether you're looking to have a lazy day basking in the sun, or want to go exploring.

And of course, there's a whole host of restaurants, bars and clubs for those after a vibrant atmosphere.

Average temperature: 23C but this can still go up to 26C.

How much? Prices from £151 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Luton on 27 September and stay on a self-cateringbabsis in the 3-star Janelas do Mar Apartments , 2km inland from Albufeira old town and 3km from the coast, from £151 per person. Prices from £159 if you fly from Newcastle, £172 from East Midlands and £186 from Manchester.

Read More 4. Costa Doroda, Spain Ferrari Land at PortAventura (Image: REX/Shutterstock)

Known as the Golden Coast because of its beaches, this is is where the Spanish tend to take their buckets and spades - and you'll find plenty of local culture here especially when it comes to the food.

Meanwhile, the city of Tarragona has ancient Roman ruins which form a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you like rollercoasters and adrenalin rushes, PortAventura, Spain's biggest theme park, is just down the road.

Average temperature: 24C but this can still go up to 28C.

How much? Prices from £153 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Southend on 27 September and stay at the Zahara Rentalmar apartments in Salou on a self-catering basis for a week from £153pp. Prices from £166 if you fly from Liverpool, or £182 from Newcastle.

Read More 5. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria The Black Sea resort of Sunny Beach (Image: AFP)

During the peak holiday season, Sunny Beach is jam-packed with tourists filling up its bustling resorts.

However by September the region has quietened down, so you can explore the markets, ancient sites and beaches without having to face the crowds.

Plus when you're out there it's relatively cheap too - prices start from just £1 for a local beer, or a 70p bus ride could take you to the charming town of Nessebar, a peninsula of cobbled streets and Byzantine churches.

Average temperature: 20C but this can go up to 23C.

How much? Prices from £153 per person for week.

Top deal: Fly from London Gatwick on 20 September and stay at the 4-star Hotel Ivana Palace on a bed and breakfast basis for a week from £153pp.

6. Corfu, Greece Barbati, Corfu in Greece (Image: Getty)

Temperatures dip slightly in September, but they're still warm enough that you can make the most of the beaches and the spectacular scenery on this Greek island.

Plus eating out tends to be about 30% cheaper than in the UK - you can expect to pay around £14 for a three-course meal!

Average temperature: 23C but this can go up to 27C.

How much? Prices from £159 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Gatwick on 18 September and stay at the Quayside Village Hotel in Kavos on a self-catering basis from £168pp. Prices from £194 if you fly from Manchester.

Read More 7. Tenerife, Spain Tenerife is popular with British families (Image: The Image Bank)

Tenerife is a favourite with Brits for a reason. The beaches, the nightlife, the entertainment - there's so much on offer it makes for the ideal getaway!

And while it's particularly great if you're travelling with kids , it's also ideal for those travelling in September when the days are still long and sunny, the nights are warm and you're almost guaranteed great weather.

Average temperature: 23C but this can go up to 27C.

How much? Prices from £175 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Gatwick on 20 September and stay at the 3-star Casa Del Sol Apartments in Puerto de La Cruz on a self-catering basis from £175 per person for a week.

8. Istrian Riviera, Croatia (Image: Dorling Kindersley)

Croatia's Istrian peninsula is a great place to visit in the quieter month of September when the crowds have gone home.

Umag has the remains of its 10th-century town walls including a gate and a drawbridge - and a long seal wall that shelters the harbour from the crystalline blue waters.

The town also has stunning Blue Flag beaches, not to mention a whole host of amazing seafood restaurants along its promenade.

Average temperature: 19-20C but this can go up to 24C.

How much? Prices from £177 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Luton on 17 September and stay at the 3-star Apartments Polynesia in Umag on a room-only basis from £177pp.

Read More 9. Marmaris, Turkey (Image: Moment RF)

Situated on Turkey's breathtaking Turquoise Coast, Marmaris is great for nightlife, restaurants and picturesque beaches, not to mention it also boasts beautiful pine forests and countryside waiting to be explored.

The clear waters are ideal for sports from diving to sailing, while a 50-minute ferry takes you to the nearby Greek island of Rhodes if you fancy a day trip.

Average temperature: 24C but this can go up to as high as 31C.

How much? Prices from £194 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Stansted on 26 September and stay at the 3-star Grand Villa Sol apartments in Marmaris on a self-catering basis from £194 per person.

10. Rhodes, Greece (Image: Lonely Planet Images)

Rhodes is a mixture of beach resorts and ancient ruins, while the Old Town has a deep moat and plenty of cobbled alleys to explore.

Meanwhile Lindos, on the east of the island and south of the main holiday resorts, has a cliff top metropolis and pretty, albeit small, beaches and many restaurants and cafes to stop at for a coffee or a Souma, a traditional drink like ouzo.

Average temperature: 25C but this can go up to 27C.

How much? Prices from £195 per person for a week.

Top deal: Fly from London Stansted on 13 September and stay at the 3-star Panorama Studio and Apartments in Ladiko from £195pp for a week. Prices from £198 if you fly from Newcastle.

How to find more holiday deals

If you're after a bargain then you may want to bookmark our Cheap Holidays and Holiday Deals page, packed with destination inspiration, the latest sales you need to know about, and more top tips for finding a great deal.

If you're after cheap flights only then check out our round-up of the best airline sales happening right now.

Sticking to a budget and considering a staycation? You can find plenty of inspiration on our UK Holidays page, not to mention we've also searched out the top UK holiday parks for a family holiday unlike any other.

Source: The best cheap holiday destinations for September and October where it's still sunny - and they're all under £200 for a week's stay

The Door Slams Shut on Turkey's Cherished Dream

Chancellor Angela Merkel has made clear that Turkey will never be allowed into the European Union.

Published on September 04, 2017 10:05 pm

Leaving Erdogan in her wake: Chancellor Angela Merkel. Picture Source: Reuters

For nearly a century, Turkey has been knocking at Europe's door hoping to gain admittance to what it considered the club of modern, western nations. "Europe has been an object of desire as well as a source of frustration for Turkish national identity in a long and strained history," Meltem Ahiska, a sociologist at Bogazici University in Istanbul, once wrote in a paper entitled "Orientalism."

After World War II, Turkey was one of the first nations to join the Council of Europe in 1949. It sided with the West in the Cold War against the Soviets, and was an early member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Turkey joined a customs union with European countries and began difficult negotiations to become a full member of the European Union in 1999.

After 18 years of fitful starts and painful stops, that door appeared to have slammed shut with finality on Sunday.

"The fact that Turkey should not become a member of the EU is also clear."

Angela Merkel, German Chancellor

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, in a television debate with her Social Democratic opponent Martin Schulz, said flatly "the fact that Turkey should not become a member of the EU is also clear." She said she would speak to other EU heads of government next month "to see if we can reach a joint position on this so we can end these accession talks." Her pledge came after much prodding from Mr. Schulz, who said he would immediately make ending the membership talks official policy if he became chancellor.

There was an anguished cry in response from Ankara. Ibrahim Kalin, a spokesman for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, accused Ms. Merkel of indulging in populism. "Germany and Europe's attacks on Turkey/Erdogan, by ignoring essential and urgent problems, are reflections of the narrowing of their horizons," Mr. Kalin said.

Germany's government dialed back again those comments on Monday – but only slightly. There would be no official change in German policy before the September 24 elections, Ms. Merkel's spokesperson Steffen Seibert said. However, the discussion with EU leaders that Ms. Merkel suggested could come as early as October, he conceded.

In truth, the negotiations never advanced very far, with the Europeans reluctant to grant citizenship to 80 million Turks, most of them Muslim, who would be able to move freely throughout the 28-nation union.

"What is going on now in Turkey is a kind of wave of cleansing."

Martin Schulz, SPD Party Leader

But the opposition to Mr. Erdogan has been steadily growing since a failed coup in July 2016 provoked a violent backlash in which thousands of civil servants were dismissed from their jobs and many others were imprisoned. Germany has been particularly incensed at the detention of 19 German citizens, including workers for the human rights group Amnesty International and several reporters of ethnic Turkish origin but who are now German citizens.

Mr. Erdogan was deeply angered last April when Germany refused to allow Turkish politicians to campaign in Germany for passage of a constitutional amendment granting his expanded powers. Germany is home to three million Turkish immigrants, many of whom have dual nationality and could have voted in the Turkish referendum.

The situation has become so tense that Sigmar Gabriel, the German foreign minister, who like Mr. Schulz is from the SDP, has warned Germans against travelling to Turkey, a major summer holiday destination. German companies have also been warned about potential dangers to businessmen in Turkey in an apparent effort to ratchet up pressure on Mr. Erdogan using all-important trade with Europe as a lever.

"What is going on now in Turkey is a kind of wave of cleansing," Mr. Schulz declared on Monday.

Europeans are waiting for Turkey's more formal response a bit nervously, in part because it was an aid agreement with Ankara that ended the mass movement of refugees into southern European, ending a months-long international crisis. For all their bluster about the EU membership negotiations, that was one agreement that both Ms. Merkel and Mr. Schulz said they were not prepared to end.

If Mr. Erdogan decided to open the floodgates again of his own accord, it could prove damaging to European solidarity behind Ms. Merkel.

Ruth Berschens, Gerd Höhler and Klaus Stratmann of Handelsblatt contributed to this story. Charles Wallace adapted this story for Handelsblatt Global. To contact the authors: c.wallace@extern.vhb.de

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Source: The Door Slams Shut on Turkey's Cherished Dream

Cargo Line Opened between Qatar, Turkey via Iran

Former editor-in-chief of Qatar's al-Sharq newspaper, Jaber Al-Harmi, said via twitter that the Persian Gulf Arab state has opened a land and sea cargo line with Iran and Turkey, Middle East Monitor reported on Monday. 

The tweet also included a video showing large trucks loaded with goods on their way to Qatar.

Qatar has extended new sea lines in the face of an air, land and sea blockade imposed by Saudi Arabia, UAE and Bahrain.

The lines extend between the ports of Qatar to various destinations in Turkey, Kuwait, Oman, India and Pakistan.

Economists believe that the five shipping lines constitute an alternative for Doha in the face of sanctions imposed by its neighbors and also an outlet for its navigational and commercial movement in general.

Since June 5, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt have severed ties with Qatar and imposed punitive measures on the grounds that it supports terrorism, a charge that Doha denies.

Source: Cargo Line Opened between Qatar, Turkey via Iran

Germany’s Merkel Seeks End To Turkey’s EU Membership Talks

German Chancellor Angela Merkel says she wants to end European Union membership talks with Turkey, amid rising tensions between the two NATO countries.

In a televised debate with political rival Martin Schulz on September 3, Merkel said that "it is clear that Turkey should not become a member of the European Union."

She said she will discuss with other EU leaders to determine if "we can end these membership talks."

"I don't see [Turkey] ever joining, and I had never believed that it would happen," she added.

Tensions between Berlin and Ankara began to deteriorate after Germany sharply criticized Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for the crackdown on dissent after a failed coup attempt against his government last year.

On September 1, tensions flared again when Merkel said Germany should react decisively to Ankara's detention of two additional German citizens, as calls grew in Germany for Berlin to issue a formal travel warning for Turkey, a popular tourist destination for many Germans.

At least 12 German citizens are in Turkish detention on political charges, four with dual citizenship.

Merkel's strong words against Turkey came after her rival, Schulz, had minutes earlier called for an end to the EU membership talks for Ankara.

Merkel's CDU party and Bavarian CSU allies hold a 17-percentage point lead over Schulz's SPD ahead of the September 24 national election.

Based on reporting by AFP, AP, and Reuters
Source: Germany's Merkel Seeks End To Turkey's EU Membership Talks

‘Germany rejects Turkey's request on Gulenists’

The undated photo shows a view of the logo of the German Foreign Ministry at the entrance to one of its buildings in the capital Berlin.

A high-circulation German magazine has reported that authorities in Berlin have turned down a request by Ankara for imposing financial restrictions on those believed to have played a role in last year's coup attempt in Turkey.

Der Spiegel said on Saturday, without naming its sources, that in June the German Foreign Ministry officially refused to freeze the assets of members of the network of Fethullah Gulen, a US-based cleric who is accused by the government in Ankara of masterminding the abortive coup of July 15, 2016.

Turkey had submitted the request and a list of 80 names in April, demanding that Berlin exclude them from Germany's financial system.

German authorities, however, responded by saying that there were no legal grounds for financial watchdog BaFin to crack down on the Gulen movement and its supporters, said Der Spiegel.

Germany's Foreign Ministry has yet to comment on the report, which also claimed that extradition requests sent from Turkey to Germany had increased his year. It said 56 such requests had been submitted this year, already exceeding the total number in 2016.

Germany's refusal to freeze the assets of Gulenists comes against the backdrop of tensions between Berlin and Ankara since a crackdown unfolded in Turkey over the coup. Germany has repeatedly criticized Turkey's mass arrests and dismissals of state workers and military personnel, which according to official statements, have affected more than 150,000 people.

Turkey has also arrested and prosecuted several German nationals over links to the failed coup, further angering German officials. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said on Friday that Berlin should react decisively to the detention a day earlier of two more German citizens in Turkey. The two, of the Turkish origin and identified as K.A. and S.A, were arrested on Thursday in Antalya airport, a popular Mediterranean tourist destination, over alleged links to the Gulen network.

A total of 12 German citizens, four of them dual nationals, are now in Turkish detention on political charges.

Source: 'Germany rejects Turkey's request on Gulenists'

Sky enables customers to use UK data in 10 non-EU destinations

O2-powered MVNO enables them to use data from UK plan in 10 destinations, including Australia and the US

Sky Mobile has unveiled 'Roaming Passport Plus', enabling customers to use the data in their UK plan when travelling abroad in 10 non-EU destinations.

For a set price of £5 each day, they can do this whilst travelling in: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Qatar, South Africa, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey and USA.

With Sky Mobile's 'Roll', any any unused data at the end of the month is saved in a customer's 'Sky Piggybank' for up to three years for them to dip into when they need to. This can be used with Roaming Passport Plus in the same way as in the UK.

Roaming Passport Plus is available for all customers and will be automatically switched on when they use data after arriving in one of the above destinations.

Each period lasts 24 hours, after which a new one starts if they use more mobile data. anyone not using Roaming Passport Plus can turn data roaming off in their phone settings.

This launch builds on that of Roaming Passport in May, which lets customers on all plans use their calls, texts and data in European destinations at no extra cost.

Source: Sky enables customers to use UK data in 10 non-EU destinations