17/6/13

TURKISH CYPRIOT AND TURKISH MEDIA REVIEW





TURKISH CYPRIOT AND TURKISH MEDIA REVIEW

C O N T E N T S

No. 111/13                                                                                                          17-15/06/13

1. Written statement by Turkey’s MFA on the Republic of Cyprus’ drilling activities on parcel 12
2. AKP party held two rallies in Istanbul and Ankara; Erdogan sent strong messages in his speeches
3. Clashes in Istanbul and Ankara continued over the week-end
4. Bar Association announced that 400 people detained in Istanbul clashes; Istanbul’s governor denied allegation for doctors being detained
5. One-day nationwide strike by trade unions in Turkey
6. Taksim Solidarity Platform to "keep their demands" and continue struggle
7. Bagis claims Gezi protests planned six months ago
8. Survey reveals growing public apprehension in Turkey over democratic process –AKP’s support has come down 11%
9. How the Turkish Cypriot press covers the incidents in Turkey during this weekend    
10. How the Turkish press covers the Gezi park protests
11. CHP’s Deputy Chairman to hold talks in Washington over the Gezi Park protests; Kilicdaroglu is expected to visit the USA as well
12. Undersecretary of Turkey’s MFFA to discuss the latest developments in Syria in a visit to Moscow
13. So-called interim “cabinet” conveyed for the first time
14. New “foreign minister” once said that the breakaway regime is an obstacle for the solution of the Cyprus problem
15. Denktas: a strong “state” is the key for a just and lasting solution   
16. A Greek Cypriot fisherman is arrested by the occupation regime
17. International Famagusta Art and Culture Festival begins today   
18. Soli ruins under danger due to a fire in the region
19. Radio Havadis started to broadcast in occupied Cyprus


1. Written statement by Turkey’s MFA on the Republic of Cyprus’ drilling activities on parcel 12
According to Ankara Anatolia news agency (15.06.13) Turkey has warned “Greek Cyprus”, as the Republic of Cyprus is called, against its recent unilateral move to extract natural gas and oil reserves off of Cyprus, saying the move disregards the rights of Turkish Cypriots, who have their “own state” in the north of the island.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement on Friday: “It is understood that the Greek Cypriot government has recently started second drilling activities to search for hydrocarbon reserves in its so-called exclusive economic zone known as Parcel 12. This activity is the continuation of Greek Cyprus' irresponsible, provocative and unilateral moves in the region in disregarding the rights of North Cypriot Turks on these reserves.”

The statement added that the Greek Cypriot's unilateral moves to extract reserves show that the Greek side cannot work in collaboration with the Cypriot Turks. “We can no longer let the 50-year-old Cyprus problem continue,” it said.
(…)
The Turkish Foreign Ministry also referred to a statement they published on March 23, 2013 regarding the energy row, saying a two-state solution was possible if the Greek side did not want to cooperate with the Turkish Cypriots in the north. “If the Greek Cypriots are to act unilaterally regarding the natural resources to the south of the island, and if they do not desire a partnership with the Turkish Cypriots, it could also be ready for the negotiation of a two-state solution,” the Foreign Ministry suggested in the earlier statement.

Turkey insists that the only acceptable solution to the dispute over Cyprus' hydrocarbon reserves is through a proposal earlier set out by the Turkish Cypriot government. The proposal, offered twice by the Turkish Cypriots -- once in 2011 and again 2012 -- calls for the establishment of a committee of representatives from Turkish and Greek Cyprus, as well as the United Nations, to determine how the hydrocarbon reserves of the island should be used.

2. AKP party held two rallies in Istanbul and Ankara; Erdogan sent strong messages in his speeches
According to Ankara Anatolia news agency (16.06.13) Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan addressed on Sunday millions at the Justice and Development (AK) Party rally under the theme: "Let's spoil the big game and write history" in Istanbul. Erdogan said: "If international media want a picture of Turkey, the picture is here," at the opening of his party's rally.

He noted that the international media, CNN, Reuters, BBC should hide this picture too and underlined, "Hundreds of thousands here are not like the vandalists with petrol-bombs in their hands."

"International media is alone with their lies", Erdogan declared and reminded: "Even though the court may make a decision against us, we will still hold a plebiscite for Taksim Gezi Park".

He said: "They cheer us from the ships in Bosporus, saying we are by your side not only at Gezi but everywhere", and warned that they will identify social media provocateurs one by one, asking the people: "What are the foreigners coming from various places of the world doing in Taksim?"
Erdogan said: "We know very well who sent 30 thousand food boxes to Taksim". Turkey is not a nation that will be punished by a parliament incapable of recognizing Turkey", referring to EP's decision, Erdogan highlighted.

He asked the question, "those who seek destroying public order are called "Capulcu" (Chapuller means plunderers) Aren't they capulcu, then?" and declared: "Those who terrorized for 18 days will pay the price within the boundaries of law".

Erdogan also added the following: "Firstly they attacked the building of AK Party in Ankara, then killed 53 in Reyhanli town, now they appeared in Gezi Park".

Erdogan reminded that bus stations in Ankara were destroyed and more than 200 cars were burned during the protests and added, "This country is not just an ordinary land. You cannot hold a rally wherever you wish. You can, where it is allowed", Erdogan said explaining that clearing Gezi Park is "my duty as Prime Minister".

"I said, clear off here otherwise we will do it, whatever the price, despite the terrorist organizations" he warned and reminded that Gezi Park has been emptied now, "Taksim and Gezi Park were submitted to the nation".

Erdogan underlined also that the "Turkish nation made price paid for May 27 and February 28 at the ballot box", adding that no dirty scenario can hurt the Turkish nation and that Turkey is not a country that international media can play games on.

He appealed to the local and foreign press to be honest and ethical, and explained the plans about Gezi Park: "We will construct a city museum at Taksim, 500 trees will stand there, while the others will decorate the site".

Erdogan said in Istanbul that those who can't absorb Turkey's development, started destabilizing by using excuse of environment and that they will never succeed and noted: "we came to power by 50% of votes but represent 100%  and reminded that in this country, minority cannot dominate majority. “We also do not say ‘YES’ to the domination of majority over minority”, he added.

He told the crowd: "I want you to display the flag of Turkey at your balconies. This is a flag campaign. You will give the best response to them".

Meanwhile, according to Ankara Anatolia news agency (15.06.13) Prime Minister Erdogan gave a speech at the “Respect to National Will” rally held in Ankara.

Referring to Turkey's turbulent political history of coups, Erdogan stated, "Have no worries. We have embarked on this path in our funerary shroud."

During his speech, he expressed solidarity towards those around the world supportive of democratic efforts in Turkey by stating: “I thank my friends in Europe and US, who share this excitement with us." He also expressed gratitude toward the opposition Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) for demonstrating their support for the will of the Turkish people.

"Those who want to hear the voice of silent people, pay attention to Ankara," Erdogan asserted. "The people of Turkey protect their government. The people of Turkey protect their democracy and willpower".

Erdogan emphasized the need for Turkey to stand together and not be susceptible to manipulation. “You saw the game played against our nation, you felt the trap, you understood the real target of the attacks,” he said. He urged the need to be united, adding: "We will not allow Turkey’s split city by city, village by village, region by region, and turn against each other."

“Quite different calculations, games and traps are at stake,” he cautioned.

 In his speech, Erdogan also addressed the twin bombings in the town of Reyhanli.
His speech also included a condemnation of the international media’s presentation of the events, denouncing how "International media showed every kind of insincerity."

Erdogan emphasized the role of the government to its people in his speech saying: “You gave us a deposit. That deposit is holy to us. We will not let it down. No one can scare us.”

Once again taking aim at interest lobbies and special interest groups, he told the people: “No capital holding group or interest rate lobby can scare us, can lead us to take steps backwards."

3. Clashes in Istanbul and Ankara continued over the week-end
According to Ankara Anatolia news ageyncy (16.06.13) police and protesters briefly clashed on Elmada Street near Taksim Square. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse a crowd trying to enter Gezi Park. At least one protester was injured and hospitalized.

Riot police completely shut down all avenues leading to Taksim Square. Taksim metro station has been closed. A group of protesters who crossed the Bosporus Bridge to march towards Taksim Square briefly clashed with riot police in Harbiye near Taksim Square.

Directorate of Parks and Gardens staff of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality planted new species of flowers instead of the removed ones during the protests around Taksim Square and Republic Monument. The protesters damaged the trees and flowers in Harbiye, Istanbul during the demonstrations.

The cleaning teams also wiped off the graffiti by painting the walls.

Before the AKP rally, a thousand riot police officers were deployed to Istanbul from Diyarbakır, Sırnak, Siirt, Elazıg and Ankara. The riot police, which arrived at Istanbul's Atatürk airport Sunday morning, were deployed to several districts in the city with 14 buses.

Authorities say at least 350 police on duty in the airport were also deployed to central İstanbul.

Also, the Turkish police have used tear gas and water cannon to disperse demonstrators in Ankara on Sunday. The protesters blocked the Ataturk and GKM boulevards near central Kızılay Square in the capital.

The clashes followed a spat between protesters and police, who refused to let the demonstrators hold a ceremony to commemorate Ethem Sarısuluk, a 26-year-old protester who died in Ankara last week after remaining on life support for nearly two weeks.

Security forces intervened in the protesters with water cannons and tear gas as they drove protesters out of Istanbul's Taksim Square.

Meanwhile, issuing a statement on the incidents in Istanbul, Istanbul Governorship said that security forces intervened in the protesters with water cannons and tear gas as they drove protesters out of Istanbul's Taksim Square.

The incidents left 46 injured including 2 policemen.

"Tonight, in the incidents that occurred after the intervention of police, 44 citizens have been injured so far. Two security forces were also injured by shooting", said a statement, adding that security forces warned the protestors about the clearing out at Taksim Gezi Park before the tear gas and water cannon intervention.

Police warned the demonstrators as: "Please clear the Gezi Park. We do not want anybody to get hurt. It is an illegal rally. Please clear the park" during the intervention.
Some injured protestors were sent to the hospital while the others were intervened in the ambulances.

Protests for Taksim Gezi Park took also place in Ankara, Izmir, Denizli, Manisa and Adana.

4. Bar association announced that 400 people detained in Istanbul clashes; Istanbul’s governor denied allegation for doctors being detained
Ankara Anatolia news agency (17/06.13) reported that an official at the city's bar association said on Monday that the Turkish police detained 441 people in connection with clashes in Istanbul on Sunday between police and demonstrators protesting against the government.

Throughout Sunday, police in Turkey's largest city fired water cannon and tear gas at thousands of anti-government demonstrators seeking to enter Istanbul's central Taksim Square. An official from the Ankara bar association said 56 people were detained in the capital.           

Meanwhile, according to Ankara Anatolia news agency (17.06.13) Istanbul Governor Huseyin Avni Mutlu said, in response to allegations that 3 doctors were arrested for treating the protesters, "they are not doctors, but people with 7 robbery crimes wearing doctor uniforms".

Mutlu announced from his twitter account that the news about detainment of 3 doctors who treated the wounded people took place on several media organs, and said: "They wear doctor uniforms, but have nothing to do with being doctor and health sector."
Turkish Bar Association calls on int'l institutions to take action over police treatment in Turkey.

Also, Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (16.06.13) reported that the Turkish Bar Association’s administrative body has called on the Council of Europe head to request an explanation from the Turkish government on the role of the security forces during the ongoing protests around the country, as a result of an emergency meeting June 16.

The association called on the Secretary General of the Council of Europe to take action about "statements made by the Turkish government that raise tensions and escalate violence and the bad treatment of people by the authorities and the security forces.”
The demand was based on Article 52 of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, which permits the Secretary General of the Council of Europe the right to request Turkey to "furnish an explanation of the manner in which its internal law ensures the effective implementation of any of the provisions of the Convention."

The Bar Association also said it would be applying to a number of other international institutions.

The Bar Association has also decided to launch judicial and administrative investigations into officials who had opened a preliminary inquiry into the health care teams helping injured protesters during the clashes.

Meanwhile, administrative and judicial applications will be made by the association regarding public emergency medical teams who “neglected their duty” by not building emergency medical centres in the areas during the events, according to the statement.
The Bar Association also vowed to continue an active dialogue with the bar heads and to take further steps, if deemed necessary.

5. One-day nationwide strike by trade unions in Turkey
Ankara Anatolia news agency (17.06.13) reported that two Turkish union federations said on Sunday that they would stage a one-day nationwide strike on Monday, in protest at the forced eviction by riot police of hundreds of anti-government demonstrators from an Istanbul park.
The Confederation of Public Workers' Unions (KESK), which has some 240,000 members in 11 unions, and the Confederation of Revolutionary Trade Unions (DİSK) announced the strike in a joint statement. Three other groups representing doctors, engineers and dentists will also join the action, the statement said.

6. Taksim Solidarity Platform to "keep their demands" and continue struggle
Ankara Anatolia news agency (15.06.13) reported that the Taksim Solidarity Platform in a written statement said that they would continue to be a close follower of their demands related to the Gezi Park protests.

Pointing out that the protests which started in reaction to a construction project in Taksim, Istanbul turned into nation-wide demonstrations, the platform said: "This is just the beginning, we continue to struggle."

"We are continuing our struggle to protect the whole living creatures, our park, city and our freedom on the 18th day of the protests. We will continue to be a close follower of our demands. Our platform is more powerful, organized and hopeful now" said the platform.

7. Bagis claims Gezi protests planned six months ago
According to Ankara Anatolia news agency (16.06.13), Turkey's Minister of European Union Affairs and Chief Negotiator Egemen Bagis, speaking to a private television channel on Sunday said that the Gezi Park protests were planned six months ago, adding “In fact, this (the protests) is an effort to trigger a move which will be concluded as regime change in Turkey. The protests were planned six months ago.”

Bagis also stated that everyone was in a struggle for soothing the protests that were started in reaction to a construction project in Taksim, Istanbul but which turned into nation-wide demonstrations.

Pointing out that there was a game played against Turkish nation, Bagis emphasized: “The demonstrations occurred in the most successful period of Turkey.”

Meanwhile, Turkish daily Milliyet (17.06.13) reports that Bagis, in the same television programme, called all the citizens who support the Gezi Park protests to return to their homes. He added that they will have to connect any person, who remains at the Gezi Park after this hour, with a terrorist organization.

8. Survey reveals growing public apprehension in Turkey over democratic process –AKP’s support has come down 11%
Turkish daily Today’s Zaman newspaper (16.06.13) reports that a recent survey conducted by the MetroPOLL Strategic and Social Research Centre reveals that the Turkish public is increasingly concerned about the government encroachment into democratic space with a perception concerning lifestyle interference gaining in strength.
The poll was conducted from June 3-12 by telephone among a random national sampling of 2,818 adults residing in cities, towns and villages. The margin of error for the overall poll is 2 percentage points, and the confidence level is 95 percent.

In the nationwide survey, the government scored low on democratic credentials as almost half of respondents (49.9 percent) said the government is moving towards an authoritarian and repressive style of governance, while 36 percent said the government is progressing on further democratization; 14.2 percent did not respond or said they do not have any opinion on that issue.

People who thought the government is interfering into their lifestyle constituted a majority with 54.4 percent against those who think otherwise with 40.4 percent. In addition, 49.7 percent of respondents said they have no concerns about revealing their political views, while 46.7 percent said they are worried about expressing their views.

The poll also seemed to suggest that the public's support for the ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) has come down some 11 percent in June 2013 compared to the same month a year ago, while the popularity of Erdoğan took a blow with a 7 percent drop in his popularity in just a month. Most people see Erdoğan's tone as harsh and confrontational. The government's Syrian policy remains unpopular as well.

Yet the AK Party is still the most popular party among the electorate, and if elections were held tomorrow, it would still lead the polls.

When asked to identify the reason for the start and later escalation of the protests, 20.1 percent of respondents in the MetroPOLL survey said the government was to be blamed for that followed by Erdoğan whom 16.9 percent of those polled identified as the cause.

Since Erdoğan also represents the government as the prime minister, the survey concludes that the public believes the government mishandled the protests and let it escalate into nationwide protests.

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, the leader of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), was named as the third reason for the cause of protests by 9.5 percent of respondents. The CHP has not officially endorsed the protests and tried to put distance between itself and demonstrations that turned into violence and vandalism later. However, various statements by Kılıçdaroğlu and other CHP leaders have clearly indicated the party's support for protests albeit unofficially.

Government claims that external forces, terror groups, provocateurs and social media actually instigated protests were not found to be credible by most respondents. Only 3.2 percent of respondents said unidentified external or internal powers were behind the protests, while 1.8 percent said provocateurs and instigators provoked the protests. Those who believe media or social media were behind the incidents ranked lowest in the survey with 0.6 percent.

The MetroPOLL survey indicated that most people found Erdoğan's tone and remarks about the Gezi Park protests to be “confrontational and provocative” (with 49.6 percent), while a significant percentage (31.4 percent) said it was “conciliatory and soothing.” The remainder (19 percent) either did not respond to the question or said they had no opinion on that.

The survey also made clear that the public overwhelmingly disapproves of government plans to rebuild an old military barracks in Taksim Square and adjacent Gezi Park area, with 62.9 percent of respondents saying they want to see the green space remain intact, while 23.3 percent support the restoration of the old barracks. Interestingly enough, a majority of those who said they voted for the ruling AK Party were against the building plans; 41.6 percent of people who voted for the AK Party in the June 2011 elections said they opposed the government plans, while 38.3 of AK Party supporters said they favor the plans.

The public divided almost evenly on the legitimacy of the protest movement that turned into nationwide demonstrations; 44.4 percent said they found the people's reactions were justified, while 45.5 percent disagreed with that. The same pattern was also recorded on responses to a question on whether the police had used excessive force against protestors. But a majority (51.2 percent) said those who are responsible for using excessive force must resign. 
Most polled (51.7 percent) said the protests will impact how they vote in upcoming local elections, set for March 2014.

Overall, 62.1 percent of respondents said the media did not cover events fairly. The AK Party blamed the media for exaggerating events or providing biased reporting against the government, while the CHP accused the media of censorship. The majority of those surveyed also said they believe the press is not free in Turkey, with 53.3 percent versus 41.1 percent.

A majority of people in Turkey did not approve of the government's policy with regard to Syria, with 54.2 percent saying that they oppose the Syrian policy, while only 27.4 percent favor the government position.

Among other questions posed to respondents was a query about a possible switch to a presidential system. Almost 43 percent said Turkey should not switch to a presidential system, with 30.9 percent declaring their support for a presidential system. In April polling data by MetroPOLL, support for a presidential system was 35.2 percent.

The public overwhelmingly supports naming the third bridge to be built over the Bosporus in İstanbul after Yavuz Sultan Selim, an Ottoman sultan, with 63.5 percent approving and 26.9 percent disapproving.

MetroPOLL also questioned respondents on ongoing efforts to draft a new constitution. A full 59.8 percent said they would not approve of the AK Party cooperating with the pro-Kurdish Peace and Democracy Movement (BDP) on the new constitution. Only 29.6 percent said they would approve of such cooperation. Moreover, 41.7 percent said Turkey needs a new political party, while 52.8 percent said they disagree with that.

Pollsters also questioned respondents about their voting preferences. Asked which political party they would vote for if general elections were held this Sunday, 35.3 percent said they would vote for the AK Party. According to the poll, the CHP would receive 22.7 percent of the vote. The MHP would receive 14.5 percent of the vote, while the BDP would get 6.2 percent. In addition, 7.6 percent said they are undecided, while 5.9 percent did not respond. MetroPOLL said splitting the undecided votes at the ballot box would provide additional support for the political parties.

 According to the survey, 72.5 percent of the respondents said they like President Abdullah Gül most among existing political figures. Gül was followed by Erdoğan with 53.5 percent, Kılıçdaroğlu 26.7 percent and Devlet Bahçeli 29.3 percent. Erdoğan lost almost 7 percentage points from the April poll conducted by MetroPOLL.
9. How the Turkish Cypriot press covers the incidents in Turkey during this weekend    
The Turkish Cypriot press gives extensive coverage to the developments that took place in Turkey during this weekend.

Under the title “Incidents did not stop”, daily Kibris newspaper (17.06.13) reports that after the police intervention at Gezi Park in Istanbul, protests were organized in many areas of Turkey all day long yesterday. According to the paper, many persons were injured because of the pressured water and the gas bombs used by the police.

Kibris writes that addressing a rally with the participation of tens of thousands of his supporters in Istanbul’s Zeytinburnu area, Prime Minister Erdogan argued that the recent developments showed that the Gezi Park incidents were not a simple protest regarding the protection of the environment and alleged that all these are “a game of those who cannot tolerate Turkey’s growing and developing”. Erdogan said that he would call some people to account.

According to Kibris, after the police intervention at Gezi Park the night before yesterday, some organizations in the occupied area of Cyprus marched to the Turkish so-called embassy in occupied Lefkosia and held a “sitting demonstration” until morning in support of the protestors in Turkey. Last night they also marched towards the “embassy”, but they came face to face with self-styled police’s barricades. The demonstrators sat down in the street and continued their protest.

Under the title “General strike for solidarity”, daily Halkin Sesi newspaper (17.06.13) reports that while the incidents at Gezi Park continue, Turkish Cypriot “civil servants’” trade union (KTAMS), decided to go on strike today between 09.00 and 12.00 in the morning in order to express its solidarity with the people of Turkey.  According to the paper, Istanbul reminded of a battlefield as of last night and many people were injured as a result of police’s intervention. Halkin Sesi reports that Erdogan described the protestors as “terrorists” during the rally of his party last night under the name of “Respect the National Will”. Erdogan said that he had given to the police the order to clean up the Taksim Square and Gezi Park. “I will call to account the hotels which distributed food to the demonstrators and helped them”, he said adding that “we will investigate those who had made provocations in the social media”.    

Under the title “Rehearsal for crime”, daily Afrika newspaper (17.06.13) reports that after the suppression of the resistance at Gezi Park, a “witches hunting” started in Turkey and even doctors wearing white smock who tried to help the wounded were detained. According to the paper, “Erdogan, who showed his power with the support of the army, has put an end to democracy”.  Comparing the crowds gathered at Erdogan’s rallies with the crowds that had gathered once for Hitler in Germany, Afrika wonders whether the Turkish people is going mad, like the German people did during Hitler’s period. 

Afrika reports also that the Alevites’ Cultural Association in the occupied area of Cyprus protested to the use of gas bombs and dangerous chemicals against the people in Turkey.

According to Afrika (16.06.13), after the incidents on Saturday, the European Union is expected to interrupt Turkey’s accession negotiations and the Council of Europe to expel Turkey.

Under the title “Cyprus message to Taksim”, daily Yeni Duzen publishes on its front page two big pictures from the demonstrations in the occupied area of Cyprus.

Under the title “Istanbul aroused”, daily Ortam (17.06.13) reports that the protest at Gezi Park blazed up again on the 19th day of the first incidents at Gezi Park as a result of police’s intervention. 

Under the title “Tension continues”, daily Vatan (17.06.13) reports that demonstrations continued until this morning in many Turkish big cities, such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana and Konya. Protestors were shouting slogans such as “We will take Taksim back”, “AKP resign” and “We are the soldiers of Mustafa Kemal”.

Daily Gunes (17.06.13) publishes a big picture of Erdogan’s rally in Istanbul under the title “Tremendous crowd”. The paper reports also that the association of the Turkish settlers, who came to the occupied area of Cyprus from Turkey’s Hatay region, issued a statement supporting Prime Minister Erdogan and his government. The settlers said that the ‘TRNC” is saddened due to the incidents in Istanbul and they state that they are not “plunderers”. “We are taking a side, we support the government of the Republic of Turkey and its Prime Minister”, the statement said.
 (I/Ts.)

10. How the Turkish press cover the Gezi park protests
The main issues covered at today’s Turkish dailies (17.06.13) are the speech by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoganh at “Respect to National Will” rally in Kazlicesme, Istanbul, as well as the clashes between the Gezi Park protesters and the security forces in Istanbul and in Ankara.

HURRIYET daily, under the title “Dangerous obstinacy”, reports that the incidents in Istanbul started in the police with the police intervening to those who wanted to go to Taksim square. Riot police used tear gas and water cannons to those who gathered at Istiklal road. The paper also reports that at the same time, Turkey’s Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, speaking at the rally, criticized harshly the Gezi Park protesters by saying “We’ll identify one by one and we’ll call them to account”.

SABAH daily, under the title “The target of these games is Turkey”, reports that it was the biggest rally in the history of the Republic of Turkey and citing Erdogan as saying “We know very well who sent 30 thousand food boxes to Taksim, sheltered the terrorists in their hotels and the provocateurs of the social media”.

On Sunday the Turkish dailies mainly covered Erdogan’s speech at Sincan and the call by the Taksim Solidarity Platform to continue the protests.

RADIKAL daily, under the title “A new era at Gezi”, reported that the Taksim Solidarity Platform decided to continue to struggle for Gezi Park. The paper, under the title “Empty Taksim”, reported that Erdogan threatened the protesters at Gezi Park by saying “If you don’t empty Taksim square by tomorrow, then the security forces will do what they should do”.

MILLIYET daily, under the title “We will call them to account at the ballot box”, reported that Erdogan, during the rally “Respect for the national will” at Sincan, reacted at the Gezi Park protesters by saying that they will present to the nation this network of treachery.

HURRIYET daily, under the title “Empty”, reports that the Taksim Solidarity Platform decided yesterday to continue the “struggle”, adding that only three hours later from the warning of Erdogan that if they don’t empty the Gezi Park, they will empty, police forces entered the Gezi Park. The paper also reports the statement by Erdogan that in case they don’t empty the Park, then the security forces of Turkey know how to empty a place.

SABAH daily, under the title “A secret coalition at Gezi”, reported on Erdogan’s statement that there is a network of treachery. 

TARAF on Sunday came out with a front page that included photos of penguins. The newspaper said it is launching a new poll in social media and asking its readers to decide if the newspaper should continue publishing stories related to MİT. The newspaper said it will continue publishing stories about penguins in case of negative result as a result of the polling, calling it “plebiscite,” in a reference to a recent controversial government decision to hold a plebiscite to decide on the fate of an Ottoman-era barracks in Taksim's Gezi Park, flashpoint and origin of 20-day protests and clashes across Turkey.

11. CHP’s Deputy Chairman to hold talks in Washington over the Gezi Park protests; Kilicdaroglu is expected to visit the USA as well
According to Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (17.06.13) a Republican People’s Party (CHP) delegation headed by the Party’s Deputy Head Faruk Logoglu, will pay a visit to Washington in July, before Party leader Kemal Kılıcdaroglu’s visit to the United States, as the party hardly criticizes the government about its stance over the Gezi protests.

Logoglu, a former Ambassador to the U.S., will have talks in Washington next month about many issues, including the Gezi Park protests, Kılıcdaroglu told the Hurriyet Daily News on June 15, at a tete-a-tete meeting about the ongoing protests in the country. Kılıcdaroğlu said the details of the meeting were still being discussed.

Kılıcdaroglu is planning to hold a visit to the United States at an undecided date and the details of this visit will be also discussed during the CHP delegation’s talks in July, Logoglu told the Daily News on June 15. The CHP delegation headed by Logoglu will have talks with the U.S. Congress, State Department and some NGOs, Logoglu said. Various issues such as terror, the Gezi Park protests and Syria are expected to be on the agenda during Logoglu’s meetings.

“The CHP is making the visit upon invitation, but the official invitation has not reached them yet”, he added.

Meanwhile, Kılıcdaroglu said in a written statement yesterday on his party’s website that Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan intended to claim Turkey’s for himself, due to his unstoppable personal ambition and dictatorial understanding. He also said that following the orders of the Prime Minister, was a crime in terms of international norms, as “the prime minister does not hesitate in dragging the country into a civil war for his own interests.”
Speaking to members of the foreign media on June 15 in Istanbul, Kılıçdaroğlu said his party would call anyone who uses pressure on their citizens a “dictator,” regardless of the country.

12. Undersecretary of Turkey’s MFFA to discuss the latest developments in Syria in a visit to Moscow
Ankara Anatolia news agency (16.06.13) reported that the undersecretary of Turkish Foreign Ministry Feridun Sinirlioglu, will travel to Moscow on Monday to discuss the latest situation in Syria and regional developments.

A written statement issued by the Ministry said that Sinirlioglu will visit Russia's capital Moscow on 17-18 of June, upon the invitation of Russian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mikhail Bogdanov.

The latest situation of the Syrian crisis and regional developments will be at the top of the agenda in the meeting.

13. So-called interim “cabinet” conveyed for the first time
According to illegal Bayrak television (15.06.13) the so-called prime minister Sibel Siber’s interim cabinet which convened for the first time yesterday, took a series of striking decisions regarding domestic issues.

Among the decisions taken was the cancellation of the leasing of the old Zeyko olive oil factory and the stripping of famous Turkish TV star’s Necati Sasmaz’s title as honorary “Cultural Attaché” of the “TRNC”.

Necati Sasmaz a popular television series actor who plays the lead role in the ‘Valley of the Wolves’, a Turkish series, had been promoted to his post by ex-so-called prime minister, İrsen Kucuk.

In addition, the “council of ministers” announced that it lifted an obligation for “citizens” travelling abroad to use the “TRNC” or Turkish passports.

The “interim cabinet” also introduced a series of restrictions and limitations regarding the use of “state registered vehicles”.

Speaking after yesterday’s cabinet meeting, so-called prime minister Sibel Siber said that the new “government” will abide by the principles of transparency and accountability.

Touching upon the decision to cancel a lease issued by the previous government for the old Zeyko olive oil factory in Karakum [occupied Karakoumi], she explained that the previous UBP government, two days after a “motion of no confidence” had been filed against it, had unlawfully turned the factory into “state property” and had it leased for 49 years.

On the issue of travel, she said that requirement for “citizens” to use the “TRNC”or Turkish passports when travelling abroad, for the exception of civil servants travelling on official business, had been removed.

Meanwhile, illegal Bayrak television (14.06.13) broadcast the the so-called prime minister Sibel Siber and the “members of her cabinet” started their duties today (on Friday) at their “ministries”.

Siber arrived at the so-called prime ministry where she took over the post while the outgoing so-called prime minister and “ministers” from the National Unity Party, in act of protest, did not attend the handover ceremonies.

Speaking to the press shortly after arriving at the so-called prime ministry office, Sibel Siber said she has taken on a very honourable duty and added: “I wish Mr. Kucuk would have been here with us so that he could handover his duty, but I’m sure he has an important excuse. I would like to express my highest respects to him”, Siber said.

14. New “foreign minister” once said that the breakaway regime is an obstacle for the solution of the Cyprus problem
Turkish Cypriot daily Volkan newspaper (17.06.13) reports that the following a statement made by the new “ministry of foreign affairs” Kutlay Erk that he was forced to leave a room in 2003 during a meeting of the “foreign ministry” on the thoughts he expressed on the Cyprus problem, Tahsin Ertugruloglu, who was the “foreign minister” at the time, made some statements on the issue.

According to the paper, Ertugruloglu, stated that during a meeting Erk said the following: “According to me the TRNC is the only obstacle in front of the solution of the Cyprus problem”. Ertugruloglu on his part replied to Erk that he can tell him these kinds of things in private, but he cannot talk in this manner for the “TRNC”. “I told him get out and he went out”, Ertugruloglu said. 

15. Denktas: a strong “state” is the key for a just and lasting solution   
Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris newspaper (17.06.13) reports that the Democratic Party – National Forces (DP-UG) has held the second of its coordination meetings for the “elections” of the 28th of July. According to a written statement issued by the party, addressing the meeting, the chairman of DP-UG, Serdar Denktas said that their cause was to strengthen and exalt their “state”. He went on and said, inter alia, the following:

“The march to power, which we have started with this target, is a sacred road… Our road is the road of obtaining a strong democratic structure of a state based on the rule of law which could stand on its own feet. We will launch our march towards this target on 28 July. This road will be the key for reaching a just and lasting solution to the Cyprus problem. A north Cyprus which stands on its own feet, by taking Turkey’s support, will sit at the negotiating table as a side which gives directions, not a side which is directed...”
(I/Ts.) 
16. A Greek Cypriot fisherman is arrested by the occupation regime
Turkish Cypriot daily Halkin Sesi (17.06.13) reports that a 42 year-old Greek Cypriot fisherman, who was fishing at the occupied area of Limnitis, was arrested by the occupation regime with the “justification” that he violated a first degree military area.

17. International Famagusta Art and Culture Festival begins today   
Turkish Cypriot daily Yeni Duzen newspaper (17.06.13) reports that the 17th International Famagusta Art and Culture Festival begins today and ends on 15 July, 2013. The paper writes that well-known foreign performers will participate in the festival.

Today the French singer ZAZ will give a concert at the Amphitheatre of ancient Salamis. Among the other foreigners expected to participate in the festival are Goran Brogovic and Rojas and Rodriguez flamenco group, who are expected to perform on 24 June and 4 July respectively at the same amphitheater. Spanish singer Luz Casal and America linger Natalie Maria Cole will also perform on 9 July and 15 July respectively.
(I/Ts.)    

18. Soli ruins under danger due to a fire in the region
Turkish Cypriot daily Havadis newspaper (17.06.13) reports that due to a fire broke out in occupied Lefka region, the ancient Soli ruins were put under danger.

The paper writes that the fire came very near the building and the ruins of the Soli area.

19. Radio Havadis started to broadcast in occupied Cyprus
Turkish Cypriot daily Havadis newspaper (16.06.13) reports that radio Havadis started to broadcast in occupied Cyprus in the frequencies 107.8 fm.

The radio started its transmission on June1. Baykan Gurses Ozdag is the director of the new radio.
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