Cyprus PIO: Turkish Cypriot and Turkish Media Review, 15-11-16

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From: The Republic of Cyprus Press and Information Office Server at <http://www.pio.gov.cy/>

[A] TURKISH CYPRIOT / TURKISH PRESS

[01] The "high court" in the occupied area of Cyprus rules that the occupied fenced off city of Varosha is not an EVKAF property

[02] Akinci: The negotiations in Cyprus cannot continue forever having no result

[03] Turkes claimed that the system of guarantees safeguarded the peace and security in Cyprus for the last 41 years

[04] Akinci to foreign journalists: It is not the end of the world if a solution is not reached by May 2016, but we must make use of the momentum

[05] A Turkish General Yasar Guler paid an illegal visit to the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus

[06] Davutoglu: "Turkey's first priority is to make northern Cyprus develop stability"

[07] Kalyoncu's contacts with foreign delegations visiting the occupation regime for the UDI

[08] Colak and Akinci met with foreign delegations in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus

[09] Sibel and Akinci met with foreign parliamentarians

[10] Turkish warships and airplanes violated Cyprus' territorial waters and airspace for the UDI

[11] Celebration ceremony in Budapest for the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of the UDI

[12] A German Deputy proposed the establishment of a "friendship group" between Germany and the occupation regime

[13] Akansoy: Deryneia crossing point to open in seven months, Apliki crossing point to open in sixteen months

[14] "KITSAB" attended the 49th UFTAA general congress in Brussels

[15] Religious tourism in the breakaway regime

[16] New illegal universities in the breakaway regime

[17] Ban discussed with Erdogan the Cyprus issue

[18] Turkey says it foiled an Istanbul terror plot on same day as Paris attacks

[19] The Prime Minister has the responsibility of representing the country in the G20 meeting, which was overshadowed by restrictions on media and free enterprise

[A] TURKISH CYPRIOT / TURKISH PRESS

[01] The "high court" in the occupied area of Cyprus rules that the occupied fenced off city of Varosha is not an EVKAF property

The decision of the "court" says, inter alia, the following: "It has been ruled that the decision which included the EVKAF Organization and the Religious Affairs Department as 'party concerned' in the application and/or the procedures held according to this decision are fully void and/or ineffective and will not cause any result".

According to the paper, the decision will constitute a precedent for many cases to re-open and the properties in the occupied fenced off city of Varosha will not be considered as "EVKAF properties" from now on, "until it is proved that they belong to EVKAF". Thus the Greek Cypriot applications could proceed to result in return, compensation and exchange of property, notes Havadis.

(I/Ts.)

[02] Akinci: The negotiations in Cyprus cannot continue forever having no result

Akinci argued that they are acting with good will and determination for finding a federal solution and they attach great importance to the political equality, the need for security and the bi-zonality. He further expressed the view that the solution will be viable in case lessons are taken from what had been experienced on the island.

The Turkish Cypriot leader alleged that the effort to strengthen the "TRNC", as he described the breakaway regime in the occupied area of Cyprus, is not tantamount to strengthening the division of the island, but to preparing for an "equal and powerful cooperation". The Greek Cypriot side must understand now this plain truth, he claimed.

Criticizing statements made in the Greek Cypriot side that the federation is not "the ideal solution" and that it is a "painful compromise", Akinci argued that "this statement is extremely annoying and gives a negative message to the Greek Cypriot community".

Akinci went on and described as an "undisputable right of the Turkish Cypriots" to create their own "state structure" as "Turkish Cypriot people" since December 1963, when they had been allegedly excluded from the Republic of Cyprus. Referring to the "UDI", Akinci said that in the so-called declaration of independence of the breakaway regime it is noted that this development will not prevent the negotiations and "the establishment of a federation of two equal peoples".

Akinci pointed out: "The negotiations which have been held for almost half a century cannot continue forever having not result. Therefore, the wise thing to do for now is to make use of the existing opportunity in the best manner for the sake of the future generations. In this road of wisdom we are acting with good will and determination for the establishment of a bi-zonal bi-communal federation based on the political equality of the two founding states the soonest, being in close consultation with Turkey and with our other institutions and the civil society. Our stance on this issue is seen both by you our esteemed people and the international community".

Akinci underlined that they attach importance to the acceptance by the people in both communities of the solution to be found, adding that "therefore we attach special importance to the political equality, the need for security and the bi-zonality". He also expressed the belief that the Turkish Cypriots' right to live "all together" in their own area must be considered as "natural", because this is a need which was born from what had been experienced in the past.

Referring to the Confidence Building Measures (CBM), Akinci argued that the Turkish Cypriot side has shown its good will from the very first day of his "election" and gave as example the agreement on the opening of the crossing points in the areas of Deryneia and Apliki as well as the fact that the Turkish occupation army has given permission for excavations with the aim of finding missing persons in 30 military zones in the occupied area of the island.

He went on and alleged: "I can easily say that as Turkish Cypriot side we are fully doing our bid on other issues as well. However, it is not possible to say the same thing for the Greek Cypriot side on the issue of the cell phones being used without a problem in both sides, for example. [?] After overcoming the technical difficulties for the cell phones to work without a problem in both sides, we have been told that the head of the regulatory institution in the south creates a problem, but this will be overcome. Now, however, it is noted that a law which is valid in the south is preventing this cooperation. If there is really an obstacle in the law, what should be done is to lift this obstacle in the law and not this important CBM [?]".

Referring to the negotiations, Akinci said that they are working on the issue of the criteria in the property chapter now and if there is political will and determination, a solution could be reached within months, not years. He argued that it would be better for all if a solution was found before the parliamentary elections to be held in the government controlled area of Cyprus in May 2016.

Akinci argued that it would be wrong to ignore the internal affairs of the breakaway regime while efforts for finding a solution to the Cyprus problem are exerted and alleged: "A TRNC the economy and the democracy of which will function well, which will respect its citizens, which is not postponing its problems and tries to find solutions is the best guarantee of a possible solution".

(I/Ts.)

[03] Turkes claimed that the system of guarantees safeguarded the peace and security in Cyprus for the last 41 years

Turkes represented Turkey at the "Republic Day" celebration for the Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) and made these statements prior to the military parade.

Turkes claimed that both Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots have acted always with good intentions for finding a just and permanent solution to the Cyprus problem and added that Turkey's priority is a comprehensive solution which will safeguard "the political equality and the legal rights of the Turkish Cypriot side". He also added that the Turkish side continues to have the political will so that the Cyprus negotiations to be completed the soonest possible under the UN auspices. He also said that Turkey will continue to exert its support towards this direction.

He also stated that a solution in Cyprus will contribute in a positive way to peace in Eastern Mediterranean and added that a solution will show the true potentials of the island. According to Turkes after the solution the economy in Cyprus will be further developed and many projects that in the past were not possible to take place will be able to happen.

He went on and said that while the Turkish side is waiting for a solution to be reached, it does not accept the approach that the "TRNC" must postponed all its activities and just wait for the solution. Referring to the water project for transferring water from Turkey to the "TRNC", Turkes stated that the project demonstrated both the connection and the union between "mother land" and the "TRNC". He also said that the strengthening of the "TRNC" economy is one of Turkey's primary goals adding that a strong economy is the best guarantee for the Turkish Cypriots, whenever a solution is reached or not.

(CS)

[04] Akinci to foreign journalists: It is not the end of the world if a solution is not reached by May 2016, but we must make use of the momentum

Akinci said that their aim with President Anastasiades is not to corner and accuse each other. He added that sometimes this happened and the sides were continuously accusing each other. He said: "However, we do not want to do this. We understood that we are on the same boat and we want to lead the boat to a solution in safety". Akinci noted that they are trying to convey to the people the message that they should not see the other side and the people there as their enemy, but as their future partners.

Akinci argued that there was no bloodshed in Cyprus for 40 years, but there is a problem which needs to be solved. He noted that the solution in Cyprus will benefit Turkey's EU accession process, a situation in which all sides will gain could be created and the island could be used as center to transfer the Cypriot, Egyptian and Israeli natural gas to Europe through Turkey. In the same manner, he added, water and electricity could be transferred from Turkey to the government controlled area of Cyprus and over Cyprus to the Middle East.

Akinci said that they want a solution the soonest with President Anastasiades and they intensified their meetings, but he is not saying that everything is perfect, that it is advancing easily and there is no problem. He noted that there are obstacles which should be overcome, but important progress has been achieved on some chapters. He pointed out that now they are working on the criteria in the property issue and argued that agreeing on the property will be hopeful for the other issues as well.

Akinci also referred to the Confidence Building Measures (CBM) noting that their effort is to make the daily life of the people easier.

(I/Ts.)

[05] A Turkish General Yasar Guler paid an illegal visit to the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus

Speaking during his visit to Akinci, General Guler said that "Turkey will continue to protect the independence and equality of the TRNC and the Turkish Cypriot people".

Expressing the hope that the efforts towards reaching a comprehensive solution which will safeguard the prosperity and happiness of the Turkish Cypriots will reach a conclusion, he said that they attache great importance to the continuation of active and effective guarantees of Turkey.

Guler also added that "the military authorities with new expansions will continue to cooperate with TRNC officials for a just and comprehensive solution".

For his part, Akinci noted that "the TRNC on the 32nd anniversary of its UDI is capable of standing on its own feet with its strong economy and democracy" and said that "the TRNC as a secular and democratic state is taking firm steps forward". He also added that they will continue with their works in cooperation with Turkey's government, parliament and other institutions. "Our aim is to establish a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace in Cyprus which will not be destroyed as it happened in the past. We have been working towards achieving this aim through close consultations with Turkey", Akinci said.

Also touching upon the expansions made by the Turkish military authorities, he said "your close cooperation and understanding are providing serious support to our efforts".

Also meeting with General Guler, Siber alleged that Turkey with its armed forces, state and government has always supported a solution in Cyprus. She also expressed the need for the Turkish Cypriots to take their rightful place in the world and at the international platform and said that they have been working towards achieving this goal.

Also touching upon the confidence building measures, Siber said that it is important to respect the institutions of the "TRNC". Referring to Ataturk's principle of "peace at home peace in the world", she expressed the desire for reaching a solution where people will live in security.

[06] Davutoglu: "Turkey's first priority is to make northern Cyprus develop stability"

Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu sent a message to the Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci for the 32nd anniversary of the UDI, saying that it is Turkey's first priority to make "northern Cyprus" develop stability.

[07] Kalyoncu's contacts with foreign delegations visiting the occupation regime for the UDI

The delegation was composed by Lord Sharkey, Lord Maginnis, Barones Meral Huseyin Ece and Deputy Yasmin Qureshi.

Speaking during the meeting, Kalyoncu expressed pleasure over the delegation's visit to the "TRNC" and pointed to the importance of the "friendship group" activities for the Turkish Cypriots. Supporting that the Greek Cypriot side do all necessary in order to prevent their voice to be heard abroad, Kalyoncu said that it is in this framework that the "friendship groups' activities" are important for them.

On the Cyprus problem, Kalyoncu said that the Turkish Cypriot side supports the efforts aiming to find a solution to the Cyprus problem and added that the solution will bring security and stability in the region.

He stressed further how important is the contribution of the UK as a guarantor country to the efforts for reaching to a solution.

In his turn, Lord Sharkey, member of the Liberal Democrats Party and also co- chairman of the "TRNC friendship group", said that its being many years that they are supporters of the "TRNC" and the Turkish Cypriots and added that they are optimistic like never before for the solution of the Cyprus problem.

Also speaking, Qureshi, Deputy with the Labour Party said that there are a lot of British Deputies at the House of Commons who support the solution of the Cyprus problem and added that as soon as they return to the UK, they will discuss the issue at the Assembly.

Lord Maginnis on his turn referred to the necessity for reaching to a solution on the halloumi/hellim issue.

Meanwhile, according to the paper, Kalyoncu met further with "Macedonia state minister" Furkan Cako and his accompanied delegation.

Speaking during the meeting, Cako said that the Turks of the "Macedonia" watch closely the developments in the "TRNC", support the Turkish Cypriots "rights" and will continue to do so.

Moreover, according to illegal Bayrak television (16.11.15) so-called prime minister Omer Kalyoncu, gave a lunch in honour of the guests who attended the "celebrations".

Speaking during the event held at the Dome Hotel in occupied Keryneia, Kalyoncu said that they will be working with determination towards further strengthening the institutions of the "TRNC" before a solution.

"The Turkish Cypriot people who suffered as a result of conflicts and isolations for many years know the meaning and value of living in peace, in a peaceful world and integrated with the world" Kalyoncu noted.

Alleging that the establishment of the "TRNC" 32 years ago is not preventing the solution of the Cyprus problem, he said: "We are working to reach our ultimate goal and unite the island under a bi-zonal, bi-communal federal structure which will be bound to EU values.

"A just, secure and comprehensive solution will bring the Turkish Cypriot people together with the world and integrate them with the international system", said Kalyoncu and added that a solution to be reached on the island will also bring peace and stability to the region.

Supporting that the natural wealth of the island belongs to everyone, Kalyoncu said that a win-win formula for factors like natural gas, water, trade and tourism would only be possible through a successful outcome at the negotiations.

Stating that time should not be wasted at the negotiations, he said that the Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) should be realized and people should feel the positive effects in their daily lives while the negotiations are continuing. He therefore asked both sides to show flexibility on the issue of CBMs.

(AK)

[08] Colak and Akinci met with foreign delegations in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus

During the visit the head of the Society Orhan Hasanoglu said that there are close to a thousand Azeri students studying in the "TRNC" and that they are working on 30 academic programs. Explaining that exhibitions that promoted the "TRNC" have been organised in Azerbaijan, Hasanoglu said that they are in constant contact with Ankara and are always exchanging information regarding the "TRNC". He concluded by saying that they will continue to work hard to develop relations between Azerbaijan and the "TRNC".

Colak, for her part, noted the special relations between Azerbaijan and the "TRNC" and added that every student that studies in the "TRNC" is a bridge to the outside world, an ambassador so to speak. Noting that investments made in the field of education are an investment in the future, Colak said that she is very pleased with the efforts made by the society and touched upon the importance of further developing relations between the "TRNC" and Azerbaijan.

Meanwhile, Colak met also with a delegation from the UK Parliament's "TRNC Friendship Group", who was in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the UDI of the breakaway regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus.

During the meeting, which was held at the so-called ministry of foreign affairs, Colak briefed the delegation about the latest stage reached in the negotiation process and the Cyprus problem.

Baroness Meral Huseyin Ece (member of the Liberal Democrat Party), Lord Maginnis (member of the Independent Ulster Unionist Party), Yasmin Qureshi (member of the Labour Party), Lord Sharkey (member of the Liberal Democrat Party) are in the delegation of UK Parliament's "TRNC Friendship Group".

On the same issue, illegal Bayrak television (online, 13.011.15) reported that Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci met also with the UK Parliamentary Friendship Group Co-Chairman and member of the Liberal Democrat Party Lord Sharkey.

Speaking during the meeting, Akinci expressed the hope that the positive atmosphere will be reflected on the Cyprus issue and informed the group regarding the Cyprus negotiations process.

Referring to the 32nd UDI of the "TRNC", Akinci said that there is a need for a strengthened economy and democracy in order to be part of a future federal structure and an EU member. "A body can only survive if it exists not if it collapses. This is important for our future. We must know that everything depends on a solution and our future is based on this now", Akinci said.

Explaining that they are working with the "parliament" and the "government" in order to find a solution, Akinci said: "We want to solve the problem as this is our only way out". He said that if they are unsuccessful at finding a solution once again the future generations will have different expectations from the federation that is currently being discussed at the negotiating table. "This is the last opportunity for a solution to the Cyprus problem as the negotiations process has been continuing for half a century, enough is enough'", Akinci argued.

Moreover, Akinci also met with the Austrian Federation of Workers' Trade Unions. Speaking during the meeting, Akinci claimed that the Turkish Cypriot side truly desires a solution to the Cyprus problem because it is the only way out. "The international community, Turkey, Greece?all support a federal settlement. Should we fail once again to reach a solution I believe that future generations will have other expectations than a federal settlement. This is our last chance. We have had enough", he added.

Akinci also briefed the visitors about the work carried out by the Committee of Missing Persons in Cyprus and the ongoing work to clear mines in military zones.

[09] Sibel and Akinci met with foreign parliamentarians

Sibel's words came during a visit paid to her on Friday by a delegation of foreign parliamentarians who are in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus to attend the "celebrations" of the 32nd anniversary of the unilateral declaration of independence of the breakaway regime in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus.

Herman Razafindarvelo, who is representing the Parliament of Madagascar, said that they support the "TRNC" in every field. He added that the non-recognition of the "TRNC" is no obstacle to cooperate on technical matters.

Pakistani MP Khan Tar?qullah, for his part, invited Sibel and other "TRNC parliamentarians" to his country.

Deputy Billow Adam Kerow from the Kenyan Parliament conveyed his country's support to the ongoing negotiations process.

Siber, for her part, stated that the non-recognition of the "TRNC" did not mean that the "TRNC" cannot establish relations with other countries. She proposed for the establishment of an inter-parliamentary friendship group.

A delegation of the UK Parliament "TRNC Friendship Group" also met with Siber.

Speaking during the visit, Lord Sharkey said that their visit to the island came at an important time. He said that they continue to support the just cause of the Turkish Cypriot people and that they will continue to do so in the future.

Siber for her part expressed the hope that the ongoing negotiations process will be concluded with a mutually acceptable solution for both sides.

On the same issue, Akinci also met with the foreign parliamentarians. Expressing happiness over hosting the parliamentarians from 5 different countries at the "presidential palace", Akinci said that the beautiful atmosphere of the 15th of November will be shared with the guests.

Briefing the guests on the ongoing negotiations process, he said :"We are missing political spring weather and a geographical solution in Cyprus."

Explaining that the efforts towards reaching a solution are based on the reality of the two communities and two sides existing on the island, Akinci stressed that the conjuncture is suitable for a solution.

Stressing that the referendum process, the natural gas found off the coast of Cyprus and the 11th of February Joint Declaration are all related with bi-zonality and bi-communality, Akinci pointed out that this reality is the basis of the negotiations process.

Announcing that they aimed to finalize the negotiations before May 2016, he said that he is not pessimistic towards a solution however abstained to draw a rosy picture due to some problems that have occurred.

Meanwhile, illegal Bayrak (online, 16.11.15) reports that guests, who were in the occupied area of the Republic of Cyprus to attend the 15th of November UDI of the breakaway regime "celebrations" met with self-styled state and government officials on the side-lines of their visit.

The Turkish President's secretary general Fahri Kas?rga, Deputy Chairman of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Professor Dr Mehmet Naci Bostanci, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Tugrul Turkes, Turkey's Chief of Staff's second Commander General Yasar Guler and administrative authorities representatives from the Turkish Grand National Assembly Salim Uslu, Tufan Kose and Seyfettin Yilmaz met with Akinci, Siber and Kalyoncu.

The Cyprus issue topped the agenda during the meetings and the visiting delegation reiterated their support to the Turkish Cypriot side during the Cyprus negotiations process. The delegation also expressed the hope that the Cyprus negotiations process will reach a happy ending.

Akinci, for his part, said that they are trying their best to reach a successful outcome at the talks and added that they are in search of a just and permanent solution.

Touching upon the G 20 summit that is taking place in Turkey, Akinci said that the outcome to emerge from the summit will affect the region and the world and expressed the hope that the outcome will benefit all.

Siber, for her part, said that they are working towards strengthening the corporate structure of the "TRNC" and improving the living standard of the people. She also expressed the hope that a solution will be found to the Cyprus problem soon.

And lastly Kalyoncu noted that a solution to the Cyprus problem will contribute to the island and the region. "For the first time natural resources will be the reason for a solution. The sides will use common sense and work towards Cyprus becoming an island of peace", he added. Kalyoncu also thanked Turkey for its contributions to the "TRNC".

Furthermore, Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris (14.11.15) reported that Siber met also with so-called deputies from Kosovo: Mufera Sinik and Fikrim Damka. From Madagascar Parliament were also Jean Claude Rabearisoa and Basile Elitafa.

According to the paper, Siber also met with Enes Ibrahim from FYROM.

Moreover, the paper reports that Guler, in his meeting with Siber, said that there are important developments in three issues. Referring to the opening of the crossing point in Deryneia said that an important expansion was made. He noted: "We supported the efforts for solving this issue. We are looking positively to the excavations for the missing persons". Gule said that they support also the restoration of the Maronite churches.

[10] Turkish warships and airplanes violated Cyprus' territorial waters and airspace for the UDI

According to the paper, the demonstration by the Turkish acrobatic airplanes took place in occupied Keryneia and over the Dr. Fazil Kucuk Boulevard in the occupied part of Lefkosia, during the main ceremony.

Later in the afternoon, the aerobatics team and Soloturk made a show above the occupied Keryneia harbor and promenade.

During the same day, two vessels of the Turkish Naval Forces, TCG Gelibolu frigate and TCG Burakreis submarine anchored at the tourist harbor of occupied Keryneia and remained opened for the public to visit.

(AK)

[11] Celebration ceremony in Budapest for the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of the UDI

As the paper writes, around 200 participants attended the ceremony. Amongst them were Ambassadors from third countries, foreign media representatives, Turkish and Hungarian businessmen, scientists and the Ambassador of Turkey in Budapest Sakir Fakili.

Delivering a speech at the reception, Altay briefed the participants concerning the general economic and political situation in the "TRNC".

(AK)

[12] A German Deputy proposed the establishment of a "friendship group" between Germany and the occupation regime

As the paper writes, during the meeting, Brunner proposed the establishment of a "friendship group" with the "TRNC's parliament". He pointed out that Germany has established "friendship groups" with several countries which do not have a certain status and added that the "TRNC" could be included to these countries.

Indicating Taiwan as an example of these countries, Brunner proposed the establishment of a "friendship bridge" between Germany and the "TRNC" and said that the "committee" to be established would aim to make the voice of the Turkish Cypriots be heard abroad.

Brunner said also he is informed about the latest developments in Cyprus and that he had visited the island and occupied Keryneia several times in the past. He added that he had also worked for some period as an education staff at the "American University of Keryneia" ("GAU").

Speaking on behalf of "KTIAK", Zugurt said that he will convey to the so-called assembly Brunners' proposal and added that they were pleased from this proposal.

Zugurt stated also that they invited Brunner and other German Deputies to visit the "TRNC", adding that such visits would strengthen further the ties between the two "countries".

(AK)

[13] Akansoy: Deryneia crossing point to open in seven months, Apliki crossing point to open in sixteen months

minister of interior and labour Asim Akansoy held inspections at the Deryneia crossing point and stated that the Deryneia crossing point will open in 7 months and the Apliki crossing point will open in a year and a half.

The paper strongly criticized Akansoy's statements, noting that there is no money for the opening of the crossing points. "They are waiting for the EU; because the EU funds are not released yet the opening of the crossing points is delayed. Since they have promised for a solution and a referendum to be held on May, when are they planning to open the crossing points? After the solution?", writes Afrika.

Akansoy, stating that the EU has allocated a 2 million euro fund for the two crossing points, he said that the fund would only be released a month and a half later. "Once this is done, work should commence and the crossing points will be opened in a speedy manner" he said, adding that it is aimed that the Deryneia crossing point will open in seven months.

According to Akansoy, the amount of 1,800,000 Euro is needed for the opening of Deryneia and the amount of 800,000 is needed for the opening of Apliki crossing point. He stated that time is needed for the current infrastructure work to be completed and claimed that the "TRNC's" responsibilities regarding the Deryneia crossing point included the construction of a 3km road and installing telephone, power lines as well as water pipes, while the Greek Cypriot side only needs to renew a150 meter stretch of road.

(CS)

[14] "KITSAB" attended the 49th UFTAA general congress in Brussels

The occupation regime was represented by the honorary "chairman" of "KITSAB" and member of the management board, Ozbek Dedekorkut.

In a written statement on behalf of "KITSAB", Dedekorkut, said that during the two days meeting of UFFTA, issues related with the global problems in the tourism sector, the effects of the terror attacks on tourism, the relations of travel agencies with IATA (International Air Transport Association), the further development of UFTAA and other issues were discussed.

Also, during the congress, the new administration board of UFTAA has been elected. Dedekorkut was elected to the board and took the position of the chairman of the Organization of Technologies.

(AK)

[15] Religious tourism in the breakaway regime

According to the paper, the group will visit various religious places in the "TRNC". Orhan Tolun the chairman of the "Turkish Cypriot Tourism Agencies" stated that religious tourism will help reviving tourism in the "TRNC".

On his part, the chairman of the CTL tourism agency, Hasim Rahmancioglu, stated that they aim to bring a group of religious tourists every week in the breakaway regime. He said that the next group will visit the breakaway regime on December 18.

(CS)

[16] New illegal universities in the breakaway regime

The paper also reports that the inauguration ceremony for the Roseville Kamacioglu Student Dorm, took place at the same time in the area. The new dorm will be able to host 660 students.

In addition, Havadis (16.11.15) reported that the foundation stone of the medicine school of the illegal Keryneia university was laid in occupied Keryneia.

(CS)

[17] Ban discussed with Erdogan the Cyprus issue

In a readout of the meeting, the UN spokesperson's office said that Ban and Erdogan exchanged views on the way forward to resolve the Syrian conflict. "[Ban] warmly thanked Turkey for hosting such a large number of refugees from that country," the statement said.

During the meeting, Ban and Erdogan condemned Friday's attacks in Paris that killed approximately 130 people and left more than 350 injured. They "stressed the need for the international community to address terrorism in a determined and unified way", the UN said.

Ban also "expressed appreciation for the Turkish presidency of the G20", adding that the summit was happening "in sombre times that required unity of action". He said he would present a comprehensive plan of action against violent extremism in a few months.

Ban and Erdogan also discussed Palestine, Libya and Cyprus, as well as issues related to climate change, the UN said.

[18] Turkey says it foiled an Istanbul terror plot on same day as Paris attacks

Police on Nov. 13 detained five people in Istanbul, the source told AFP, including a suspected close associate of the notorious Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group militant known as "Jihadi John" who Washington believes was likely killed in a recent drone strike in Syria. "We believe they were planning an attack in Istanbul on the same day as the Paris attacks" on Nov. 13, the official said on condition of anonymity. "The initial investigation shows we foiled a major attack."

Turkish authorities are investigating if the foiled plot had any links with the Paris attacks which killed at least 129 people, the Turkish official said. "All possibilities are being evaluated," the official said, adding it was possible that those detained had also been planning an attack in Europe.

The arrest of the five suspected ISIL jihadists came ahead of a summit of G-20 leaders gathering in Turkey's southern resort of Antalya on Nov. 15 and Nov. 16.

"Syria has become a training ground for terrorists," the Turkish official said. "There is a need for joint initiatives to fight terrorism and solve the Syrian crisis".

Turkey is in intensive dialogue with France, the official said adding: "Our priority is how we can find the murderers. It's not a good time for a blame game."

[19] The Prime Minister has the responsibility of representing the country in the G20 meeting, which was overshadowed by restrictions on media and free enterprise

In the "G20 Presidency Priorities for 2015" document prepared by Turkey as the host of the G-20 meeting to be held on Nov. 15-16, emphasis was placed on investment as a driver of global growth.

In late October Koza Ipek Holding, whose subsidiaries include the formerly dissident Ipek Media Group, was taken over by government-appointed trustees based on the Ankara 5th Penal Court of Peace. Interestingly, the expert opinion, on which the court's decision was based, acknowledged the absence of any faults in the holding's accounting books.

Then there was last week's police raid on a number of unions affiliated with the Turkish Confederation of Businessmen and Industrialists (TUSKON), a union comprising 55,000 businessmen members nationwide. Police conducted a search of the offices of three TUSKON member associations in Ankara, which were accused of financing terrorism.

Restrictions imposed on many media outlets, including Today's Zaman, by the Turkish government, attempting to stop them from covering the summit is another setback for Turkey's image ahead of the meeting.

The paper also reported that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will host the G-20 summit to be held with the attendance of world leaders to discuss global issues.

However, Turkey was represented at the prime ministerial level in previous G-20 summits. Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, as the head of government, had represented Turkey at the G-20 summit in Brisbane last year.

This development did not come as a surprise to many because there have been widespread claims that Erdogan, who upon assuming the presidency was constitutionally required to cut his ties with his former political party and act impartially, has remained very influential in the party and its internal affairs.

Speaking to Sunday's Zaman, Cengiz Aktar, a foreign policy expert, said it is normally the heads of government who represent member countries at G-20 summits. Article 112 of the Constitution states that the Prime Minister has the responsibility of representing the country.

Speaking on TRT Turk on Tuesday, Davutoglu said that although the G-20 summit is not a platform for political issues, leaders will discuss political matters that concern the international community as well.

Upon Turkey's proposal, the agenda of the G-20 summit included a session titled "Terrorism and Refugee Issues."

In remarks to Sunday's Zaman, Ozdem Sanberk, a former diplomat and foreign policy analyst, said it is not uncommon for the states hosting the G-20 summit to propose that attending countries also discuss political issues that concern the international community. TURKISH AFFAIRS SECTION

http://www.moi.gov.cy/pio

(DPs/ AM)

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