Turkey News Gazette

The total number of voters eligible to vote in the upcoming elections stands at 706,534, the Chief Returning Officer Elikkos Elia said on Tuesday. In a press release, Elia said the permanent electoral roll, which gives the right to vote in all elections, includes 568,608 Cypriot voters, of which 837 are Turkish Cypriots, holders of Republic of Cyprus identity cards with an address in the free areas. It is added that the breakdown of voters by district indicates 220,736 voters in the Nicosia district, including 143 Turkish Cypriots; 33,879 in Famagusta, including 8 Turkish Cypriots; 99,342 in Larnaca, including 249 Turkish Cypriots; 159,680 in Limassol, including 238 Turkish Cypriots; and 54,971 in Pafos, including 199 Turkish Cypriots. Correspondingly, the special electoral list of European citizens for the Local Government Authorities Elections includes 21,640 voters, with a breakdown of these voters by district showing 4,048 voters in Nicosia, 2,669 in Famagusta, 2,525 in Larnaca, 3,123 in Limassol and 9 ,275 in Pafos. It is added that the special electoral list of European citizens for the elections of Members of the European Parliament includes 13,017 voters, while the special electoral list for the elections of Members of the European Parliament includes 103,269 Turkish Cypriots, holders of identity cards of the Republic of Cyprus, who reside in areas where the government does not exercise effective control. The Office of the Chief Returning Officer also reports that a total of 4,725 voters have registered and will vote in the European Parliament elections in one of the following cities abroad, where polling stations will be operating: Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, Komotini, Volos, Heraklion, Ioannina, London (Cyprus Community Centre and High Commission Building), Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and Brussels. Source: Cyprus News Agency

ISTANBUL: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Tuesday that the PKK/PYD/YPG terror group poses a threat to Iraq's stability, adding that eliminating this threat also serves Iraq's interest. Speaking to reporters on the plane after his pivotal one-day visit to Iraq, Erdogan said he believes the Iraqi administration also acknowledges this reality and will now demonstrate the will to eliminate this obstacle. 'It is essential for Iraq's development vision and the security of international investments to demolish these terrorist pits and build predictable tomorrows for Iraq," he said. Anti-terrorism fight to continue with same determination Erdogan emphasized that in both Iraq and Syria, 'the terrorism quagmire' will be resolved not just by Trkiye's efforts but with the joint efforts of both countries' administrations. He said Trkiye continues its "relentless fight" against all terrorist organizations indiscriminately, particularly against the PKK/PYD/YPG nestled in Iraq and Syria. 'It will continue w ith the same determination. Whether domestically or just beyond our borders, within the framework of international law and respecting the territorial integrity of our neighbors, this struggle will continue. "We would like our neighbors to take the necessary stance against threats coming from their territories towards us,' he said. Common interests to be considered on water issue Erdogan said the two countries need to develop new programs suitable for the changing climatic conditions and ensuring sustainable water use. 'It should not be forgotten that we also have water issues at least as much as they do. Trkiye is not water-rich and falls into the category of countries experiencing water stress. "Therefore, if we cannot implement our plans soon, we may also face problems in water supply. "Through evaluations made in this direction, it may be possible to find common ground. Water is not a tool of conflict, but an area of cooperation that will serve our common interests,' Erdogan said. Efforts to conceal genocide by killing journalists On the killing of 140 journalists who were covering the Gaza conflict, Erdogan said Israel wants to hide the facts that point to genocide. "Individuals advocating for democracy, human rights, and freedoms must scrutinize this situation diligently. "Whatever they do, we have placed all evidence of Israel's crimes before the International Court of Justice, and we will continue to do so. We will continue to reveal the truth and speak out against Israel's murders. "Know that Netanyahu, the Hitler of our time, and his accomplices will not escape accountability. No matter how much they run, we will pursue them. One day, justice will be served. If not, then history will hold them accountable," he added. Gaza to open door to other occupations He further said that considering Hamas's Oct. 7 attack as a standalone incident without taking into picture Israeli atrocities in the region would be a mistake. 'We need to be much more sensitive. Israel's unprecedented massacres and its mo ve to destroy Gaza require a change in approach. "If Gaza falls into Israeli hands, it opens the door to other occupations. We cannot allow this," Erdogan said. He stressed the need for Muslim nations to take a joint stance against Israel. "Gaza is where the Islamic world needs to focus, engage in reasoning for a solution, and formulate realistic and effective policies,' he said. The president also said that Trkiye will continue to discuss these issues with both Hamas and leaders of other nations. Trkiye continues sending aid to Gaza Emphasizing that Trkiye has sent about 45,000 tons of aid to Gaza so far, Erdogan said this aid is still ongoing and will continue. "We are also treating the wounded in hospitals in Ankara and Istanbul," he said. Hamas leaders in Gaza Erdogan said that what is important is not the whereabouts of Hamas leaders, but the situation in Gaza. 'I have not heard anything that the Emir of Qatar, Mr. Sheikh Tamim, will take a step to ignore their position in Qatar. I don't think he will take such a step. His sincerity towards them, his attitude towards them has always been like a member of the family. I do not think that this attitude towards them will change,' he said. New era with Armenia Asked about Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's description of the events of 1915 as the "great catastrophe" rather than genocide, Erdogan said: "Acting in accordance with the realities of the time is always better than acting based on fabricated historical narratives. Pashinyan seems to understand this now." Source: Anadolu Agency

The Shipping Deputy Minister, Marina Hadjimanolis, travels to Guangzhou in China on Tuesday, to attend the naming ceremony of the newly built cargo ship 'AAL LIMASSOL', owned by A?L Shipping which is part of the Schoeller Holdings group of companies, owned by Heinrich Schoeller. An official press release said the ship has been constructed to the highest standards and modern environmental specifications and will be registered in the Register of Cyprus Ships. During her visit to China, the Shipping Deputy Minister will meet with the President of COSCO Bulkers, and she will hold a series of other meetings with shipowners, executives of shipping companies, financial institutions and shipyards, as part of the continuous efforts to promote and strengthen the Register of Cyprus Ships and Cyprus shipping in general, with the aim of attracting shipping companies to Cyprus and ships to the Register of Cyprus Ships. Source: Cyprus News Agency

ANKARA: Ankara witnessed a jubilant celebration as the Embassy of Bangladesh hosted a reception in honor of Bangladesh Independence and National Day, with high-profile attendees including Turkish Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Isikhan. Ambassador M. Amanul Haq of Bangladesh welcomed guests to commemorate the 54th anniversary of Bangladesh's independence and the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Turkey. In his address, Ambassador Haq emphasized the enduring historical, political, and cultural bonds between the two nations, recalling Bengalis' support for Trkiye during its National Movement and Ankara's assistance during Bangladesh's challenging times, including providing aid after devastating earthquakes and supporting Rohingya refugees. Minister Isikhan echoed these sentiments, underlining the mutual solidarity and support between Trkiye and Bangladesh, especially during difficult times. He praised Bangladesh's decision to open its doors to over a million Rohingya Muslims and expressed Trkiye's commitment to continue supporting Bangladesh as it transitions out of the least developed countries category. The event also highlighted the growing economic and defense ties between the two countries, with Turkish Airlines' direct flights between Istanbul and Dhaka facilitating trade and tourism. Both officials expressed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations across various sectors for the mutual benefit of their peoples. The celebration concluded with cultural performances marking Bengali New Year and the cutting of a cake symbolizing the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, signifying the deep and enduring friendship between Trkiye and Bangladesh. Source: Anadolu Agency

?he President of the Republic, Ni?os Christodoulides, announced "bold reforms" in the health sector, while addressing on Monday an event for the European Patients' Rights Day, organised by the Cyprus Federation of Patients' Associations (CyFPA) at the Presidential Palace. President Christodoulides said that reforms are expected soon, along with a number of pieces of legislation that are in their final stages of preparation. In particular, the President noted that the establishment of the Ombudsman will proceed within 2024, one of whose tasks, as the President explained, will be to ensure that the 14 principles of the Charter of Patients' Rights are implemented in Cyprus. Moreover, as he said in his introduction, these 14 rights "should be recognised and, most importantly, fully respected in every state, not just through fine words and statements, but through policies." Speaking about legislation involving bold reforms, the President said that these are pieces of legislation that will also provoke certain r eactions. He added that "these bold reforms have the sole aim of protecting the GHS, which is the biggest social reform to date." He went on to say that no one expected such a major reform to be implemented without problems and that the government intends to address any distortions and challenges. "There is important work that we have to do as a State, but I believe that since the adoption of the Charter, significant steps have been taken in our country and these steps have been taken largely because of the work of the CyFPA," the President said, stressing that "CyFPA is the strongest non-governmental organisation." He also said that the Government has common goals and common objectives with the CyFPA, noting that its actions "contribute greatly to the formulation of policies in the broader health sector and to this great effort both for me and for the whole Government, the Ministers." "It is our duty as a State to listen to the needs of citizens and do our utmost to defend patients and their rights," the President said. Source: Cyprus News Agency

ISTANBUL: Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov said UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron's visit to his country will give new impetus to cooperation between the two countries, as the latter conducts a surprise regional visit to Central Asia. 'President Sadyr Japarov expressed confidence that David Cameron's official visit to Kyrgyzstan will give new impetus to multifaceted cooperation between Kyrgyzstan and the UK,' said a statement by the Kyrgyz presidency following talks in the capital Bishkek late Monday. The statement said Japarov and Cameron exchanged views on the prospects for bilateral cooperation, including in the political, trade, economic, investment, energy, and transport sectors. It further said the two sides discussed the possibilities of expanding the interaction between the two countries on issues of education and seasonal labor migration. Japarov noted that the UK has an important place in Kyrgyzstan's foreign policy toward the West, and that the sides also addressed current topics on the regional and international agenda, the statement also said. For his part, Cameron expressed his gratitude to Japarov for the warm welcome he has received upon his arrival, noting the importance of developing and strengthening bilateral cooperation in various fields and the existing potential between the two countries. During his visit, Cameron also held talks with his counterpart Jeenbek Kulubaev, where the top Kyrgyz diplomat expressed hope that the positive dynamics of the dialogue between Bishkek and London will continue in the future, according to a Kyrgyz Foreign Ministry statement. He further informed Cameron on potential areas of bilateral cooperation, including attracting foreign investment, increasing trade turnover, joint development of rare earth metals using advanced technologies, and the transition to green energy. Meanwhile, Cameron informed Kulubaev about the UK's interest in expanding its partnership with the countries of Central Asia, particularly Kyrgyzstan, going on to express the British side's readiness to help support small and medium-sized businesses in the region by creating a special fund with a capital of £19 million ($23.4 million) per region. ???????On Monday, Cameron embarked on a regional tour to Central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan - and Mongolia "as part of government ambition to increase engagement with this pivotal region of the world," which began with a visit to the Tajik capital Dushanbe. Source: Anadolu Agency

BERLIN: Trkiye's aviation sector is growing with the investments made in the field after its rapid recovery post-pandemic. Investments have enabled Trkiye to become a dominant player in the European market. Trkiye's position as an aviation hub for European, Middle Eastern, North African, and the Caucasus markets contributed to the development of the sector. Last year, global international passenger capacity fell 12% behind the pandemic year of 2019, and Turkish Airlines, on the other hand, continued to be one of the leading airlines in the sector with a 27% increase for the same period, according to data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) compiled by Anadolu. Istanbul Airport becomes leader in Europe Upon investments made in Trkiye's aviation infrastructure, Istanbul Airport has become the airport with the most flights in all of Europe. Istanbul Airport ranked first among the busiest airports in Europe last year, as it did in 2022, according to data from Eurocontrol. The average nu mber of daily flights at Istanbul Airport in 2023 increased 19% year-on-year, reaching 1,375. Istanbul Airport also broke the airport network record with 1,684 flights on June 22, 2023. Istanbul Airport was followed by Amsterdam Airport Schiphol with an average of 1,255 daily flights, Heathrow Airport in London with 1,251 flights, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport with 1,247 flights, and Frankfurt Airport with 1,179 flights. Istanbul Airport hosted 17.6 million passengers in the first three months of this year, 3.5 million of which were domestic flights and 14.1 million of which were international flights. The airport saw 16.2 million passengers last year. Trkiye's flag carrier airlines fly millions Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines hosted 115 million passengers in total last year, up 10% year-on-year. Turkish Airlines reached an all-time record 83.4 million passengers last year, despite global geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic uncertainties, thanks to its extensive flight network and highly qu alified workforce during the pandemic period. The airline's domestic passenger capacity hiked 23.5% last year compared to 2022, while the number of passengers soared 19% to over 30 million. As for the international capacity, it climbed 16% and the number of passengers increased 14% to 53 million. The increase in the number of passengers abroad, especially in European countries with Turkish diaspora, exceeded 20%. Turkish Airlines Cargo becomes world's 4th largest air cargo carrier Turkish Airlines Cargo has more than tripled its market share in cargo transportation in the last 10 years and continued its success as the world's fourth largest air cargo carrier in 2023 according to IATA data, offering air cargo services at 364 destinations in 133 countries with four cargo and 416 passenger aircraft. Turkish Airlines currently aims to have a fleet of more than 800 aircraft in 2033. The airline added 46 aircraft to its fleet last year and increased the number of aircraft to 440, up 12%, despite the supply p roblems in the global aviation industry and the bottleneck in production. Turkish Airlines hosts 18.5 million passengers in 3-month period Turkish Airlines' passenger numbers climbed from 17 million in the first quarter of 2023 to 18.5 million in the same period this year. The number of transit passengers hiked from 6.9 million in January-March 2023 to 7.6 million in the same period in 2024. As for Pegasus Airlines, its number of passengers reached 31.98 million last year, up 19% year-on-year. Meanwhile, the occupancy of the airlines increased by 1.1 points in 2023 on an annual basis, reaching 84.8%. The number of domestic passengers using Pegasus Airlines soared by 10% to 11.98 million and international passengers by 24% to 19.95 million. Source: Anadolu Agency

ANKARA: A total of 34,183 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, as the deadly onslaught entered its 200th day, the Health Ministry in the besieged enclave said on Tuesday. The ongoing assaults since last October have also injured 77,143 Palestinians, it added The ministry noted that in the past 24 hours, Israel committed three massacres against families across the Gaza Strip that left 32 deaths and 59 others injured who arrived at the hospitals. 'Many people are still trapped under rubble and on the roads and rescuers are unable to reach them,' it added. Israel has pounded the Gaza Strip since a cross-border attack by Hamas on Oct. 7 last year, which Tel Aviv says killed nearly 1,200 people. The Israeli war on Gaza has pushed 85% of the territory's population into internal displacement amid acute shortages of food, clean water, and medicine, while over 60% of the enclave's infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed, according to the UN. Israel stands accused of genocide a t the International Court of Justice. An interim ruling in January ordered Tel Aviv to stop genocidal acts and take measures to guarantee that humanitarian assistance is provided to civilians in Gaza. Source: Anadolu Agency

ISTANBUL: Qatar said Tuesday it is still committed to mediating between Hamas and Israel to reach a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip. Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said Doha is currently reevaluating its mediation role. 'Qatar is committed to playing a role in mediation between Hamas and Israel," he told a press conference. The spokesman said Doha is frustrated by recent negative statements about Qatar's mediation role in the Gaza talks. "We have deep frustration with such statements, especially from Israeli officials familiar with our mediation efforts and humanitarian work in Gaza," he added. "It is early to speak about Qatar's withdrawal from the mediation role,' he said. 'Qatar is currently committed to this role, and will take the decisions in the most suitable time.' Turkish support The spokesman hailed the Turkish support for the Qatari mediation role, stressing that Trkiye is one of the main regional countries that backs the mediation efforts in Gaza. "Coordination is ongoing with our brothers and partners in Trkiye, we appreciate the Turkish support for the mediation efforts," al-Ansari said. Regarding Hamas' presence in Qatar, the spokesman said: "As long as Qatar's mediation efforts continue, there is no justification to end the presence of the Hamas political bureau in Doha." Al-Ansari reiterated that the Hamas office was opened, in coordination with the United States, for the purpose of mediation between both sides. "As of now, nothing has changed in that regard," he added. Israel has waged a brutal military offensive on the Palestinian territory since an Oct. 7 cross-border attack by Hamas, which killed nearly 1,200 people. Nearly 34,200 Palestinians have since been killed and more than 77,000 others injured amid mass destruction and severe shortages of necessities. The Israeli war, now in its 200th day, has pushed 85% of Gaza's population into internal displacement amid acute shortages of food, clean water and medicine, while 60% of the enclave's infrastructure has been damage d or destroyed, according to the UN. Israel stands accused of genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which in January issued an interim ruling that ordered Tel Aviv to stop genocidal acts and take measures to guarantee that humanitarian assistance is provided to civilians in Gaza. Source: Anadolu Agency