Lake Baikal: Home to 20% of the World’s Freshwater

 

Located in Russia’s East Siberia region, Lake Baikal is a natural wonder that holds the title of the world’s deepest lake, reaching an astounding depth of 1,642 meters. This magnificent body of water contains approximately 20% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater, making it one of the most significant freshwater reserves on the planet.

A Unique Ecosystem
Spanning an area comparable to the size of Belgium, Lake Baikal is renowned for its exceptionally pure, oxygen-rich waters and unparalleled biodiversity. The lake is home to numerous endemic species, many of which cannot be found anywhere else on Earth. Its crystal-clear waters and unique ecosystem have earned it the nicknames “Sacred Sea” and “Siberia’s Blue Eye.”

Natural Beauty and Activities
Lake Baikal surrounds Olkhon Island, creating breathtaking landscapes that attract nature enthusiasts from around the globe. The lake offers a wide range of activities throughout the year:

• Summer: Hiking, fishing, and yachting.

• Winter: Skiing and ice skating on its frozen surface.

Accessibility
Reaching Lake Baikal is relatively straightforward. Visitors can fly to Irkutsk, followed by a short drive to the lake. Once there, they are greeted by a natural masterpiece that promises unforgettable experiences.

A Must-Visit Destination
Lake Baikal is not just a geographical marvel but also a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or simply seeking tranquility, Lake Baikal offers something for everyone.

Prepared by: Bilhan Akkaya

Tomb of Kutluk Khagan, Founder of the Second Göktürk Khaganate, Discovered

 

In a groundbreaking discovery, the memorial complex and inscription of Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, the founder of the Second Eastern Göktürk Khaganate, have been unearthed. The announcement was made by the Turkish World Research Foundation, marking a significant milestone in Turkic history.

The discovery was made in the Nomgon Valley of Mongolia’s Ötüken region during a joint archaeological expedition by the International Turkic Academy and the Mongolian Institute of Archaeology. The site, located in Hangai Jote, includes a monument complex and inscriptions dedicated to Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, the father of Kül Tigin and Bilge Khagan, who played a pivotal role in reviving the Turkic Khaganate after freeing the Turks from Chinese domination.

A Legacy of Liberation
Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, also known as Aşına Kutluk, ruled between 682 and 691 AD. Alongside his advisor, Bilge Tonyukuk, he led a rebellion against Chinese rule, reestablishing the Turkic Khaganate with Ötüken as its capital. His efforts earned him the title “Ilterish,” meaning “the one who gathers the nation.”

Kutluk Khagan is renowned for his military prowess, having never lost a battle during his numerous campaigns against Chinese territories. After his death, he was succeeded by his brother, Kapgan Khagan.

A Monumental Discovery
The newly discovered monument complex and inscription add to the rich legacy of the Göktürk Khaganate, following the earlier discoveries of inscriptions dedicated to Bilge Tonyukuk, Kül Tigin, and Bilge Khagan. The site features a fragment of the inscription, a lion statue, and an altar stone, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the era.

Darhan Kıdıralı, a representative of the International Turkic Academy, stated:
“We have found the monument erected in honor of Ilterish Khagan, the father-in-law of Bars Beg Khagan. The inscription is in Old Turkic and Sogdian. Further details will be announced tomorrow at a press conference in Ulaanbaatar.”

Potential Historical Significance
The inscription is particularly noteworthy as it may be the first known artifact to include the word “Türk” (Turk). Experts suggest that the discovery could provide invaluable insights into early Turkic history and language.

Elvin Yıldırım, Head of the History Department at Istanbul Aydın University, shared his excitement on social media:
“The memorial complex and inscription of Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, the father of Kül Tigin and Bilge Khagan, have been discovered. Congratulations to the International Turkic Academy and the Mongolian Institute of Archaeology!”

A Press Conference to Reveal More
The Turkish World Research Foundation will hold a press conference in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, tomorrow to provide further details about the discovery.

This monumental find not only sheds light on the life and legacy of Ilterish Kutluk Khagan but also reinforces the deep historical roots of the Turkic world.

Emine Erdoğan Visits Yunus Emre Institute in Indonesia

 As part of her official visit to Jakarta, Indonesia, accompanying her husband, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, First Lady Emine Erdoğan visited the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE). Upon her arrival, she was warmly welcomed by YEE President Prof. Dr. Abdurrahman Aliy, YEE Indonesia Director Cemal Şahin, and a group of students holding Turkish and Indonesian flags.

During her visit, Emine Erdoğan toured the institute and received detailed information from Aliy and Şahin about the ongoing activities and programs. She also explored the Archival Documents Exhibition, which showcases the historical ties between the Ottoman Empire and Indonesia from 1567 to 1920.

Highlights of the Exhibition
The exhibition featured significant documents, including:

• A letter from Indonesian Muslims requesting Ottoman assistance to reduce Hajj pilgrimage costs.

• A letter of gratitude from Indonesia to the Ottoman Empire for thwarting British colonial plans in Southeast Asia.

• A report on the Ottoman Empire’s support for the Muslim community in Aceh against Dutch oppression.

• A thank-you letter from Javanese King Sharif Ali to Sultan Abdulhamid II for the Ottoman Empire’s role in liberating Java from enemies.

Engaging with Students
After the exhibition, Emine Erdoğan visited Turkish language classes and the library, where she interacted with Indonesian students. During a lesson titled "My Dream About Turkey," students shared their aspirations and dreams about Turkey. One student expressed her desire to pursue a Ph.D. in Turkey, stating, “I’ve visited Turkey twice and was amazed by its historical beauty. I miss Turkish food and hope to return soon.”

Emine Erdoğan also reviewed artwork created by students, depicting their impressions of Turkey, and engaged in heartfelt conversations about their dreams and inspirations.

A Message of Brotherhood
In a social media post following her visit, Emine Erdoğan reflected on the deep-rooted friendship between Turkey and Indonesia:
“As part of our official visit, I visited the Yunus Emre Institute in Jakarta, Indonesia. While we celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Turkey and Indonesia this year, we are also witnessing the legacy of a friendship that dates back to the 16th century. I was delighted to meet the young students learning Turkish at the Yunus Emre Institute, one of the most important bridges carrying this legacy into the future. Their enthusiasm for learning and their love for Turkey are a beautiful reflection of the strong bond between our peoples. At the Ottoman-Indonesia Archival Documents Exhibition, I examined documents that remind us of the profound friendship between our two nations. I hope that the brotherhood between Turkey and Indonesia continues for many years to come.”

Traditional Touch
During her visit, Emine Erdoğan chose to wear a traditional Indonesian Batik-patterned outfit, symbolizing cultural respect and unity.

The students bid farewell to the First Lady with warm words, saying, “We hope to welcome you again.”

Emine Erdoğan’s visit underscored the enduring cultural and historical ties between Turkey and Indonesia, highlighting the role of education and cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral relations.

Turkmen Gas to Flow to Turkey Starting March 2025

 Turkmen Gas to Flow to Turkey Starting March 2025

After 27 years of negotiations, Turkey and Turkmenistan have finalized an agreement for the supply of Turkmen natural gas to Turkey. According to the deal signed between BOTAŞ (Turkey’s state-owned pipeline company) and Türkmengaz, gas deliveries are set to begin on March 1, 2025.

Historic Agreement After 27 Years
The groundwork for the deal was laid during a meeting between President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov, Chairman of the People’s Council of Turkmenistan, at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in March 2024. During the talks, the two leaders signed agreements to enhance cooperation in natural gas and oil, with a focus on transporting Turkmenistan’s vast natural gas reserves to Turkey and onward to European markets.

In July 2024, Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar visited Turkmenistan to advance discussions, culminating in a critical memorandum of understanding (MoU) between BOTAŞ and Türkmengaz. This agreement marks the start of a new era in energy collaboration between the two nations.

Gas Flow to Begin in March 2025
Under the finalized terms, natural gas deliveries from Turkmenistan to Turkey will commence on March 1, 2025. Energy Minister Bayraktar announced the milestone via social media, stating:
“Today, we have achieved the concrete outcome of the memorandum of understanding signed in Antalya last March in the presence of President Erdoğan and Chairman Berdimuhammedov. This agreement advances our cooperation in the natural gas sector, with gas flow scheduled to begin on March 1, 2025.”

Strengthening Energy Ties
The agreement underscores Turkey’s strategic role as a key energy corridor connecting Central Asia to Europe. Turkmenistan, home to the world’s fourth-largest natural gas reserves, aims to diversify its export routes through Turkey, while Ankara seeks to bolster its energy security and regional influence.

The deal also reflects deepening bilateral ties between Turkey and Turkmenistan, two Turkic states with shared cultural and economic interests. The collaboration is expected to pave the way for further joint projects in energy infrastructure and trade.

Key Participants

• Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, President of Turkey

• Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov, Chairman of the People’s Council of Turkmenistan

• Alparslan Bayraktar, Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

• BOTAŞ and Türkmengaz delegations

The agreement marks a historic milestone in regional energy diplomacy, positioning Turkey as a critical hub for Eurasian energy transit.

President Erdoğan Visits Indonesia

 President Erdoğan Visits Indonesia

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was officially welcomed by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Bogor Presidential Palace in Indonesia with a formal ceremony.

Upon arrival at the Bogor Presidential Palace, President Erdoğan's official vehicle was escorted by a cavalry unit to the entrance of the building. As he stepped out of the vehicle, Erdoğan was greeted by Indonesian children waving Turkish and Indonesian flags. President Subianto welcomed Erdoğan at the entrance, after which the two leaders proceeded to the ceremonial area. A military band played the national anthems of both countries, followed by a gun salute.

During the welcoming ceremony at the Bogor Presidential Palace, Erdoğan and Subianto introduced their respective delegations. The two leaders inspected the honor guard and posed for the press in front of the Turkish and Indonesian flags at the entrance of the building.

President Erdoğan signed the guestbook at the Bogor Presidential Palace before holding a one-on-one meeting with President Subianto.

**High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council Meeting**

President Erdoğan and President Subianto will co-chair the first meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council. They will also attend a signing ceremony for bilateral agreements and hold a joint press conference.

**Turkey-Indonesia Business Forum**

President Erdoğan will attend an official dinner hosted in his honor by President Subianto and participate in the Turkey-Indonesia Business Forum.

**Delegation Members**

The Turkish delegation accompanying President Erdoğan included:

- Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan

- Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar

- National Defense Minister Yaşar Güler

- Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır

- Agriculture and Forestry Minister İbrahim Yumaklı

- Trade Minister Ömer Bolat

- Binali Yıldırım, Chairman of the Council of Elders of the Organization of Turkic States

- Fahrettin Altun, Presidential Communications Director

- Hasan Doğan, Presidential Chief of Staff

- Akif Çağatay Kılıç, Presidential Foreign Policy and Security Advisor

- Haluk Görgün, President of Defense Industries

- Ali Erbaş, Head of Religious Affairs

- Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education

- Haluk Bayraktar, General Manager of BAYKAR

- Talip Küçükcan, Turkey's Ambassador to Indonesia

The visit underscores the strengthening of bilateral ties between Turkey and Indonesia, with a focus on strategic cooperation and economic partnerships.

   

İbrahim Melih Gökçek Poses Tough Question to Mahmut Tanal: 'Are You the 'O' Shape?'

İbrahim Melih Gökçek Poses Tough Question to Mahmut Tanal: 'Are You the 'O' Shape?'

Former Ankara Mayor İbrahim Melih Gökçek has directed a pointed question to Republican People’s Party (CHP) Deputy Mahmut Tanal, referencing Tanal’s participation in the 11th LGBT Pride March. Gökçek called attention to a banner Tanal was photographed holding during the event, which read *“The ‘O’ Shape of Resistance”* in Turkish.  

In a social media post, Gökçek asked Tanal, *“During the 11th LGBT Pride March, you carried a banner saying ‘The ‘O’ Shape of Resistance.’ Are you the ‘O’ shape? Can you explain this?”* The phrase “O shape” (*“O biçimi”*) has sparked debate, with critics interpreting it as a coded reference to LGBT symbolism, while others argue it may allude to broader themes of resistance.  

The question has drawn attention to Tanal’s stance on LGBT rights and his political messaging. Tanal, known for his progressive views, has yet to publicly respond to Gökçek’s inquiry. The incident has reignited discussions on freedom of expression, political rhetoric, and the polarization surrounding LGBT issues in Turkey.  

Political analysts suggest Gökçek’s challenge reflects ongoing tensions between conservative and liberal factions in Turkish politics, particularly ahead of critical electoral cycles. The public awaits Tanal’s clarification on the controversial banner and its intended meaning.

AK Parti İlçe Kadın Kolları Olağan Haftalık Toplantısı Gerçekleştirildi

AK Parti İlçe Kadın Kolları Olağan Haftalık Toplantısı Gerçekleştirildi

AK Parti İl Kadın Kolları Başkanı Sn. Aysel Kocakakgul ve İlçe Kadın Kolları Başkanı Sn. Merve Biberoğlu Erdoğan’ın katılımlarıyla, partinin ilçe kadın kolları yönetiminin haftalık olağan toplantısı düzenlendi. Toplantıya Güçlükaya Mahalle Başkanı ve mahalle koordinatörü olarak temsilciler de iştirak etti.  

Toplantıda, kadınların siyasi ve sosyal hayattaki rolünü güçlendirmeye yönelik projeler, yerel ihtiyaçlar ve önümüzdeki dönemdeki organizasyon çalışmaları ele alındı. İl Kadın Kolları Başkanı Sn. Kocakakgul, kadınların toplumsal kalkınmadaki önemine vurgu yaparak, yerel ve ulusal düzeyde sürdürülen çalışmalar hakkında bilgilendirmelerde bulundu.  

Sn. Merve Biberoğlu Erdoğan ise ilçe bazında yürütülen faaliyetlerin değerlendirmesini yaparak, mahalle ve köy düzeyindeki koordinasyonun artırılması hedefini paylaştı. Toplantıya katılan Güçlükaya Mahalle Koordinatörü, "Kadınlarımızın gücünü birleştirerek topluma hizmet etmekten gurur duyuyoruz. Bu tür istişareler, projelerimizin daha etkin ilerlemesini sağlıyor" ifadelerini kullandı.  

Parti içi dayanışma ve kadınların aktif katılımını önceleyen toplantıların düzenli olarak sürdürüleceği bildirildi.

Syrian Ministry of Defense did not allow the Russian convoy to enter the Tartus base

 The Syrian Ministry of Defense did not allow the Russian convoy, which departed from Hmeymim Air Base in Jabla district of Latakia province, to enter the base in Tartus province.

The Russian convoy, consisting of 30 vehicles containing rockets, departed from Hmeymim Air Base in the morning and headed towards Tartus. The Russian convoy was kept waiting at the road checkpoint in Tartus by military forces affiliated with the new government's Ministry of Defense for about 8 hours.

After waiting for hours, the convoy returned to the Hmeymim base in Ceble district around 17:00 local time, without being able to enter the base. After the operation launched by the opposition on December 27, 2024, Russia withdrew its military presence in Syrian provinces to Hmeymim Air Base in Latakia. The Russian army started to use the base in accordance with the agreement reached with the deposed Assad regime in August 2015, and started to expand the base a year later.

Colombian President Petro demanded the resignation of all ministers

 Petro Demands Resignations of Ministers and Senior Bureaucrats

In a statement made on the social media platform X, President Petro demanded the resignations of not only cabinet ministers but also a senator.

President Petro stated: "I have requested the official resignations of the ministers and directors of administrative departments. There will be some changes in the cabinet to better align with the program mandated by the people. I will be fully focused on ensuring the implementation of the program."

Before Petro's call, Culture Minister Juan David Correa and Environment Minister Susana Muhamad had already announced their resignations.

Heated Exchange

During a live televised cabinet meeting on February 5, a heated argument broke out between newly appointed Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia, Vice President Francia Márquez, former ambassador Armando Benedetti, and Environment Minister Susana Muhamad.

Vice President Márquez criticized Sarabia, saying: "I don't like Laura Sarabia's attitude toward this government, toward us, and toward me. I had to tell her, 'Respect me, I am the vice president.' (Referring to Petro) Even if I don't support the decision you made, I respect your position as president."

Sarabia, in a statement on her social media account, said: "Every minister has a responsibility, and the cabinet is the body that determines how the needs of the Colombian people will be met. Today, we failed to achieve this and caused confusion. Tonight is a night for reflection."

President Erdoğan is in Malaysia President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan went to Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, to hold official contacts

 President Erdoğan's intense diplomacy traffic continues. Erdoğan is in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, which is his first stop within the scope of his Asia-Pacific visits.

Erdogan was met at Kuala Lumpur International Airport by Malaysian Prime Minister Enver Ibrahim and his wife Dr. Wan Azizah İsmail, Turkey's Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur Emir Salim Yüksel, Malaysian Minister of Defense Mohamed Khaled Nordin, embassy staff and other officials were welcomed. President Erdoğan and his wife Emine Erdoğan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar, Minister of National Defense Yaşar Güler, Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı, Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat, President of the Organization of Turkish States (TDT) Aksakals Council Binali Yıldırım and Chief Foreign Policy and Security Advisor to the President Akif Çağatay Kılıç also went to Malaysia. Erdoğan was presented with an honorary doctorate certificate by the Sultan of Perak, Nazrin Shah, at the Putrajaya International Congress Centre. President Erdoğan will address public employees and university students within the scope of the Türkiye-Malaysia Strategic Cooperation meeting in the New Century. 

An official welcome ceremony will be held for the President tomorrow at the Malaysian Prime Ministry office. Erdoğan will receive Malaysian Prime Minister Enver İbrahim here. A joint press conference will be held after the meetings between the delegations. Erdoğan will also attend the Türkiye-Malaysia Business Forum later.