President Erdogan is in Pakistan, which is the last stop of his Asian tour

 

President Erdogan is in Pakistan, which is the last stop of his Asian tour, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan passed to Pakistan, which is the last stop of his Asian tour. Erdogan, after Indonesia, went to Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, by private plane "TC-TRK" to hold official contacts. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is paying an official visit to Pakistan after a 5-year Dec. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Pakistani President Zardari's daughter Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Turkey's Islamabad Irfan Neziroglu and his wife Emine Neziroglu, along with others, at the Nur Khan Air Base in Islamabad. During the visit of President Erdoğan and his wife Emine Erdoğan to Pakistan, 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 Ibrahim Yumaklı, Trade Minister Ömer Bolat, Presidential Defense Industry President Haluk Görgün, Chairman of the Aksakallar Council of the Turkish pictures Organization Binali Yıldırım, Presidential Communications Head Fahrettin Altun, Hasan Doğan, Director of the Presidential Special Staff, and Akif Çağatay Kılıç, Chief Adviser to the President on Foreign Policy and Security, are also becoming members. A large number of bilateral agreements will be signed at the Prime Minister's office. President Erdogan, who is expected to have a bilateral meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif, is expected to attend the Seventh Meeting of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council. President Erdogan is scheduled to attend the signing ceremony and joint press conference for the agreements with Sharif. It is expected that President Erdogan, who will participate in the Turkey-Pakistan Business Forum, will hold a bilateral meeting with Pakistani President Zardari at the Presidential building.

HIZIR INTERNATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT ALİ GÜRGEN'S MESSAGE ON HIZIR FAST AND BERAT NIGHT FAST

 HIZIR INTERNATIONAL SEARCH AND RESCUE ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT ALİ GÜRGEN'S MESSAGE ON HIZIR FAST AND BERAT NIGHT FAST

Solidarity and mutual aid are among the fundamental values of serving humanity. The Hızır Fast symbolizes assistance to those in need and abundance, strengthening unity and sharing. The Berat Night Fast, on the other hand, heralds purification, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal.

As the Hızır International Search and Rescue Association, we pray that the fasts and prayers observed during these blessed days are accepted, and we wish for peace and tranquility to spread across all humanity.

AK Party Güçlükaya Neighborhood Organization Successfully Holds Weekly Meeting

 The Güçlükaya Neighborhood Organization of Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party) successfully conducted its weekly meeting this week, emphasizing grassroots mobilization and organizational unity. The gathering, led by local branch president Nuran Şeyhan, underscored the party’s focus on maintaining robust local engagement even as President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan prioritizes high-stakes diplomacy in the Far East.

KEY QUOTES:
Nuran Şeyhan, addressing members, stated: “As the AK Party Güçlükaya Neighborhood Organization, we held our routine weekly meeting, which proved highly productive thanks to the active participation of our members. We extend our gratitude to all our colleagues for their dedication.”

CONTEXT & ANALYSIS:

1. Local Meets Global: While President Erdoğan’s recent visits to Japan, South Korea, and China dominate national headlines—focusing on trade deals, technology partnerships, and geopolitical alliances—the AK Party continues to reinforce its domestic foundations. The Güçlükaya meeting reflects the party’s dual strategy: advancing Turkey’s global stature while ensuring grassroots loyalty through hyper-local engagement.

2. Grassroots Machinery: The AK Party’s neighborhood teşkilat (organizations) are critical to its political dominance, acting as hubs for voter outreach, issue advocacy, and community solidarity. These units often address localized concerns, from infrastructure projects to social aid, aligning with Erdogan’s narrative of “serving the nation” at all levels.

3. Timing & Symbolism: The meeting’s emphasis on “productivity” and “unity” comes as Erdogan’s Far East tour aims to bolster Turkey’s economic resilience amid inflation challenges. Local activists, like those in Güçlükaya, are tasked with amplifying the government’s messaging on national stability and international prestige.

POLITICAL IMPLICATIONS:

• Domestic Cohesion: The AK Party’s ability to synchronize local activism with Erdogan’s global agenda highlights its organizational discipline, a key factor ahead of critical 2024 local elections.

• Opposition Critique: Opposition parties argue that the government’s international ventures distract from domestic crises, but AK Party loyalists counter that Erdogan’s diplomacy strengthens Turkey’s position to address local needs.

CLOSING NOTE:

As Erdogan navigates complex alliances in Asia, the AK Party’s local units like Güçlükaya’s serve as reminders of its enduring domestic strategy: blending community-level presence with a grand vision of Turkey as a rising global power. This dual focus remains central to the party’s 20-year political hegemony.

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.