The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out.&nbsp;Finland can now formally join NATO in a couple of days.

“All 30 NATO members have now ratified Finland’s membership,” Finnish President Sauli Niinistö&nbsp;tweeted. “I want to thank every one of them for their trust and support. Finland will be a strong and capable Ally, committed to the security of the Alliance,” he said.

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The role of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is prominent as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues. Experts have claimed that Ukraine's persistence on wanting to join the military alliance was the cause of the war&nbsp;that Vladimir Putin started in February 2022.

We explain the basic&nbsp;tenets of NATO, as well as how the inclusion of Finland can&nbsp;reshape the group.

<h2>Firstly, Why Finland and Sweden want to join the alliance?</h2>

The two nations have a long history of maintaining their neutrality and avoiding military alliances. However, when the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February 2022, this stance changed.&nbsp;

Experts claim that Vladimir Putin's activities have undermined a long-standing sense of stability in northern Europe, making countries like Sweden and Finland feel vulnerable, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;

As soon as Russian forces invaded Ukraine on February 24, former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb declared that his country's membership in the alliance was a "done deal."&nbsp;

Finland had been invaded by the Soviets in late 1939. Although being vastly outnumbered, the Finnish army put up a valiant fight for more than three months. They managed to evade occupation but ultimately lost 10 per cent&nbsp;of their area.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-buying-weapons-from-north-korea-in-exchange-for-food-claims-us-577670">Russia buying weapons from North Korea in exchange for food, claims US</a>

As there have been numerous reports of Russian military aircraft violating Swedish airspace, Sweden has likewise felt at danger.

Only 28 per cent&nbsp;of Sweden's population indicated in April 2014 that they would be willing to join the alliance, according to <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/660842/survey-on-perception-of-nato-membership-in-sweden/">data compiled by Statista</a>. When the question was reposed in February 2022, the percentage increased to 41 per cent&nbsp;in favour of Sweden joining NATO. This percentage rose to 64 per cent&nbsp;in July 2022.&nbsp;

Similar to Finland, there was a shift in opinion about joining NATO. Only 24 per cent&nbsp;of the populace wants the nation to join the alliance in October 2021. Nevertheless, this increased to 76 per cent&nbsp;in May 2022.

Sweden and Finland were invited by all NATO partners in June of last year, and the ratification process has been proceeding ever since. While Sweden's bid to join the alliance is still encountering difficulties, Finland has received approval from all 30 countries, with Turkey being the latest to do so.

<h2>What would Finland's and Sweden's&nbsp;inclusion mean for NATO?</h2>

With Finland's inclusion, NATO's border with Russia will grow from its current 6 per cent&nbsp;land perimeter to its entire length. That would provide the alliance access to Finland's well-trained military, which currently employs weaponry that are compatible with the alliance, allowing it to increase its surveillance of Russia's western flank.

Although,&nbsp;Russia is now mired in its conflict in Ukraine, it still poses a small threat, and allies shouldn't underestimate Moscow's capacity to rebuild its military after the conflict, reported The Japan Times.&nbsp;

Additionally, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three of the EU's Baltic countries who are frequently considered prospective targets of Russian attack, will be protected by the bloc's increased security of the region surrounding the Baltic Sea as a result of Finland's entry.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey formally approves Finland’s NATO membership

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It adds a second Arctic nation to the alliance, one whose military has been trained for cold weather, which is a valuable asset at a time when the High North is becoming more strategically significant due to China's and Russia's increased presence there.&nbsp;

Since the two Nordic countries submitted their applications in May of last year, Finland's ratification represents one of the fastest memberships in NATO history. It took two years for North Macedonia to become the last member of the alliance.

<h2>What does NATO signify and who are part of it?</h2>

The United States,&nbsp;United Kingdom, Canada, and France were among the 12 nations that established NATO in 1949. The goal of this bloc was to protect one another from the former Soviet Union. It was the first military alliance between the United States and a non-Western country.&nbsp;

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The core idea of collective defence as outlined in Article 5 binds group members, who have increased from 12 at the start to 30 at the most recent count. It still serves as a distinctive and enduring tenet that unites its members, committing them to defend one another and fostering a feeling of unity within the Alliance.

At present,&nbsp;NATO has 30 members. They are made up of 12 founding members: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as Greece, Türkiye, Germany, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out.

The NATO membership of Finland was unanimously approved by the Turkish parliament on Thursday (March 30), effectively allowing Helsinki to join the military alliance while keeping Sweden out. Finland can now formally join NATO in a couple of days. “All 30 NATO members have now ratified Finland’s membership,” Finnish President Sauli Niinistö tweeted. “I want to thank every one of them for their trust and support. Finland will be a strong and capable Ally, committed to the security of the Alliance,” he said. pic.twitter.com/bK15QpZKGX — Sauli Niinistö (@niinisto) March 30, 2023 × The role of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) is prominent as the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues. Experts have claimed that Ukraine's persistence on wanting to join the military alliance was the cause of the war that Vladimir Putin started in February 2022. We explain the basic tenets of NATO, as well as how the inclusion of Finland can reshape the group. Firstly, Why Finland and Sweden want to join the alliance? The two nations have a long history of maintaining their neutrality and avoiding military alliances. However, when the Russia-Ukraine war broke out in February 2022, this stance changed. Experts claim that Vladimir Putin's activities have undermined a long-standing sense of stability in northern Europe, making countries like Sweden and Finland feel vulnerable, as reported by AFP. As soon as Russian forces invaded Ukraine on February 24, former Finnish prime minister Alexander Stubb declared that his country's membership in the alliance was a "done deal." Finland had been invaded by the Soviets in late 1939. Although being vastly outnumbered, the Finnish army put up a valiant fight for more than three months. They managed to evade occupation but ultimately lost 10 per cent of their area. ALSO READ | Russia buying weapons from North Korea in exchange for food, claims US As there have been numerous reports of Russian military aircraft violating Swedish airspace, Sweden has likewise felt at danger. Only 28 per cent of Sweden's population indicated in April 2014 that they would be willing to join the alliance, according to data compiled by Statista. When the question was reposed in February 2022, the percentage increased to 41 per cent in favour of Sweden joining NATO. This percentage rose to 64 per cent in July 2022. Similar to Finland, there was a shift in opinion about joining NATO. Only 24 per cent of the populace wants the nation to join the alliance in October 2021. Nevertheless, this increased to 76 per cent in May 2022. Sweden and Finland were invited by all NATO partners in June of last year, and the ratification process has been proceeding ever since. While Sweden's bid to join the alliance is still encountering difficulties, Finland has received approval from all 30 countries, with Turkey being the latest to do so. What would Finland's and Sweden's inclusion mean for NATO? With Finland's inclusion, NATO's border with Russia will grow from its current 6 per cent land perimeter to its entire length. That would provide the alliance access to Finland's well-trained military, which currently employs weaponry that are compatible with the alliance, allowing it to increase its surveillance of Russia's western flank. Although, Russia is now mired in its conflict in Ukraine, it still poses a small threat, and allies shouldn't underestimate Moscow's capacity to rebuild its military after the conflict, reported The Japan Times. Additionally, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, three of the EU's Baltic countries who are frequently considered prospective targets of Russian attack, will be protected by the bloc's increased security of the region surrounding the Baltic Sea as a result of Finland's entry. ALSO WATCH | Turkey formally approves Finland’s NATO membership It adds a second Arctic nation to the alliance, one whose military has been trained for cold weather, which is a valuable asset at a time when the High North is becoming more strategically significant due to China's and Russia's increased presence there. Since the two Nordic countries submitted their applications in May of last year, Finland's ratification represents one of the fastest memberships in NATO history. It took two years for North Macedonia to become the last member of the alliance. What does NATO signify and who are part of it? The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and France were among the 12 nations that established NATO in 1949. The goal of this bloc was to protect one another from the former Soviet Union. It was the first military alliance between the United States and a non-Western country. Map showing the member states of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) pic.twitter.com/tU2T6klTe4 — AFP News Agency (@AFP) January 10, 2022 × The core idea of collective defence as outlined in Article 5 binds group members, who have increased from 12 at the start to 30 at the most recent count. It still serves as a distinctive and enduring tenet that unites its members, committing them to defend one another and fostering a feeling of unity within the Alliance. At present, NATO has 30 members. They are made up of 12 founding members: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as Greece, Türkiye, Germany, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, Montenegro and North Macedonia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: From neutral to NATO, what does Finland's entry mean for the military alliance?

Frank Hoogerbeat is a Dutch researcher at Solar System Geometry Survey. In the past, he predicted the deadly earthquakes in Turkey and Syria based on planetary positions.

Frank Hoogerbeat is a Dutch researcher at Solar System Geometry Survey. In the past, he predicted the deadly earthquakes in Turkey and Syria based on planetary positions. Recently, he predicted the earthquake in Delhi-NCR on March 21 in the latest prediction video on SSGEOS's YouTube channel posted on March 20. In the video 'Planetary & Seismic Update March 20 2023,' Frank Hoogerbeets suggested "some seismic increase, more likely around March 22" as he observed a primary lunar peak followed by planetary conjunction after the New Moon on March 21. His forecast of earthquakes in India was correct. People around the globe are surprised to know the accuracy of Hoogerbeets' earthquake predictions. Here's everything you need to know about Geologist Frank Hoogerbeets and his predictions. Frank Hoogerbeets Predictions Frank Hoogerbeets predicted the upcoming earthquakes in the recent videos on SSGEOS's YouTube channel. He estimated 'strong to major' seismic activity of 7.1 magnitude on March 16 in the Kermadec Islands and a 6.8 magnitude earthquake near the coast of Ecuador on March 18. Both his predictions were accurate. Furthermore, he explained he based his predictions on the analysis of the planetary geometry and pointing to lunar (red) heights in the SSGI graph. According to him, the planetary conjunction of Sun-Mercury-Jupiter converged with New Moon on March 21. Thus, he anticipated a 'mid-6 magnitude range' earthquake on March 22. Frank Hoogerbeets consistently uploads YouTube videos and Twitter posts with seismic updates on SSGEOS's social media handles. In the recent video titled 'NOT EVERY FULL MOON IS THE SAME,' he briefs the viewers about the correlation between the full moon and planetary positions with earthquakes. SSGEOS' Solar System Geometry Index Frank Hoogerbeets works for SSGEOS, the Netherlands-based research institute. It has crucially contributed to 'seismic activity predictions' by launching pivotal software Solpage and SSGI. Frank Hoogerbeets contends that planetary alignment can foretell earthquakes. The Solar System Geometry Index (SSGI) is a dataset computation based on values provided by particular geometric planetary positions, the Moon and the Sun. ALSO READ | Here are some safety measures you should take when earthquake strikes WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Frank Hoogerbeets, the researcher behind predictions of quakes in Delhi-NCR, Turkey & Syria?

For some, the world appeared to be falling apart Tuesday night when a jolty earthquake of magnitude 6.6 struck parts of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia. People in India were seen rushing to the streets with netizens inundating social media with their personal experiences. Hindu Kush in Afghanistan was the epicentre. Let's look at the reasons that sporadically scare the living daylights out of people in the Indian subcontinent by literally shaking the ground beneath their feet.&nbsp;

<h2>What are tectonic plates? Which tectonic plate caused the Indian earthquake?</h2>

Tectonic plates are gigantic pieces of the Earth's crust and uppermost mantle. &nbsp;Large rock slabs called tectonic plates, which separate the Earth's crust, are continuously moving and changing the planet's topography. The theory of plate tectonics implies that the lithosphere, the planet's outer shell, is divided into a number of plates that move across the rocky interior of the planet and on top of its softcore (mantle). The movement and friction between different tectonic plates cause massive earthquakes.

<h2>What is a fault line?</h2>

A fault line is a substantial break in the earth's surface. Along fault lines, earthquakes frequently happen.&nbsp;The Hindu Kush region is highly active tectonically with deep (between 70 and 300 km) and strong seismicity. The largest slip rate, 26 mm/y, is inferred along the sinistral Chaman transform fault south of the Hindu Kush.

Due to the fact that the Chaman transform fault's slip is dispersed across multiple fault systems in the north, it looks to be influencing continental deep-subduction in the Pamir region. In simple words, the tremors in the Indian subcontinent occur when the Indian plate collides with the Eurasian plate along the faultlines present near the Hindu Kush region.

<h2>What are aftershocks?</h2>

As the crust readjusts to the changes in tension, there will be numerous aftershocks following big earthquakes. After the first incident, they can go on for days or even years. For example,&nbsp;during Turkey's earthquakes, three more earthquakes of greater than magnitude 6.0 were registered in the first twelve hours following the initial tremor. There have been hundreds of aftershocks with lesser magnitudes, the first of which was a 6.7 that occurred barely 11 minutes after the first earthquake.

For some, the world appeared to be falling apart Tuesday night when a jolty earthquake of magnitude 6.6 struck parts of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia.

For some, the world appeared to be falling apart Tuesday night when a jolty earthquake of magnitude 6.6 struck parts of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia. People in India were seen rushing to the streets with netizens inundating social media with their personal experiences. Hindu Kush in Afghanistan was the epicentre. Let's look at the reasons that sporadically scare the living daylights out of people in the Indian subcontinent by literally shaking the ground beneath their feet. What are tectonic plates? Which tectonic plate caused the Indian earthquake? Tectonic plates are gigantic pieces of the Earth's crust and uppermost mantle. Large rock slabs called tectonic plates, which separate the Earth's crust, are continuously moving and changing the planet's topography. The theory of plate tectonics implies that the lithosphere, the planet's outer shell, is divided into a number of plates that move across the rocky interior of the planet and on top of its softcore (mantle). The movement and friction between different tectonic plates cause massive earthquakes. What is a fault line? A fault line is a substantial break in the earth's surface. Along fault lines, earthquakes frequently happen. The Hindu Kush region is highly active tectonically with deep (between 70 and 300 km) and strong seismicity. The largest slip rate, 26 mm/y, is inferred along the sinistral Chaman transform fault south of the Hindu Kush. Due to the fact that the Chaman transform fault's slip is dispersed across multiple fault systems in the north, it looks to be influencing continental deep-subduction in the Pamir region. In simple words, the tremors in the Indian subcontinent occur when the Indian plate collides with the Eurasian plate along the faultlines present near the Hindu Kush region. What are aftershocks? As the crust readjusts to the changes in tension, there will be numerous aftershocks following big earthquakes. After the first incident, they can go on for days or even years. For example, during Turkey's earthquakes, three more earthquakes of greater than magnitude 6.0 were registered in the first twelve hours following the initial tremor. There have been hundreds of aftershocks with lesser magnitudes, the first of which was a 6.7 that occurred barely 11 minutes after the first earthquake.

India earthquake: What are tectonic plates and fault lines? Everything you need to know

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 18) announced extension of a deal that allowed exports of Ukrainian grains following Russia's invasion of the country.e grain producers in the world. Russian invasion of Ukraine had impeded passage of grain ships. This had in turn raised the spectre of a global food crisis before Turkey and the United Nations brokered a deal between Russia and Ukraine&nbsp;for passage of grain shipments.

The grain deal had earlier got an extension till March 19.

"Following talks with the two parties, we have assured the extension of the deal that was due to expire on March 19," Erdogan said in comments broadcast on Turkish television, just hours before the agreement was due to expire at midnight.

The Turkish president did not specify for how long the deal was extended. Turkey had earlier said that it was in favour of 120-day extension while Russia wanted a 60-day extension.

"This deal is of vital importance for the global food supply. I thank Russia and Ukraine, who didn't spare their efforts for a new extension, as well as the United Nations secretary general."

Ukraine is one of the world's top producers, and the so-called Black Sea Grain Initiative has helped soothe the global food crunch triggered by the conflict.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 18) announced extension of a deal that allowed exports of Ukrainian grains following Russia's invasion of the country.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 18) announced extension of a deal that allowed exports of Ukrainian grains following Russia's invasion of the country.e grain producers in the world. Russian invasion of Ukraine had impeded passage of grain ships. This had in turn raised the spectre of a global food crisis before Turkey and the United Nations brokered a deal between Russia and Ukraine for passage of grain shipments. The grain deal had earlier got an extension till March 19. "Following talks with the two parties, we have assured the extension of the deal that was due to expire on March 19," Erdogan said in comments broadcast on Turkish television, just hours before the agreement was due to expire at midnight. The Turkish president did not specify for how long the deal was extended. Turkey had earlier said that it was in favour of 120-day extension while Russia wanted a 60-day extension. "This deal is of vital importance for the global food supply. I thank Russia and Ukraine, who didn't spare their efforts for a new extension, as well as the United Nations secretary general." Ukraine is one of the world's top producers, and the so-called Black Sea Grain Initiative has helped soothe the global food crunch triggered by the conflict. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Ukraine grain deal has been extended, says Turkey’s President Erdogan hours before deadline

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that cost of the damage caused by last month's devastating earthquake has hit USD 104 billion. He spoke via a video link as donors at a conference in Brussels vowed funds to help Turkey and Syria.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen kicked off a EU-hosted fund-raising event by promising one billion euros ($1.1 billion) for reconstruction in Turkey and 108 million for humanitarian aid in Syria.

"The needs of the survivors are still massive and must be tackled with urgency," von der Leyen said.&nbsp;

During his address, Erdogan said that "regardless of its economic standing, it is impossible for any country to fight a disaster of this scale on its own."

Watch | The West Asia Post: Turkey to hold elections on May 14

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Turkey was hit last month by a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake that flattened entire cities. More than 50,000 people across southeastern Turkey and parts of war-torn Syria were killed, millions were displaced. And to add to the woes of the common people, flash floods occurred in the region.

The United Nations has set the "recovery costs" for Syria at $14.8 billion.&nbsp;

After the UN complained of poor level of response to a call to come to Turkey help, aid groups urged donors to step up their commitments.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC), said they should at least ensure that the UN's emergency appeal for $1 billion for Turkey and $397 million for Syria are fully funded.&nbsp;

"Over a month since the earthquake, the situation in affected regions remains desperate," said Tanya Evans, IRC country director for Syria.

"With many homes damaged or destroyed, many people are left with no choice but to sleep in overcrowded and under-resourced collective shelters," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that cost of the damage caused by last month's devastating earthquake has hit USD 104 billion. He spoke via a video link as donors at a conference in Brussels vowed funds to help Turkey and Syria.

Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that cost of the damage caused by last month's devastating earthquake has hit USD 104 billion. He spoke via a video link as donors at a conference in Brussels vowed funds to help Turkey and Syria. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen kicked off a EU-hosted fund-raising event by promising one billion euros ($1.1 billion) for reconstruction in Turkey and 108 million for humanitarian aid in Syria. "The needs of the survivors are still massive and must be tackled with urgency," von der Leyen said. During his address, Erdogan said that "regardless of its economic standing, it is impossible for any country to fight a disaster of this scale on its own." Watch | The West Asia Post: Turkey to hold elections on May 14 × Turkey was hit last month by a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake that flattened entire cities. More than 50,000 people across southeastern Turkey and parts of war-torn Syria were killed, millions were displaced. And to add to the woes of the common people, flash floods occurred in the region. The United Nations has set the "recovery costs" for Syria at $14.8 billion. After the UN complained of poor level of response to a call to come to Turkey help, aid groups urged donors to step up their commitments. The International Rescue Committee (IRC), said they should at least ensure that the UN's emergency appeal for $1 billion for Turkey and $397 million for Syria are fully funded. "Over a month since the earthquake, the situation in affected regions remains desperate," said Tanya Evans, IRC country director for Syria. "With many homes damaged or destroyed, many people are left with no choice but to sleep in overcrowded and under-resourced collective shelters," she said. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey reconstruction would need more than USD 100 billion: Erdogan

In a diplomatic turn of events, Egypt and Turkiye have taken another step towards mending their estranged relations. Ankara's top diplomat is visiting Cairo for the first time in ten years. In 2013, the relations between the two neighbouring nations were severely strained after Egypt's then-army chief Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, led the ouster of Ankara's ally, the muslim brotherhood's Mohamed Mursi. Egyptian foreign minister Sameh Shoukry confirmed that talks to restore ties to the ambassadorial level would happen at an appropriate time. Calling the talks honest, deep and transparent, Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Turkiye would upgrade its diplomatic relations with Egypt as soon as possible.

Ankara's top diplomat visits Cairo after 10 years

Turkey and Hungary both signaled they plan to ratify Finland’s entry into NATO, bringing the military alliance a step closer to welcoming its 31st member as the ripples from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine spread across the European security landscape.

NATO edges closer to expansion as Finland wins over holdouts

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Friday that he would support Finland’s NATO application, paving the way for the country to join the military bloc ahead of Sweden.

Finland's president in Turkey for talks on NATO bid

A month after a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Turkey, torrential rain has killed at least 14, submerging two provinces in the process. Five people are missing while countless have been rendered homeless, yet again.&nbsp;

According to local media reports, 11 were killed in Sanliurfa, a town 50 km north of the Syrian border while two died in Adiyaman, including a one-year-old toddler.&nbsp;

Shocking video clips that have since gone viral on social media platforms show the helpless victims being dragged away by the current of the water. Cars and other vehicles could be seen floating as the streets turned to streams.&nbsp;

With hundreds of thousands of earthquake survivors living in tents and other temporary accommodations, the rain has come as a double whammy.

Turkish soldiers and rescue teams have been deployed to carry out evacuation operations. Using heavy-duty machines and boats, the teams are attempting to save people stuck in the cascading water.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-husky-dog-rescued-after-spending-23-days-under-turkey-earthquake-rubble-567608" target="_blank">WATCH | Husky dog rescued after spending 23 days under Turkey earthquake rubble</a>

More than a dozen professional divers have also been pressed into the operation, according to the Turkish disaster management agency.&nbsp;

After the water subsides, the authorities are sweating over the prospect of a fresh bout of misery. Water-borne diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, malaria and dengue are some of the common diseases that occur post-flood.&nbsp;

Turkey and Syria were rocked by a powerful earthquake on February 6 which has already killed more than 52,000.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-syria-earthquake-clampdown-on-building-contractors-in-turkey-561785">WATCH |&nbsp;Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Clampdown on building contractors in Turkey</a>

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Over 200,000 buildings were flattened across the landscape as thousands died in the dead of the night. The rescue and rehabilitation process has been going non-stop but given the scale of the destruction, it could take months before a clear picture of the final death toll emerges.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is facing an uphill battle ahead of a difficult re-election in May as public anger continues to simmer against him and his party. The general public is of the view that the government's response to the calamity has been slow and largely ineffective.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A month after a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Turkey, torrential rain has killed at least 14, submerging two provinces in the process. Five people are missing while countless have been rendered homeless, yet again.

A month after a catastrophic 7.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Turkey, torrential rain has killed at least 14, submerging two provinces in the process. Five people are missing while countless have been rendered homeless, yet again. According to local media reports, 11 were killed in Sanliurfa, a town 50 km north of the Syrian border while two died in Adiyaman, including a one-year-old toddler. Shocking video clips that have since gone viral on social media platforms show the helpless victims being dragged away by the current of the water. Cars and other vehicles could be seen floating as the streets turned to streams. With hundreds of thousands of earthquake survivors living in tents and other temporary accommodations, the rain has come as a double whammy. Turkish soldiers and rescue teams have been deployed to carry out evacuation operations. Using heavy-duty machines and boats, the teams are attempting to save people stuck in the cascading water. WATCH | Husky dog rescued after spending 23 days under Turkey earthquake rubble More than a dozen professional divers have also been pressed into the operation, according to the Turkish disaster management agency. After the water subsides, the authorities are sweating over the prospect of a fresh bout of misery. Water-borne diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, malaria and dengue are some of the common diseases that occur post-flood. Turkey and Syria were rocked by a powerful earthquake on February 6 which has already killed more than 52,000. WATCH | Turkey-Syria Earthquake: Clampdown on building contractors in Turkey × Over 200,000 buildings were flattened across the landscape as thousands died in the dead of the night. The rescue and rehabilitation process has been going non-stop but given the scale of the destruction, it could take months before a clear picture of the final death toll emerges. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is facing an uphill battle ahead of a difficult re-election in May as public anger continues to simmer against him and his party. The general public is of the view that the government's response to the calamity has been slow and largely ineffective. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Floods kill 14 in Turkey, render thousands homeless once again in quake-affected areas

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim&nbsp;came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.&nbsp;

Niinisto will visit Istanbul this week for the final decision taken by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Finnish President said, "The Turks have hoped that I will be there to receive the answer when they announce the decision. Of course, I accepted the invitation and will go to receive his expression of intent."&nbsp;

"We knew that when Turkish President Erdogan on his part has decided to ratify Finland's NATO membership, he wants to meet and fulfil his promise president to president," Niinisto said in an email to Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-aircraft-intercepted-by-british-raf-and-german-jets-near-estonian-airspace-572263">Russian aircraft intercepted by British RAF and German jets near Estonian airspace</a>&nbsp;

Two Turkish officials divulged further details in this matter to&nbsp;news agency Reuters on Wednesday. One senior Turkish official said that Finland's bid would be approved independently from that of Sweden.&nbsp;

The other official said that the way Finland&nbsp;tackles terrorist organisations, aligns with Turkey's sensitivities and that Helsinki had taken steps in that regard.&nbsp;

Erdogan has also hinted that Turkey could soon ratify Finland's NATO application, allowing the country to join the military alliance, but it will be separated from Sweden.&nbsp;

Erdogan said: "Whatever the process is, the process will function. We will do our part. We will keep our promise. We will meet with the president on Friday and fulfil the promise we made."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Former Australian PM slams Three-Nation Nuclear Submarine Deal&nbsp;

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After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles.&nbsp;

To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. Hungary and Turkey have not given the green light to Finland and Sweden. Ankara said that Stockholm harbours members of terrorist groups, which Sweden denies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April.

Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said on Wednesday (March 15) that Turkey had decided on ratifying Helsinki's NATO bid. The claim came after reports emerged that Ankara's parliament will "highly likely" ratify Finland's NATO accession bid before mid-April. Niinisto will visit Istanbul this week for the final decision taken by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Finnish President said, "The Turks have hoped that I will be there to receive the answer when they announce the decision. Of course, I accepted the invitation and will go to receive his expression of intent." "We knew that when Turkish President Erdogan on his part has decided to ratify Finland's NATO membership, he wants to meet and fulfil his promise president to president," Niinisto said in an email to Reuters. ALSO READ | Russian aircraft intercepted by British RAF and German jets near Estonian airspace Two Turkish officials divulged further details in this matter to news agency Reuters on Wednesday. One senior Turkish official said that Finland's bid would be approved independently from that of Sweden. The other official said that the way Finland tackles terrorist organisations, aligns with Turkey's sensitivities and that Helsinki had taken steps in that regard. Erdogan has also hinted that Turkey could soon ratify Finland's NATO application, allowing the country to join the military alliance, but it will be separated from Sweden. Erdogan said: "Whatever the process is, the process will function. We will do our part. We will keep our promise. We will meet with the president on Friday and fulfil the promise we made." WATCH | Former Australian PM slams Three-Nation Nuclear Submarine Deal × After Russia began the invasion of Ukraine last year in February, Sweden and Finland applied to join the trans-Atlantic defence pact. However, both nations faced unexpected hurdles. To join NATO, all 30 members have to ratify any membership bids. Hungary and Turkey have not given the green light to Finland and Sweden. Ankara said that Stockholm harbours members of terrorist groups, which Sweden denies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Finland claims Turkey has reached decision on its NATO membership bid

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office,&nbsp;officially set the country's parliamentary&nbsp;and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP.

The country could see the biggest vote in decades during the election. Whether the nation moves in the direction of more democracy or stays on the strongman politician's increasingly authoritarian road depends on this.

Erdogan has been in power in Turkey&nbsp;since 2003, first as prime minister and since 2014 as president, but this year's elections may present him with his greatest challenge.

The economy of the nation is in turmoil, inflation is out of control, and the country is still dealing with the effects of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 46,000 people and caused hundreds of thousands of people in 11 Turkish provinces to seek temporary refuge in tents.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion">Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion</a>

Several have criticised his government's reaction to the earthquake and charged that it did not adequately prepare the seismically active nation for an impending tragedy.

The failure to enforce construction rules, according to experts, was a key factor in the earthquake's high death toll, as per an AFP report.&nbsp;

The fragmented opposition groups in Turkey, which include nationalists, Islamists, and conservatives, put an end to a month of uncertainty earlier this week by endorsing a unified candidate to challenge Erdogan.

The 74-year-old head of the centrist, secular Republican People's Party, or CHP, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, has the support of the six opposition parties, who have vowed to stop the erosion of rights and freedoms.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office, officially set the country's parliamentary and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is seeking to continue his two decades in office, officially set the country's parliamentary and presidential elections on May 14, in spite of last month's deadly earthquake, as reported by AFP. The country could see the biggest vote in decades during the election. Whether the nation moves in the direction of more democracy or stays on the strongman politician's increasingly authoritarian road depends on this. Erdogan has been in power in Turkey since 2003, first as prime minister and since 2014 as president, but this year's elections may present him with his greatest challenge. The economy of the nation is in turmoil, inflation is out of control, and the country is still dealing with the effects of a devastating earthquake that killed more than 46,000 people and caused hundreds of thousands of people in 11 Turkish provinces to seek temporary refuge in tents. ALSO READ | Turkey-Syria earthquake: UN estimates damages of over $100 billion Several have criticised his government's reaction to the earthquake and charged that it did not adequately prepare the seismically active nation for an impending tragedy. The failure to enforce construction rules, according to experts, was a key factor in the earthquake's high death toll, as per an AFP report. The fragmented opposition groups in Turkey, which include nationalists, Islamists, and conservatives, put an end to a month of uncertainty earlier this week by endorsing a unified candidate to challenge Erdogan. The 74-year-old head of the centrist, secular Republican People's Party, or CHP, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, has the support of the six opposition parties, who have vowed to stop the erosion of rights and freedoms. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Turkey: Erdogan schedules presidential, parliamentary elections for May 14

Former civil servant Kemal Kilicdaroglu has been picked as the Presidential candidate by Turkey's opposition parties. Kilicdaroglu, known as 'Gandhi Kemal' will be going up against Erdogan on May 14. Molly Gambhir has the details.

Gravitas | Turkey: Kemal Kilicdaroglu picked as the opposition's Presidential candidate

It has been a month since Turkey and its bordering Syria were hit with a series of earthquakes and a number of aftershocks which have killed at least 50,000 people while millions have lost their homes and over 214,000 buildings collapsed. The search and rescue continued for weeks as some people were found under the rubble over&nbsp;250&nbsp;hours later as the deaths and damage spanned across 11 provinces in Turkey alone. The death toll is expected to rise in the coming days as many victims are yet to be identified.&nbsp;

What is crush syndrome?

Crush syndrome or traumatic rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) is a localised crush injury which is defined as the compression of extremities (limbs) or other parts of the body which causes muscle swelling and/or neurological disturbances in the affected areas.&nbsp;

Additionally, external compression which reduces or cuts off the blood flow to the limbs causes the cells to die and once the pressure is removed can release toxins into the bloodstream. Crush syndrome is the systemic effect caused by traumatic rhabdomyolysis which can potentially release toxic muscle cell components.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-earthquake-death-toll-surpasses-50000-565713">Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll surpasses 50,000</a>

It is characterised by the significant shock which can result in an organ or multi-organ system failure or death. These toxins can injure kidneys which can lead to kidney failure and cause seemingly stable patients’ health to rapidly deteriorate. Some patients with crush injuries, which&nbsp;commonly occur in catastrophes such as earthquakes,&nbsp;also require an amputation.&nbsp;

The aftermath of the rescue

For those survivors pulled out of the rubble, rescue was just the first step. Over the weeks, after the devastating earthquakes, thousands of patients were&nbsp; treated at the Adana City Training and Research Hospital in Turkey which is one of the largest trauma hospitals in the region and a majority of cases included “limb loss, tissue crushes and brain trauma,” the chief of staff Dr Suleyman Cetinkunar said, according to a CNN report. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/miracle-man-pulled-out-of-rubble-278-hours-after-turkey-earthquake-563288">Miracle! Man pulled out of rubble 278 hours after Turkey earthquake</a>

In cases of crush syndrome, time is of the essence as some drastic injuries can also require field amputations. However, the situation of victims in Syria was not faring well either as the country did not have the infrastructure and many patients would have to be sent to Turkey for treatment, reported France24. &nbsp;

Speaking to Al Jazeera about the case of a two-year-old named Nour Abdelqader who was pulled out from the rubble, Abdelsalam al-Naasan, an orthopaedic surgeon at Akrabat Hospital said that both her legs were “severely damaged” and her right leg had to be amputated as the “crush injuries were too extensive” and the “limb was dead and infected”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-earthquake-mother-son-duo-two-others-among-miraculous-rescues-from-rubble-561990">Turkey-Syria earthquake: Mother-son duo, two others among miraculous rescues from rubble</a>

The doctor working at the hospital located near the Syria-Turkey border in the rebel-held town of Idlib also spoke about how Nour would require complex surgeries and treatment to make her left leg function. “What we can offer here (in Syria) might leave her with long-term disabilities or deformities”, said al-Naasan to Al Jazeera.

Notably, Syria’s rebel-held northwestern region was the hardest hit by the earthquakes last month where aid could not reach on time due to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-un-aid-trucks-enter-northwest-syria-from-newly-approved-border-crossings-by-assad-govt-562073">regional politics</a>. A report by Al Jazeera cited healthcare officials in northwest Syria also said that out of the 12,000 people injured during the earthquakes, hundreds have been diagnosed with crush syndrome out of which at least 100 survivors were diagnosed with kidney failure.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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It has been a month since Turkey and its bordering Syria were hit with a series of earthquakes and a number of aftershocks which have killed at least 50,000 people while millions have lost their homes and over 214,000 buildings collapsed.

It has been a month since Turkey and its bordering Syria were hit with a series of earthquakes and a number of aftershocks which have killed at least 50,000 people while millions have lost their homes and over 214,000 buildings collapsed. The search and rescue continued for weeks as some people were found under the rubble over 250 hours later as the deaths and damage spanned across 11 provinces in Turkey alone. The death toll is expected to rise in the coming days as many victims are yet to be identified. What is crush syndrome? Crush syndrome or traumatic rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown) is a localised crush injury which is defined as the compression of extremities (limbs) or other parts of the body which causes muscle swelling and/or neurological disturbances in the affected areas. Additionally, external compression which reduces or cuts off the blood flow to the limbs causes the cells to die and once the pressure is removed can release toxins into the bloodstream. Crush syndrome is the systemic effect caused by traumatic rhabdomyolysis which can potentially release toxic muscle cell components. ALSO READ | Turkey-Syria earthquake death toll surpasses 50,000 It is characterised by the significant shock which can result in an organ or multi-organ system failure or death. These toxins can injure kidneys which can lead to kidney failure and cause seemingly stable patients’ health to rapidly deteriorate. Some patients with crush injuries, which commonly occur in catastrophes such as earthquakes, also require an amputation. The aftermath of the rescue For those survivors pulled out of the rubble, rescue was just the first step. Over the weeks, after the devastating earthquakes, thousands of patients were treated at the Adana City Training and Research Hospital in Turkey which is one of the largest trauma hospitals in the region and a majority of cases included “limb loss, tissue crushes and brain trauma,” the chief of staff Dr Suleyman Cetinkunar said, according to a CNN report. ALSO READ | Miracle! Man pulled out of rubble 278 hours after Turkey earthquake In cases of crush syndrome, time is of the essence as some drastic injuries can also require field amputations. However, the situation of victims in Syria was not faring well either as the country did not have the infrastructure and many patients would have to be sent to Turkey for treatment, reported France24. Speaking to Al Jazeera about the case of a two-year-old named Nour Abdelqader who was pulled out from the rubble, Abdelsalam al-Naasan, an orthopaedic surgeon at Akrabat Hospital said that both her legs were “severely damaged” and her right leg had to be amputated as the “crush injuries were too extensive” and the “limb was dead and infected”. ALSO READ | Turkey-Syria earthquake: Mother-son duo, two others among miraculous rescues from rubble The doctor working at the hospital located near the Syria-Turkey border in the rebel-held town of Idlib also spoke about how Nour would require complex surgeries and treatment to make her left leg function. “What we can offer here (in Syria) might leave her with long-term disabilities or deformities”, said al-Naasan to Al Jazeera. Notably, Syria’s rebel-held northwestern region was the hardest hit by the earthquakes last month where aid could not reach on time due to regional politics. A report by Al Jazeera cited healthcare officials in northwest Syria also said that out of the 12,000 people injured during the earthquakes, hundreds have been diagnosed with crush syndrome out of which at least 100 survivors were diagnosed with kidney failure. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkey-Syria earthquake aftermath: Survivors experience ‘crush syndrome’. What is it?

An opposition alliance against Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan has reunited, just days after one of the six parties left due to a disagreement over the choice of their joint presidential candidate. Meral Aksener, leader of the nationalist İyi, or Good Party, the second-strongest force in the alliance, unexpectedly arrived at a meeting with the the five other parties in Ankara on Monday.

Turkish opposition reunites against Erdogan before elections

The fractious and divided opposition parties of Turkey finally came together on Monday and selected Kemal Kilicdaroglu as their candidate for fighting the upcoming presidential election in May against incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Kilicdaroglu is the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), the main secular opposition party. According to the polls, the country is set to witness a tight race amid polarisation after Erdogan's authoritarian rule of two decades.

The country's economic crisis and the errors of the government during the massive earthquakes in February, are likely to make Erdogan more vulnerable compared to the previous elections.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-erdogan-expresses-confidence-amid-opposition-split-568638">Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split</a>

Kilicdaroglu, a bookish former civil servant, was cheered on by a huge crowd of supporters after the six-party opposition alliance chose him as the presidential candidate.

Known as "Gandhi Kemal" or "Turkey's Gandhi" for his stark resemblance to Indian civil rights leader Mahatma Gandhi, Kilicdaroglu gives a different vision in both style and substance compared to that&nbsp;of fiery Erdogan.

However, some of the allies fear that the 74-year-old and soft-spoken Kilicdaroglu lacks crowd-pulling power. He assured his supporters that he would govern the country through consultation and consensus.

"Our table is the table of peace. Our only goal is to take the country to days of prosperity, peace and joy,” he said. He added that Turkey would again have a parliamentary system under his reign, which was changed by Erdogan to a presidential system in 2018.

Turkey's pro-Kurdish HDP co-leader Mithat Sancar said that the party would support Kilicdaroglu after "clear and open" talks.

WATCH | Gravitas | Turkey Earthquakes: 3,500 Buildings collapse, over 5000 dead. Is Erdogan blameless?

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"Our clear expectation is a transition for a strong democracy. If we can agree on fundamental principles, we may support him in presidential elections," Sancar said.

Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, created the CHP which is the oldest political party in the country. Kilicdaroglu, however, has broadened the party's appeal by accepting minority groups and has joined alliances with right-wing parties.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The fractious and divided opposition parties of Turkey finally came together on Monday and selected Kemal Kilicdaroglu as their candidate for fighting the upcoming presidential election in May against incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The fractious and divided opposition parties of Turkey finally came together on Monday and selected Kemal Kilicdaroglu as their candidate for fighting the upcoming presidential election in May against incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Kilicdaroglu is the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), the main secular opposition party. According to the polls, the country is set to witness a tight race amid polarisation after Erdogan's authoritarian rule of two decades. The country's economic crisis and the errors of the government during the massive earthquakes in February, are likely to make Erdogan more vulnerable compared to the previous elections. ALSO READ | Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split Kilicdaroglu, a bookish former civil servant, was cheered on by a huge crowd of supporters after the six-party opposition alliance chose him as the presidential candidate. Known as "Gandhi Kemal" or "Turkey's Gandhi" for his stark resemblance to Indian civil rights leader Mahatma Gandhi, Kilicdaroglu gives a different vision in both style and substance compared to that of fiery Erdogan. However, some of the allies fear that the 74-year-old and soft-spoken Kilicdaroglu lacks crowd-pulling power. He assured his supporters that he would govern the country through consultation and consensus. "Our table is the table of peace. Our only goal is to take the country to days of prosperity, peace and joy,” he said. He added that Turkey would again have a parliamentary system under his reign, which was changed by Erdogan to a presidential system in 2018. Turkey's pro-Kurdish HDP co-leader Mithat Sancar said that the party would support Kilicdaroglu after "clear and open" talks. WATCH | Gravitas | Turkey Earthquakes: 3,500 Buildings collapse, over 5000 dead. Is Erdogan blameless? "Our clear expectation is a transition for a strong democracy. If we can agree on fundamental principles, we may support him in presidential elections," Sancar said. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, created the CHP which is the oldest political party in the country. Kilicdaroglu, however, has broadened the party's appeal by accepting minority groups and has joined alliances with right-wing parties. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Opposition chooses 'Turkey's Gandhi' Kemal Kilicdaroglu to fight Erdogan in election

Turkey on Monday (March 6) summoned US Ambassador Jeff Flake to convey him of its discomfort over a top US general's visit to northeast Syria, said Reuters quoting a foreign ministry source.

On March 4, US Army General Mark Milley, chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff made an unannounced visit to Syria. He reviewed nearly eight-year-old US mission to an area controlled by Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).&nbsp;

Turkey sees the People's Protection Units (YPG), the spearhead of the SDF, as the Syrian wing of the outlawed separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and considers both as terrorist organisations.

The United States and the European Union have also designated the PKK as a terrorist group, but not the YPG.

The SDF has played a key role in defeating Islamic State across Syria. However, US support for SDF has been a source of tension with Turkey for years.

During his unannounced visit to Syria, General Milley had said that US mission in Syria was still worth the risk.

"I happen to think that's important," Milley said.

"So I think that an enduring defeat of ISIS and continuing to support our friends and allies in the region ... I think those are important tasks that can be done."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkey on Monday (March 6) summoned US Ambassador Jeff Flake to convey him of its discomfort over a top US general's visit to northeast Syria, said Reuters quoting a foreign ministry source.

Turkey on Monday (March 6) summoned US Ambassador Jeff Flake to convey him of its discomfort over a top US general's visit to northeast Syria, said Reuters quoting a foreign ministry source. On March 4, US Army General Mark Milley, chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff made an unannounced visit to Syria. He reviewed nearly eight-year-old US mission to an area controlled by Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkey sees the People's Protection Units (YPG), the spearhead of the SDF, as the Syrian wing of the outlawed separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and considers both as terrorist organisations. The United States and the European Union have also designated the PKK as a terrorist group, but not the YPG. The SDF has played a key role in defeating Islamic State across Syria. However, US support for SDF has been a source of tension with Turkey for years. During his unannounced visit to Syria, General Milley had said that US mission in Syria was still worth the risk. "I happen to think that's important," Milley said. "So I think that an enduring defeat of ISIS and continuing to support our friends and allies in the region ... I think those are important tasks that can be done." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey: US enovy summoned after top general's unannounced visit to Syria

Saudi Arabia said on Monday (March 6) that it was depositing USD 5 billion in Turkey's central bank. This could be a major boost to Turkey which is attempting to contain inflation and aftereffects of the devastating earthquake. Presidential elections are around the corner in Turkey.

Ahmed Al Khateeb, the Saudi tourism minister and board chairman of the Saudi Fund for Development, signed an agreement with&nbsp; 
Turkish central bank governor Sahap Kavcioglu "to make a significant $5 billion deposit", the Saudi government said in a statement.

"This deposit is a testament to the close cooperation and historical ties that exist between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Turkey and its brotherly people," the statement said.&nbsp;

The decision, which will shore up Turkey's foreign reserves and help it combat inflation, was made on the order of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, it said.&nbsp;

The move may signal warming of relation between the two countries post major strains in the aftermath of Jamal Khashoggi killing.

Khashoggi was a major critic of Saudi regime. Saudi agents killed and dismembered Khashoggi in Saudi consulate in Istanbul. His remains were never found. Turkey had angered Saufi Arabia by vigourously pursuing the case and providing lurid details to the world.&nbsp;

US intelligence officials believe the operation was "approved" by Prince Mohammed, though Saudi authorities deny this.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan previously said the "highest levels" of the Saudi government ordered the killing, although he has never blamed Prince Mohammed.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-competition-board-to-fine-elon-musk-01-of-twitters-gross-income-in-turkey-heres-why-569227">Turkish competition board to fine Elon Musk 0.1% of Twitter's gross income in Turkey, here's why</a>

Erdogan has pushed hard to revive bilateral ties, a move analysts describe as largely driven by economic considerations.&nbsp;

Last April, he paid his first visit to Saudi Arabia since the Khashoggi killing, where he met Prince Mohammed before travelling to Mecca.&nbsp;

Prince Mohammed followed with a visit to Ankara in June.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Saudi Arabia said on Monday (March 6) that it was depositing USD 5 billion in Turkey's central bank. This could be a major boost to Turkey which is attempting to contain inflation and aftereffects of the devastating earthquake.

Saudi Arabia said on Monday (March 6) that it was depositing USD 5 billion in Turkey's central bank. This could be a major boost to Turkey which is attempting to contain inflation and aftereffects of the devastating earthquake. Presidential elections are around the corner in Turkey. Ahmed Al Khateeb, the Saudi tourism minister and board chairman of the Saudi Fund for Development, signed an agreement with Turkish central bank governor Sahap Kavcioglu "to make a significant $5 billion deposit", the Saudi government said in a statement. "This deposit is a testament to the close cooperation and historical ties that exist between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Turkey and its brotherly people," the statement said. The decision, which will shore up Turkey's foreign reserves and help it combat inflation, was made on the order of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, it said. The move may signal warming of relation between the two countries post major strains in the aftermath of Jamal Khashoggi killing. Khashoggi was a major critic of Saudi regime. Saudi agents killed and dismembered Khashoggi in Saudi consulate in Istanbul. His remains were never found. Turkey had angered Saufi Arabia by vigourously pursuing the case and providing lurid details to the world. US intelligence officials believe the operation was "approved" by Prince Mohammed, though Saudi authorities deny this. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan previously said the "highest levels" of the Saudi government ordered the killing, although he has never blamed Prince Mohammed. Also Read | Turkish competition board to fine Elon Musk 0.1% of Twitter's gross income in Turkey, here's why Erdogan has pushed hard to revive bilateral ties, a move analysts describe as largely driven by economic considerations. Last April, he paid his first visit to Saudi Arabia since the Khashoggi killing, where he met Prince Mohammed before travelling to Mecca. Prince Mohammed followed with a visit to Ankara in June. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Saudi Arabia deposits $5 billion in Turkey's central bank

Billionaire Elon Musk and his microblogging digital platform Twitter are always trending online for some or other reasons. This time, Musk is facing scrutiny by the Turkish competition board over the process with which the Tesla CEO took over the social media platform, Twitter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement on Monday, the Turkish Competition Board said that it will impose a fine on Musk as the takeover of the company was made without the board's permission in Turkiye.&nbsp;

It added that the fine on billionaire Elon Musk will be 0.1 per cent of Twitter's gross income in Turkey in 2022.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indigo-in-talks-with-boeing-for-largest-jet-purchase-airbus-to-get-a-tough-fight-569124">Indian airline Indigo in talks with Boeing for largest-ever jet order, Airbus to get a tough fight</a>

Additionally, the board also clarified in the statement that the ruling would be open to a legal challenge.

The competition body ensures a competitive market structure that encourages firms to continually adapt their competitive strengths to market conditions, as per a description of the body on the official website.&nbsp;

Elon Musk acquired the social media company for $44 billion and became its CEO on 27 October last year.&nbsp;

Ever since Twitter's takeover took place, Musk has announced several changes on the platform. For instance, he launched Blue Verified subscription plans and started off view counts display for all Tweets among others.&nbsp;

The Tesla CEO is also adapting to cost-cutting measures such as layoffs and closing down few of its offices.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-first-openly-transgender-mp-georgina-beyer-dies-in-new-zealand-at-65-569186">World’s first openly transgender MP, Georgina Beyer, dies in New Zealand at 65</a>

Barely 48 hours after being crowned as the world’s richest person, tech billionaire Elon Musk on Wednesday lost the tag once again since he lost $1.9 billion of wealth in a single day, causing him to slide into second place.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elite-israeli-defence-pilots-protest-judicial-reforms-by-boycott-reserve-duty-training-569103">Elite Israeli defence pilots protest judicial reforms by boycotting reserve duty, training</a>

Tesla’s shares —where much of Musk’s fortune is tied up—tumbled after traders were left disappointed by Tesla’s 2023 Investor Day.

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Billionaire Elon Musk and his microblogging digital platform Twitter are always trending online for some or other reasons. This time, Musk is facing scrutiny by the Turkish competition board over the process with which the Tesla CEO took over the social media platform, Twitter.

Billionaire Elon Musk and his microblogging digital platform Twitter are always trending online for some or other reasons. This time, Musk is facing scrutiny by the Turkish competition board over the process with which the Tesla CEO took over the social media platform, Twitter. In a statement on Monday, the Turkish Competition Board said that it will impose a fine on Musk as the takeover of the company was made without the board's permission in Turkiye. It added that the fine on billionaire Elon Musk will be 0.1 per cent of Twitter's gross income in Turkey in 2022. Also Read | Indian airline Indigo in talks with Boeing for largest-ever jet order, Airbus to get a tough fight Additionally, the board also clarified in the statement that the ruling would be open to a legal challenge. The competition body ensures a competitive market structure that encourages firms to continually adapt their competitive strengths to market conditions, as per a description of the body on the official website. Elon Musk acquired the social media company for $44 billion and became its CEO on 27 October last year. Ever since Twitter's takeover took place, Musk has announced several changes on the platform. For instance, he launched Blue Verified subscription plans and started off view counts display for all Tweets among others. The Tesla CEO is also adapting to cost-cutting measures such as layoffs and closing down few of its offices. Also Read | World’s first openly transgender MP, Georgina Beyer, dies in New Zealand at 65 Barely 48 hours after being crowned as the world’s richest person, tech billionaire Elon Musk on Wednesday lost the tag once again since he lost $1.9 billion of wealth in a single day, causing him to slide into second place. Watch | Elite Israeli defence pilots protest judicial reforms by boycotting reserve duty, training Tesla’s shares —where much of Musk’s fortune is tied up—tumbled after traders were left disappointed by Tesla’s 2023 Investor Day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Turkish competition board to fine Elon Musk 0.1% of Twitter's gross income in Turkey, here's why

After weeks of the earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria, efforts from Arab countries to accelerate Syria's reintegration into the region's diplomatic gain momentum.

The West Asia Post: Quake pushes forward normalisation efforts with Syria

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 4) said that his ruling AK Party and its ally will continue on their planned course. His words came after the split in the opposition bloc over the issue of who should run to challenge him in national elections. The national elections are scheduled for May.&nbsp;

"We've said this was going to happen months ago...We have already set our goal...Whatever they do, we continue to work on our plan, on our road map," state-owned TRT Haber reported Erdogan as saying.

The public split on Friday in an alliance of opposition parties followed months of simmering discord in the group, and was seen by analysts as a blow to opposition hopes of unseating Erdogan, who has been in power for two decades.

Earlier this week, Erdogan said that the elections would go ahead on May 14. The date was announced depite criticism of his government's handling of devastating earthquakes that took place last month. More than 45,000 people had lost lives in the country.

Meral Aksener, leader of the centre-right nationalist IYI Party, the second biggest in the alliance, announced on Friday the party was leaving the bloc.

She said that at a presidential candidate selection meeting this week, five parties in the alliance proposed Kemal Kilicdaroglu, leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), as their candidate.

Aksener accused members of the alliance of pressuring her party and defying people's will, adding that she proposed Mansur Yavas and Ekrem Imamoglu, CHP mayors of capital Ankara and Istanbul respectively, as candidates.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 4) said that his ruling AK Party and its ally will continue on their planned course. His words came after the split in the opposition bloc over the issue of who should run to challenge him in national elections.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday (March 4) said that his ruling AK Party and its ally will continue on their planned course. His words came after the split in the opposition bloc over the issue of who should run to challenge him in national elections. The national elections are scheduled for May. "We've said this was going to happen months ago...We have already set our goal...Whatever they do, we continue to work on our plan, on our road map," state-owned TRT Haber reported Erdogan as saying. The public split on Friday in an alliance of opposition parties followed months of simmering discord in the group, and was seen by analysts as a blow to opposition hopes of unseating Erdogan, who has been in power for two decades. Earlier this week, Erdogan said that the elections would go ahead on May 14. The date was announced depite criticism of his government's handling of devastating earthquakes that took place last month. More than 45,000 people had lost lives in the country. Meral Aksener, leader of the centre-right nationalist IYI Party, the second biggest in the alliance, announced on Friday the party was leaving the bloc. She said that at a presidential candidate selection meeting this week, five parties in the alliance proposed Kemal Kilicdaroglu, leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP), as their candidate. Aksener accused members of the alliance of pressuring her party and defying people's will, adding that she proposed Mansur Yavas and Ekrem Imamoglu, CHP mayors of capital Ankara and Istanbul respectively, as candidates. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey: Erdogan expresses confidence amid opposition split

In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The tragic quake had left many deprived of aid as a decade of conflict has divided Syria into parts. It was a challenge for aid workers in the rebel-held northwestern part of the country which was also the hardest hit by the earthquake.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-appoints-two-prominent-indian-american-corporate-leaders-to-his-export-council-567225">Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council</a>

Tedros is the highest-ranking United Nations (UN) official to have visited the conflict zone. According to an AFP news agency correspondent, Tedros entered the rebel-held area from neighbouring Turkey via the Bab al-Hawa crossing and the UN convoy distributed aid to the quake-affected Syrians.&nbsp;

The global health body chief also visited several hospitals in the region in the wake of the high-intensity quakes which caused massive wreckage and left thousands dead. Tedros also paid a visit&nbsp;to shelters for those displaced after the natural disaster.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-must-follow-law-eam-jaishankar-tells-uk-foreign-secretary-567148">BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary</a>

Earlier, on February 13, in a major reversal from his earlier stand, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government approved the use of two border crossings, Bab al-Hawa and Al Ra’ee, to supply aid to the rebel-held region.&nbsp;

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-bans-tiktok-on-work-devices-amid-data-security-breaches-567233">EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches</a>

Bab al-Hawa crossing is the only route into Syria as Russia, the permanent member of the UN Security Council and which also backs Assad’s government, has in the past vetoed the use of the multiple other crossings via Ankara.&nbsp;Therefore, for years now, foreign aid has been entering the northwestern Idlib province from Turkey.&nbsp;

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In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday.

In a first after the catastrophic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria and killed over 45,000 people, World Health Organisation head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus visited rebel-held northwestern Syria on Wednesday. The tragic quake had left many deprived of aid as a decade of conflict has divided Syria into parts. It was a challenge for aid workers in the rebel-held northwestern part of the country which was also the hardest hit by the earthquake. Also Read | Biden appoints two prominent Indian American corporate leaders to his Export Council Tedros is the highest-ranking United Nations (UN) official to have visited the conflict zone. According to an AFP news agency correspondent, Tedros entered the rebel-held area from neighbouring Turkey via the Bab al-Hawa crossing and the UN convoy distributed aid to the quake-affected Syrians. The global health body chief also visited several hospitals in the region in the wake of the high-intensity quakes which caused massive wreckage and left thousands dead. Tedros also paid a visit to shelters for those displaced after the natural disaster. Also Read | BBC must follow law, EAM Jaishankar tells UK Foreign secretary Earlier, on February 13, in a major reversal from his earlier stand, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government approved the use of two border crossings, Bab al-Hawa and Al Ra’ee, to supply aid to the rebel-held region. Watch | EU bans TikTok on work devices amid data security breaches Bab al-Hawa crossing is the only route into Syria as Russia, the permanent member of the UN Security Council and which also backs Assad’s government, has in the past vetoed the use of the multiple other crossings via Ankara. Therefore, for years now, foreign aid has been entering the northwestern Idlib province from Turkey. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WHO chief Tedros visits rebel-held region in Syria after tragic quake in first such visit

Finland took one step closer to becoming a member of NATO as the country’s parliament kicked off a debate aimed at accelerating the bid to join the military alliance.

Finland lawmakers will debate a bill in this regard on Tuesday, when NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will meet with Prime Minister Sanna Marin and President Sauli Niinisto.

A vote on the bill will then take place on Wednesday, and is expected to sail through without much opposition, as the initial membership bid in May was backed by 188 of the 200 members in parliament.

Once the bill is approved by the parliament, it will be sent to the president, whose signature is required to formalise the bidding process.

After the president has signed the law, Finland will submit the instruments of accession to Washington.

Many MPs have been looking to push through the legislation for the NATO membership bid expeditiously before Finland goes into polls on April 2.

<h2>Finland's NATO membership: Turkiye likely to approve the country's application</h2>

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Finland and Sweden both applied to join the transatlantic defence alliance last year in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. And NATO membership requires the support of all 30 members.

Though Finland received the backing of all the members, Sweden faced objections from Turkey over recent back-to-back protests in Stockholm.

While the first protest was led by a Kurdish group, where an effigy of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was shown hanging from its feet in Stockholm. Another protest was organised by far-right politician Rasmus Paludan, who burnt a copy of the Quran in front of the Turkish embassy.

Erdogan had said that Turkey won’t support Sweden’s ascension bid to NATO, and demanded that they extradite dozens of suspects, which it considers “terrorists", including the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK).

Finland, on the other hand, was viewed favourably by Turkey, with its Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Monday saying, "We may separate Sweden and Finland's membership process.”

(With inputs from agencies)

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Finland took one step closer to becoming a member of NATO as the country’s parliament kicked off a debate aimed at accelerating the bid to join the military alliance.

Finland took one step closer to becoming a member of NATO as the country’s parliament kicked off a debate aimed at accelerating the bid to join the military alliance. Finland lawmakers will debate a bill in this regard on Tuesday, when NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will meet with Prime Minister Sanna Marin and President Sauli Niinisto. A vote on the bill will then take place on Wednesday, and is expected to sail through without much opposition, as the initial membership bid in May was backed by 188 of the 200 members in parliament. Once the bill is approved by the parliament, it will be sent to the president, whose signature is required to formalise the bidding process. After the president has signed the law, Finland will submit the instruments of accession to Washington. Many MPs have been looking to push through the legislation for the NATO membership bid expeditiously before Finland goes into polls on April 2. Finland's NATO membership: Turkiye likely to approve the country's application Finland and Sweden both applied to join the transatlantic defence alliance last year in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. And NATO membership requires the support of all 30 members. Though Finland received the backing of all the members, Sweden faced objections from Turkey over recent back-to-back protests in Stockholm. While the first protest was led by a Kurdish group, where an effigy of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was shown hanging from its feet in Stockholm. Another protest was organised by far-right politician Rasmus Paludan, who burnt a copy of the Quran in front of the Turkish embassy. Erdogan had said that Turkey won’t support Sweden’s ascension bid to NATO, and demanded that they extradite dozens of suspects, which it considers “terrorists", including the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Finland, on the other hand, was viewed favourably by Turkey, with its Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Monday saying, "We may separate Sweden and Finland's membership process.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Finland inches closer to becoming NATO member while Sweden’s bid delayed by Turkey

A 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit southeastern Turkey on Monday (February 27) which led to some of the buildings already damaged due to the powerful tremor witnessed earlier this month to collapse, said the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority&nbsp;(AFAD). According to officials, the epicentre of the tremor was the Yesilyurt district in the Malatya province.&nbsp;

The head of AFAD, Yunus Sezer, told a news conference that search and rescue teams had been deployed to five buildings. Hours later, in an update, he also took to Twitter and said that 110 people had been&nbsp;injured among them were 32 others&nbsp;who "were saved as injured."

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Malatya ilimizin Yeşilyurt ilçesinde meydana gelen 5,6 büyüklüğündeki <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/deprem?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#deprem</a> sonrasında, 
An itibarıyla; 
 
▪️ 1 vatandaşımız hayatını kaybetmiştir. 
 
▪️ 110 vatandaşımız yaralanmıştır. 
 
▪️ 29 bina yıkılmıştır. 
 
▪️ 32 vatandaşımız yaralı olarak kurtarılmıştır.
— Yunus Sezer (@Yunus_Sezer_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Yunus_Sezer_/status/1630190896225329154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The disaster agency had also&nbsp;taken&nbsp;to Twitter and said, one person has been killed after the earthquake on Monday while&nbsp;29 buildings were demolished.&nbsp;According to the AFAD, after the 5.6 magnitude earthquake, “it was found as a result of the field scanning studies that there were destroyed buildings”.&nbsp;

“A total of 650 personnel, who are in the region and are rapidly dispatched from the surrounding provinces by air and road, are involved in the search and rescue efforts,” said the government disaster agency, in a subsequent tweet.&nbsp;

This comes after the country was hit by a series of earthquakes on February 6 which has killed over 44,000 people in Turkey, so far. Meanwhile, local mayor Mehmet Cinar said that teams were urgently guided to check if anyone was trapped under the rubble, as per local media reports.

Hours after the quake,&nbsp;Cinar told HaberTurk television that a number of buildings in Yesilyurt collapsed after the recent tremor. He added,&nbsp;a father and daughter were trapped in a collapsed four-storey building after the duo had entered&nbsp;to collect their belongings, reported Al Jazeera.&nbsp;

This comes as the Turkish authorities continue to investigate individuals responsible for buildings levelled by the deadly earthquake that has since left millions without homes.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit southeastern Turkey on Monday (February 27) which led to some of the buildings already damaged due to the powerful tremor witnessed earlier this month to collapse, said the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD).

A 5.6 magnitude earthquake hit southeastern Turkey on Monday (February 27) which led to some of the buildings already damaged due to the powerful tremor witnessed earlier this month to collapse, said the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD). According to officials, the epicentre of the tremor was the Yesilyurt district in the Malatya province. The head of AFAD, Yunus Sezer, told a news conference that search and rescue teams had been deployed to five buildings. Hours later, in an update, he also took to Twitter and said that 110 people had been injured among them were 32 others who "were saved as injured." Malatya ilimizin Yeşilyurt ilçesinde meydana gelen 5,6 büyüklüğündeki #deprem sonrasında, An itibarıyla; ▪️ 1 vatandaşımız hayatını kaybetmiştir. ▪️ 110 vatandaşımız yaralanmıştır. ▪️ 29 bina yıkılmıştır. ▪️ 32 vatandaşımız yaralı olarak kurtarılmıştır. — Yunus Sezer (@Yunus_Sezer_) February 27, 2023 × The disaster agency had also taken to Twitter and said, one person has been killed after the earthquake on Monday while 29 buildings were demolished. According to the AFAD, after the 5.6 magnitude earthquake, “it was found as a result of the field scanning studies that there were destroyed buildings”. “A total of 650 personnel, who are in the region and are rapidly dispatched from the surrounding provinces by air and road, are involved in the search and rescue efforts,” said the government disaster agency, in a subsequent tweet. This comes after the country was hit by a series of earthquakes on February 6 which has killed over 44,000 people in Turkey, so far. Meanwhile, local mayor Mehmet Cinar said that teams were urgently guided to check if anyone was trapped under the rubble, as per local media reports. Hours after the quake, Cinar told HaberTurk television that a number of buildings in Yesilyurt collapsed after the recent tremor. He added, a father and daughter were trapped in a collapsed four-storey building after the duo had entered to collect their belongings, reported Al Jazeera. This comes as the Turkish authorities continue to investigate individuals responsible for buildings levelled by the deadly earthquake that has since left millions without homes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least one killed, over 100 injured after new earthquake of magnitude 5.6 hits Turkey, says disaster agency

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Egypt's foreign minister arrived in Syria on Monday to meet with his counterpart and is then set to visit Turkey, marking the first such visit to both countries after a decade of tense relations.

Egyptian FM in Syria, set to visit Turkey for first time in over a decade

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