A local US consulate employee was sentenced to nearly nine years in prison in Turkey Thursday for "aiding an armed terror group" that Ankara blames for a failed 2016 coup, in a decision denounced by its NATO ally Washington.

Metin Topuz, who worked as a liaison officer for the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Istanbul, was arrested in 2017 and was jailed Thursday for eight years and nine months, the official Anadolu news agency reported.&nbsp;

He was accused of making contact with police and a prosecutor suspected of ties to US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, who Ankara says masterminded the attempted coup in 2016.&nbsp;Gulen rejects the accusations.

Topuz, a Turkish citizen, denied the allegations in court, the private DHA news agency reported.

A lawyer for Topuz, contacted by AFP, confirmed the sentence and said a court of appeals is due to decide whether to uphold it.

In previous hearings, Topuz told the judge that his contacts with senior police officials or prosecutors of the time were entirely "part of my work as a translator and assistant liaison officer at the DEA."

The Istanbul court acquitted Topuz on political and military espionage charges.

The US embassy, whose staff regularly attended the hearings in support of Topuz and his family, has often said there is no credible evidence against him.

US consul general Daria Darnel and acting public affairs officer Stephanie Kuck were present at Thursday's session.

"U.S. officials observed every hearing in the trial of Metin Topuz in Istanbul, and we are deeply disappointed in today's decision," the US embassy said on Twitter.

"We have seen no credible evidence to support this conviction and hope it will swiftly be overturned."

Topuz's initial arrest in 2017 triggered a diplomatic crisis with both Turkey and the US suspending visa services for some time.

The latest verdict is likely to cause new strains in bilateral ties as the two NATO allies are mending fences following disagreements over Syria, Ankara's purchase of Russian S-400 defence systems, and a US refusal to extradite Gulen.

On the positive side, Turkish military planes carried medical supplies to Washington to help the US fight the coronavirus.&nbsp;

In an interview with state TRT broadcaster this week, Erdogan praised cooperation with the US in Libya, saying Ankara and Washington were edging closer to a "new era" in ties.

On Twitter, the US embassy said the allegations made about Topuz's official duties "misrepresent both the scope and nature of the important work undertaken by our local staff on behalf of the U.S. government and in the promotion of our bilateral relationship."

Since the attempted overthrow of Erdogan, tens of thousands of people have been charged with suspected ties to Gulen and more than 100,000 people have been sacked or suspended from public sector jobs.

Ankara has been criticised by its Western allies and human rights activists over the crackdown they say has undermined democracy. Turkish officials say the raids are needed to clear Gulen's influence from state institutions.

A local US consulate employee was sentenced to nearly nine years in prison in Turkey Thursday for "aiding an armed terror group" that Ankara blames for a failed 2016 coup, in a decision denounced by its NATO ally Washington.

A local US consulate employee was sentenced to nearly nine years in prison in Turkey Thursday for "aiding an armed terror group" that Ankara blames for a failed 2016 coup, in a decision denounced by its NATO ally Washington. Metin Topuz, who worked as a liaison officer for the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Istanbul, was arrested in 2017 and was jailed Thursday for eight years and nine months, the official Anadolu news agency reported. He was accused of making contact with police and a prosecutor suspected of ties to US-based Muslim preacher Fethullah Gulen, who Ankara says masterminded the attempted coup in 2016. Gulen rejects the accusations. Topuz, a Turkish citizen, denied the allegations in court, the private DHA news agency reported. A lawyer for Topuz, contacted by AFP, confirmed the sentence and said a court of appeals is due to decide whether to uphold it. In previous hearings, Topuz told the judge that his contacts with senior police officials or prosecutors of the time were entirely "part of my work as a translator and assistant liaison officer at the DEA." The Istanbul court acquitted Topuz on political and military espionage charges. The US embassy, whose staff regularly attended the hearings in support of Topuz and his family, has often said there is no credible evidence against him. US consul general Daria Darnel and acting public affairs officer Stephanie Kuck were present at Thursday's session. "U.S. officials observed every hearing in the trial of Metin Topuz in Istanbul, and we are deeply disappointed in today's decision," the US embassy said on Twitter. "We have seen no credible evidence to support this conviction and hope it will swiftly be overturned." Topuz's initial arrest in 2017 triggered a diplomatic crisis with both Turkey and the US suspending visa services for some time. The latest verdict is likely to cause new strains in bilateral ties as the two NATO allies are mending fences following disagreements over Syria, Ankara's purchase of Russian S-400 defence systems, and a US refusal to extradite Gulen. On the positive side, Turkish military planes carried medical supplies to Washington to help the US fight the coronavirus. In an interview with state TRT broadcaster this week, Erdogan praised cooperation with the US in Libya, saying Ankara and Washington were edging closer to a "new era" in ties. On Twitter, the US embassy said the allegations made about Topuz's official duties "misrepresent both the scope and nature of the important work undertaken by our local staff on behalf of the U.S. government and in the promotion of our bilateral relationship." Since the attempted overthrow of Erdogan, tens of thousands of people have been charged with suspected ties to Gulen and more than 100,000 people have been sacked or suspended from public sector jobs. Ankara has been criticised by its Western allies and human rights activists over the crackdown they say has undermined democracy. Turkish officials say the raids are needed to clear Gulen's influence from state institutions.

Turkish court jails US consul staffer for aiding 'terror group'

Turkey's sports minister on Thursday said that he was "confident" that the Champions League finals will still be held in Istanbul despite coronavirus pandemic. UEFA could decide during an Executive Committee meeting scheduled to be held on June 17.

Turkey's sports minister on Thursday said that he was "confident" that the Champions League finals will still be held in Istanbul despite coronavirus pandemic. UEFA could decide during an Executive Committee meeting scheduled to be held on June 17. Several names of the cities like Lisbon and Frankfurt are making rounds in the media whereas Madrid's Mayor has talked about his city being a possible candidate for hosting the gala night. But the Turkish Sports Minister Mehmet Kasapoglu is assured Turkish football fans, he said: "I have no doubt it will take place in the best way in Turkey. We're confident that we will receive good news on June 17." "We are following this closely, it's a very important matter," he insisted during an interview with TRT Sports channel. The Champions League final was set to be held on May 30 in Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, 15 years after hosting Liverpool and AC Milan. According to Turkish officials and fans, the country is successful in fighting the pandemic and should be the right place to host the game. Turkey has officially recorded around 173,000 cases of the virus and 4,746 deaths. (Inputs from AFP)

Turkey 'confident' that Istanbul will host the Champions League finals despite coronavirus situation

Turkey's population is scared to step out of their houses at night now, as the infamous&nbsp;night-time neighbourhood guard force was granted&nbsp;wider power on Thursday.

The guards, called Night Eagles, will now&nbsp;will have the authority to demand people to identify themselves, to use force and carry weapons and to apprehend suspects.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-to-increase-support-for-libyas-serraj-says-erdogan-303422">Also read:&nbsp;Turkey to increase support for Libya's Serraj, says Erdogan</a>

This decision, that was taken overnight, garnered a lot of criticism from the opposition party --&nbsp;Republican People's Party.

The opposition and experts are against giving power in hands of Night Eagles, as these guards, allegedly, go through a training of merely 40 days.

"You cannot give someone a gun and send them into the street with broad authority after 40 days of training," Engin Altay, a deputy from the main opposition Republican People's Party, said last week.

The opposition also voiced their concern about the limited knowledge of these guards about human rights, as there won't be enough time to train them about human rights violations.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-talks-in-stalemate-as-russia-accuses-turkey-of-infiltrating-foreign-fighters-283096">Libya talks in stalemate as Russia accuses Turkey of infiltrating foreign fighters</a>

"This law is not about protecting the people or the district. It is a law to protect the state from the people," said&nbsp;Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu, a lawmaker from the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP).

The guard force, which has been a part of Turkish culture since Ottoman era, was revived by the President in 2017 -- a year after an attempted military coup.

Police data shows that last year the number of police officers in Turkey rose 7.9% to more than 260,000 with the number of neighbourhood guards nearly doubling to more than 21,000. This year the number of guards is set to rise to 30,000, according to one AKP deputy.

The government has defended this decision sighting the decrease of daily burglaries by 47%&nbsp;since the force was revitalised. The Interior Ministry also claimed that the guards undergo three months of training, and two months of practical training.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Turkey's population is scared to step out of their houses at night now, as the infamous night-time neighbourhood guard force was granted wider power on Thursday.

Turkey's population is scared to step out of their houses at night now, as the infamous night-time neighbourhood guard force was granted wider power on Thursday. The guards, called Night Eagles, will now will have the authority to demand people to identify themselves, to use force and carry weapons and to apprehend suspects. Also read: Turkey to increase support for Libya's Serraj, says Erdogan This decision, that was taken overnight, garnered a lot of criticism from the opposition party -- Republican People's Party. The opposition and experts are against giving power in hands of Night Eagles, as these guards, allegedly, go through a training of merely 40 days. "You cannot give someone a gun and send them into the street with broad authority after 40 days of training," Engin Altay, a deputy from the main opposition Republican People's Party, said last week. The opposition also voiced their concern about the limited knowledge of these guards about human rights, as there won't be enough time to train them about human rights violations. Also read: Libya talks in stalemate as Russia accuses Turkey of infiltrating foreign fighters "This law is not about protecting the people or the district. It is a law to protect the state from the people," said Omer Faruk Gergerlioglu, a lawmaker from the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP). The guard force, which has been a part of Turkish culture since Ottoman era, was revived by the President in 2017 -- a year after an attempted military coup. Police data shows that last year the number of police officers in Turkey rose 7.9% to more than 260,000 with the number of neighbourhood guards nearly doubling to more than 21,000. This year the number of guards is set to rise to 30,000, according to one AKP deputy. The government has defended this decision sighting the decrease of daily burglaries by 47% since the force was revitalised. The Interior Ministry also claimed that the guards undergo three months of training, and two months of practical training. (With inputs from Reuters)

Turkey gives additional power to neighbourhood guards; experts oppose

America and its President leave no opportunity in commenting on the affairs of others. In offering mediation where none was sought. Now their own house is a mess.

America and its President leave no opportunity in commenting on the affairs of others. In offering mediation where none was sought. Now their own house is a mess. What is the world saying? Some are highlighting how just and equitable their own society is, others are using this turmoil to score propaganda points. Canada Prime minister Justin Trudeau, the epitome of political correctness says that many Canadians from diverse backgrounds are watching. He says anti-black racism is real and that the world must oppose it "unconscious bias," as the Canadian Prime minister said. He seems to have achieved some self-realisation during this lockdown. Trudeau himself was embroiled in allegations of racism last year. The controversy was front page news as Justin Trudeau performed wearing blackface makeup several times in his youth. Once in a turban and robes and at other times in an Afro wig, he had to apologise for this unconscious bias in his re-election bid. Turkey Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan put out a series of posts condemning George Floyd's death and on the racist and fascist approach of the US government. The President said Turkey always stands against all attacks on humanity and about how he will fight to protect the rights of all humanity. For Erdogan, charity seems to begin miles away and ends by the time it reaches home. Turkey has led a targeted campaign against the Kurds for years. Thousands of Kurds have been displaced by ongoing violence. Their human rights situation was the worst in 2019. Somebody who is targeting societies of perceived enemies should avoid giving sermons on human rights. Iran Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif decided to be a little creative about it. He put out an edited version of a US State Department press release. Every mention of Iran's suppression was swapped with the United States. The caption had a hashtag attached world against racism. It indeed is the world against the treatment of blacks in America and it is against the treatment of women, homosexuals and Jews in Iran as rightly pointed out by Mike Pompeo. Russia The Russian foreign ministry said: "This incident is far from the first in a series of lawless conduct and unjustified violence by US law enforcement." It is the same country that tried to stifle pro-democracy protests last year. China China had a busy weekend and a lot to say. Hua Chun Ying is a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson. She shared a tweet by the US State Department about Hong Kong protests. The caption read: "I can't breathe." The last words of George Floyd. Hu Xijin --- the editor of the state-run Global Times also compared the unrest in the US to that in Hong Kong. He urged the US President to go talk to the demonstrators. Just like he urged Beijing to talk to Hong Kong rioters. In the end, neither Beijing nor Washington took his advice. In any case, anything coming out of China on human rights is preposterous. Their record is an unmitigated disaster. America deserves much criticism for what's happening. America's leaders who sit in judgment of others have failed miserably to walk the talk on equality, justice, and human rights but those living in glass houses like China and Iran shouldn't throw stones at others.

Countries around the world condemn racist attack in US

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Traffic levels jumped in the commercial hub of Istanbul, with many Turks returning to work as the government sought to revive an economy hit hard by the pandemic. Employees of government offices and public facilities joined the many factory workers who restarted last month.

Masked shopkeepers opened and cleaned their stores at the Grand Bazaar, which media reports said was the scene of one of the first virus outbreaks in March. A key tourist destination, the sprawling covered market was closed for more than two months.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/turkey-unveils-plan-to-revive-tourism-300679/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/opinions-blogs/poor-relations-between-uae-and-turkey-have-further-complicated-conflicts-in-the-middle-east-300864" hreflang="en">Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East</a>

President Tayyip Erdogan's government has slowly removed some restrictions in recent weeks and authorities say the outbreak is under control. The COVID-19 infection has killed more than 4,500 and infected more than 160,000 in Turkey, though new daily cases and deaths are sharply down.

Transport Minister Adil Karaismailoglu sought to reassure passengers at a ceremony to mark the first regular flight from Istanbul to the capital Ankara in two months.

"We are entering a period of travel focused on isolation, from the entry into airports until the exit from them," he said on TV, adding that six domestic airports had so far been certified to meet hygiene and safety standards.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/greece-fears-border-standoff-with-turkey-over-migrants-return-301172" hreflang="en">Greece fears border standoff with Turkey over migrants' return</a>

International flights are expected to start next week. Shares of Turkish airports and carriers including Turkish Airlines rose.

Parks, gyms, beaches, libraries and museums also re-opened, including in Istanbul, the centre of Turkey's outbreak.&nbsp;

Economic activity took a nose dive beginning in March and it is unclear how badly Turkey's key tourism sector will suffer this summer. Some provinces, including Istanbul, were still subject to weekend lockdowns this past weekend.

A survey showed on Monday that manufacturing activity continued to contract sharply in May, though at a slower pace than in April, with output and new orders shrinking again and companies decreasing employment and purchasing.

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic.

Flights and car travel resumed between Turkey's big cities on Monday while cafes, restaurants and Istanbul's Grand Bazaar reopened in the country's biggest step to ease restrictions taken to contain the coronavirus pandemic. Traffic levels jumped in the commercial hub of Istanbul, with many Turks returning to work as the government sought to revive an economy hit hard by the pandemic. Employees of government offices and public facilities joined the many factory workers who restarted last month. Masked shopkeepers opened and cleaned their stores at the Grand Bazaar, which media reports said was the scene of one of the first virus outbreaks in March. A key tourist destination, the sprawling covered market was closed for more than two months. Also read: Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East President Tayyip Erdogan's government has slowly removed some restrictions in recent weeks and authorities say the outbreak is under control. The COVID-19 infection has killed more than 4,500 and infected more than 160,000 in Turkey, though new daily cases and deaths are sharply down. Transport Minister Adil Karaismailoglu sought to reassure passengers at a ceremony to mark the first regular flight from Istanbul to the capital Ankara in two months. "We are entering a period of travel focused on isolation, from the entry into airports until the exit from them," he said on TV, adding that six domestic airports had so far been certified to meet hygiene and safety standards. Also read: Greece fears border standoff with Turkey over migrants' return International flights are expected to start next week. Shares of Turkish airports and carriers including Turkish Airlines rose. Parks, gyms, beaches, libraries and museums also re-opened, including in Istanbul, the centre of Turkey's outbreak. Economic activity took a nose dive beginning in March and it is unclear how badly Turkey's key tourism sector will suffer this summer. Some provinces, including Istanbul, were still subject to weekend lockdowns this past weekend. A survey showed on Monday that manufacturing activity continued to contract sharply in May, though at a slower pace than in April, with output and new orders shrinking again and companies decreasing employment and purchasing.

Grand Bazaar, cafes open and flights resume as Turkey eases up

The Saudi-Iranian dispute may dominate headlines but a similar rivalry between Turkey and the United Arab Emirates is equally wreaking havoc in the Middle East and North Africa.

While Saudi Arabia may in some ways have a leg up on Iran, Turkey and the UAE are at a virtual draw.

In Libya, forces of the Turkish-backed, Tripoli-based internationally recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) are pushing UAE-backed rebels led by renegade Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar out of western Libya. Haftar further enjoys support from Saudi Arabia and Egypt with whom Turkey is also at odds.

In contrast to Libya, Turkey is discovering that in Syria the odds are stacked against it, even if its objectives in the country are more limited.

If in Libya, Turkish support for the GNA amounts to an effort to shape who controls the country as well as energy-rich waters in the Eastern Mediterranean; in Syria, Turkey is determined to prevent Syrian Kurdish nationalist forces from establishing a permanent and meaningful presence on its borders and control jihadist forces in Idlib, the last major Syrian rebel stronghold.

US abandonment of their alliance with the Kurds in the fight against the Islamic State pushed the Kurds towards cooperation with the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The Kurds expect the cooperation to shield them from Turkish efforts to push them further out of border areas.

At the same time Turkey, already home to 3.6 million Syrian refugees – the single largest concentration of Syrians fleeing their war-torn and dilapidated homeland,&nbsp;also wants to stymie a potential new influx of many more if and when Idlib falls to Russian-backed Syrian government forces.

The UAE-Turkish rivalry — rooted in a battle for dominance of global Muslim religious soft power; geopolitical competition across the Muslim world, including the Middle East and the Horn of Africa; and fundamentally opposed attitudes towards political Islam — has escalated military confrontations and complicated, if not disrupted, efforts to resolve conflicts in Libya and Syria.

The UAE-Turkey scorecard is 1:1

Turkey so far has a winning hand in Libya.

In Syria, however, few doubt that Turkey will struggle to secure its interests with Al-Assad, backed not only by Russia and Iran but also the UAE, firmly in the saddle.

UAE Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed (MbZ) reportedly promised Al-Assad $3 billion&nbsp;in April; $250 million of which was paid upfront, to break a ceasefire in Idlib imposed on Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan by his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin.

Russia appears to have successfully thwarted Prince Mohammed’s move.

The Emirati crown prince had hoped to tie Turkey up in fighting in Syria, which would complicate Turkish military support for the GNA in Libya. Al-Assad’s failure to take up the offer likely contributed to Turkey’s ability to successfully focus on Libya in recent weeks.

The UAE has, nonetheless, one strategic advantage. Turkey’s reputation in Washington DC, much like that of Saudi Arabia, is severely tarnished. The UAE has so far skilfully evaded a similar fate, enjoying not only close ties to the United States but also Russia.

Turkish-US relations are strained over multiple issues, including Turkey’s acquisition of Russia’s acclaimed S-400 anti-missile defence system, its close cooperation with Russia and Iran, and the continued presence in the United States of Fethullah Gulen, a Turkish preacher whom Erdogan accuses of staging the failed 2016 military attempt to remove him from office.

The Trump administration has nevertheless offered Turkey ammunition to be used in military operations in north-eastern Syria as well as humanitarian assistance in a hopeless bid to persuade Ankara to push back Iranian forces in the country.

Erdogan, in a surprise move this week, demoted and then accepted the resignation of Rear-Admiral Cihat Yayci, the popular architect of Turkey’s intervention in Libya and aggressive stance in the Eastern Mediterranean. Yayci is believed to be an anti-Western Eurasianist who advocates closer Turkish relations with Russia and China.

Turkey’s ties to Russia are equally complex.

While Turkey and Russia support opposing sides in Libya, they have so far been able to balance their interests in Syria.

While Turkey and Russia support opposing sides in Libya, they have so far been able to balance their interests in Syria that sometimes coincide and sometimes diverge, leading earlier this year to clashes between Turkish and Syrian forces.

In Libya, it was Turkish drones that allegedly destroyed a Russian-made Pantsir air defence system even as hundreds of Russian mercenaries working for the Wagner Group, with close ties to the Kremlin, reportedly support Haftar’s forces.

If support for Haftar is Russia capitalizing on an opportunity to stoke a fire, UAE backing is part of Prince Mohammed’s determination to confront political Islam across the Middle East and North Africa.

“Turkey and the UAE [are] engaged in a regional power struggle. They see it as a zero-sum game, in which there is no way for both sides to win. If one wins, the other one loses,” said Sinan Ulgen, a former Turkish diplomat and chairman of the Istanbul-based Center for Economics and Foreign Policy Studies (EDAM).

It is a zero-sum-game played on proxy battlefields that bodes ill for those unwillingly sucked into it. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

The Saudi-Iranian dispute may dominate headlines but a similar rivalry between Turkey and the United Arab Emirates is equally wreaking havoc in the Middle East and North Africa.

The Saudi-Iranian dispute may dominate headlines but a similar rivalry between Turkey and the United Arab Emirates is equally wreaking havoc in the Middle East and North Africa. While Saudi Arabia may in some ways have a leg up on Iran, Turkey and the UAE are at a virtual draw. In Libya, forces of the Turkish-backed, Tripoli-based internationally recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) are pushing UAE-backed rebels led by renegade Field Marshall Khalifa Haftar out of western Libya. Haftar further enjoys support from Saudi Arabia and Egypt with whom Turkey is also at odds. In contrast to Libya, Turkey is discovering that in Syria the odds are stacked against it, even if its objectives in the country are more limited. If in Libya, Turkish support for the GNA amounts to an effort to shape who controls the country as well as energy-rich waters in the Eastern Mediterranean; in Syria, Turkey is determined to prevent Syrian Kurdish nationalist forces from establishing a permanent and meaningful presence on its borders and control jihadist forces in Idlib, the last major Syrian rebel stronghold. US abandonment of their alliance with the Kurds in the fight against the Islamic State pushed the Kurds towards cooperation with the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The Kurds expect the cooperation to shield them from Turkish efforts to push them further out of border areas. At the same time Turkey, already home to 3.6 million Syrian refugees – the single largest concentration of Syrians fleeing their war-torn and dilapidated homeland, also wants to stymie a potential new influx of many more if and when Idlib falls to Russian-backed Syrian government forces. The UAE-Turkish rivalry — rooted in a battle for dominance of global Muslim religious soft power; geopolitical competition across the Muslim world, including the Middle East and the Horn of Africa; and fundamentally opposed attitudes towards political Islam — has escalated military confrontations and complicated, if not disrupted, efforts to resolve conflicts in Libya and Syria. The UAE-Turkey scorecard is 1:1 Turkey so far has a winning hand in Libya. In Syria, however, few doubt that Turkey will struggle to secure its interests with Al-Assad, backed not only by Russia and Iran but also the UAE, firmly in the saddle. UAE Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed (MbZ) reportedly promised Al-Assad $3 billion in April; $250 million of which was paid upfront, to break a ceasefire in Idlib imposed on Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan by his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin. Russia appears to have successfully thwarted Prince Mohammed’s move. The Emirati crown prince had hoped to tie Turkey up in fighting in Syria, which would complicate Turkish military support for the GNA in Libya. Al-Assad’s failure to take up the offer likely contributed to Turkey’s ability to successfully focus on Libya in recent weeks. The UAE has, nonetheless, one strategic advantage. Turkey’s reputation in Washington DC, much like that of Saudi Arabia, is severely tarnished. The UAE has so far skilfully evaded a similar fate, enjoying not only close ties to the United States but also Russia. Turkish-US relations are strained over multiple issues, including Turkey’s acquisition of Russia’s acclaimed S-400 anti-missile defence system, its close cooperation with Russia and Iran, and the continued presence in the United States of Fethullah Gulen, a Turkish preacher whom Erdogan accuses of staging the failed 2016 military attempt to remove him from office. The Trump administration has nevertheless offered Turkey ammunition to be used in military operations in north-eastern Syria as well as humanitarian assistance in a hopeless bid to persuade Ankara to push back Iranian forces in the country. Erdogan, in a surprise move this week, demoted and then accepted the resignation of Rear-Admiral Cihat Yayci, the popular architect of Turkey’s intervention in Libya and aggressive stance in the Eastern Mediterranean. Yayci is believed to be an anti-Western Eurasianist who advocates closer Turkish relations with Russia and China. Turkey’s ties to Russia are equally complex. While Turkey and Russia support opposing sides in Libya, they have so far been able to balance their interests in Syria. While Turkey and Russia support opposing sides in Libya, they have so far been able to balance their interests in Syria that sometimes coincide and sometimes diverge, leading earlier this year to clashes between Turkish and Syrian forces. In Libya, it was Turkish drones that allegedly destroyed a Russian-made Pantsir air defence system even as hundreds of Russian mercenaries working for the Wagner Group, with close ties to the Kremlin, reportedly support Haftar’s forces. If support for Haftar is Russia capitalizing on an opportunity to stoke a fire, UAE backing is part of Prince Mohammed’s determination to confront political Islam across the Middle East and North Africa. “Turkey and the UAE [are] engaged in a regional power struggle. They see it as a zero-sum game, in which there is no way for both sides to win. If one wins, the other one loses,” said Sinan Ulgen, a former Turkish diplomat and chairman of the Istanbul-based Center for Economics and Foreign Policy Studies (EDAM). It is a zero-sum-game played on proxy battlefields that bodes ill for those unwillingly sucked into it. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East

The bazaar -- home to almost 3,000 shops where more than 30,000 people work -- was closed on March 23 as part of measures to stem the spread of the novel coronavirus, which has killed over 4,300 people in Turkey

Tukrey: Istanbul's Grand Bazaar prepares to reopen

Turkey has unveiled a plan to revive tourism by giving travellers, resorts and employees seals of approval in a programme meant to jumpstart a crucial industry hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.

Turkey unveils plan to revive tourism

A startup in Turkey has developed a unit to disinfect shopping bags to curb the spread of coronavirus. The bags are sterilized in just a few seconds.

Turkey startup develops unit to disinfect shopping bags

#BoycottUAE was trending in Pakistan on Tuesday because Turkey said so!&nbsp;Pakistan's&nbsp;Twitter users jumped on Turkey's bandwagon as a result the hashtag started trending.

Turkey is growing more assertive and wants to stamp its authority in Libya.&nbsp;Some Turkey-based Twitter accounts decided to slam the UAE for its growing support to Libya. Some of the more creative ones&nbsp;began highlighting the strengthening relationship between India and the UAE.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-was-boycottuae-trending-in-pak-300019/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The hashtag soon reached Pakistan and netizens there didn't understand the trend much. All they saw was that this trend mentioned India. So they unleashed a tweet storm.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
UAE Always been the supporter of India and Modi govt so UAE has played a vital role in genocides of muslims in India.. 
Alhamdulillah we Pakistanis are glad to have brother country like Turkey.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottUAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottUAE</a> PRAY FOR INDIAN ,KASHMIRI MUSLIM <a href="https://t.co/jZp8pvBygN">pic.twitter.com/jZp8pvBygN</a>
— Muddasir Noor (@MudasirNoor8) <a href="https://twitter.com/MudasirNoor8/status/1263132835872944128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Turkey is boycotting UAE and we PAKISTAN are always with TURKEY ♥️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottUAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottUAE</a> <a href="https://t.co/iu3gzAR17v">pic.twitter.com/iu3gzAR17v</a>
— CH SAAD IBRAR (@CHSAADIBRAR1) <a href="https://twitter.com/CHSAADIBRAR1/status/1263133624662200321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pakistan's keyboard warriors ensured that hashtag boycott UAE becomes the top trend.&nbsp;What they forgot was their government's outstanding debts to the UAE. Pakistan owes billions of dollars to the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

Time and again it has sought financial assistance packages from the country.&nbsp;Besides China, UAE&nbsp;has been one of the main avenues for Pakistan to seek bailouts. A fact that has now turned into a national embarrassment for Pakistan.

A series of reality checks were given by social media influencers in Pakistan.&nbsp;Reality checks about how those trending this hashtag&nbsp;would themselves will not be able to repay this debt, even if they sell their body parts.

A debt which the Pak government too will find tough to repay. No matter how many embassy buildings it sells. A couple of years back Pakistan foreign ministry officials sold their embassy buildings in Jakarta and Tokyo.

These officials received kickbacks. The National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan has now revived a corruption case against these officials.

Pakistan foreign ministry is fighting an embezzlement case within the country with even the health ministry being accused of corruption.

A health minister to be precise, Dr Zafar Mirza, the special assistant to Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on health. The man who once smuggled 20 million masks out of Pakistan. PM Imran Khan has finally decided to curtail his authority to make financial decisions.

There has been another scam --- this time in the import of vitamin tablets. So, Dr Zafar Mirza has been instructed to send all summaries involving any financial matters to the prime minister henceforth.

But he won't be fired, Imran Khan is only adjusting corruption. Pakistan's own house is in mess.

Pakistan's keyboard warriors keep bringing to life more amounts of the mess.&nbsp;

#BoycottUAE was trending in Pakistan on Tuesday because Turkey said so! Pakistan's Twitter users jumped on Turkey's bandwagon as a result the hashtag started trending.

#BoycottUAE was trending in Pakistan on Tuesday because Turkey said so! Pakistan's Twitter users jumped on Turkey's bandwagon as a result the hashtag started trending. Turkey is growing more assertive and wants to stamp its authority in Libya. Some Turkey-based Twitter accounts decided to slam the UAE for its growing support to Libya. Some of the more creative ones began highlighting the strengthening relationship between India and the UAE. The hashtag soon reached Pakistan and netizens there didn't understand the trend much. All they saw was that this trend mentioned India. So they unleashed a tweet storm. UAE Always been the supporter of India and Modi govt so UAE has played a vital role in genocides of muslims in India.. Alhamdulillah we Pakistanis are glad to have brother country like Turkey.#BoycottUAE PRAY FOR INDIAN ,KASHMIRI MUSLIM pic.twitter.com/jZp8pvBygN — Muddasir Noor (@MudasirNoor8) May 20, 2020 × Turkey is boycotting UAE and we PAKISTAN are always with TURKEY ♥️#BoycottUAE pic.twitter.com/iu3gzAR17v — CH SAAD IBRAR (@CHSAADIBRAR1) May 20, 2020 × Pakistan's keyboard warriors ensured that hashtag boycott UAE becomes the top trend. What they forgot was their government's outstanding debts to the UAE. Pakistan owes billions of dollars to the United Arab Emirates. Time and again it has sought financial assistance packages from the country. Besides China, UAE has been one of the main avenues for Pakistan to seek bailouts. A fact that has now turned into a national embarrassment for Pakistan. A series of reality checks were given by social media influencers in Pakistan. Reality checks about how those trending this hashtag would themselves will not be able to repay this debt, even if they sell their body parts. A debt which the Pak government too will find tough to repay. No matter how many embassy buildings it sells. A couple of years back Pakistan foreign ministry officials sold their embassy buildings in Jakarta and Tokyo. These officials received kickbacks. The National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan has now revived a corruption case against these officials. Pakistan foreign ministry is fighting an embezzlement case within the country with even the health ministry being accused of corruption. A health minister to be precise, Dr Zafar Mirza, the special assistant to Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on health. The man who once smuggled 20 million masks out of Pakistan. PM Imran Khan has finally decided to curtail his authority to make financial decisions. There has been another scam --- this time in the import of vitamin tablets. So, Dr Zafar Mirza has been instructed to send all summaries involving any financial matters to the prime minister henceforth. But he won't be fired, Imran Khan is only adjusting corruption. Pakistan's own house is in mess. Pakistan's keyboard warriors keep bringing to life more amounts of the mess.

#BoycottUAE trends in Pakistan as netizens forget country's debts to UAE

Pakistan joined Turkey's bandwagon in demanding a boycott of United Arab Emirates, but Pakistani netizens forgot about the billions of dollars Pakistan owes to the U.A.E govt. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you what followed next.

Gravitas: Why was #BoycottUAE trending in Pak?

Turkey said on Sunday it would deem the forces of Libyan General Khalifa Haftar "legitimate targets" if their attacks on its interests and diplomatic missions in Libya persisted.

Turkey backs Libya`s internationally-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). It has signed a military cooperation deal with the GNA, which has been trying to fend off an offensive by Haftar`s forces.

Ankara views Haftar`s forces, which are backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Russia, as "putschists".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/social-distancing-benches-become-new-normal-in-turkey-297523">Also watch:&nbsp;Social distancing benches become new normal in Turkey</a>

"If our missions and our interests in Libya are targeted, we will deem Haftar`s forces legitimate targets," the foreign ministry said in a statement in which it also slammed the United Nations for not taking action over Haftar`s attacks.

"It is unacceptable for the United Nations to remain silent against this carnage any longer," it said. "Countries providing military, financial and political aid to Haftar are responsible for the suffering that the people of Libya are enduring and the chaos and instability the country is being dragged into."

It also said attacks on Tripoli`s Mitiga airport early on Saturday, part of an intensified barrage of artillery fire on the capital, were war crimes.

On Thursday, Turkey and Italy said the area around their embassies in Tripoli had been shelled.

Haftar`s Libyan National Army (LNA) has been fighting for more than a year to capture Tripoli from the GNA with frequent shelling of the capital. The United Nations said four fifths of the 130 civilian casualties recorded in the Libyan conflict in the first quarter of 2020 were caused by LNA ground fighting.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday the LNA was in a "period of regression" after NATO member Turkey threw its support behind the GNA.

"Even the efforts of countries that provide him (Haftar) with unlimited financial support and weapons will not be able to save him," Erdogan said.

Pro-GNA forces have retaken some territory from the LNA around Tripoli during an escalation of fighting in recent weeks with the help of Turkish-supplied drones.

The LNA says Turkey has established a military drone base at Mitiga, but the GNA denies this.

Turkey said on Sunday it would deem the forces of Libyan General Khalifa Haftar "legitimate targets" if their attacks on its interests and diplomatic missions in Libya persisted.

Turkey said on Sunday it would deem the forces of Libyan General Khalifa Haftar "legitimate targets" if their attacks on its interests and diplomatic missions in Libya persisted. Turkey backs Libya`s internationally-recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). It has signed a military cooperation deal with the GNA, which has been trying to fend off an offensive by Haftar`s forces. Ankara views Haftar`s forces, which are backed by the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Russia, as "putschists". Also watch: Social distancing benches become new normal in Turkey "If our missions and our interests in Libya are targeted, we will deem Haftar`s forces legitimate targets," the foreign ministry said in a statement in which it also slammed the United Nations for not taking action over Haftar`s attacks. "It is unacceptable for the United Nations to remain silent against this carnage any longer," it said. "Countries providing military, financial and political aid to Haftar are responsible for the suffering that the people of Libya are enduring and the chaos and instability the country is being dragged into." It also said attacks on Tripoli`s Mitiga airport early on Saturday, part of an intensified barrage of artillery fire on the capital, were war crimes. On Thursday, Turkey and Italy said the area around their embassies in Tripoli had been shelled. Haftar`s Libyan National Army (LNA) has been fighting for more than a year to capture Tripoli from the GNA with frequent shelling of the capital. The United Nations said four fifths of the 130 civilian casualties recorded in the Libyan conflict in the first quarter of 2020 were caused by LNA ground fighting. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday the LNA was in a "period of regression" after NATO member Turkey threw its support behind the GNA. "Even the efforts of countries that provide him (Haftar) with unlimited financial support and weapons will not be able to save him," Erdogan said. Pro-GNA forces have retaken some territory from the LNA around Tripoli during an escalation of fighting in recent weeks with the help of Turkish-supplied drones. The LNA says Turkey has established a military drone base at Mitiga, but the GNA denies this.

Turkey threatens to target Haftar's forces in Libya if attacks persist

Caravan sales have surged in Turkey as Turks gear up for summer season overshadowed by the coronavirus outbreak, CEO of Basoglu Caravan, a leading caravan manufacturer, said.

50% jump in caravans sales since March in Turkey

Turkey is heading for second recession in two years, Turkish lira hit a record low against dollar. Watch this video to know more.

Turkey heading for second recession in two years

Social distancing public benches were installed in the northwestern district of Kestel on Thursday (May 7) as Turkey sets out new social guidelines and business practices to prevent any resurgence of coronavirus outbreak.

Social distancing benches become new normal in Turkey

Turkey's top-flight football league, the Super Lig is set to resume on June 12. The league was suspended in March after coronavirus struck the country.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/german-bundesliga-set-to-resume-in-may-to-limit-economic-damage-297029">German Bundesliga set to resume in May to 'limit economic damage'</a>

Turkish Football Federation head Nihat Ozdemir in a conference said, "We have taken the decision to resume the (professional leagues) on June 12, 13 and 14."

According to Ozedmir, the federation's is aiming to conclude the season by July 26. He even hoped that Turkey would host the Champions League final in Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul as scheduled on May 30.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/halves-shorter-than-45-minutes-pfa-chief-gordon-taylor-hints-at-change-of-rules-as-premier-league-gears-up-for-return-296796" hreflang="en">Halves shorter than 45 minutes? PFA chief Gordon Taylor hints at change of rules as Premier League gears up for return</a>

The federation was criticised for insisting that games could continue behind the closed door and was eventually suspended by March 19. These matches will be played behind closed doors as the league resumes.&nbsp;

"Who knows, maybe we could play four out of the remaining eight weeks with an audience."

But Ozdemir insisted, "our priority is the health" of the players.

Earlier, the German government are set to allow football matches to take place after weeks of lockdown due to coronavirus lockdown. The matches will begin in May and will be played behind closed doors according to the draft government agreement.&nbsp;

According to Germany's top brass, restarting games for their first and second division will help "limit economic damage" for 36 clubs.&nbsp;

Turkey's top-flight football league, the Super Lig is set to resume on June 12. The league was suspended in March after coronavirus struck the country. Also read: German Bundesliga set to resume in May to 'limit economic damage' Turkish Football Federation head Nihat Ozdemir in a conference said, "We have taken the decision to resume the (professional leagues) on June 12, 13 and 14.

Turkey's top-flight football league, the Super Lig is set to resume on June 12. The league was suspended in March after coronavirus struck the country. Also read: German Bundesliga set to resume in May to 'limit economic damage' Turkish Football Federation head Nihat Ozdemir in a conference said, "We have taken the decision to resume the (professional leagues) on June 12, 13 and 14." According to Ozedmir, the federation's is aiming to conclude the season by July 26. He even hoped that Turkey would host the Champions League final in Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul as scheduled on May 30. Also read: Halves shorter than 45 minutes? PFA chief Gordon Taylor hints at change of rules as Premier League gears up for return The federation was criticised for insisting that games could continue behind the closed door and was eventually suspended by March 19. These matches will be played behind closed doors as the league resumes. "Who knows, maybe we could play four out of the remaining eight weeks with an audience." But Ozdemir insisted, "our priority is the health" of the players. Earlier, the German government are set to allow football matches to take place after weeks of lockdown due to coronavirus lockdown. The matches will begin in May and will be played behind closed doors according to the draft government agreement. According to Germany's top brass, restarting games for their first and second division will help "limit economic damage" for 36 clubs.

Football: Turkish Super Lig to resume in June, season to be concluded by July

Turkey has overtaken Iran, which was so far worst-affected coronavirus-hit country in the Middle East as positive cases rose to 82,329 on Saturday.

In the last 24 hours, 3,783 tested positive of coronavirus in Turkey, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-way-wuhan-lab-director-rejects-coronavirus-origins-from-its-facility-293358">'No way': Wuhan lab director rejects coronavirus origins from its facility</a>

The health minister also said more than 121 people had died in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 1,890. As many as 18,453 people have also recovered from COVID-19 in the country so far and the number of tests carried out have risen to 40,250 in the 24-hour period, Koca said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-1891-new-coronavirus-deaths-as-hundreds-protest-against-lockdown-293345">US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown</a>

The Turkish Interior Ministry said &nbsp;the travel restrictions between 31 cities have been extended for another 15 days starting at midnight on Saturday.&nbsp;

(With Reuters inputs)

Turkey has overtaken Iran, which was so far worst-affected coronavirus-hit country in the Middle East as positive cases rose to 82,329 on Saturday. In the last 24 hours, 3,783 tested positive of coronavirus in Turkey, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said.

Turkey has overtaken Iran, which was so far worst-affected coronavirus-hit country in the Middle East as positive cases rose to 82,329 on Saturday. In the last 24 hours, 3,783 tested positive of coronavirus in Turkey, Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said. Also read | 'No way': Wuhan lab director rejects coronavirus origins from its facility The health minister also said more than 121 people had died in the last 24 hours, taking the toll to 1,890. As many as 18,453 people have also recovered from COVID-19 in the country so far and the number of tests carried out have risen to 40,250 in the 24-hour period, Koca said. Also read | US: 1,891 new coronavirus deaths as hundreds protest against lockdown The Turkish Interior Ministry said the travel restrictions between 31 cities have been extended for another 15 days starting at midnight on Saturday. (With Reuters inputs)

Turkey overtakes Iran with over 82,000 coronavirus cases

As the world observes the International Day for Monuments and Sites, also known as World Heritage Day on 18 April, we bring you top 5 breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are worth visiting.

Top 5 World Heritage Sites to Visit

Turkey govt imposes lockdown in Istanbul, Ankara & 29 other provinces. In Turkey 47,000 people are infected so far & 1000 people died of COVID-19 crisis.

Turkey imposes lockdown in Istanbul, Ankara & 29 other provinces; 47,000 people infected of COVID-19

Turkey has charged 20 suspects including two former aides to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the 2018 murder of Riyadh critic Jamal Khashoggi, prosecutors said on Wednesday.

Prosecutors accuse Saudi Arabia's deputy intelligence chief Ahmed al-Assiri and the royal court's media czar Saud al-Qahtani of leading the operation and giving orders to a Saudi hit team.

Khashoggi, 59, a commentator who wrote for The Washington Post, was killed after he entered the Saudi consulate on October 2, 2018, to obtain paperwork for his wedding to Turkish fiancee Hatice Cengiz.

Turkey carried out its own investigation into the murder after being unhappy with Saudi explanations.

The Istanbul prosecutor's office said in a statement that Assiri and Qahtani were charged with "instigating the deliberate and monstrous killing, causing torment".

Eighteen other suspects -- including intelligence operative Maher Mutreb who frequently travelled with the crown prince on foreign tours, forensic expert Salah al-Tubaigy and Fahad al-Balawi, a member of the Saudi royal guard -- were also charged with "deliberately and monstrously killing, causing torment".

They face life in jail if convicted.

Mutreb, Tubaigy and Balawi had been among 11 on trial in Riyadh, during which sources said many of those accused defended themselves by saying they were carrying out Assiri's orders, describing him as the operation's "ringleader".

The Turkish prosecutor said a trial in absentia would be opened against the 20 suspects but did not give a date.

The prosecutor had already issued arrest warrants for the suspects, who are not in Turkey.

Khashoggi, a Saudi insider-turned-critic, was strangled and his body cut into pieces by a 15-man Saudi squad inside the consulate, according to Turkish officials.

His remains have never been found.

The CIA, UN special envoy Agnes Callamard and Turkey have directly linked Crown Prince Mohammed to the killing, a charge the kingdom vehemently denies.

Turkey has charged 20 suspects including two former aides to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the 2018 murder of Riyadh critic Jamal Khashoggi, prosecutors said on Wednesday.

Turkey has charged 20 suspects including two former aides to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the 2018 murder of Riyadh critic Jamal Khashoggi, prosecutors said on Wednesday. Prosecutors accuse Saudi Arabia's deputy intelligence chief Ahmed al-Assiri and the royal court's media czar Saud al-Qahtani of leading the operation and giving orders to a Saudi hit team. Khashoggi, 59, a commentator who wrote for The Washington Post, was killed after he entered the Saudi consulate on October 2, 2018, to obtain paperwork for his wedding to Turkish fiancee Hatice Cengiz. Turkey carried out its own investigation into the murder after being unhappy with Saudi explanations. The Istanbul prosecutor's office said in a statement that Assiri and Qahtani were charged with "instigating the deliberate and monstrous killing, causing torment". Eighteen other suspects -- including intelligence operative Maher Mutreb who frequently travelled with the crown prince on foreign tours, forensic expert Salah al-Tubaigy and Fahad al-Balawi, a member of the Saudi royal guard -- were also charged with "deliberately and monstrously killing, causing torment". They face life in jail if convicted. Mutreb, Tubaigy and Balawi had been among 11 on trial in Riyadh, during which sources said many of those accused defended themselves by saying they were carrying out Assiri's orders, describing him as the operation's "ringleader". The Turkish prosecutor said a trial in absentia would be opened against the 20 suspects but did not give a date. The prosecutor had already issued arrest warrants for the suspects, who are not in Turkey. Khashoggi, a Saudi insider-turned-critic, was strangled and his body cut into pieces by a 15-man Saudi squad inside the consulate, according to Turkish officials. His remains have never been found. The CIA, UN special envoy Agnes Callamard and Turkey have directly linked Crown Prince Mohammed to the killing, a charge the kingdom vehemently denies.

Turkey charges 20 Saudis over Khashoggi murder

On Monday, India decided to ban arrivals from European countries, the UK and Turkey. The decision also affects the Indian citizens in these countries. How does the government plan to help them? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Wuhan Coronavirus: Why India banned arrivals from Europe

The European Union has said that it will pay €2000 as an aid to every migrant lodging in overcrowded camps in Greece to ensure that they go back home.

The scheme was announced by EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson in Athens on Thursday.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-migrant-crisis-tense-situation-on-the-greek-turkish-border-285032">Greece migrant crisis: Tense situation on the Greek-Turkish border</a>

It is a temporary scheme which is open for one month and it is valid only for migrants who arrived prior January 1.

However, 5,000 migrants will be eligible for ''voluntary return''.

Hundreds of migrants and refugees have reached Greek islands near Turkey by boat this month, &nbsp;this has increased the pressure on struggling reception centres.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrants-head-to-greece-as-turkey-opens-floodgates-283547">Migrants head to Greece as Turkey opens floodgates</a>

The camps on those islands already have nearly 42,000 asylum seekers, though they were designed for about 6,000.

According to Stephan Oberreit, head of an aid agency Medecins Sans Frontieres in Greece, "men, women and children are living in horrific conditions in these overcrowded centres, in constant fear and with very basic access to services like toilets, showers, electricity".

However, it is not clear how many would qualify for refugee status.

Many of the migrants are Syrians fleeing the civil war, but there are also Afghans, Pakistanis and West Africans.&nbsp;

European Union officials on had promised more cash for Greece during a visit to its border with Turkey which tens of thousands of migrants and refugees were trying breach.

The European Union has said that it will pay €2000 as an aid to every migrant lodging in overcrowded camps in Greece to ensure that they go back home. The scheme was announced by EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson in Athens on Thursday.

The European Union has said that it will pay €2000 as an aid to every migrant lodging in overcrowded camps in Greece to ensure that they go back home. The scheme was announced by EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson in Athens on Thursday. Also read: Greece migrant crisis: Tense situation on the Greek-Turkish border It is a temporary scheme which is open for one month and it is valid only for migrants who arrived prior January 1. However, 5,000 migrants will be eligible for ''voluntary return''. Hundreds of migrants and refugees have reached Greek islands near Turkey by boat this month, this has increased the pressure on struggling reception centres. Also read: Migrants head to Greece as Turkey opens floodgates The camps on those islands already have nearly 42,000 asylum seekers, though they were designed for about 6,000. According to Stephan Oberreit, head of an aid agency Medecins Sans Frontieres in Greece, "men, women and children are living in horrific conditions in these overcrowded centres, in constant fear and with very basic access to services like toilets, showers, electricity". However, it is not clear how many would qualify for refugee status. Many of the migrants are Syrians fleeing the civil war, but there are also Afghans, Pakistanis and West Africans. European Union officials on had promised more cash for Greece during a visit to its border with Turkey which tens of thousands of migrants and refugees were trying breach.

European Union announces €2000 as aid to migrants in Greece to return home

Turkey on Wednesday confirmed the first case of coronavirus, becoming the last major economy to report an outbreak after taking what the World Health Organization (WHO) described as "vigilant, cautious" measures to delay the disease.

Turkey on Wednesday confirmed the first case of coronavirus, becoming the last major economy to report an outbreak after taking what the World Health Organization (WHO) described as "vigilant, cautious" measures to delay the disease. Health Minister Fahrettin Koca confirmed early on Wednesday that a Turkish man had been isolated after being diagnosed with the virus following high fever and a cough. "This is the first case confirmed in our country. The findings show the diagnosis of coronavirus was made early and if the virus has spread it is limited," he told a news conference. "Our country is prepared for this. All measures to prevent the spread (of the virus) have been taken," he said, referring to comprehensive screening and testing programmes. Until the announcement, Turkey - a member of the Group of 20 biggest global economies and a major transit hub between Europe, Asia and Africa - had officially managed to avoid an outbreak, though all its neighbours except war-ravaged Syria had reported cases. Iran has an especially high number of cases. In an interview hours before the announcement of the first case, Irshad Shaikh, the WHO Health Security Program Leader in Turkey, praised Ankara's preventative measures and good organisation, saying it had been "very lucky, vigilant and cautious". Turkey's tourism sector, which accounts for about 13% of its economy, stepped up calls on the government for financial help to deal with the expected negative impact of the outbreak. Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy said a support package for the sector would be announced within the week. He added Turkey would move to reduce tourist demand until the end of April, and hotels had been advised to postpone summer openings. The Tourism Evaluation Council said it suggested financial support for tour operators and airlines, reductions in utilities costs, and measures to increase bookings. It added the sector is "starting to be negatively impacted". Medical firms have been told to prioritise local demand, the government said.

Turkey declares first coronavirus case, praised by WHO for vigilance

Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister

Postponing or cancelling the Tokyo Olympics is "inconceivable", Japan's Olympic minister said as the new coronavirus outbreak raises fears the event could be scrapped.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cancelling-tokyo-olympics-inconceivable-japan-minister-285590"> Read More</a>

COVID-19: Thailand restricts visitor visas to limit virus spread

Thailand will temporarily suspend issuing visas on arrival to visitors from 19 countries and territories, including China, to contain the spread of the coronavirus, its interior minister said on Wednesday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-thailand-restricts-visitor-visas-to-limit-virus-spread-285602">Read More</a>

'No difference between what the Nazis did': Turkey President Erdogan hits out at Greece

"We will not just retaliate (against) even the smallest attack here (in Idlib), we will give a much harsher response," the Turkey president told lawmakers in Parliament, adding, "Turkish soldiers, the sons of this nation, are never in need of the cruel Assad's protection, so let that be known." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-difference-between-what-the-nazis-did-turkey-president-erdogan-hits-out-at-greece-285620">Read More</a>

People don't need college degree to work at Tesla: Elon Musk

A college degree is still not a necessity to work in Tesla according to its CEO, Elon Musk. He had previously said the same statement in his 2014 interview with the German automotive publication Auto Bild.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-dont-need-college-degree-to-work-at-tesla-elon-musk-285611"> Read More</a>

Second person declared cured of HIV, with no trace of infection in 30 months

Adam Castillejo — the now 40-year-old "London Patient" — was first diagnosed with HIV in 2003, according to The New York Times. He had stopped undergoing anti-retroviral therapy more than 30 months ago and revealed his identity on Monday (March 9). <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/second-person-declared-cured-of-hiv-with-no-trace-of-infection-in-30-months-285609">Read More</a>

Turkey urges Russia to address Syria truce violations

Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-urges-russia-to-address-syria-truce-violations-285597">Read More</a>

Malaysian PM calls on Mahathir to endorse new government

Malaysia's new prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, extended an olive branch on Wednesday to the leader he recently replaced, veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad, calling on him to endorse the new government after weeks of political tension. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-calls-on-mahathir-to-endorse-new-government-285594">Read More</a>

Child sex conviction 'wrong', says lawyers of ex- Vatican treasurer Pell

Lawyers for disgraced ex-Vatican treasurer and Cardinal George Pell claimed that he remains behind bars for child sex abuse based on "wrong" and "egregious" legal decisions, as they concluded a last-ditch appeal in Australia's top court. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/child-sex-conviction-wrong-says-lawyers-of-ex-vatican-treasurer-pell-285592">Read More</a>

Netanyahu rival Benny Gantz set for official protection after threats

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's challenger Benny Gantz is to receive state protection following online threats, a domestic security agency announced on Tuesday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-rival-benny-gantz-set-for-official-protection-after-threats-285589">Read More</a>

PAF's F-16 jet crashes in Islamabad during Pakistan Day parade rehearsals

An F-16 fighter jet belonging to the Pakistan Air Force crashed in Islamabad on Wednesday while carrying out rehearsals for the country's Republic Day parade to be held on March 23.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pafs-f-16-jet-crashes-in-islamabad-during-pakistan-day-parade-rehearsals-285562"> Read More</a>

Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister Postponing or cancelling the Tokyo Olympics is "inconceivable", Japan's Olympic minister said as the new coronavirus outbreak raises fears the event could be scrapped.

Cancelling Tokyo Olympics 'inconceivable': Japan minister Postponing or cancelling the Tokyo Olympics is "inconceivable", Japan's Olympic minister said as the new coronavirus outbreak raises fears the event could be scrapped. Read More COVID-19: Thailand restricts visitor visas to limit virus spread Thailand will temporarily suspend issuing visas on arrival to visitors from 19 countries and territories, including China, to contain the spread of the coronavirus, its interior minister said on Wednesday. Read More 'No difference between what the Nazis did': Turkey President Erdogan hits out at Greece "We will not just retaliate (against) even the smallest attack here (in Idlib), we will give a much harsher response," the Turkey president told lawmakers in Parliament, adding, "Turkish soldiers, the sons of this nation, are never in need of the cruel Assad's protection, so let that be known." Read More People don't need college degree to work at Tesla: Elon Musk A college degree is still not a necessity to work in Tesla according to its CEO, Elon Musk. He had previously said the same statement in his 2014 interview with the German automotive publication Auto Bild. Read More Second person declared cured of HIV, with no trace of infection in 30 months Adam Castillejo — the now 40-year-old "London Patient" — was first diagnosed with HIV in 2003, according to The New York Times. He had stopped undergoing anti-retroviral therapy more than 30 months ago and revealed his identity on Monday (March 9). Read More Turkey urges Russia to address Syria truce violations Turkey urged Russia on Wednesday to deal with alleged violations of a week-old ceasefire by Syrian government forces in Idlib, the last bastion of resistance to President Bashar al-Assad. Read More Malaysian PM calls on Mahathir to endorse new government Malaysia's new prime minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, extended an olive branch on Wednesday to the leader he recently replaced, veteran politician Mahathir Mohamad, calling on him to endorse the new government after weeks of political tension. Read More Child sex conviction 'wrong', says lawyers of ex- Vatican treasurer Pell Lawyers for disgraced ex-Vatican treasurer and Cardinal George Pell claimed that he remains behind bars for child sex abuse based on "wrong" and "egregious" legal decisions, as they concluded a last-ditch appeal in Australia's top court. Read More Netanyahu rival Benny Gantz set for official protection after threats Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's challenger Benny Gantz is to receive state protection following online threats, a domestic security agency announced on Tuesday. Read More PAF's F-16 jet crashes in Islamabad during Pakistan Day parade rehearsals An F-16 fighter jet belonging to the Pakistan Air Force crashed in Islamabad on Wednesday while carrying out rehearsals for the country's Republic Day parade to be held on March 23. Read More

Top 10 world news today: Coronavirus cloud on Tokyo Olympics, Pakistan Air Force F-16 jet crashes and more!

turkey

Turkey, News on Turkey, stories on Turkey, articles on Turkey, Turkey stories at Wion, Turkey news, Turkey latest news