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Is it safe to travel to Türkiye right now? Latest travel advice

Here is everything we know about travelling to Türkiye amidst the conflict in Israel

Türkiye’s abundance of cultural heritage, fascinating historical sites, great architecture, food and people have made it a go-to holiday destination for decades. Istanbul is an incredibly vibrant city, which straddles two continents, but the country is also known for its beautiful landscape and coastlines.

However, its proximity to the continuing conflict in Israel , which erupted on Saturday October 7, is causing concern about how safe it is to travel to this region of the world. Here is everything we know about travelling to Türkiye amidst the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Is it safe to travel to Türkiye at the moment?

Türkiye has not been impacted by the conflict in Israel. It depends on where in the country you’re travelling, but the majority of destinations in Türkiye are safe and tourist-friendly. Certain areas have experienced wildfires over the summer, and the UK Foreign Office estimates that the terrorist threat is ‘very high’. However, travelling to Türkiye is not advised against.

How about Antalya?

A city with gorgeous beaches which is full of ancient Greek and Roman remnants, Antalya is one of Türkiye’s fastest-growing tourist destinations.

The province experienced wildfires earlier this year, which began in the forests of Kemer. However, the region has been considered a safe place to travel since the fires were brought under control.

Is it safe to travel to Istanbul?

There is currently no official advice stating that it is unsafe to travel to Istanbul.

What is the UK Foreign Office saying?

The UK Foreign Office advises against all travel to anywhere within 10km of the border with Syria. It also advises against all but essential travel with Sirnak (city) and Hakkari (province).

Travellers are free to visit the rest of Türkiye, but the advice is to remain vigilant. Political protests can break out unexpectedly and the country is considered to have a ‘very high’ threat of terrorist attacks. The webpage also states that Türkiye is prone to experiencing wildfires during the summer, and recommends taking care when driving through woodland areas.

What about the Turkey Travel Advisory?

The advice from the Turkey Travel Advisory is similar to that of the UK Foreign Office. It marks Sirnak, Hakkari and anywhere within 10 km of the Syrian Border as a level four, which means ‘do not travel’.

Advice about the rest of Türkiye encourages travellers to stay alert, avoid demonstrations and crowds, and to monitor local media for up-to-date information. You can read more about the Turkey Travel Advisory’s recommendations on their webpage.

How far is Türkiye from Israel?

Türkiye is 879 km from Israel, or about an hour and a half flight. Türkiye is north of Israel, and the two countries do not share a border.

Is travel to other countries near Israel safe?

The Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to countries bordering Israel, but advice may change quickly as the violence escalates.

Read more about the latest travel advice for Israel and Egypt and Jordan .

For more information on how to help those affected by the conflict, you can read our guide on where to donate here .

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.

Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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MFA issues travel notice for Turkey, urges Singaporeans to reconsider travelling to Ankara, Istanbul

SINGAPORE - Singaporeans have been advised to reconsider the need for non-essential travel to Ankara and Istanbul in the wake of the recent series of terror attacks in Turkey, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in its latest travel notice.

Turkey has been hit by a series of terror attacks in Ankara and Istanbul from January to June this year.

On June 28, Istanbul Ataturk Airport was attacked by three suicide bombers, which resulted in at least 42 deaths and many injured. On June 7, a car bomb in Istanbul killed 11 people.

In addition to the terror attacks, there was an attempted military coup on July 15, which resulted in at least 232 deaths and 1,400 injured.

"Given these developments, Singaporeans should reconsider the need for non-essential travel to Ankara and Istanbul at this point in time," MFA said in its notice issued on Wednesday (July 20).

Singaporeans are also advised to avoid travel to the border regions between Turkey and Syria due to the unpredictable security situation associated with the ongoing conflict in Syria, it added.

MFA said Singaporeans travelling to or residing in Turkey should take all necessary precautions for their personal safety, including monitoring the local news and heeding the instructions of the local authorities.

It also urged Singaporeans to remain vigilant when visiting popular tourist sites and where possible, avoid crowded areas, public gatherings and places known for demonstrations.

MFA also advised Singaporeans to purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.

Singaporeans are strongly encouraged to eRegister with MFA so that they can be contacted should the need arise.

Those in need of urgent consular assistance may contact the Singapore Embassy in Ankara or the MFA Duty Office (24-hours) at:

Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Ankara Yildizevler Mahallesi 719, Sokak No 5, Cankaya Ankara 06550 Tel: + 90 530 066 7311 Email: [email protected]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office (24 hours) Tanglin, Singapore 248163 Tel: +65 6379 8800 / 8855 Email: [email protected]

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How to travel safely and securely in Turkey

Turkey is a popular destination for Nordic travellers. We have gathered some good advice for travellers' safety in Turkey.

Updated May 2022

Follow the travel advice of your Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Turkey Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs – www.um.dk Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs – www.formin.finland.fi Icelandic Ministry of Foreign Affairs – www.mfa.is Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – www.regeringen.no Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs – www.regeringen.se

We also recommend that you sign up on the travel data base of your local Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in order to be informed and warned by the authorities if necessary.

A winter season to spread one’s wings

Significant changes for air ambulances in the nordic countries.

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Passports, travel and living abroad
Travel abroad
Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Border with Syria

FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria.

Sirnak (city)

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Sirnak (city).

Hakkari province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Hakkari province.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

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The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ireland

Our Ministers

Please be advised that the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Travel Advice is now available at Ireland.ie/travel. Travel Advice on this webpage is no longer being updated. To ensure you receive the latest Travel Advice for Türkiye (Turkey) , please see Ireland.ie .

Türkiye (Turkey)

If you’re travelling to Türkiye (Turkey), our travel advice and updates give you practical tips and useful information.

Security Status

Normal precautions
High degree of caution
Avoid non-essential travel
Do not travel

Safety and Security

Local laws and customs, additional information, embassy contact, security status.

High Degree of Caution

General Travel Advice

Our general advice to Irish citizens in Türkiye or those who intend to travel to Türkiye is to exercise a high degree of caution at all times. You should avoid all protests and demonstrations and minimise time spent in crowded areas, particularly those frequented by foreigners, follow local security advice, and monitor local media. You should also devise and/or review a personal security plan.

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly advises against all travel within 10 kilometres of the border between Türkiye and Syria and to Diyarbakir city.

The Department advises against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of the provinces of Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Şanliurfa and Sirnak.

In addition, the Department recommend s against all but essential travel to all areas of Siirt, Tunceli and Hakkari provinces.

Please also be aware that the police in Türkiye can take measures such as the use of tear gas to control protesters. Ensure you have a charged mobile phone at all times. Please carry ID / passport / visa at all times, presenting to security officers if requested (and keep a copy to hand also).

Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Türkiye for stays of up to 90 days within any 180 day period.

A valid passport is required for travel to Türkiye. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 6 months. Passport cards cannot be used and you will not be permitted to enter the country. Dual citizens (including children) should ensure that they also carry a valid Irish passport to ensure no issues are encountered when travelling back to Ireland.)

Holders of a ‘Travel Document’ issued by Ireland (a ‘Travel Document’ is an official document which assists qualifying non-Irish nationals who are resident in Ireland to travel) require Turkish visas prior to travel, and should contact the Turkish Embassy in Dublin. This includes children or family members of Irish citizens who are not themselves Irish citizens. Failure to produce a visa on arrival in Türkiye will result in refusal to grant entry to the country by border police.

For more information on visas, passports and tourist residence permit requirements, please see the Additional Information tab.

Medical, Dental, and Cosmetic Procedures

Irish citizens travel to Türkiye each year for the purpose of medical services, including surgical, dental and cosmetic procedures. Individuals should be aware that all surgery contains an element of risk and the Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of citizens who have experienced complications in the course of their treatment in Türkiye, and a number who have died. Irish citizens considering medical treatment abroad are advised to carry out independent research regarding the credentials of any potential service provider should inform themselves appropriately before committing to any procedure abroad. Further information can be found on the Health tab.

Visitors to Türkiye are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what's going on by monitoring local news and social media.

Citizens can also follow the Embassy on social media (Twitter @IrlEmbAnkara and Facebook ) to ensure access to relevant updates and alerts.

Emergency Assistance

The best help is often close at hand so if you have problems, try talking to your local contacts, tour operator representative or hotel management.

You can contact the emergency services in Türkiye by dialling 112.

Our tips for Safe Travels:

Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all your planned activities.
Register your details with us so that we can contact you quickly if there’s an unforeseen crisis like a natural disaster or a family emergency.
Follow us on twitter @dfatravelwise for the latest travel updates.
Read our ‘Know Before You Go’ guide.

Safety and security

Earthquakes

On 6 February 2023, two significant earthquakes hit Southeast Anatolia, strongly affecting the provinces of Kahramanmaraş, Kilis, Diyarbakır, Adana, Osmaniye, Gaziantep, Şanlırurfa, Adıyaman, Malatya and Hatay. There has been significant structural damage across the region leading to casualties. Citizens should avoid travelling to the affected provinces. Citizens currently in these areas should heed the instructions of the Turkish authorities. Roads, communications networks and airports may be badly disrupted.

The threat from terrorism in Türkiye remains high, with bomb attacks in major Turkish cities, including Istanbul and Ankara. Although some attacks have targeted security forces, there have also been random attacks in areas frequented by tourists. The situation in the south-east of the country is particularly serious and these areas should be avoided (see below).

Terrorist attacks are, by their nature, random and indiscriminate and cannot be predicted in advance. You are advised to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in public places that are frequented by foreigners.

Political unrest

The political situation in Türkiye is reasonably stable but always keep yourself informed of what's going on around you by monitoring local media and staying in contact with your hotel or tour organiser.

We strongly advise against all travel within 10 kilometres of the border between Türkiye and Syria and to Diyarbakir city. We advise against all but essential travel to the remaining areas of provinces of Diyarbakir, Gaziantep, Hatay, Kilis, Mardin, Şanliurfa, and Sirnak. In addition, we recommend against all but essential travel to the Siirt, Tunceli and Hakkari provinces.

While areas popular with Irish travellers are located at a substantial distance from these regions, vigilance is also required in tourist areas in major cities.

Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, which can turn confrontational. The police will take measures such as the use of tear gas to control protesters. Stay away from military sites – taking photos of, or near, military or security installations and some public buildings, may be prohibited.

Violent crime against tourists in Türkiye is rare but street robbery and pickpocketing are common in the major tourist areas of Istanbul. The Embassy in Ankara has also been made aware of a number of cases of tourists being intimidated into paying extortionate bills at bars and nightclubs in Istanbul. Remain vigilant when frequenting such establishments. There have been a number of cases of theft from apartments and cars in some of the coastal resorts, as well as in Istanbul and Ankara. Take heed of your local tour operator representative's advice, and wherever you are, take sensible precautions.

Do not carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
Do not carry your passport unless absolutely necessary, but carry a copy of it in case you are stopped by police. Also leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home. Ensure that at least one family member in Ireland is aware of your location and travel plans in Türkiye, should an emergency arise communications by email or mobile phone can be difficult.
Avoid showing large sums of money in public and don't use ATMs after dark, especially if you are alone. Check no one has followed you after conducting your business.
Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places such as internet cafes, train and bus stations.
Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.
Do not leave valuables, or bags which may appear to contain valuables, visible in parked cars.

Reporting a crime

If you are a victim of a crime while in Türkiye, report it to the local police immediately. You can also contact the Embassy of Ireland, Ankara for consular assistance.

If you're planning to drive in Türkiye, you should be careful. While the standard of roads in Türkiye has greatly improved in recent years, traffic accidents are common, particularly at night. Road safety standards are low, particularly outside towns and cities. Accidents are frequent and are often caused by poor driving, badly maintained vehicles and inadequate lighting. Pedestrians should also exercise caution at all times, including at zebra crossings, for example, as drivers rarely stop to allow pedestrians to cross.

If you want to drive:

Bring your full Irish driving licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against the law and you risk being detained, fined or banned from driving if caught.
Be aware of Türkiye's traffic laws, such as speed limits.
Keep your vehicle doors locked and your bags kept out of sight to prevent opportunistic bag-snatching if you are stopped at traffic lights.

Hiring a vehicle

If you are hiring a vehicle, we advise you not to hand over your passport as a form of security. If you are allowing your passport to be photocopied, keep it in your sight at all times.

Check that you have adequate insurance and read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

In Istanbul, avoid hailing taxis on the street and only use taxis ordered by your hotel or those ordered directly from a taxi kiosk.

Türkiye can experience bush and forest fires in the warmer months, including in regions popular with tourists. You should heed risk warnings and be vigilant if travelling in forested areas during the summer. If there is a forest fire near where you are staying, you should keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of the Turkish authorities.

Emergency services can be contacted by dialling 112 .

Rainstorms can cause flooding and landslides in Türkiye, including in the summer months. This can create risks to safety, as well as impeding travel and reducing the availability of essential services. If you are in an affected area, you should follow the advice of the local authorities.

Extreme sports

If you participate in extreme sports (including hot-air ballooning), satisfy yourself that adequate safety precautions are in place. There have been a number of hot-air ballooning accidents in Cappadocia in the past, which have led to a number of fatalities. There have also been a number of fatalities and serious injuries in paragliding accidents in the resorts of Oludeniz and Fethiye. Only use reputable operators and insist on training before use. Make sure your travel insurance covers you for all the activities you want to undertake, as often they are excluded in standard policies

Stray street dogs are common in most towns and cities in Türkiye. Local authorities take action to control and manage numbers but packs congregate in parks and wastelands. While they are largely docile, this may not always be the case. Avoid approaching these dogs but if bitten, seek immediate medical advice as rabies and other animal borne diseases are present in Türkiye.

Local laws and customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or even illegal.

Local customs

Türkiye is a secular state with a majority Muslim population. You should respect local traditions, customs, and religions, which can vary regionally. Normally, the dress code in Türkiye is the same as in Europe, however, you should dress modestly if visiting a mosque or a religious shrine (long trousers or dress and women should wear a headscarf). Alcohol is widely available but public drunkenness is frowned upon.

Illegal drugs

Türkiye has strict laws against the use, possession or trafficking of illegal drugs. If you are convicted of any of these offences, you can expect to receive a heavy fine and a prison sentence of up to 15 years. The Embassy maintains a list of English-speaking lawyers, but cannot get involved in legal cases.

If you need urgent health treatment during your stay, you should dial 112 to contact the emergency health services

Irish citizens considering treatment in Türkiye are advised to carry out independent research regarding the credentials of any potential service provider. A list of accredited facilities is available on the Health Services General Directorate website .

It is essential that appropriate travel insurance is in place. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) cannot be used in Türkiye.

Individuals should inform themselves of both the risks and benefits of any procedures, and are advised to discuss their plans carefully with their own doctor, dentist and/or hospital specialist before committing to any procedure abroad. They should also read the contract/agreement in full and ensure that they understand their plan of care.

Individuals should also familiarise themselves with any follow-up treatment or process that may be required. It may be helpful to request a discharge summary in English from the treating doctor, dentist, or medical professionals. Some airlines may request a Fit to Fly certificate on boarding and this should also be sought prior to discharge.

Individuals should also be aware that they may encounter communication difficulties in a non-English speaking environment.

The Embassy cannot provide financial or legal assistance to individuals who experience difficulty following medical, dental or cosmetic treatment abroad.

Travel Insurance

The Department of Foreign Affairs cannot pay for emergency medical repatriation, repatriation of remains, or for expenses as a result of a personal emergency while you are abroad. These costs may be covered if you purchase appropriate travel insurance, however the Embassy of Ireland in Ankara is unable to mediate in the event of any disputes with insurance companies which may arise.

Buying comprehensive travel insurance can save you and your family a lot of money if something goes wrong. It will also ensure that you get the medical attention you need, when you need it. Hospital bills can quickly run into thousands of euro, and a medical evacuation back to Ireland can cost thousands more.

Not all policies are the same, and the cheapest one might be cheap for a reason. Make sure your policy covers all the activities you plan to do on your trip. Insurance Ireland recommend that you purchase a policy that provides a minimum medical cover of €1 million.

The Turkish health system is well developed and adept to working with insurance companies, particularly in areas frequented by tourists.

If you test positive for COVID-19 while in Türkiye, you must self-isolate for 7 days. The isolation automatically ends after 7 days unless you have symptoms. You may be tested on the fifth day, and if the result is negative the isolation ends. Close contacts who are fully vaccinated are not required to self-isolate.

Mental Health

Please be aware that the standard of mental healthcare in Türkiye differs from Ireland. It can be difficult to access appropriate medical facilities that have mental healthcare professionals who speak English. Pre-existing mental health issues should be declared when purchasing travel insurance as otherwise the policy may not cover treatment or hospital costs.

Please consult your doctor before travelling. Ensure you have sufficient amount of medication for your trip, along with an up-to-date prescription or letter from your doctor. Be aware that heat and hot weather can impact mental health and the effectiveness of certain medication.

If you become concerned for your mental health (or the mental health of a friend / family member) while in Türkiye please contact the Embassy (+90 312 4591000) or the Consular Assistance team in Dublin (+353 1 408 2000). We can direct you to local medical facilities and help you make contact with friends / family in Türkiye or Ireland. Please note the Embassy cannot provide medical advice or funds to return home.

Emergency expenses

Check your insurance policy to see if it covers the following:

All medical care abroad, including evacuation by air ambulance, or other emergency procedures, and any other costs associated with an unexpected longer stay.
Your entire trip, from departure to return. Consider an annual multi-trip policy if you’re making more than one trip in the year.
24-hour emergency service and assistance.
Personal liability cover (in case you’re sued for causing injury or damaging property).
Lost and stolen possessions.
Cancellation and curtailment.
Any extra activities you intend to do that are excluded from standard policies (e.g. water sport activities such as jet skiing or other extreme sports).

There have been water-quality issues in Türkiye and visitors are advised to use bottled water whenever possible.

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.

There is no visa requirement for Irish citizens coming to Türkiye for touristic purposes (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). Irish citizens travelling to Türkiye for other purposes should contact their nearest Turkish Embassy in advance of their visit to clarify their visa requirements. Contact details for the Turkish Embassy in Dublin are available here .

Six-month passport validity is required from the date of entry to Türkiye. Passport cards cannot be used to travel to Türkiye. Please check your passport in plenty of time before travel as you may be refused entry. The Embassy cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet the entry requirements. If your passport needs to be renewed, please use our Online Passport Renewal System .

Residence permit

If you want to study, work or stay beyond 90 days in Türkiye you must apply for the appropriate visa and/or residence permit from the Turkish authorities. Residence permits for Irish citizens are free of charge, though you have to pay for the residence permit booklet. Applications and requests for further information should be directed towards your local branch of the Directorate General of Migration Management. Residence permits are not free of charge for all foreign nationals, so you may find that you have to insist that this is the case when you apply for a permit.

Overstaying your visa

Overstaying your visa can result in heavy fines and/or a ban on re-entering Türkiye for up to five years, depending on the length of the overstay, and you’ll need to apply for a visa from the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate before returning to Türkiye. Departing Türkiye without paying the relevant fine will lead to an automatic five year ban on re-entry.

Visa requirements for Irish citizens are a matter for the Turkish immigration authorities and the Irish Embassy cannot intervene in individual cases relating to visas and overstays.

Travelling with children

If you are leaving Türkiye with a child who is a dual Irish-Turkish national, you may be asked to show the Turkish immigration authorities evidence that the Turkish parent has given permission for the child to travel.

Buying property

If you’re intending to buy property in Türkiye, we strongly advise you to consult an independent legal advisor from the beginning of the process. Procedures in relation to property purchases differ significantly from those in Ireland and investors are advised to research the matter thoroughly before entering into any agreement.

For general advice on property purchases in Türkiye, check the Turkish Ministry for Foreign Affairs Guidance for Foreigners .

Embassy contact

Please note that if you require assistance in the case of an emergency while the Embassy is closed, contact the main Embassy number, 00 90 312 4591000, and leave a message on the Duty Officer voice mailbox. This mailbox will be monitored regularly. Please have an English speaker leave the initial message.

Embassy of Ireland Ugur Mumcu Caddesi No.88 MNG Binasi B Blok Kat 3 Gaziosmanpasa Ankara 06700 Türkiye

Tel: +90 312 459 1000 Fax: +90 312 446 8061

Monday to Friday 09:00-13:00 and 14:00-17:00

Honorary Consulate Contact

Mr. Mehmet Seçkin Arkan Honorary Consul of Ireland Elmali Mah.Subasi Cad. 13. Sk. Balcilar Is Mrk.No:10/5 07040 Muratpasa Antalya Türkiye

Tel: +90 242 247 8945 Fax: +90 242 243 0613

Email: Email us

Mr Bulent Akgerman Honorary Consul of Ireland Sheit Fethi Bey cad. No.55k. 18 Heris Tower Pasaport 35210 Izmir Türkiye

Tel: + 90 232 402 5353 Fax: + 90 232 445 9696

Get travel and medical insurance

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check any exclusions and, in particular, that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

Contacting us

Contact our Embassy in Ankara or our Honorary Consuls in Izmir and Antalya for assistance.

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Türkiye travel advice

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Last updated: April 15, 2024 14:40 ET

Border region with Syria - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to within 10 km of the border with Syria, due to a deteriorating security situation.

Earthquake-affected provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

Kahramanmaraş

Southeastern provinces - Avoid non-essential travel

Bingöl

Protests related to the situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip

Since October 17, 2023, protests have been taking place throughout Türkiye due to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Some protesters have targeted and vandalized popular Western-branded businesses and foreign diplomatic missions in Ankara, Istanbul and Adana, especially those of the United States and Israel. The protests have led to confrontations between protesters and security forces, road closures and traffic disruptions.

Additional protests at various locations cannot be ruled out and could pose a risk to your safety, regardless of your nationality.

Turkish authorities have employed enhanced measures to respond to demonstrations, including:

deploying additional security forces
using crowd dispersal methods

If you are near an affected area:

exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times
expect heightened security measures
avoid all demonstrations and gatherings
follow the instructions of local authorities
plan and use alternative routes

Armed attacks

Turkish authorities remain on alert following armed attacks in Istanbul at the Italian Santa Maria Catholic Church on January 28, 2024 and the Caglayan Courthouse on February 6, 2024.

If you are in Istanbul, you should:

exercise increased caution
expect a heightened security presence
monitor local media

Border with Syria

Extremist groups have carried out attacks at border crossings and other locations in Syria close to the Turkish border. The Turkish government has declared some areas in villages along the border with Syria special security zones as part of cross-border military operations. Expect a heightened military presence and movement restrictions in these areas.

The security situation remains unpredictable.

Exercise extreme caution
Review your security measures regularly
Monitor these events very closely

Southeast region

Terrorist groups have launched deadly terrorist attacks against Turkish security personnel in several cities and regions in the south and southeast of the country.

Remain vigilant
Follow the instructions of local authorities
Monitor local and international media

There is a risk, particularly to foreigners, of kidnapping in the area (see Kidnapping, below). Maintain a high level of vigilance at all times.

Avoid overland travel. If you must, drive during the day and stay on major roads. Don’t use public transportation.

There is an ongoing threat of terrorism from domestic and international terrorist groups in Türkiye. Many attacks have occurred throughout the country. Although most have occurred in the south and east, some also took place in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara.

Attacks have targeted:

Turkish military and government facilities
places of worship
tourist attractions and popular public places
nightclubs and entertainment venues
public transportation

Further attacks may occur, and terrorists may also target:

crowded places
places with high pedestrian traffic and where foreigners may gather
commercial establishments
local government offices
public transit stations
busy streets
long queues at tourist attractions

Turkish security officials may set up roadblocks or close streets when they receive reports on specific threats. It is common to have a proactive police presence.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times in public places
Avoid large crowds
Follow the instructions of local authorities at all times

Mountaineering and hiking

Mount Ararat, between the eastern provinces of Agri and Igdir, is designated a special military zone. You must hire the services of a locally licensed guide agency if you intend to hike in the area. A licensed company will obtain the necessary permits and assign you a registered Mountaineer to accompany you throughout your hike.

If you intend on engaging in mountaineering or hiking:

never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
ensure that you’re properly equipped and well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back to camp
know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
obtain detailed information on trekking routes or ski slopes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails

Accurate information on mountain conditions can be difficult to obtain. Weather in mountainous areas can also be unpredictable.

Identification

Random ID checks and ‎roadblocks may take place in large cities and on intercity roads.

Cooperate during ID checks and always carry your passport and visa or residence permit. Failure to produce these documents or non-compliance with Turkish officials during identity checks could result in fines, detainment or deportation.

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted large numbers of people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations, etc. You could be subject to scrutiny if you posted similar comments, even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

Keep in mind the sensitivities
Think twice before posting or reacting to online content criticizing the government
Restrain and limit your social media footprint

There is a threat of kidnapping-for-ransom along Türkiye’s borders with Syria and Iraq. Extremist groups take advantage of porous borders and an unpredictable security situation to carry out operations and use kidnapping as a means of raising funds.

They may target the local population, foreigners and even foreign aid workers.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur throughout Türkiye.

Avoid showing signs of affluence
Ensure that your belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times
If travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked

Muggings, assaults and sexual assaults occur.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery. Do not accept food and drinks from strangers, even if the wrapping or container appears intact.

Don’t go to down-market bars and neighbourhoods. One scam, particularly common in Istanbul, involves locals inviting tourists to bars for food and drinks and then forcing them to pay a steep bill.

Don’t accept letters, parcels or other items from strangers. Drug traffickers sometimes attempt to convince foreigners to deliver packages and messages into and out of Türkiye.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

If you’re travelling to Türkiye to meet someone you’ve only met online, or the person in Türkiye asks to wire money, you may be the victim of a scam. Don’t send money to someone you have never met in person.

Overseas fraud

Women’s safety

There is a risk of sexual assault.

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Be aware of your surroundings.

Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts.

Advice for women travellers

Stray animals

There are numerous stray dogs and cats in Türkiye. Dogs often travel in packs and could attack pedestrians and joggers.

Don’t attempt to feed or pet stray animals.

Road safety

Türkiye has a modern road network. However, uneven surfaces and poorly marked lane changes near construction zones, are common.

Exercise caution, especially when driving in the rain. Severe weather conditions may seriously affect road conditions.

Ensure that your vehicle is in good repair. Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities or major roads.

Accidents are common. You may face the following hazards when driving in the country:

reckless driving
vehicle breakdown due to poor maintenance practices
dangerous road conditions
inadequate lighting
poor signage
high-volume traffic congestion

If you come across an accident, don’t slow down or stop to observe.

If you are involved in an accident, lock your doors and windows and call 112 to notify the police.

Don’t move your vehicle until advised to do so by the police, even if your accident results in:

blocked traffic routes
injuries to those involved
a disagreement
a crowd starting to form

You may be permitted to move your vehicle after communicating with the police if you are on a busy road, once you have taken pictures of the scene.

Although pedestrians officially have the right of way, it may not be the case in practice.

General Directorate of Highways

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Turkish authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the duration of stay indicated on your visa, e-Visa, visa exemption or residence permit.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

Foreign Representatives in Canada
Canadian passports

Work visa: required Tourism visa: not required for stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period Business visa: required Student visa: required Medical visa: required

If you are travelling to Türkiye to seek medical services, apply for a medical visa through the HealthTürkiye online portal. You should also consult our advice on medical tourism under the Health section before applying for a medical visa.

If you are travelling to Türkiye and need a visa, use the official Turkish government site to apply online and purchase an e-visa before entering the country. Be cautious of third-party websites that offer help in getting any type of visa, as they charge additional fees to provide information and submit applications for you. They are not operating on behalf of the Government of Türkiye.

If you plan to study or work in Türkiye, you must obtain a visa at a Turkish embassy or consulate before arriving in Türkiye.

To qualify for a subsequent visa-exempted entry for a 90-day period in Turkiye, you must leave the country for at least 90 days before being allowed to re-enter for another 90 days.

If you wish to remain in Türkiye for longer than 90 consecutive days, you must obtain a residence permit from the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management in the province in which you reside. If you overstay, you might be fined, deported or banned from future travel to Türkiye for a specific period of time.

E-visa application system – Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye
Residency permit applications – Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Türkiye
HealthTürkiye online portal – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye

Entry stamp

Ensure Turkish immigration officials stamp your passport on arrival. Failure to produce a stamped passport is punishable by a fine, detention and deportation, and can lead to significant delays at departure.

Dual citizenship

Dual Turkish-Canadian citizens must present a valid Turkish passport or piece of identification to enter the country.

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.

The flu occurs worldwide.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
Minimize exposure to insects
Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin. In some cases, it can be fatal. It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those:

visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

washing your hands often
avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.

Medical tourism

Medical tourism is common in Türkiye. Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following surgeries abroad. The Turkish government recommends that all travellers seeking medical services select healthcare providers authorized by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, especially on:

the health and financial risks
medical facilities performing the intended procedure
language barriers, which can lead to misunderstandings about your medical care and conditions
travel insurance that includes coverage for the type of medical procedure you will be undergoing

The Turkish authorities established the HealthTürkiye online portal, which provides information to foreigners about medical tourism in Türkiye.

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling.

Make sure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Turkish health authorities.
Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure.
Receiving medical care outside Canada
If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
Authorized healthcare providers - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye (In Turkish)
International Health Services Call Center - Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye
HealthTürkiye – Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye

Medical services and facilities

Modern medical care is available in major cities but may not be in remote areas. Immediate cash payment is often required.

Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in the coverage offered abroad.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Universal health coverage

Foreigners with residency permits must register for universal health coverage under Turkish Social Security (SGK). Although Canadian citizens are exempt, you may enroll if you have no other coverage and you have been a resident in Türkiye for at least one year.

Universal Health Insurance - Türkiye's social Security Institution

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Authorities can request to see your ID at any time. If you fail to present valid identification documents upon request, you could face:

deportation
entry ban for future travel into Türkiye

During your stay:

carry the original version (not only photocopies or digital versions) of a valid government-issued ID, such as your passport, at all times.
keep a digital copy of your ID and travel documents in case it is seized or lost
follow the instructions of the local authorities requesting the documents

If you are temporarily in Türkiye, you should carry a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

If you reside in Türkiye, you should carry your Turkish resident ID (Kimlik and/or Ikamet) and a valid passport that contains a Turkish entry stamp and a valid visa.

The use of illegal drugs is prohibited. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Don't agree to carry any baggage that is not yours.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Lèse-majesté

It is illegal to denigrate, desecrate or insult the following:

the name or image of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye
the president of the Republic of Türkiye
the Turkish flag and the national anthem
Turkish currency
State organs and institutions and its judicial bodies
the police and the military

Religious proselytism

Although religious proselytism is not illegal, some activities may be considered illegal and could lead to detention.

Political discussions

Avoid discussions (including on social media) on historical and religious issues as well as on politics.

Restrain/limit your social media footprint.

Online activities

Turkish authorities have detained and prosecuted people over social media posts criticizing the government, state officials, president, military operations. You could be subject to scrutiny even if a post was published years ago or outside of Türkiye.

Authorities have also targeted people and groups for:

publishing statements
organizing news conferences
organizing or participating in nonviolent activities
critical writing and online activism protesting the government, its policies, decisions and actions

Even if a case does not go to trial or ends in acquittal, people can be labelled as terrorism suspects and face adverse consequences due to investigations and criminal proceedings, including possible loss of employment and social exclusion.

Photography

It is forbidden to photograph military or public installations. Avoid photographing public demonstrations or members of police or security forces. Cameras may be confiscated. Do not photograph people without their permission.

Turkish antiquities and other cultural artifacts that are considered of historical value or of national importance cannot be exported. Seek advice from Turkish authorities prior to departure from Türkiye. If the item can be exported, you will require a sales receipt and the official museum export certificate issued by the Turkish customs office.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Turkish law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Türkiye.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Türkiye, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Türkiye.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Türkiye, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Turkish court.

If you are in this situation:

act as quickly as you can
contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
consult a lawyer in Canada and in Türkiye to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
Travelling with children
The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You should carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

Dress and behaviour

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in many parts of the country.

In all places of worship, women should cover their head with a scarf and all visitors should cover their arms and legs.

Dress conservatively, especially in areas outside major cities and coastal resorts
Behave discreetly
Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

The currency of Türkiye is the Turkish lira (TRY).

Earthquakes

In February 2023, severe earthquakes struck several provinces in southeastern Türkiye resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and significant damage to critical infrastructure, buildings and private houses. There are reports indicating that most of the affected local populations live in temporary shelters or settlements awaiting reconstruction.

The authorities revoked the state of emergency on May 9, 2023. Recovery work is underway, but the situation remains precarious in the following southern provinces affected by the earthquakes:

If you are in the affected area, you can expect:

continued telecommunication and electricity disruptions
frequent aftershocks
limited food, water and hygiene options
limited accommodations
extremely limited transportation options from the disaster area

If you are planning to travel near an affected area despite this advisory:

monitor local media for the latest developments

Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces affected by the earthquakes as our ability to provide consular assistance to Canadians in that area is severely limited. If you need assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Ankara: 90 (312) 409-2700.

Türkiye is located in an active seismic zone. Landslides are possible in affected areas, and strong aftershocks may occur after the initial earthquake.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Severe rainstorms occur in various regions around Türkiye, especially in the Black Sea region and coastal areas. Heavy rainfall can cause severe flooding and landslides, resulting in extensive damage to infrastructure and hampering the provision of essential services in the affected areas. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Droughts and snowstorms can also delay travel and disrupt essential services.

Forest fires often occur during the summer months, particularly in provinces on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts of Türkiye.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of major fire:

stay away from the affected areas, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments
follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Azerbaijan, Georgia. Offering consular services to Canadians in Iran.

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Türkiye, in Ankara, or the Consulate General of Canada to Türkiye, in Istanbul, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Reach.gov.sg

MFA Spokesperson's Comments on the Bomb Explosion in Istanbul, 13 November 2022

14 november 2022.

Singapore strongly condemns the bomb explosion at Istanbul’s Istiklal Street on 13 November 2022 which has resulted in the loss of innocent lives and multiple injuries. We extend our condolences to the bereaved families and wish those injured a speedy recovery.

The Singapore Embassy in Ankara has reached out to Singaporeans in Istanbul who are e-registered with MFA. There are currently no reports of any Singaporeans affected by the bombing.

Singaporeans in Turkey are advised to exercise caution, monitor the local news, and heed the instructions of local authorities. Singaporeans travelling to Turkey are also strongly encouraged to e-register with MFA at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg if they have not done so.

Singaporeans in Turkey who require consular assistance are advised to contact the Embassy in Ankara, Honorary Consulate-General in Istanbul, or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at:

Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Ankara

Tel: +90 530 066 7311

Email: [email protected]

Honorary Consulate-General in Istanbul

Tel: +90 212 339 1852

Email: info.singaporeconsul@ fibaholding.com.tr

MFA Duty Office

Tel: +65 6379 8800 / 8855 (24-hour hotline)

Email: [email protected]

. . . . .

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

14 NOVEMBER 2022

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

Travel Page

VISA REGIME

ENTERING AND LEAVING THE COUNTRY Citizens of the Republic of Serbia do not need a visa to enter the Republic of Turkiye and stay for up to 90 days in a period of 6 months, counting from the day of the first entry. Citizens of the Republic of Serbia who wish to stay in the Republic of Turkiye for more than 90 days can apply for a visa through this website: www.visa.gov.tr . Foreign citizens entering Turkiye are required to have a passport valid for at least 60 days after the expiration date of the visa or residence permit, or a visa-free stay (visa-free stay for Serbian citizens is 90 days for a period of 6 months), which means that the validity period of the travel document must be at least 150 days, i.e., 5 months from the date of entry into Turkey.

SOCIAL SECURITY AGREEMENT No social security agreement has been concluded.

USEFUL INFORMATION

HEALTH SITUATION — Sanitary conditions in Turkish hotel facilities are very good and can be compared to those in any other part of the developed world. The only warning refers to the quality of tap water, which is generally not satisfactory, and it is recommended that it be used exclusively for personal hygiene and other technical needs, and that only bottled water be used for drinking. It is recommended to obtain travel health insurance before traveling.

SECURITY SITUATION — We advise all citizens of the Republic of Serbia traveling to the Republic of Türkiye to adhere to the security recommendations, to regularly follow media announcements regarding the security situation, as well as the recommendations of local authorities. During the busy tourist season, which lasts from May to November, it is advised to be more cautious and avoid prolonged stay and spending time in public places and at tourist attractions where a large number of people are present, both in Istanbul and Ankara, and in other larger cities. It is necessary to pay special attention to the possible holding of demonstrations or protest rallies, and to avoid them, bearing in mind that they pose a security risk. The southeastern zone affected by the earthquake in February 2023 is in the process of renovation and construction, and caution is advised when potentially staying in these provinces. Precaution is also recommended in some provinces in the southeast of the country, especially in the zone where there are on-going actions of clearing terrorist elements related to the so-called Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), about which the public is regularly informed. The situation along the border with Syria is generally stable, but there is occasional risk of cross-border action on the border with Iraq. Even though the rate of street crime in Türkiye is relatively low, extra caution is needed when staying in tourist destinations (Istanbul ― Taksim Square, Sultan Ahmet Palace, streets around the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar) and in larger coastal towns. Citizens are advised to carry copies of their passports and only the most necessary personal items, and that they safely store their documents and items of greater value in hotel safes. If Serbian citizens become victims of crime, they should immediately inform the local police and the nearest diplomatic and consular mission of the Republic of Serbia. Serbian citizens, arrested on the territory of the Republic of Türkiye, have the right to request that the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Ankara, i.e., the Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia in Istanbul be informed about it (specifically, travellers should know that insulting the Turkish state, the character and deeds of Ataturk, the government, the flag, or the security forces, is punishable by Turkish law, and especially when it comes to activities on social networks in this regard. Lack of invoices and certificates for purchased antiques can be grounds for deprivation of liberty and criminal prosecution).

TRANSPORT – The largest number of tourists comes to Turkey by air, but the road infrastructure is very developed and of high quality, with highways of the highest category on the route Edirne-Istanbul-Ankara, i.e. towards Izmir and Bodrum, as well as in certain other parts of the country. The inner network of air transport is very developed. That also applies to bus transport, which is also of high quality. Rail road infrastructure is improving, especially with the introduction of high-speed lines between major centers. Ticket prices in domestic air, bus and rail transport are very affordable. For those who come with their own vehicle, it is necessary to provide a green insurance card. The national driver's license can be used for a maximum of six months, i.e. 90 out of 180 days in the case of a tourist stay. The same regulation applies to the length of stay of vehicles with foreign license plates (maximum 90 days). The use of tolled highways (Edirne-Istanbul-Ankara route, as well as the branch towards Izmir and Bodrum, but also some other sections of the highest category roads), as well as bridges over the Bosphorus, is subject to the automatic contactless payment regime (HGS system), for which, upon entering the country, it is necessary to make an order at the PTT branch (it is located immediately after the border crossing of Kapikula near Edirne, as well as along the highway) and make an advance payment (if the due obligation is not settled within 7 days, a fine will be charged upon exit). The Republic of Turkey registers traffic violations based on vehicle data and data on the person who entered the country in said vehicle. Payment of traffic fines for vehicles with foreign license plates is possible via the website www.gib.gov.tr in the "Foreign Vehicle Payments" menu (Yabasnci Plakali Ara9 Čdemeleri - Foreign Vehicle Payments - direct link https://dijital.gib.gov.tr/hizliQdemeler/yabanciAracQdemeleri ) where by entering the number of the plate (in capital letters and combined) and by entering the security code, information about the penalty will be displayed.

OTHER INFORMATION — Time zone: GMT + 3 (one hour ahead compared to summertime / 2 hours ahead compared to wintertime in Serbia).

The national currency is the Turkish lira (TL). Leading foreign convertible currencies can be exchanged for the national currency in exchange offices and banks with developed networks, both in tourist places and in all cities.

Important telephone numbers: • Call centre for foreigners 00 90 157, • Fire brigade 110, • Ambulance 112, • Police 155, • Gendarmerie 156, • Coast Guard 158, • Forest fires 177, • Funeral Service 188, • Tourist Info Centre 170, • International telephone operator 115, • Domestic telephone operator 131, • Telephone Information Service 118.

Calls to emergency services are free of charge and services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (it is possible to reach emergency services through public payphones without the need for telephone cards).

Contact information: For consular assistance and protection while in the Republic of Turkiye, you may contact: • Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Ankara (address: YazanlarSokakNo. 1, P.K.28, 06691 Kavaklidere, Ankara, Turkiye), at the following number: 00 090 31 24 26 02 36 and e-mail address: [email protected] , • Consulate General of the Republic of Serbia in Istanbul (address: SümbülSk. No: 2, LeventMah. Besiktas, 34330 Istanbul, Turkiye), at the following number: 00 090 21 22 13 52 29 and e-mail address: [email protected] .

Update April 12, 2024

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Foreign Policy
Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Türkiye want to become an EU member?

Türkiye’s accession to the EU is our strategic choice and would be the natural outcome of comprehensive, centuries-long relations with European countries. We share a common destiny. We cherish and defend the same values and norms the EU is built on, such as democracy and respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. Türkiye is a part of the European family. Since the foundation of the Republic, Türkiye has taken part in almost all European institutions, in most of them as a founding member. Türkiye has made considerable contributions to the formation of the current European architecture through the constructive role it has played within international organizations such as the Council of Europe, OECD, NATO and OSCE. We cooperate extensively with the EU in almost every policy field including foreign policy issues. Our contribution to the EU’s security and defence policy is significant. The EU is our main economic partner. Since 1996, Türkiye has been part of a Custom Union with the EU. Türkiye’s EU membership will be a natural result of the transformation process in all fields of life in our country. The ongoing reforms, especially in the areas of democracy, human rights and rule of law, constitute a significant aspect of our efforts towards EU accession and show our willingness to contribute to the global role of the EU.

What will be the benefits of accession for Türkiye and the EU?

The EU’s enlargement policy has proved to be the most successful integration project on our continent. The European Union, comprising 28 members with a population of almost 500 million people has evolved into a multi-dimensional powerful international structure in our continent in terms of political, economic, social and cultural co-operation and development. The EU has a large “acquis communautaire” which aims at raising standards in a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from food safety to foreign and defence policies. In this context, the ongoing reform process which aims at adopting the acquis will provide our citizens with the highest norms and standards in every field of their daily lives. On the other hand, the accession of a democratic and modern Türkiye with its unique geo-strategic position would bring major benefits to the EU as well. Thanks to our dynamic economy and young population, the enlarged Union with Türkiye on board can respond better to the challenges of globalisation. With our pro-active and multidimensional foreign policy and strong ties with the countries of the region Türkiye can contribute to the credibility and effectiveness of the EU’s foreign policy. Türkiye’s location can also help to expand and diversify supply routes for oil and natural gas to European markets. Türkiye could contribute to the Union’s perception of cultural diversity and the dialogue among cultures because we share the same universal values. Furthermore, as a factor of stability in its region, Türkiye’s membership to the EU would also contribute to regional and global peace and stability as well as the dissemination of universal values to a wider geography.

What is the current state of play regarding the accession negotiations?

Türkiye’s accession negotiations started in 2005. Since then 15 chapters have been opened and one provisionally closed (Science and Research). Unfortunately, after the start of our accession negotiations, certain member states have changed their policies in contradiction with their own previous decisions and commitments. Politically motivated blockages and the exploitation of our accession talks in domestic politics by some European leaders have slowed down the pace of our negotiation process. The Türkiye-EU Summit held in Brussels on 29 November 2015 has been a turning point in creating a new momentum in Türkiye’s accession process. Türkiye was represented at the Summit by a delegation headed by H.E. Ahmet Davutoğlu, the Prime Minister. The 28 members of the EU as well as the Presidents of the EU Council, the European Parliament and the European Commission also attended the Summit. The Final Declaration of the Summit emphasized, among others, the importance of holding twice a year Türkiye-EU Summits, of exchanging views on foreign and defence policy matters and holding comprehensive and regular political dialogue meetings of Ministers/High Representative /Commissioners in order to enhance cooperation. The decision to open Chapter 17 on Economic and Monetary Policy and the commitment of the European Commission to finalize in the first quarter of the year 2016 the preparations for opening of other chapters (15, 23, 24, 26 and 31) were also mentioned. As decided in the Summit, the Chapter 17 on Economic and Monetary Policy was opened at the Intergovernmental Conference held in Brussels on 14 December 2015.

When can Türkiye become an EU member?

Türkiye can become an EU member when the accession negotiations are completed i.e. all chapters are successfully closed. The decision must be taken by unanimity of all EU member states. The next step would be the signature of the Accession Treaty and its successful ratification by the European Parliament and all member states.

Has Türkiye lost interest in the EU? Do Turkish people still want to join the EU?

Türkiye has a 50-year long history with the EU. Membership in the EU continues to be our strategic goal. We maintain this goal despite the current stalemate in our accession process. This is a testament to our determination. Desiring to share a prosperous future with other European nations on the basis of common values, Turkish people retain their strong support for EU accession. The support of public opinion is the real driving force behind our reform efforts. However, there has been a significant decline in the faith of our citizens in the possibility of Türkiye’s accession. This is due to the subjective political hurdles we face in our accession process as well as the negative attitude and statements of certain European statesmen. Despite the opposition of some member states, most of the EU countries support Türkiye’s accession to the EU. The Enlargement Strategy Document published by the European Commission in October 2011 stresses that “Türkiye is a key country for the security and prosperity of the European Union. Türkiye’s contribution to the EU in a number of crucial areas will only be fully effective with an active and credible accession process”. Turkish people are aware of the benefits of the pre-accession process. The EU contributes financially through a variety of projects which aim at supporting political reforms, strengthening the rule of law and human rights, improving infrastructure and protection of environment, as well as increasing the quality of education by training and scholarships. The accession process helps carrying forward reforms which serve the welfare of our citizens and the prosperity of our country. The Final Declaration of Türkiye-EU Summit of 29 November 2015 underlines that the visa liberalisation road map would be accomplished in October/November 2016. Traveling to European countries without a visa obligation will no doubt have a positive impact on Turkish citizens’ perception about the EU and increase Turkish people’s support for membership.

How does the Customs Union with the EU affect our economy? What are the obstacles in the functioning of the Customs Union?

Türkiye has integrated its economy with European market and aligned its domestic market with international trade rules and regulations with the help of the Customs Union Decision that entered into force in 1996. The Customs Union with the EU has significantly contributed to the increase in our trade volume, provided an opportunity for our producers to reach to the developed market and consumers with high-level income. However, since Türkiye has not been part of decision-making mechanisms in external trade relations of the EU, some problems appear in the functioning of the Customs Union Agreement. Türkiye needs to sign Free Trade Agreements (FTA) with the third countries that the EU has concluded FTAs with. The problem occasionally encountered is that those countries or regional organizations which have signed FTA with the EU are not willing to start the same process with Türkiye. Türkiye has reached an understanding with the EU on the revision of the Customs Union Decision according to the needs of the world economy. It is expected that official negotiations on the revision of the Customs Union will start at the end of 2016.

What are impacts of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) between the US and EU on Türkiye?

Considering the weight of both the US and EU in world trade, a possible agreement on Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) could make a significant impact on global trade relations and redefine international trade rules and regulations. It is predicted that with the implementation of the TTIP the national income of EU member states will increase approximately 120 billion Euro annually. TTIP when in force will inevitably have a negative impact on Türkiye’s external trade. In order to overcome possible difficulties, alternatives such as signing an FTA with the USA in parallel with TTIP or the inclusion of Türkiye in some legal way in the TTIP Agreement are being considered.

Through what ways will Türkiye use the financial support of the EU for Syrians under temporary protection?

Within the framework of the commitments made in the Türkiye-EU Action Plan on Migration, the EU has decided to allocate 3 billion Euro fund for Syrians under temporary protection. In this regard, the European Commission established a Refugee Facility for Türkiye Mechanism whereby the said fund will be transferred to relevant projects designed to meet the needs of the Syrians. There is currently a joint “Need Assessment” work being carried out in Türkiye which will be completed in the first quarter of 2016. The funds will then be transferred to Türkiye on the basis of the needs assessment report in order to meet the needs of the Syrians in Türkiye in the fields of education, health, humanitarian aid, etc.

What is the Foreign Ministry doing so that Turkish citizens can travel visa free to the European Union?

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye has all along been actively raising the issue with the European Union Commission as well as European Union member states both on multilateral and bilateral platforms. As a negotiating candidate country having Customs Union with the European Union since January 1996 as well as some acquired rights derived from the Additional Protocol between the Community and Türkiye, Turkish citizens should have enjoyed visa-free travel to the EU long along. Türkiye has also taken steps to meet EU conditions for visa free travel of the Turkish citizens to EU countries, such as 1) biometric passports; 2) visa labels with ICAO standarts; 3) progress on readmission agreement talks; 4) airport transit visa practise. Biometric passports were in circulation since June, 1, 2010. Visa Liberalization Dialogue with the EU was launched on 16th December 2013. The Readmission Agreement, which was signed on the same day, entered into force as of 1 October 2014. Our efforts towards the realization of visa liberalisation continue.

Is there any legal procedure which the Turkish citizens may follow against the visa requirements of the EU members?

Turkish citizens facing unfair visa practise may start legal procedures against the competent authorities of the State concerned through an attorney.

What is the essence of Turkish-American relations in Türkiye’s foreign policy?

Our relations with the U.S. constitute one of the main pillars of Turkish Foreign Policy. Getting its strength from their robust alliance and friendship ties, Turkish-American relations have been progressing on mutual respect and common interests at both bilateral and international platforms such as UN, NATO and G-20. Based on shared values like democracy, human rights and the rule of law, our relations have reached the level of “Model Partnership”. Covering critically important issues, such as combating terrorism, energy supply security, nuclear non-proliferation and global economic developments in a broad and tough geography, ranging from the Balkans to the Caucasus and South Asia, from Europe to the Middle East and Africa, Turkish-American partnership generates concrete outcomes through their comparative advantages. As two democracies in different parts of the world, Türkiye and the U.S. may sometimes have differing approaches to some issues, which should be considered healthy and natural in such a comprehensive and multi-faceted relationship. Nevertheless, the two countries are capable and experienced enough to find solutions respecting their sensitivities. The current developments and constantly evolving threats that we face in our immediate vicinity highlights more than ever the importance of closer consultations and cooperation between the two countries. Increasing the efforts to bring the economic, commercial and investment relations on par with our political, military and security cooperation with the US. is another priority for Türkiye.

What are the main principles of Türkiye’s Balkan policy? Did the Trilateral Processes make tangible contributions to the stability of the Balkans?

Türkiye, being a Balkan country herself, attaches utmost importance to peace, stability and prosperity in the Balkans. We have historic, cultural and human bonds with the Balkans. The region is our physical gate to the West, and vice versa. Our policy is guided by the principles of “regional ownership and “inclusiveness”. The four major tenets of the Turkish Balkan policy are; -high level political dialogue, -security for all, -utmost economic integration, and, -preservation of the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-religious social fabric. Despite the remarkably positive developments in the last two decades, Balkans still remain the fragile part of Europe. The region is key for permanent peace and sustainable stability in Europe. Türkiye supports the EU and NATO integration processes of all Balkan countries. The Trilateral Consultation Mechanisms between Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina and Serbia on the one side, and Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina and Croatia on the other, have made substantial contributions to regional stability. Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina-Serbia Trilateral Consultation Mechanism, established in 2009 by Türkiye’s initiative, sets a prominent dimension of the relations between the three countries. Foreign Ministers have held 10 meetings since its onset, the most recent one being organized in New York on 29 September 2015, in the margins of the 70th UN General Assembly. Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina-Serbia Trilateral Consultation Mechanism was upgraded to the level of Heads of State and Government, by the Summit held in İstanbul on 24 April 2010, which was hosted by H.E. Mr Abdullah Gül, Former President of the Republic of Türkiye. The Declaration issued at the end of the Summit announced its institutionalization. The Second Summit of the Process took place in Karadjordjevo, Serbia on 26 April 2011. Appointment of an Ambassador by Bosnia Herzegovina to Belgrade, adoption of a condemnation and apology for the Srebrenitsa “massacre” in the Serbian National Assembly, as well as the joint visit paid by former Presidents Mr. Abdullah Gül and Mr. Boris Tadiç to Srebrenitsa in 2009, have set the major products generated by the positive climate that the Summits and Ministerial meetings have created. The Third Summit was organized in Ankara on 14-15 May 2013. The thema was “Building Future Together”, where the leaders (H.E. Mr. Abdullah Gül, Former President of the Republic of Türkiye, H.E. Mr. Nebojşa Radmanoviç, the-then President of the Bosnia Herzegovina Presidential Council, along with the Members H.E. Mr. Zeljko Komşiç and H.E. Mr. Bakir Izetbegoviç, and H.E. Mr. Tomislav Nikoliç, President of the Republic of Serbia) underlined that the Trilateral Summits Process has reached a more comprehensive and advanced stage since the first Summit in İstanbul in 2010. Within this context, parties confirmed that the Process obtained a new phase to produce joint projects on the basis of a positive agenda, than the initial backdrop where the basic goals had been set to solve crisis and make the parties meet. The Ankara Declaration adopted at the end of the Summit emphasized the main goal to create a Balkan region where peace, prosperity and stability prevail; welcomed the affirmative developments in the last decade with regard to the integration processes of the Balkan countries with the European structures; committed mutual encouragement and support to the EU-integration process of Türkiye, Bosnia Herzegovina and Serbia, as well as experience-sharing in this regard, and, as agreed in the previous Trilateral Summits, referred to the significance the Trilateral Consultation Mechanism had as an institutional framework in developing cooperation in the fields of economy, culture, education, scientific innovation, energy, infrastructure, sports and tourism. In line with the goals set in the Ankara Declaration, the Trilateral Trade Committee was formed in 2013, as the economic pillar of the Trilateral Consultation Mechanism. The Committee convened twice in 2015, in Ankara on 17-18 August, and in Belgrade on 19 October, respectively. “The Medium-Term Programme and Action Plan for 2016-2018” was signed during the Trilateral Trade Committee Meeting held in Belgrade on 19 October 2015. Subsequently, “Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina-Serbia Trilateral Business Forum” convened in Sarajevo on 20 October, 2015. The Medium-Term Action Plan envisaged the establishment of the “Joint Trade Office of Serbia and Bosnia Herzegovina” in İstanbul. Turkish Exporters Assembly has assumed to cover all expenses of the Joint Trade Office, which will be opened in the period ahead. Ministers of the Trilateral Trade Committee also agreed on holding a “Business-Investment Forum” in İstanbul, and a “Tourism Forum” in Belgrade. In parallel with the Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina-Serbia Trilateral Consultation Mechanism, Trilateral Consultation Mechanism between Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina and Croatia was established with a view to supporting peace and stability of Bosnia Herzegovina, and contributing to the relations between the Bosniaks and Croats who co-inhabit in the Federation. Within this framework, Delegations led by the Foreign Ministers of the three countries met four times in the year 2010. Restoration of the Mostar Municipality building and the Mostar Music School; a regular stopover of one night in Mostar by tourist groups organized by Turkish or Croatian operators; the revitalization of the 5C Corridor and the Mostar Airport to road and air traffic, set the primary projects that were discussed in these Ministerials in 2010. The fifth Ministerial Meeting of the Türkiye-Bosnia Herzegovina-Croatia Trilateral Consultation Mechanism was held in New York on 29 September 2015, within the margins of the Opening Meetings of the 70th UN General Assembly, where Ministers Sinirlioğlu, Crnadak and Pusiç reiterated their joint resolve to reinvigorate the Trilateral Consultation Mechanism.

What is the role of the “South East European Cooperation Process” in the Balkans?

The South East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) is the sole regional cooperation platform that reflects the common will of the Balkan states. SEECP is accepted as a regional counterpart by the EU and other international/multilateral actors/platforms. Türkiye contributes effectively in the work of the SEECP. Participant states are Türkiye, Albania, Bosnia Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia. Since its onset in 1996, the SEECP aims to strengthen political cooperation and cooperation in the field of security between the participant states, encourage economic cooperation, and broaden the dimensions of collaboration in democratic institutions, in the field of justice and home affairs, fight against illegal activities, as well as humanitarian dimension. The SEECP is a flexible consultation mechanism, thus, does not have a permanent secretariat. The “executive branch” of the SEECP is the Chairmanships-in-Office (CiO). Türkiye has so far assumed the CiO twice, in 1998-1999, and, 2009-2010. Bulgaria is the current CiO of the SEECP, which will be handed over to Croatia in June 2016. The SEECP as a forum for dialogue and consultation, is seen as a significant tool in the European and Euro-Atlantic integration processes of the participant states. Regional Cooperation Council, operating under the SEECP umbrella since 2008, is located in Sarajevo, and undertakes a significant role in implementation. The SEECP, standing out as the mere collaboration platform that encompasses entire Balkans, has helped maintain high-level dialogue between the member states since its inception. As of 2016, when we celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the SEECP, it is believed that the “Process” should become a more functional platform with increased ability to bring into life tangible cooperation projects, under an institutional architecture in line with the contemporary needs. “SEECP Joint Declaration Against Terrorism” was adopted in the Informal Meeting of SEECP Foreign Ministers”, held in Tirana on 24 February 2015, where Türkiye was represented by H.E. Mr. Akif Çağatay Kılıç, Minister of Youth and Sports. The “Regional Cooperation Platform for Countering Radicalization and Violent Extremism leading to Terrorism and Foreign Terrorist Fighters in South East Europe” (SEE CVE-FTF Platform), that would operate within the RCC, was introduced by this declaration. The First Meeting of “Contact Points” of the SEE CVE-FTF was held in Sarajevo on 27 January 2016. ”Joint Statement on Migration Challenges” was adopted in the most recent Informal Meeting of SEECP Foreign Ministers”, held in Sofia on 2 February, 2016. H.E. Mr. Naci Koru, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs represented Türkiye in this meeting. The SEECP has a parliamentary dimension, too. The Meeting of Speakers of SEECP Parliaments, organized in Athens in 1997, reassured the joint will on the establishment of a regular consultation mechanism among the national assemblies of the participant states and the formation of an “Inter-Parliamentary Consultation Assembly”. In 2007, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed to institutionalize the steps towards improving parliamentary cooperation between the participant states. Within this framework, the “Regional Secretariat for Parliamentary Cooperation in South Eastern Europe” (RSPC SEE) was established in Sofia. The 8th Conference of Speakers of SEECP Parliaments, held in Antalya in 2010, concluded with the agreement on the formation of a “Parliamentary Assembly”, as the ultimate goal of the endeavours towards institutionalizing the inter-parliamentary collaboration. To this end, a Working Group was set up in 2011. The outcome of the 10th Conference of the Speakers of the SEECP Parliaments, held in Ohrid on 26-28 May 2013, confirmed the will to establish the “SEECP Parliamentary Assembly”. Within this framework, the Inauguration Session of the SEECP Parliamentary Assembly (SEECP PA) was held in Bucharest on 9-11 May 2014. H.E. Mr. Cemil Çiçek, Former Speaker of the Turkish Grand National Assembly participated in the Inaugural Session. Türkiye proposed the formation of a “Permanent Secretariat”, in order to strengthen the institutional capacity of the SEECP PA. On the basis of the agreement between the participant states on her proposal, Türkiye nominated İstanbul to host the Permanent Secretariat. Türkiye committed to cover all expenses of the Permanent Secretariat for the first five years, in case it was established in İstanbul. On the other hand, Bulgaria proposed that the Sofia-based RSPC SEE be transformed into the “Permanent Secretariat of the SEECP Parliamentary Conference“. Throughout the year 2015, Türkiye and Bulgaria ran their own campaigns for the candidacies of İstanbul and Sofia, respectively. İstanbul obtained the support of 8 countries, while support for Sofia remained at 3. However, the issue could not be concluded during the Tirana Summit held on 22-26 May 2015, due to the controversy among the participant delegations over the rules of procedure on voting; whether majority or unanimity is required for this decision

What is the state of our bilateral relations with Bulgaria where a considerable number of ethnic Turks live?

Bilateral relations with our neighbor, friend and ally Bulgaria have been improving. The High Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) which was held in Ankara on 20 March 2012 and co-chaired by the two Prime Ministers represents a turning point in bilateral relations. High level visits between Türkiye and Bulgaria are exchanged frequently. Most recently, H.E. Mr. Ahmet Davutoğlu, Prime Minister of the Republic of Türkiye, paid a working visit to Bulgaria on 15 December 2015 and had comprehensive talks with his counterpart on our bilateral relations. Before him, on 14 October 2015, H.E Boyko Borisov, Prime Minister of Bulgaria, paid a one-day visit to Türkiye to meet with H.E Ahmet Davutoğlu, in the margins of the 8th Summit Meeting of the Global Forum on Migration and Development which took place in İstanbul. One of the main pillars of our bilateral relations is the Bulgarian citizens of Turkish origin living in Bulgaria. The population of the Bulgarian citizens of Turkish origin in Bulgaria, according to the official figures (2011 census) is 588,318 which amounts to 8.8% of the overall population of Bulgaria. Nevertheless, responding to the census questions on ethnicity, religion and mother tongue is not obligatory in Bulgaria. We welcome the adoption of the “Declaration on condemning the forced assimilation policy against the Muslims of Bulgaria” by the National Assembly of Bulgaria on 11 January 2012. With the decision of the City Court of Sofia to register the results of the II. National Conference of the Bulgarian Muslims which was held on 24 January 2016, it has been determined that the Muslims in Bulgaria are represented by the elected Grand Mufti Mustafa Aliş Hacı. On the other hand, Bulgarian National Assembly’s adoption of the resolution on 24 April 2015, titled “The recognition of the mass extermination of Armenians by the Ottoman Empire between 1915-1922” which was submitted by a racist party, has been an unfortunate development for our bilateral relations. The bilateral trade volume between Türkiye and Bulgaria amounted to 4 billion Dollars in 2015 (Exports: 1.7 billion Dollars / Imports: 2.3 billion Dollars). Türkiye is among the five top trading partners of Bulgaria. Türkiye’s share in Bulgarian foreign trade is around 8%. The total value of Turkish investments in Bulgaria is 2 billion Dollars. In addition to two banks with Turkish capital, around 1,500 Turkish companies are active in Bulgaria, employing more than 10,000 people. Moreover, the total value of ongoing and completed projects undertaken by the Turkish contracting sector in Bulgaria has reached 1.2 billion Dollars. In addition to the developments in our bilateral relations, there exist some issues which need to be resolved as well. The problems such as raising the vested cultural and educational rights of the Turkish minority to the standards of the European Union, of which Bulgaria is a member; the verbal attacks and acts of vandalism by ultra-nationalist circles directed at Bulgarian citizens of Turkish origin and the sacred sites; the restitution of the social security rights of the Bulgarian citizens of Turkish origin who had to immigrate to Türkiye due to the forced assimilation campaign of the time; bringing the perpetrators of the assimilation campaign to justice, and the difficulties encountered during the restitution process of the waqf (Muslim foundations) properties belonging to the Office of the Grand Mufti which were confiscated during the communist regime, have been among the outstanding issues in the relations between the two countries.

What are the problems encountered by the ethnic Turkish population in Greece?

The Turkish Muslim population living in Greece (with the exception of the Turkish population in Western Thrace) and the Greek Orthodox population living in Türkiye (with the exception of those in Istanbul, Gökçeada and Bozcaada) were subject to a population exchange, in line with the relevant agreements to which Türkiye and Greece are parties. Today, about 150 thousand ethnic Turks live in Western Thrace, the north-eastern region of Greece. This population constitutes the Turkish Minority of Western Thrace whose status was established by the Lausanne Peace Treaty of 1923 and whose rights were guaranteed by several bilateral and multilateral agreements. However, the Turkish Minority of Western Thrace faces breach of its minority rights. Some of the main problems encountered by the Turkish Minority are the following: -Denial of ethnic identity: The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) ruled in its 3 judgements that the ban on the Turkish Muslim Minority NGO’s bearing the adjectives “Turkish/Minority” in their titles is discriminatory and in contradiction with the freedom of association. [Article 11 of the ECHR]. In one case, Greece was also found in violation of the right to a fair trial [Article 6 of the ECHR]. However, Greece does not implement these rulings. Due to the non-implementation of the ECtHR rulings, the issue is still on the agenda of the Committee of the Ministers of the Council of Europe, which supervises the execution of judgements of the ECtHR. -Problems in the field of education: The minority’s right to education in mother tongue is safeguarded by the Lausanne Peace Treaty. However, the minority faces several problems in the field of education. Some new practices in particular towards the minority constitute a step backwards. Firstly, although kindergartens are part of the compulsory education as of 2011-2012 school year for the minority, the minority is not allowed to open bilingual kindergartens contrary to the Lausanne Peace Treaty provisions. Secondly, the number of minority secondary-high schools in particular is inadequate. Each year approximately 1000 students graduate from the minority elementary schools. Yet, there are only 2 minority high schools in the region, one in Komotini (where the Turkish minority constitutes half of the population), the other in Xanthi (the Turkish minority constitutes 45 % of the population). Greek authorities have not yet responded to the Minority’s application to set up new minority schools. Furthermore, under a new legislation that took effect in 2011, minority schools have either been closed down or merged with others. Thirdly, the quality of education needs to be upgraded at the minority schools. There is currently a lack of a graduate programme for training teachers for the minority schools in line with the needs and demands of the minority. Number of teachers to be assigned by Türkiye and Greece to work in each other’s minority schools was mutually agreed as 35 (Exchange of Notes of 1952 and 1955 between Türkiye and Greece). Yet, this number was unilaterally reduced by Greece to 16 as of 1990-91 school year. Türkiye-educated teachers have not been allowed to work at minority elementary schools since 2002-2003 school year either. - Restrictions in the field of freedom of religion: The elected Muftis of Komotini and Xanthi are not recognized by the Greek Government in contravention of the Lausanne Peace Treaty. Also for the cases taken to the Court by the elected Muftis, there exist 5 decisions by the ECtHR against Greece, which clearly demonstrates that Greece has been found in violation of freedom of thought, conscience and religion [Article 9 of the ECHR] and that “in democratic societies, the state does not have the right to interfere with communities’ religious leadership.” In one case, Greece was also found in violation of the right to a fair trial [Article 6 of the ECHR]. Against the will of the Turkish minority, the so-called “Law on 240 Imams” was also put into effect in 2013 as a new instrument to interfere with the religious freedom of the minority. This legislation gives the commission, composed of Orthodox public employees, to have a say on the appointment of imams, religious instructors. - Problems regarding minority foundations: Greece has been interfering with the administration of the Muslim charitable foundations in violation of the relevant international agreements. Election of the executive boards of the Muslim foundations by the Minority is not possible since 1967. This practice has led to the mismanagement of these foundations, with their properties expropriated. The foundations have also been subject to excessive taxes. On 13 February 2008, a new Law on Muslim foundations was adopted by the Greek Parliament. The Turkish minority had not been consulted during the legislative work. Therefore, their needs and expectations were not reflected in this act. The legislation only on paper provides the Minority with the opportunity to elect the board members of their foundations. However, the legislation gives excessive powers to the Regional Governor of Eastern Macedonia-Thrace region and the appointed muftis, not the elected muftis. Therefore, the current legislation in effect does not give full power to the members of the minority to run their foundations. What the minority expects is, however, to have full power and supervision over their foundations. - Citizenship rights: Article 19 of the Greek citizenship law which was in effect between 1955-1998, reads as follows: "A person of non-Greek ethnic origin leaving Greece without the intention of returning may be declared as having lost Greek nationality". Approximately 60 thousand minority members were stripped of their Greek citizenship due to the implementation of this article. The members of the Turkish Minority lost their citizenship while studying or working abroad (in an EU or non-EU country) and even while doing their compulsory military service in the Greek army. The repeal of the said Article in 1998 has, however, not paved the way for the members of the minority to reacquire the Greek and accordingly the EU nationality. -Political representation: 3% national threshold which applies also for the election of independent candidates, curbs the ability of the Minority to send independent representatives to the Parliament. The Turkish minority's political party, namely “Friendship, Equality and Peace” (FEP) had achieved a strong showing in the European Parliament elections in 2014. FEP, which received 43 % and 26 % of the votes in Rhodope and Xanthi, respectively came out as the first party in these two prefectures. FEP received the biggest number of votes in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Region, and thus came out as the third party in this region, which contains the prefectures of Rhodope, Xanthi, Evros, Kavala and Drama. - Problems regarding the freedom of expression and media: Heavy fines imposed on the Minority press and radio stations are another method of intimidation that the minority is currently facing. The Turkish Community living in Rhodes and Kos: Greece does not recognize the minority rights of the Turkish community living in the islands of Rhodes and Kos under the pretext that those islands were under the Italian rule when the Lausanne Peace Treaty was signed. The Turkish community in the islands face difficulties in taking classes in mother tongue and religion, administrating its foundations and performing religious duties.

The negotiations for a comprehensive settlement in Cyprus resumed on May 15, 2015. What is the current state of the negotiations?

There is an ongoing negotiation process between the two sides on the Island since September 2008, under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General’s Good Offices Mission. The parameters of a settlement, such as bi-zonality, bi-communality and political equality of the two co-founder peoples to form a new partnership with two Constituent States of equal status, have been established throughout decades long UN negotiations. These provided necessary material for a swift achievement of the settlement on which a new state of affairs shall be created in Cyprus. These points were also present in the Leaders’ Joint Statement of 11 February 2014 which provided a framework for the ongoing negotiations. Following the completion of the elections in the Turkish Cypriot side and the election of Mr Mustafa Akıncı as the President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the negotiations resumed on May 15, 2015. As pointed out in November 2015 by the UNSG’s Special Advisor Espen Barth Eide, previous meetings between the Turkish Cypriot and the Greek Cypriot leaders have created a solid basis for the intensification of talks, a phase in which the leaders will take an even more direct role in the negotiations. Taking advantage of the positive climate on the Island, the current period requires the two sides and all relevant parties to continue to invest considerable amount of energies and to place sincere efforts to the process. The Turkish Cypriot side has been contributing to the process with a sincere, constructive and dynamic approach, taking numerous initiatives in order to intensify and accelerate the negotiations and reach an agreement. Türkiye fully supports the ongoing UN negotiations and appreciates the efforts for a comprehensive settlement on the Island. The Cyprus issue must be settled as soon as possible with a just, lasting and comprehensive settlement that guarantees the legitimate rights of the Turkish Cypriots. Looking from a broader perspective, a settlement in Cyprus will certainly have a positive impact in the wider region by contributing to eliminate the prevailing instabilities.

What are the outstanding issues in the Aegean Sea? What is being done for their solution?

There are a number of interrelated issues in the Aegean Sea between Türkiye and Greece which directly affect Türkiye’s fundamental rights and interests. These issues can be summed up as follows: breadth of territorial waters, delimitation of the continental shelf, delimitation of maritime boundaries, legal status of certain geographical features in the Aegean, breadth of national airspace, problems stemming from the abuse of FIR (Flight Information Region) responsibility and the militarization of the Eastern Aegean islands in violation of their demilitarized status under several international treaties. On the issue of the breadth of the territorial sea in the Aegean our position is quite clear. In the Aegean, where special circumstances prevail, it is of vital importance for Türkiye that the existing high seas areas be preserved. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that parties refrain from unilaterally extending their territorial waters. The extension of the currently 6-nautical mile territorial waters in the Aegean Sea to 12 nautical miles would decrease the ratio of the high seas from almost 50% to 19% and would significantly restrict Türkiye’s access to the Aegean. In this respect, the declaration of the Turkish Parliament made on 8 June 1995 was in reaction to the decision of the Greek Parliament adopted on 1 June 1995 to empower the Greek Government for the unilateral extension of Greek territorial waters to 12 nautical miles. The Greek side have been intentionally portraying this as “casus belli”, a concept forbidden by the UN system, with the aim of playing down the significance of its own parliamentary decision. Having said that, we are striving towards finding comprehensive and lasting solutions to all Aegean issues with Greece, based on the rights and interests of both countries. Within the framework of exploratory contacts, which is ongoing since 2002, the two countries address all Aegean issues in a comprehensive manner. This process is aimed at finding ways of resolving all Aegean issues. Additionally, 29 Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) have been agreed upon since 2000 between Türkiye and Greece with a view to increasing the climate of trust in the Aegean. Türkiye aims for a just and peaceful resolution to the Aegean issues. In this respect, we are willing to make the most out of the existing channels of dialogue with Greece. Up until today, Türkiye has exerted sincere efforts to resolve all these problems in their entirety by peaceful means.

What is the current stage in the normalization process between Türkiye and Armenia?

Türkiye’s search for normalizing its relations with Armenia is part of its broader vision which foresees cooperative and mutually beneficial relations between all the countries of the South Caucasus region. Besides some other steps that Türkiye has taken in recent years, the signing of Protocols (Establishment of Diplomatic Relations and Development of Relations) in Zurich in October 2009 has been a culmination of Türkiye’s sincerity to normalize its relations with Armenia. Türkiye maintains its willingness to normalize its relations with Armenia. Hence, the Protocols are still on the agenda of the Turkish Parliament. (Click for the English texts of the Protocols) Regarding the Protocols, Constitutional Court of the Republic of Armenia has declared its decision on conformity with the Armenian Constitution on 12th January 2010. However, it has been noticed that there were preconditions and constraining provisions within the detailed decision of the Court. The detailed decision has impeded the reason for negotiations and the main goal that had been aimed by the Protocols. Consequently, we have communicated our counterparts, including Armenia, that such an approach is unacceptable for us. Meanwhile, on 22nd April 2010 President of Armenia Mr. Sargsyan has declared his decision to suspend the Protocols for an unlimited period. Lastly, President Sargsyan recalled the protocols from the Parliament in February 2015 and under the pretext of the “centenary of 1915 events”, Armenia exploited every opportunity throughout 2015. We hope that Armenia will reconsider its position as soon as possible and engage in a meaningful and constructive dialogue with Türkiye.

What happened in 1915?

To understand what exactly happened between Turks and Armenians in 1915 one has to examine what happened before 1915. Ottoman Empire was a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society reflective of the Empires of the time. Turks and Armenians have lived in peace in Anatolia for over eight centuries. Up to 19th century Armenians were called “loyal nation” (Millet-i sadıka) because of their success in integrating to the Ottoman community. As privileged subjects of the Ottoman Empire, Armenian community were to rise to prominence as ministers, ambassadors, mayors, industrialists and businessmen. They were not discriminated in any way because of their ethnic and religious roots. In the Ottoman time: - Twenty-nine Armenians achieved the highest governmental rank of civilian generals (pasha); - There were twenty-two Armenian governmental ministers. Among the posts held were the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Finance, Trade, Public Works, Post and Telegraph Services; - Gabriel Noradunkyan, the Minister of Foreign Affairs in 1912-1913, was Armenian; - Numerous Armenians headed governmental departments concerned with a variety of functions, including agriculture, census, and economic development; - In the post-1876 Ottoman Chamber of Deputies (Meclis-i Mebusan), there were thirty-three elected Armenian representatives; - Seven Armenian Ambassadors and eleven Consul-Generals and Consuls served in the Ottoman diplomatic service; - Eleven university professors of Armenian origin brought their valuable contributions to the Ottoman academic life. Towards the end of the 19th century, the “Entente Powers” of those days began to regard the Armenians as an important tool which could be manipulated against the Ottomans. They promised the Armenians a state of their own in Eastern Anatolia where paradoxically they constituted only a minority. With the Berlin Conference which was held after the 1877-1878 Ottoman-Russian War, Armenians gained great political acquisitions. With Article 61 which was accepted in the Conference (The Sublime Porte undertakes to carry out, without further delay, the amelioration and reforms demanded by local requirements in the provinces inhabited by the Armenians, and to guarantee their security against the Circassians and Kurds. It will periodically make known the steps taken to this effect to the Powers, who will superintend their application), “The Armenian Issue” was brought to the agenda in the international arena. It was with the creation of two radical revolutionary Armenian committees, the Hinchag Committee formed in Geneva, Switzerland in 1887, and the Dashnag Committee, established in Tbilisi, Georgia in 1890, that Armenian national aspirations began to assume the more classical form which the Ottomans had come to know and worry in the previous half-century. After that with these Committees provocations and foreign subsidized rebellions were started in different cities of the Ottoman Empire. The first big Armenian rebellion was started in Van in 1896. After government’s quashing the rebellion Armenian organizations continued their activities and they made many rebellions in different cities. The start of World War I and the entry of the Ottoman State into the war against the Allied Powers were seen as a great opportunity by these revolutionary groups. They revolted against the Ottoman Government, collaborated with the invading Russian Armies and other foreign forces, launching attacks on the Ottoman army and Muslim civilians from behind the front and engaging in acts of sabotage. In March 1915, the Russian forces began to move toward Van. After the failure of Sarıkamış Operation, on April 11, 1915, the Armenians of Van initiated a general revolt which is the second rebellion of Armenians in Van, massacring all the Turks in the vicinity to enable the city’s quick and easy conquest by the Russians. As a result, Ottoman Government enacted the Relocation Law on May 27, 1915. The Armenians who were living around strategic military locations were to be relocated to other areas far from the war zone. When we analyze the 1915 Events in the historical context, the Ottoman Government which was facing enormous internal and external threats such as terrorist attacks, rebellions and cooperation with enemies resorted to a defensive measure and increased precautions. Accordingly, these precautions were not pre-planned and they have no political purpose based on a certain ideology. On the contrary, they are implemented because of military and security related needs. Military historians say that Ottoman Government was forced to enact the Relocation Law of May 27, 1915 because of the military necessities and the threat of separatist movements. The other point to be noted was that Armenians were not foreseen to be deported, but were relocated to the places outside the Ottoman war zones. Armenians living in Eastern Anatolia were transferred to places within other Ottoman regions, reserving their right to return back to their homes after the end of the war. The transfer started after necessary preparations. Meanwhile, Armenians living in areas outside the military operations were not part of the resettlement process. Thus, the Armenians living in Istanbul, Kütahya and Aydın were not affected by this law. The decision made by the Ottoman Government was not an extension of any ideology. In this law, every measure was foreseen to be taken to ensure the security of the Armenians subjected to relocation. The Ottoman Government instructed the local authorities to take the necessary security measures for the orderly relocation of the Armenians. Moreover, officials or civilians who disobeyed the instructions of the Government and committed offences against Armenian convoys were tried by the Military Courts (“Divan-i Harbi Örfi, 1915-1916). The Courts decided to take 1763 people into custody and passed death sentences for 67 individuals. The documents relating to the case are available in the Ottoman archives. Despite these measures, war conditions, local gangs, robbery, local feelings of hatred and vengeance have prompted attacks towards the convoys during the transfer process. The Government tried to prevent them. As a matter of fact, there were very limited attacks on the Armenian convoys in the regions where the state authority was relatively high. Insufficiency of food and other means in war days, heavy climatic conditions and outbreaks of epidemic diseases like typhus had also led to the increase of loss of human lives. In fact, the said time period was an era in which all Anatolian peoples shared the same fate. It should be noted that 3 million people, mostly civilian Muslims, died in Anatolia during World War I. Those who perished in the hands of Armenian bands reached 524, 000, between the years 1914 through 1922. How did a state, willing to annihilate Armenians and targeting to massacre, try officials or civilians who committed offences against Armenian convoys? And why did this state adopt a special law to take the necessary security measures for the orderly relocation of the Armenians? The circles claiming the 1915 events as “genocide” cannot respond to these questions. Also, the answers for these questions prove that there was no intent on the part of Ottomans to destroy the Armenians. In the Ottoman period, Armenians was fully integrated to the Ottoman society and bureaucracy. Even, it is well known fact that the Committee of Union and Progress who adopted the Relocation Law, cooperated with the Armenian groups during and after the advent to power. Many Armenians were elected as Parliamentarians in the general elections of 1908, 1912 and 1914 from the list of the Committee of Union and Progress. Among these Bedros Hallaçyan served as Minister of Trade and Public Works two times as well as a member of the Central Committee of the Committee of Union and Progress. After World War I, the Armenian allegations were investigated between 1919 and 1922, as part of the legal process against the Ottoman officials. Subsequently, 144 Ottoman high officials were arrested and deported for trial by Great Britain to the island of Malta. The information that led to these arrests was mainly provided by local Armenians and the Armenian Patriarchate in Istanbul. So while the deportees were under detention in Malta, the British occupation forces in Istanbul, which had absolute power and authority in the Ottoman capital, looked frantically everywhere to find evidence in order to incriminate the deportees. However, no evidence, demonstrating that the Ottoman Government, the members of the Committee of Union and Progress and the Ottoman officials deported to Malta either sanctioned or encouraged the killings of the Armenians, was found. Moreover, no evidence could be found to this effect in the American and French archives. After two years and four months of detention in Malta, all the deportees were set free without trial. Within the framework of the efforts to equate the events of 1915 with the Holocaust, various Armenian groups recently claim that the ruling the Committee of Union and Progress during the period of World War I, with a Social Darwinist ideology, tried to apply a repressive “Turkification” policy and aimed to annihilate Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. In this framework, one of the concepts is formed as a racism targeting to collective identity instead of a racism rejecting in terms of biology. Numerous historians who are experts of the Committee of Union and Progress disclosed that this argument was thoroughly baseless, since the Committee of Union and Progress did not have a monolithic ideology. The Holocaust was a horrific outcome of centuries-long racist ideology penetrated into the European society. In the Ottoman Empire, such a racist ideology against the Armenian subjects of the Empire never existed. There was, in no way, Turkish-Armenian discrimination in terms of administration. On the other hand, Ottoman Empire sent Notes to the Governments of Spain, The Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden on February 1919 and asked them to assign two legal experts and form an enquiry commission to investigate the claims of Armenian massacres. Unfortunately, this initiative has remained inconclusive due to the British intervention.

What is the total number of the Armenian deportees?

The ones who support the Armenian allegations overestimate the number of the Armenian losses during the relocation, above the historical facts. According to the latest Ottoman census figures, which was taken in 1914, total number of the Armenian population within the Ottoman territory was 1.295.000, during the time of the census. It is estimated that the total number of the Armenians, whom were relocated within the context of a military necessity on a temporary basis were around 702,900.

Did all Armenian deportees die?

The allegation towards all the Armenian deportees were massacred and annihilated is far from truth as well as historical facts and objectivity. It is a fact that some Armenians lost their lives during the relocation. However, the radical factions of the Armenian diaspora began to argue that the death toll of the Armenian deportees were 600.000 just after the WWI. Later on, this number has been increased up to first 800.000 and then to 1.5 -2. millions. It is not possible to determine the exact number of Armenians who lost their lives during WWI. In fact, this is not the case solely for the Armenians, but all the citizens of the Empire whom lost their lives during WWI. Due to the reason that the Ottoman Administration did not keep the records of the deaths during the wars, it is not possible to estimate the definite death toll during the war. In this regard, the best possible guess is to try to estimate the total number of citizens of Armenian origin of the Empire. Accordingly, some statistical estimations can be made from this. Set aside the inflated and fabricated statistical figures, which have been produced in order to make contribution to the radical Armenian propaganda, the statistical figures of the reliable sources with regard to the total number of Armenians within the Ottoman territory differ between 1.056.000 and 1.555.000. This is in parallelism with the figures of the latest Ottoman census, which is around 1.295.000. Talat Pasha, in his speech delivered during the last congress of the Committee of Union and Progress which was in Nov. 1st, 1918, argued that the total number of the Armenian deaths were around 300.000. Boghos Nubar Pasha, whom was one of the prominent figures of the Armenian independence movement, in his speech at the Paris Peace Conference (1918), stated that 280.000 Armenians had stayed after the WWI and 700.000 Armenians had fled to the other countries. This number overlaps with the estimate towards 300.000 Armenians had lost their lives during WWI.

What is the proposal of Türkiye towards the settlement of the debate with regard to the Events of 1915?

There is a conflict of memories between the Turkish and Armenian nations with regard to the events of 1915. Türkiye does not have any intentions towards imposing her own memory records over the others. However, no one has the right to impose its own memory records on Türkiye either. Republic of Türkiye, has supported the idea of the events of 1915 should be evaluated by historians. Prime Minister of the Republic of Türkiye, HE. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has sent a letter to the President of Armenia then H.E. Mr. Kocharian in April 10th, 2005 and proposed to establish a commission of historians and scholars of the relevant fields in order to conduct a scientific research and announce its results. The commission that was envisaged to be established, had been proposed to conduct its research not only in the Turkish and Armenian archives, but also within the relevant archives of the third countries. Additionally, the Turkish Grand National Assembly, in its declaration dated 13th April 2005 with regard to the Armenian allegations, has indicated its full support to this historical proposal of our Prime Minister. However, it has not been possible to attain an official reply to the letter of our Prime Minister. The sub-commission on the historical dimension, foreseen in the Protocols signed in October 2009 between Türkiye and Armenia, aims at overcoming the differences in memories between Turkish and Armenian peoples on the events of 1915. This would allow both people to rekindle the friendship and reach a just memory. Türkiye believes that this sub-commission on historical dimension would play a crucial role in reaching a just memory with regard to the events of 1915. Türkiye believes that a peaceful common future between Turks and Armenians can only be built on a solid basis through dialog. April 23rd message delivered in 2014 by President Erdoğan and April 20th message delivered in 2015 by Prime Minister Davutoğlu on the events of 1915 are mirrors of our understanding. These messages were followed by other important steps forward representing our conscientious stance and humane perspective. With this understanding, the Turkish Government was represented at the liturgy held by the Armenian Patriarchate in Istanbul on 24 April 2015, for the commemoration of losses in 1915. Our President sent a message addressed to all the Ottoman Armenians during the ceremony. This is a historic breakthrough. Furthermore, the due recognition and restoration of the Armenian cultural heritage and honouring of Armenian personalities who made valuable contributions to Ottoman/Turkish culture will continue with resolve.

What is the situation of the archives of the Ottoman period and is it open to the researchers?

The Ottoman archive system, which is even today given as an example in the fields of scientific historical research and archive researches, has been conducted on the basis of systematic record taking since the establishment of the Ottoman State. Ottoman Administration has always acted with sensitivity and delicateness about recording all the administrative decisions as well as archiving them within the state apparatus. Within this context, all the archives that have been inherited from the Ottoman Era, are today in İstanbul, held under the auspices of the “Directorate General of the State Archives” which is functioning under the Prime Ministry. The archives are open to all researchers. It should be underlined that allegations towards the Ottoman archives such as it is “not open or research permissions are granted on a selective basis” are fabricated. One can get a glimpse about the correctness of these allegations by noting that even the ones who support Armenian allegations do have free access to these archives and conduct their researches. Ones who would like to conduct a study within the Directorate General of the State Archives, which has a developed catalogue and archive record system, can learn the application procedure as well as obtaining application documents from the following web site: www.devletarsivleri.gov.tr .

What is the situation of the archives in Armenia as well as the Armenian archives in other countries?

State Archives of Armenia, which is of significance for conducting a thorough research in terms of the allegations and ongoing debate with regard to the events of 1915, is following selective method in granting permission to the researchers. As far as it is noted from the press, all parts of the Armenian State Archives is not open on the grounds that “the classification has not been concluded yet”. On the other hand, the Armenian archives in the third countries such as “the Dashnak Archives in the US” and “Archives in Jerusalem”, which are thought to include significant correspondence, information and documents, are open only to Armenian researchers on a limited basis. It is not possible for a scholar, regardless of his / her nationality, who argues that the events of 1915 cannot be described as “genocide” to conduct a research in the aforementioned archives.

What is genocide?

Genocide is a very narrow legal term and an international crime which is clearly defined in the 1948 United Nations (UN) Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (the 1948 Genocide Convention). Türkiye is a party to this Convention. According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, genocide means any of the prescribed acts in the said Convention, committed with a specific intent (dolus specialis), to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group. Under the 1948 Genocide Convention, in order to incriminate a person with the crime of genocide, a competent court must ascertain that the crime has been committed as defined in this Convention. According to the 1948 Genocide Convention, a competent tribunal can be either a national court of the State in the territory of which the act was committed, or an international penal tribunal of which the Contracting Parties accepted the jurisdiction have the authority to call an act as “genocide”. Likewise, in the case of Holocaust which is the most widely known example of genocide around the world, crimes perpetrated against Jews and Romans had been concluded by the judgement of the Nuremberg Trials which had been specifically constituted for the alleged crime. Similarly, according to the court decisions which is in charge of judging such criminals Srebrenica and Ruanda Trials enacted as genocide. Accordingly, without the existence of a competent tribunal’s decision, the claim of genocide cannot be put forward or defended on legal grounds. In this regard, “genocide allegations” which do not rely on competent tribunal decisions cannot go beyond baseless claims lacking legal validity. In this context, in its judgement of 3 February 2015 in the Croatia v. Serbia case, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) revealed the criteria regarding the application of the 1948 Genocide Convention: The 1948 Genocide Convention cannot be retroactively applied to the events took place before the date of its entry into force. With reference to the ICJ’s judgment of 2007 on Bosnia and Herzegovina v. Serbia case, →If a State is to be responsible because it has breached its obligation not to commit genocide, it must be shown that genocide as defined in the Genocide Convention has been committed. It is for the party alleging a fact to demonstrate its existence. →The threshold in order to prove the specific intent (dolus specialis; ‘to destroy, in whole or in part’ a particular group), which, in order for genocide to be established is very high. →Deportation or displacement of the members of a group is not necessarily equivalent to destruction of that group, nor is such destruction an automatic consequence of the displacement. Thus, the decisions taken by non-competent institutions especially parliaments bear the risk of diluting the specific definition of the crime of genocide and, consequently, the exploitation of the concept of genocide. These constitute also a violation of the freedom of expression and of scientific research.

What is the position and policy of Türkiye towards genocide as a whole?

Türkiye’s position and policy on the issue of “genocide” is apparent. Türkiye is one of the signatory states which ratified the 1948 Genocide Convention in her National Parliament and institutionalized genocide as a crime in her national legal system. Türkiye contributes to the endeavours on investigation and penalization of the criminals who have perpetuated and/or played a role in these. Türkiye, as a respected member of international community contributes to this issue in all relevant platforms, first and foremost in the UN. With this understanding, Türkiye is one of the co-sponsors of the UN resolution (69/323), in which it proclaimed 9 December as “the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime”, adopted unanimously by General Assembly on 11 September 2015. Furthermore, Türkiye is one of the co-sponsors of the resolution of the UN General Assembly in 2005 designates January 27 which marks the anniversary of the liberation of the largest Nazi death camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau as International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Türkiye has also been actively contributing, as an observer country since 2008, to the activities of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), an intergovernmental body whose purpose is to encourage Holocaust education, remembrance and research both nationally and internationally.

Is it a crime to describe the events of 1915 as “genocide” in Türkiye and are the ones whom argue this exposed to legal investigation?

Turks and Armenians have different narratives and personal memories as to the background of this prolonged controversy concerning the 1915 events. We do not describe the 1915 events as a “genocide” and we do not accept this term while referring to these tragic events. Having said that, the issue of the 1915 events is not a taboo in Türkiye. Defending diverging narratives is legal in the context of freedom of expression. Books, debates, newspaper columns giving support to the Armenian view are not uncommon in Türkiye. This is a fact clearly stated in the Türkiye’s Progress Reports drawn by the European Union in recent years. However, in a number of European countries, some of which are the EU members, enact laws punishing the denial of “genocide” and implement them to the events of 1915, regardless of international law and historical truth. Such efforts in these countries seeking political gains constitute serious threat to the right to freedom of expression which is rightfully considered to be one of the main foundations of democratic societies. At this point, the case-law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in the Perinçek v. Switzerland case should be recalled (The Grand Chamber’s judgment, 15 October 2015; The Second Section’s judgment, 17 December 2013). This case-law is of historic nature, not only because it endorsed the Turkish perspective as to labelling the events of 1915, but also because it reaffirmed commitment to upholding freedom of expression as the fundamental pillar of democracy. In this case-law, the ECtHR held that Swiss Government violated Mr Perinçek’s right to freedom of expression because of his conviction for rejecting the legal characterisation of the 1915 events as “genocide”. The case-law of the ECtHR confirms that the legal characterisation of the events of 1915 is a matter of legitimate debate of public interest. Accordingly, everybody should be allowed to enjoy the right to express himself/herself freely about Ottoman history and characterize the Armenian sufferings in ways other than “genocide”. As emphasized by the ECtHR, the rejection of the legal characterisation of the events of 1915 was not in itself sufficient to amount to incitement of hatred towards the Armenian people. Challenging the legal characterisation of the events of 1915 as genocide does not have the same effect as denials of the Holocaust. While Holocaust denial is nowadays one of the main vehicles of anti-Semitism in many countries, there is no comparable “anti-Armenianism” in the world today. On 8 January 2016, the Constitutional Council of France delivered a decision following and based on the ECtHR’s case-law in the Perinçek case. In this decision, it is once again affirmed that the events of 1915 cannot be equated with the crimes of genocide established by a competent court, like the Holocaust.

What is Türkiye’s approach to the Syrian conflict?

Türkiye stood by the Syrian people who were pursuing their rightful demands by cutting its relations with Assad regime by 2012, as the regime has been the sole responsible actor of the conflict and lost its legitimacy. As the Syrian conflict entered its sixth year, Türkiye has been pursuing a humanitarian diplomacy from the beginning of the conflict and opened its doors to those who fled from the clashes and the violence of the regime irrespective of their ethnic, religious and sectarian backgrounds. From the very beginning, Türkiye has been involved in the efforts aiming to find a political solution to the conflict in Syria that threaten our national and regional security and leaded these efforts on the basis of the legitimate expectations of the Syrian people, with a view to bringing the stability and peace in this country. Along with the advantage of strengthening close ties between our peoples, the solution of the Syrian conflict through a genuine and inclusive political transition on the basis of the Geneva Communique, 30 June 2012, will place Turkish-Syrian relations on firm ground and will reinforce our approach of zero problems with neighbors.

What are the multilateral activities to reinforce our ties with the Turkic Republics, with which we share common language, culture, religion, history and values?

Türkiye has excellent bilateral relations with Central Asian Republics. At the multilateral level, the basic organization is the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States (Turkic Council), which was established in 2009 by Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. The Council has officially came into existence with the 10th Summit of Turkic Speaking States in İstanbul on 15-16 September 2010. (R) Ambassador Halil Akıncı was appointed as the first Secretary General of the Turkic Council which has been based in İstanbul. Currently, Ramil Hasanov (Azerbaijan) is serving as the Secretary General of the Council. The Turkic Cultural Heritage Fund in Baku and the Turkic Academy in Astana have been established within The Turkic Council, which aim to promote multilateral cooperation among the Turkic world. Recently, Kyrgyz Republic has proposed to establish the Turkic Sport and Nomadic Civilization Center in Kyrgyzstan and the founding agreement was signed on 11 September 2015 in V. Summit of the Turkic Council in Astana. Although, Turkmenistan does not establish institutional relationship with the organization in accordance with its status of neutrality, it participates to the Turkic Council Summit meetings as guest of honor. Since its formation, the Turkic Council has contributed to reinforcement of mutual trust and political solidarity among Turkic Republics and promoted cooperation on a wide spectrum, from energy to economy, tourism to education. We regard the Turkic Council as an organization which positively contributes to regional stability and peace, and will continue to supports its activities.

Where is Ahıska and who are the Ahıska Turks?

Ahıska is a historical region situated in Georgia with its currently 39.000 inhabitants. The region is called as Meskhet/Samtskhe by Georgians and thus Ahıska Turks are also referred as Meskhetian Turks. Today, the population of Ahıska is mostly comprised of Georgians and Armenians. Constituting the centre of the region, Ahıska City is situated 20 kilometres away from Posof district of Ardahan province of Türkiye (Vale/Türkgözü border gate). The region first became a part of the Ottoman Empire in 16th century followed by Russian occupation after the Russo-Turkish War of 1828–1829. Ahıska Turks lived in their homeland until the deportation of 1944 during the Second World War. On 15 November 1944, with a sudden operation initiated by the authorities of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), almost 100.000 Ahıska Turks, mostly children, women and elderly, were forced to leave their homes in Ahıska. They were then forced into freight wagons under inhumane conditions and were deported thousands of kilometres away from their homeland to the Central Asian republics of USSR. Today, Ahıska Turks are dispersed across nine countries (Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Ukraine, USA and Uzbekistan) and it is estimated that there are around 500.000 Ahıska Turks worldwide.

What is the position of Türkiye on Ahıska Turks?

Today, the situation of Ahıska Turks, as a kin community, is among the primary concerns of Turkish foreign policy. Actively supporting the efforts and activities towards the repatriation process of Ahıska Turks to their historical homeland, Türkiye is in constant contact with both Georgia and other relevant countries. Türkiye also follows the issue closely at international organizations, mainly at the Council of Europe (Georgia has committed itself to repatriate Ahıska Turks when becoming member of Council of Europe in 1999). The repatriation process of Ahıska Turks to their homeland has already started, albeit at a slow pace. We hope that this process will proceed faster and smoother and Ahıska Turks live in harmony together with the Georgian people. On the other hand, upon the instructions by the President of Türkiye, 677 families of Ahıska Turks (2960 people), living in the conflict zones of Ukraine and wishing to come to Türkiye were accepted to Türkiye as immigrants by the Council of Ministers' Decision No: 29358. 117 families (427 people) out of 677 families of Ahıska Turks, were settled in Üzümlü district of Erzincan province of Türkiye as of 25 December 2015.

What has Türkiye done so far within the framework of its opening up policy towards Latin America and the Caribbean region?

During the last ten years, in line with its multi-dimensional foreign policy, Türkiye pursued a more active policy towards the region with the aim of strengthening its relations. In this regard, in order to define how and in which areas Türkiye’s relations with Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC) countries can be enhanced, several meetings were held in the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the participation of our Ambassadors in Latin America, stakeholders including private sector representatives and Honorary Consuls of LAC countries in Türkiye in September 1998. At the end of these meetings the "Action Plan for Latin America and the Caribbean" which is a road map for political and economic openings to the region, was adopted. The year 2006 was declared as “the Year of Latin America and the Caribbean” in Türkiye and the Action Plan was updated. Diplomatic Representation: The number of Turkish diplomatic missions in the LAC countries has increased considerably during the last decade and the procedures to open new Embassies are underway. In addition to our Embassies in Brazil, Mexico, Buenos Aires, Santiago, Caracas and Havana, Turkish Embassies in Bogota and Lima became operational in 2010, in Santa Domingo in 2013, in Panama and San Jose in 2014 and lastly, in Guatemala in 2015, increasing the number of Turkish Embassies in the LAC region to thirteen. The Turkish Consulate General in Sao Paulo-Brazil was opened in 2009. LAC countries have reciprocated by increasing their representations in Türkiye. The number of LAC resident Embassies in Türkiye has reached 11. Bilateral Relations and High Level Visits: Mutual high level visits between Türkiye and countries of the region have gained momentum especially since 2010. During his Prime Ministry H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan paid an official visit to Brazil in 2010 and signed the “Strategic Partnership Action Plan” was signed between the two countries. During the visit of the Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff in 2011 a Joint Declaration entitled “Türkiye-Brazil: A Strategic Perspective for a Dynamic Partnership” was adopted. In 2011, former Argentinian President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, in 2012 former President of Chile Sebastian Pinera, President of Ecuador Rafael Correa and President of Colombia Juan Manuel Santos visited Türkiye. Mexico has become our second strategic partner in the region with the signing of the document entitled “Türkiye-Mexico: Strategic Cooperation and Partnership Framework for the 21st Century” was signed between the two countries during President Enrique Pena Nieto’s visit to Türkiye in 2013. President Erdoğan paid an official visit to Cuba, Colombia and Mexico in February 2015. This was the first Presidential visit to the region since 1995. President Erdoğan conducted a second visit to Chile, Peru and Ecuador in February 2016. Economic relations: Latin America and the Caribbean region, with a GDP over 6 billion USD and an overall trade volume that has recently reached 1.72 billion USD, receives a significant amount of FDI since the beginning of 2000s. Our trade volume with the region reached approximately 8 billion USD in 2015 which corresponds to an increase by % 60 in the last 5 years. Brazil is Türkiye’s first trade partner in the region with a trade volume of 2.253 million USD as of 2015. Brazil is followed by Colombia with 1.311 million USD, Mexico with 1.205 million USD, Chile with 471 million USD and Argentina with 353 million USD. Türkiye has an FTA with Chile is the only country in the region with whom we signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). FTA negotiations with Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru are underway. Furthermore, Türkiye has communicated its will to start FTA negotiations with the Central American Integration System (SICA). Exploratory talks were held with MERCOSUR with the same purpose. Humanitarian and development aid: The development cooperation which is conducted by Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) constitutes an important aspect of our relations with the countries in the region. TIKA has visited 16 countries in the region in 2014 and received project proposals. The first Regional Coordination Office of TIKA was opened in Mexico City in 2015. The process regarding the opening of the second office in Bogota has reached the final stage. In addition to the TIKA projects, Türkiye provides voluntary contributions to the CARICOM Development Fund, the Organization of American States (OAS), the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) and the Central American Integration System (SICA). Relations with Regional Organizations: Regional organizations provide important platforms to reach out to Latin American countries. Among these, Türkiye is an observer to the Pacific Alliance, Association of Caribbean States (ACS), and the Central American Integration System (SICA). The Turkish National Assembly has applied for observer status to PARLATINO, an umbrella regional parliamentary organization. Türkiye has applied to the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and will apply to the Association of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to establish institutional ties with these bodies and organizations. Türkiye has established consultation mechanisms with the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR). Military Cooperation: Türkiye has Military Attachés in Mexico, Colombia, Chile and Brazil whereas Chile, Mexico, Peru and Brazil have Military Attachés in Türkiye. Cooperation on Culture and Science: As part of the cooperation between the Ankara University and the Havana University, the Center for Turkish History and Culture was established in 2013 at the Havana University. Furthermore, procedures are engaged with a view to open a Turcology Department at the Central University of Ecuador. The National University of Colombia offers Turkish language, history and culture courses in its Bogota Campus. The Ankara University Research and Application Center for Latin America has been contributing significantly to the cultural and academic dimensions of our relations since the Center’s foundation in 2009. Moreover, American Studies Center founded in Bahçeşehir University and the Middle East Technical University started Latin and North America Studies Program at graduate level in 2011. Scholarships are an important aspect of our relationship with Latin America and the Caribbean. Currently, 188 Latin American students benefit from these scholarships. In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2014 between The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) and The National Council of Science and Technology of Mexico (CONACYT), the Joint Committee on Science and Technology meeting was convened.

What are Türkiye’s contributions to Myanmar?

The total amount of humanitarian assistance provided to Myanmar through the Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay), the Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (AFAD) and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has exceeded 6 million US Dollars so far. Türkiye pledged 1 million US Dollars to ongoing efforts of the IOM (International Organisation for Migration) and the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) following the crisis in Andaman Sea. Türkiye has reached an agreement with Myanmar authorities for contributing to the construction of houses for around 3.000 internally displaced families. The project began on 16 September 2015.

What are Türkiye’s contributions to international community’s efforts to fight terrorism?

Türkiye has been countering terrorism in different forms and manifestations for decades, from the ethnic separatist PKK terrorism, and the leftist DHKP-C to religiously motivated terrorist groups such as Al Qaeda and DAESH, as well as “17 November” “ASALA” terrorist organizations. The call for international cooperation is not just a rhetoric or an academic interest for Türkiye: The terrorist groups targeting our country have been operating across national borders: Running training camps, acquiring financial resources, operating media outlets to disseminate their propaganda and glorify their vicious acts, abroad. Perpetrators of terrorist crimes, their mentors and financiers have been able to escape justice and travel freely. Our own struggle against this menace has thought us the crucial lesson that we cannot succeed in our counter-terrorism efforts in the absence of solid international cooperation. Accordingly, Türkiye has been on the forefront of efforts to increase awareness of the international community on the threat of terrorism. We have worked hard bilaterally and at the various international platforms to create mechanisms for more effective counter-terrorism measures. Türkiye has all along been underlining that: -Terrorism poses major threat to international peace and security and regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed, all acts of terrorism are unjustified. -There should be increased cooperation between states on the basis of the “extradite or prosecute” principle, in order to deny any safe haven to terrorists. -International community should not discriminate between terrorist organizations and must act with equal determination in preventing, suppressing, pursuing and prosecuting all terrorist groups, their members and activities. -Any attempt to affiliate terrorism with any religion or ethnic group is utterly wrong and would in fact play into the hands of terrorists. The growing threat of terrorism in the past years revealed even more the importance of international cooperation. What we are being faced today is unprecedented. There is a drastic proliferation of terrorist groups all around the world that possess enhanced capacity to inflict much serious physical damage on us, and ever increasing ability to disseminate their “narratives” and to lure disillusioned young people to commit heinous forms of violence. Hardly a day goes by without an act of terrorism taking place somewhere in the world, indiscriminately affecting innocent people, who just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. As such, terrorism has become a truly global and rapidly evolving threat. The very phenomenon of Foreign Terrorist Fighters is a very disturbing illustration of this reality. To address this growing threat, effective, nimble and coordinated global response has become a must. The good news is that, international solidarity and collective capabilities against this transnational threat has been enhanced considerably. International community owes this particulary to the United Nations. By virtue of its universal representation and capacity to interlink various aspects in addressing terrorism, the United Nations is playing the central role in garnering a global response to this scourge. It is very important that we have now a global legal framework, criminalizing terrorist acts and obliging member states to cooperate in suppressing various aspects of terrorism: To this date, eighteen universal instruments against terrorism have been put in force relating to specific terrorist activities. Moreover, the Security Council has also been active in countering terrorism through resolutions, in particular 1267 (and ensuing resolutions) and 1373, and and by establishing several subsidiary bodies. At the same time a number of programmes, offices and agencies of the United Nations system have been engaged in specific activities against terrorism, further assisting Member States in building effective counter-terrorism capacities. One should also highlight the UN Counter Terrorism Strategy, adopted in 2006. Based on four main pillars, the Strategy marks the first time that all Member States of the United Nations have agreed to a common strategic and operational framework, to fight terrorism, committed by whomsoever, wherever and for whatever purposes. Türkiye has been playing an active role in the development of a universal legal framework under the UN system. Accordingly Türkiye has become a party to all UN counter-terrorism instruments. We strongly support the Global Strategy and implement UN Security Council Resolutions in a determined manner. Türkiye has also initiated, together with the US, the Global Counter Terrorism Forum, and have been co-chairing this body since 2011. Türkiye also co-chairs the Horn of Africa Working Group within the GCTF together with the EU. Türkiye is an active member of the Anti Deash Coalition and is co-leading the FTF working group within this coalition. Türkiye is also a member of the FATF, the global anti-money laundering/countering terrorist financing body. Türkiye is constantly reviewing legislation as well as implementation on countering terrorist financing, in order to be fully compliant with the FATF recommendations. Türkiye has also co-led, together with the US, in preparing the report on ISIL financing in 2015 within the FATF. Türkiye’s Financial Intelligence Unit (MASAK) operates in cooperation and coordination with the law enforcement authorities and prosecutors at the national level. MASAK also cooperates with other FIU’s through EGMONT Group and actively contributes to the efforts of the FATF. Türkiye has created the legal framework in line with the FATF recommendations in order to implement effectively UNSC resolutions 1267 and 1373, which calls for criminalizing terrorist financing and freezing terrorist assets. Over the years, Türkiye made bilateral agreements with more than over 70 countries around the world in the field of counterterrorism. These agreements provide the legal basis for bilateral cooperation against illegal entities including terrorist organization and facilitate exchange of information among the relevant agencies. Moreover, Türkiye is also an active contributor to counter terrorism capacity-building programmes of several states around the world. Counterterrorism Department, established in 1986 within the General Directorate of Turkish National Police, contributes significantly to building better international cooperation in the field of counterterrorism by organizing trainings with various countries. International trainings courses covers topics such as counterterrorism basic training, radicalization process leading to terrorism and preventive measures, public awareness and prevention activities, combating terrorist organizations abusing religion, crisis management in terrorist attacks, suicide attacks and preventive strategies, investigation process, combating the financing of terrorism. Turkish National Police is also organizing other training programmes in various aspects of the law enforcement work. Between 1997-2015 Turkish National Police provided training to around 26.000 law enforcement officials from 62 countries.

What are Türkiye’s contributions’s to anti-DEASH coalition?

Since its formation, Türkiye has been actively participating activities of the anti-DEASH coalition which specified five lines of effort to degrade the capabilities of, and ultimately defeat DEASH. A diverse group of countries from across the globe have embarked on persistent and comprehensive approach. In that regard, members of the anti-DEASH Coalition have made significant progress to degrading DEASH on the battle field, challenged them in the media, cut their funding and recruitment, and stabilize the territories they have left devastated. It has been fundamental to anti-DEASH Coalition to degrade and defeat DEASH through denying safe haven and building up military capacity. Within this context, Türkiye; • has participated in the Coalition Campaign military planning from day one, • has declared its national contributions to the Coalition as part of the Campaign Plan as of February 2015, • has allowed it airspace to be used by Coalition aircraft for both combat and non-combat roles, including intelligence gathering, personnel recovery, • has opened its facilities to the US and other Coalition partners, allowing over 60 aircraft with over 1200 personnel to be deployed to support operations, for counter-DEASH operations in Syria and Iraq, • has been hitting DEASH targets since the beginning through air, artillery and other assets, • has actively been hosting the Train-Equip Program, • only since January this year, hit 487 DEASH targets eliminating at least 86 DEASH terrorists, • has developed plans to clear DEASH from our borders, and these efforts will continue. Türkiye has also put in place a broad array of mechanisms to disrupt or stop the flow of foreign fighters. Türkiye is continuously enhancing security measures to stop and intercept foreign terrorist fighters at airports and other border crossing points through Risk Analysis Units established specifically for this purpose. Türkiye has begun to counter threat of foreign terrorist fighters since 2011 and called for source countries to take necessary legal and administrative measures to prevent departure and travel of FTFs from their countries. In this regard, Türkiye, as of February 2016, has included about 37.000 foreigners in the no-entry list since the Syrian crisis erupted. More than 3.000 foreigners were deported since 2011 in the context of measures against foreign fighters. Within the context of anti-DEASH coalition, Türkiye is co-chairing Counter ISIL Coalition Working Group on Foreign Terrorist Fighters (WGFTF) which focuses on supporting and encouraging actions that directly complement and support Coalition efforts to degrade and ultimately defeat DEASH in Syria and Iraq. At the same time, Türkiye, in the context of WG’s plan including nine strand of action assumed to lead “promote intensified and accelerated exchange of actionable information on FTF travel, facilitating effective communication channels and points of contacts between Coalition members” and in that respect an international meeting was held in Ankara on 23-24 November 2015. Results of this meeting is shared with the members of the Coalition. Türkiye, in line with the Security Council resolutions 2178(2014) and 2199(2015) has launched a comprehensive strategy and took effective measures to combat DEASH’s finances and disrupt and prevent the terrorist organization from raising, moving and using funds. Türkiye co-led a FATF typology project on DEASH with the US. Türkiye also takes part in the Working Group on counter financing. At the same time, as an active member of FATF, Turkish Financial Intelligence Unit (MASAK) also cooperates with other FIUs. Türkiye, along with its 911 kilometers land border with Syria and 331 kilometers with Iraq employs effective and robust measures to prevent smuggling activities. Türkiye conducts a zero-tolerance policy regarding illegal cross-border activities. Actually, oil smuggling along Türkiye’s south-eastern borders is not a new phenomenon. Türkiye has been victimized by this phenomenon for decades, losing millions in tax revenue, and the Government has been actively fighting oil smuggling and the use of smuggled oil in gas stations all around the country through inspections and enhanced legislation, in particular since the beginning of the 2000s. In this context, the Anti-Smuggling Law was adopted in 2003, and a Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry was set up in 2005 to investigate oil smuggling, which led to the revision of the Petroleum Market Law in 2006. In 2012, the Action Plan on Countering Oil Smuggling was revised. A Circular Order (2012/19) by Prime Ministry for enhanced measures were introduced. A legislation was passed on April 11, 2013, which increased the penalties for smuggling of oil as well as the sale of smuggled oil in gas stations in the country. After the beginning of the Syrian crisis, in response to increasing lawlessness at the other side of the borders, Turkish law enforcement and security forces stepped up their efforts to counter all threats to our security including smuggling activities stemming from Syria. These enhanced measures targeting smuggling networks were introduced in 2012, and preceded the capture of two major oil fields in Syria and Iraq by DEASH in June and July 2014 and months before the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2170 in August 2014 and 2199 in February 2015 respectively. Türkiye, in accordance with UN Security Council resolution 2199 (2015) regularly provides information to the UN Security Council Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee about the incidents of smuggled oil and amount of oil seized in the border area with Syria and Iraq although the link between material seized and DEASH or ANF terrorist groups cannot be established. Due to enhanced and effective border security measures amount of smuggled oil is decreased considerably. This is clear indication of Türkiye’s determination to fight any illicit trade activity across our borders. While in 2014, 79 million liters (21 million gallons) of smuggled oil was intercepted by the Turkish law enforcement and customs authorities all over Türkiye, in 2015 this amount decreased to 1,22 million liters (322,289 gallons) due to effective measures taken to prevent oil smuggling. On the other hand, amount of intercepted smuggled oil at Syrian border which was 12,6 million liters in 2014 decreased to 887 thousand liters in 2015. Within the context of counter measures 300 kilometers of illegal pipelines, which are often little more than hoses used for oil smuggling across the Syrian border, were destroyed. Türkiye employs effective and enhanced measures for border security. Within this context; • Only two border gates are operating at Syrian border area and no vehicle transit is allowed. Goods, not subject to UN sanctions, are unloaded at zero point and delivered to the other side of the border after customs check. • Measures at the Turkish-Syria and Turkish-Iraq borders are enhanced by additional personnel, patrols and equipment. • Overall land borders of Türkiye (with Iran, Bulgaria, Greece, Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iraq and Syria) are secured by 50.000 military personnel. Within the framework of enhanced security measures at Syrian border, number of the personnel of the existing 12 Border Battalions which was 12.000 in 2104, has been increased to 20.000. • New units of air defense and reconnaissance have been added to the battalions. • 90 percent of the operations of unmanned air vehicles are focused in Syrian border area to detect illegal crossing and smuggling activities. • Türkiye has also strengthened physical security measures along its 911 kilometers border with Syria. Within this context, Türkiye is in the process of establishment of “Syrian border physical security system” which includes construction of 192 kilometers of wall and 93 kilometers part of the said wall has already been completed. This project is expected to cost 81 million US Dollars. At the same time the number of border patrol stations are increased, 375,6 kilometers length of trenches are dug, 153,3 kilometers barbed wire installed, 19,8 kilometers of movable concrete wall formed, 26,3 kilometers of accordion barrier systems positioned, along 422.630 meters part of Syrian border illumination poles installed at every 50 meters, 79,5 kilometers embankment (3x3 m.) formed, 1,217 kilometers length of border patrol path improved and 7,8 kilometers road constructed.

What is PKK?

PKK is a terrorist organization. The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization internationally by numerous countries, including the members of the European Union and others such as United States, Canada and Australia. European Union also designated PKK as a terrorist entity in 2004. North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) also refers to PKK as a terrorist entity. Since its foundation in 1984 more than 40 thousand people lost their lives because of PKK terrorism. PKK's ideology is founded on revolutionary Marxism-Leninism and separatist ethno-nationalism. PKK wants to suppress the diversity of Türkiye, prevent participation and integration of Türkiye’s citizens of Kurdish origin and intimidate the people in the region. PKK’s primary targets include police, military, economic, and social assets in Türkiye. PKK also attacks on civilians and diplomatic and consular facilities. PKK is also involved in extortion, arms smuggling, and drug trafficking. Türkiye's tourism industry, economic infrastructure, educational Institutions, teachers, hospitals, public and private enterprises particularly in southeast Türkiye have been the main targets of PKK terrorists. It uses a wide range of method to carry out acts of terror ranging from attacking infrastructure, various facilities, schools and ambulances, kidnapping nurses, customs officials to using cyanide to poison drinking water supplies; and engaging in unconventional tactics, assassination to drive-by shootings, executing uncooperative civilians, ambushes, kidnapping etc. Until 1998 PKK found a safe haven in Syria. Then its leader Abdullah Öcalan had to flee the country only to be captured several months later. He is now serving life sentence in a prison in Türkiye. Following the power vacuum in the north of Iraq after the Gulf War, PKK established camps in various points around the Qandil Mountain where they receive training and infiltrate to Türkiye to carry out attacks. PKK’s funding is based on variety of sources. In a number of European countries there are ongoing investigations and court cases related to financing of PKK terrorism. In a major European country, the number of court files related to PKK related illegal activities exceeded five thousands. PKK is also into organized crime, illegal human smuggling and drug trafficking. On 14 October 2009, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) targeted the senior leadership of the PKK, designating Murat Karayılan, the head of the PKK, and high-ranking members Ali Riza Altun and Zübeyir Aydar as significant foreign narcotics traffickers. On 20 April 2011, the U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the designation of PKK founders Cemil Bayık and Duran Kalkan and other high-ranking members as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers (SDNT) pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act. PKK subsidiaries and offshoots exploit the democratic rights and freedoms in Europe. In certain countries, there are continuing major investigations against PKK financing and other unlawful acts by PKK affiliated entities and individuals. In some others there are ongoing court cases related to PKK activities. As stated in TESAT reports, in addition to collection of money from private persons and firms there are cases that revenues are also obtained from criminal organizations. PKK also continues its systematic recruitment activities of young persons living in European countries and trains them in various camps . It also forges identity documents. PKK has also offshoots and affilates in Iran, Syria and Iraq. KCK, headed by imprisoned Öcalan, is the same organization with PKK. “KCK” is “PJAK” in IRAN, “Tawgari Azadi” in Iraq and PYD/YPG in Syria. PYD/YPG’s affiliation with PKK is clear. PYD/YPG was set up under the control of PKK terrorist organization in 2003. They share the same leadership cadres, organizational structure, strategies and tactics, military structure, propaganda tools, financial resources and training camps.

What is DHKP-C?

DHKP-C is a terrorist organization. The Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C) is enlisted as a terrorist group by Türkiye, the European Union and US. The DHKP-C was originally formed in 1978 as Devrimci Sol, or Dev Sol. It was a splinter faction of the Turkish People's Liberation Party/Front. It was renamed as the DHKP-C in 1994 after factional infighting. It has a Marxist-Leninist ideology. It aims at overthrowing the Turkish state through violence and removing the US and NATO presence in Türkiye. The DHKP/C uses several tactics in the form of armed attacks, such as assassinations, suicide bombings and bomb traps which are still maintained among the terrorist organization’s attempts. Some recent major terrorist acts of the DHKP-C include: - August 10, 2015, Attack to US Consulate General: Two suspected DHKP-C members attacked the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul. There were no casualties. - March 31, 2015, Killing of a Prosecutor: Two DHKP-C members took hostage and then killed Prosecutor Mehmet Selim Kiraz at the Istanbul Courthouse. - On February 1, 2013, US Embassy bombing: a suicide bomber attacked to the US Embassy in Ankara, killing a Turkish security guard, and wounding three others. The DHKP/C carries out a variety of activities such as propaganda, recruitment and financing through several associations, cultural centers and press organizations established in European countries.

Fight Against FETÖ and July 15 Coup Attempt

Please press the link, http://www.15.07.gov.tr/

What are Türkiye’s contributions in the fight against drug trafficking?

Due to its location Türkiye is exposed to extensive flow of licit and illicit goods. This location lies at the crossroads of the heroin production sites in Afghanistan and consumption markets in Europe. Türkiye is also intensively exposed to the growing ATS and precursor trade between Europe and the Middle East. Turkish counter-narcotics policy is based on three pillars. The first pillar focuses on the fight against domestic distribution networks and street dealers. The second pillar deals with the dismantling of the international drug trafficking networks. The third pillar concentrates on investigations related to the financing of terrorism (particularly the PKK) through drug trafficking. In recent years, the Turkish National Police (TNP) has made nearly 20 percent of the global heroin seizures. Over the past decade, Türkiye’s consistent cooperation with European counterparts led to the dismantling of numerous heroin networks along the Balkan route. On the other hand, we have been observing that the Northern route is gaining gravity in terms of heroin trafficking, which led the Turkish law enforcement agencies to develop operational partnerships with our counterparts along this route. More recently, (2012-2013-2014) Anti-Smuggling & Organized Crime Department (KOM) under the TNP has conducted 11 heroin operations in collaboration with Sweden, USA, UK, Canada, Austria and Macedonia. These operations resulted in the seizure of over 20.400 kilograms of heroin and 56.738 kilograms of opium gum. In addition to active participation in bilateral and multilateral operations, Türkiye also provides distinguished training to the personnel of the national law enforcement agencies of many countries. We have been organizing training programs through the Turkish International Academy against Drugs and Organized Crime (TADOC) for the benefit of the counter-narcotic units of many countries, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, as well as the countries of the Middle East, Central Asia and the Balkans. TADOC is also a significant contributor to the training projects organized within international organizations and institutions such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC), and SELEC. Currently, TADOC, as a leading Academy in the region, is referred to by UNODC as a “Center of Excellence” while its work is presented as “best practices” to the rest of the world. Since its establishment in 2000, TADOC has organized a total of over 500 international training programs with the participation of nearly 9.000 law enforcement personnel from 88 countries. Methamphetamine has become a new threat after 2009. Over the past two years, the number of meth operations have increased by 55.7 % and the volume of its seizures by 39 %. Turkish authorities work closely with Malaysian, Japanese and Thai authorities against methamphetamine trafficking. In 2012, a joint investigation of Turkish and US agencies led to the seizure of nearly 2,6 kilograms of meth. A Turkish-Italian joint investigation led to the seizure of 2,8 kilograms and a Turkish-UK joint investigation led to the seizure of nearly 709 grams of meth. Currently, Türkiye is affected by the cocaine traffic both as a transit and a target country. We have also been working closely with Saudi Arabian and Bulgarian law enforcement agencies against captagon trafficking. Türkiye is a target country for ecstasy which is produced in the Netherlands and Belgium. Turkish law enforcement agencies are engaged in close cooperation with the source countries and are keen to increase the level of cooperation. To increase the efficiency of police cooperation, Türkiye has recently expanded its police liaison network to 27 countries across the world. We use this network to conduct international operations. In 2012, Türkiye conducted 14 joint operations with Romania, Macedonia, Germany, USA, Sweden, Italy and the UK. In 2013, 25 joint operations were conducted by the Turkish law enforcement authorities with 15 countries, 10 of these operations being controlled deliveries. In 2014, Türkiye conducted a joint operation with France and 4 controlled delivery operations with Germany, UK, Austria and Sweden. During the last decade, nearly 119 international operations and 91 multinational controlled deliveries have been carried out with 35 countries. Despite these achievements, we sometimes face challenges in international cooperation emanating mainly from differences in national legislations and diversity in institutional priorities of countries. In other words, Türkiye efficiently contributes to all efforts in fighting drug abuse as well as trafficking, through an effectively functioning network of bilateral and multilateral cooperation. Türkiye is present in major activities of international organizations and readily shares expertise and experience in this area. PKK/KCK terrorist organization is considered to be an important player in the international drug smuggling network due to its widespread connections in Türkiye and Europe. Conducted operations indicate that the narco-terrorist activities of PKK/KCK terrorist organization are not limited to extortion or collection of protection money from smugglers but also include international delivery of drugs. Details of statistics and related analysis may be accessed through “www.kom.pol.tr”. During the last decade, TNP-KOM has become a principal actor in global and regional counter- narcotic efforts. This accomplishment is mainly due to utmost care in deployment of the KOM staff and their sophisticated training schemes. All new recruits are obliged to participate in long-term training programs in TADOC, which are jointly developed by KOM and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Turkish Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction (TUBİM), which operates under KOM, has been established as a national focal point of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), with the aim of monitoring drug use as well as the supply and demand aspect of drugs, in order to collect and report data to EMCDDA. TUBİM is also responsible for the preparation of The National Strategy/Action Plans and The Annual Turkish Drug Report, which includes all relevant data concerning drugs. “National Drug Policy and Strategy Document” covering the period 2013-2018 and the “Third National Drug Action Plan” covering the period 2013-2015 have both been prepared by the Turkish Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (TUBİM). The above Action Plan seeks a balanced, effective and coordinated approach at the national level with regard to tackling the demand and supply of drugs. As proposed by the first Action Plan, Provincial Coordination Boards on Drugs have been established in all provinces of Türkiye. Furthermore, local Action Plans were prepared in 78 provinces. There is an Early Warning System (EWS) controlled by TUBIM to identify and assess new drugs. If the Working Group of the EWS deems necessary, a substance may be brought under legal control in accordance with the Law 2313 on the Control of Drugs. In 2011, 19 new substances were brought under legal control including bonsai, khat, synthetic cannabinoid and cathinone. A total of 274 substances were included in the mentioned Law by the Early Warning System between 2008 and 2015. Besides monitoring, TUBİM and its local contact points (ILTEMs) also carry out demand reduction activities. Demand reduction experts conduct awareness raising activities to reduce the demand for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. TUBİM and the ILTEMs publish books, magazines and other relevant material to raise the consciousness and awareness of the public (particularly the youth) against drug abuse. They also follow issues related to treatment. In conclusion, it is worth mentioning that TUBİM has been the organizer of two International Drug Conferences in 2011 and 2013, which brought together national and international experts to discuss contemporary issues on the global drug problem.

Türkiye is active in the field of mediation. What are the reasons for this and what are your priorities in the field of mediation?

As a country affected by conflicts, tensions and developments in a highly volatile geography, Türkiye is committed to mediation and facilitation efforts.

Türkiye’s efforts in the field of mediation are reflected in our larger policy to create an area of stability, security and welfare in our region and beyond. We believe that enhanced regional cooperation, economic interdependence, sustainable and humanitarian development help minimize the risk of conflict and act in itself as a preventive measure.

Türkiye’s active efforts in the field of mediation is a part of her Enterprising and Humanitarian Foreign Policy approach. With the understanding that inaction is not an option to regional and global problems, Türkiye takes initiative to prevent and resolve conflicts to end human suffering.

In this respect, Türkiye has conducted effective mediation to facilitate reconciliation and cooperation among different parties and supported peace agreements and processes in various countries, such as Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, the Philippines and Somalia.

At the same time, coordination, cooperation, and sharing experiences, training qualified mediators, capacity-building within regional organizations and setting international norms in the field of mediation are crucial.

With this in mind, Türkiye conducts a comprehensive portfolio of activities, ranging from co-chairmanships at three distinct initiatives at the UN, OSCE and the OIC, two international Mediation Conference series and the Mediation for Peace Certificate Program to maintain the interest, awareness and support for mediation, and build norms and capacity in this field.

As a country with continuously growing energy demand in the last decades, Türkiye has the highest level of increase in energy demand among OECD countries. Therefore, energy security remains as one of the top ranking items on our country’s agenda. The main elements of our energy strategy can be summarized as follows: 1) Taking into account increasing energy demand and import dependency, prioritization among energy supply security related activities; 2) Within the context of sustainable development, giving due consideration to environmental concerns all along the energy chain; 3) Increasing efficiency and productivity, establishing transparent and competitive market conditions through reform and liberalization; 4) Augmenting research and development on energy technologies. Through application of these four basic principles, we aim for the following goals; 1) Diversification of routes and sources for imported oil and natural gas; 2) Increasing the ratio of local and renewable energy in our energy mix; 3) Increasing energy efficiency; 4) Adding nuclear to our energy mix. The main elements of Türkiye’s energy policy are energy supply security, increased use of national resources and predictability. In line with our multi-dimensional energy strategy, we aim at obtaining at least 39% of electricity production from renewable energy by 2023. With regard to involvement of nuclear energy to our energy mix, construction of two nuclear power plants and generation of electricity from nuclear sources is planned as of 2023. In terms of energy efficiency, we aim for a more efficient use of energy through a decrease in our energy intensity by 20%. While determining its regional energy strategy, Türkiye aims at further strengthening its strategic position on both East - West and North - South energy corridors. BTC and BTE pipelines, as well as Türkiye – Greece Interconnector, are thus of utmost importance.

On the other hand, our hydrocarbon exploration activities in Eastern Mediterranean in our own continental shelf and TRNC’s license areas are going with determination.

Offering a short, secure and sustainable route for the energy resources of its energy rich neighborhood, Türkiye, together with its partners, is currently in the process of materializing the Southern Gas Corridor, which will constitute an organic link from the Middle East and the Caspian Region towards Europe. Türkiye therefore gives a priority to turning the Southern Gas Corridor into a reality. Trans Anatolian Pipeline Project (TANAP), which constitutes the backbone of the Southern Gas Corridor was inaugurated on 12 June 2018 and completed as of 1 st of July 2019.

In November 2018, TANAP and Trans Adriatic Pipeline Project (TAP) was connected at the Turkish-Greek border. Upon completion of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline Project (TAP), gas supply to Europe will start. (As of August 2019, 89.3% of the project was completed.) Another significant project in the context of our efforts to ensure diversification of our energy resources and routes is the TurkStream. Offshore section of the project was completed as of 19 November 2018. It is foreseen that the project be operational and start to gas transportation to our country in 2019. In addition to the above-mentioned projects, Türkiye is ready to positively consider any energy project in its region that is economically feasible; offering a win-win approach for all parties; and contributing to regional and global peace at the same time.

Türkiye is an active member of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Energy Charter (EC), European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN), International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), World Energy Council (WEC) and World Petroleum Council (WPC). Türkiye wishes to use energy as a tool for peace and cooperation. In line with this policy, Türkiye’s G20 Presidency organized the first ever G20 Energy Ministers’ meeting and G20 Conference on Energy Access in Sub-Saharan Africa in October 2015. The 23rd World Energy Congress, hosted jointly by our Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, was held under the auspices of our President on 9-13 October 2016 in Istanbul. The 22nd World Petroleum Congress, organized by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources of Türkiye with the main theme of “Bridges to Our Energy Future”, held under the auspices of our President in Istanbul on July 9-13th, 2017.

Contrary to the general perception, Türkiye is neither a country rich in freshwater resources nor the richest country in the region in this respect. Türkiye is situated in a semi-arid region, and has only about one fifth of the water available per capita in water rich regions such as North America and Western Europe. Water rich countries are those which have 10.000 cubic meters of water per capita yearly. This is well above the 1.500 cubic meters per capita in Türkiye. Within this regard, utilization of water has the utmost importance for Türkiye. Having said this, it would be important to indicate the underpinning principle of the Turkish transboundary water policy which can be clearly outlined by the expression that Türkiye is for the utilization of the transboundary rivers in an equitable, reasonable and optimal manner in the interest of the riparian States. Türkiye’s water resources policy has been developed over the years taking into consideration developments at global and regional levels, the on-going EU accession process as well as future water needs of the country. As for today, the general principles of Türkiye’s transboundary water policy can be listed as below: - Transboundary waters should be regarded as an element of cooperation not a factor of contention and mistrust between the riparian countries. - Transboundary waters have their own specific characteristics and peculiarities. Each case of transboundary waters reflects its own economic, social, developmental, cultural and historic aspects. - Since transboundary waters have their own specific characteristics and peculiarities; transboundary water issues should be handled only among the concerning riparian countries without any intervention of any international organization or party which are not directly concerned. - Each riparian country of a transboundary water system has the sovereign right to make use of the waters in its territory. - Transboundary waters should be used in an equitable, reasonable and optimum manner by the riparian countries. Riparian countries must also make sure that their uses of transboundary waters do not give “significant harm” to others. - Equitable use does not mean the equal distribution of waters of a transboundary river among riparian states. Equitable use means efficient and effective utilization of water which applies demand management principles by means of using modern water infrastructure and implementing water-saving irrigation techniques. - “Sharing the waters” is not applicable, as one cannot “share” a good which constantly changes in quantity and quality in time and space under the variable conditions of the hydrological cycle. Instead, the principle of sharing the benefits at basin level should be pursued.

How does Türkiye view the Paris Agreement on climate change?

The 21th Conference of Parties (COP21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in Paris between 30 November and 12 December 2015, resulted in the adoption of the Paris Agreement, reflecting for the first time the commitment of all the countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at a global scale. The Paris Agreement, as a long-term target, envisages keeping the increase in global average temperature caused by the increase in greenhouse gas emissions through human activity, to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels; while also underlining the importance of pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C. During its G20 presidency, Türkiye contributed to the process also by providing a constructive political message from the November 2015 G20 Antalya Summit to the Paris Conference. Türkiye announced for the purposes of the Paris Conference, it’s “Intended Nationally Determined Contribution” (INDC) on 30 September 2015, which envisages reducing its greenhouse gas emissions up to 21% from business as usual. Türkiye has set its INDC through a comprehensive national consultation process. More than 190 countries have already submitted their INDC. For the success of the Paris Agreement and in line with the UNFCCC’s principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities”, underlined also by the Paris Agreement, Türkiye believes that international efforts in providing access to international finance, technology transfer and capacity building should be strengthened. The Paris Agreement will be open to signature at New York on 22 April 2016, under the auspices of the Secretary General of the UN, and will remain open for signature until 21 April 2017. The agreement will enter into force once 55 countries that account for at least 55% of global emissions deposit their instruments of ratification.

U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks and Caicos

An Oklahoma man faces up to 12 years in prison on a Caribbean island after customs officials found ammunition in his luggage.

Ryan Watson traveled to Turks and Caicos with his wife, Valerie, to celebrate his 40th birthday on April 7. They went with two friends who had also turned 40.

The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally brought with him — but under a strict law in Turks and Caicos, a court may still impose a mandatory 12-year sentence.

"They were hunting ammunition rounds that I use for whitetail deer," Watson told NBC Boston in an interview conducted last week that aired after their first court appearance Tuesday.

"I recognized them, and I thought, 'Oh, man, what a bonehead mistake that I had no idea that those were in there,'" he said.

The couple were arrested and charged with possession of ammunition. Authorities seized their passports and explained the penalties they faced.

Valerie Watson said in the interview: "When I heard that, I immediately was terrified, because I was like we can't both be in prison for 12 years. We have kids at home, and this is such an innocent mistake."

The charges against her were dropped, and she returned home to Oklahoma City on Tuesday after the court hearing to be reunited with her two young children.

"Our goal is to get Ryan home, because we can’t be a family without Dad," she said.

The couple also spoke about the financial burden of a much longer-than-planned trip. "This is something that we may never recover from," Ryan Watson said.

The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas issued a warning to travelers in September about a law that strongly prohibits possession of firearms or ammunition in Turks and Caicos, an overseas British territory southeast of the Bahamas that is a popular vacation spot.

It said: "We wish to remind all travelers that declaring a weapon in your luggage with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring the weapon into TCI [Turks and Caicos Islands] and will result in your arrest."

The embassy added: "If you bring a firearm or ammunition into TCI, we will not be able to secure your release from custody."

The embassy and the government in Turks and Caicos did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The same thing happened to another American, Bryan Hagerich, of Pennsylvania, who was arrested after ammunition was found in his luggage before he tried to board a flight out of Turks and Caicos in February. He said he accidentally left it in his bag.

Hagerich was on a family vacation with his wife and two young children but has now been in the country for 70 days. He spent eight days in prison before he posted bail.

"It’s incredibly scary. You know, you just don’t know what the next day may bring — you know, what path this may take," Hagerich told NBC Boston.

"You know, it’s certainly a lot different than packing your bags and going away with your family for a few days. It’s been the worst 70 days of my life," he said.

Hagerich, once a professional baseball player, was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the MLB 2007 June amateur draft from the University of Delaware.

His case goes to trial May 3.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

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Exercise increased caution when traveling to Turkey due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel To: Sirnak province, Hakkari province, and any area within six miles (10 kilometers) of the Syrian border due to terrorism. Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue ...
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No: 73, 27 April 2024, Regarding the Visit of H.E. Mr. Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, to Riyadh No: 72, 26 April 2024, Regarding the Social Media Message Posted by the Israeli Foreign Minister No: 71, 25 April 2024, Regarding the Resolution Adopted by the Chamber of Deputies of Chile on the Events of 1915 ...
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The U.S.-Turkey friendship dates to 1831, when the United States established diplomatic relations with the Ottoman Empire. After World War I and the founding of the Turkish Republic, the United States established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Turkey in 1927. The Economic and Technical Cooperation agreement - signed July 12, 1947 ...
Is It Safe To Travel To Turkey Right Now? Latest Travel Advice
The advice from the Turkey Travel Advisory is similar to that of the UK Foreign Office. It marks Sirnak, Hakkari and anywhere within 10 km of the Syrian Border as a level four, which means 'do ...
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MFA issues travel notice for Turkey, urges Singaporeans to reconsider travelling to Ankara, Istanbul Locals and visitors sit beneath a giant Turkish national flag on Taksim Square in Istanbul, Turkey.
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Passport validity requirements. If you are visiting Turkey, your passport must: be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive. have a full blank page for entry and exit stamps. If you ...
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Call SOS International at +45 7010 5050. Avoid Traveller's diarrhoea in Turkey. "Traveller's diarrhoea " or in medical language "Gastroenteritis," is one of the most frequent diagnoses at SOS International, along with other infections. And we often receive cases from Turkey. There are many patients who are hospitalised with the illness and ...
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Latest FCDO travel advice for Turkey including on entry requirements, ... Get email alerts Warnings and insurance Still current at: 30 April 2024 Updated: 1 March 2024
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Latest Press Releases All Press Releases... QA-10, 28 April 2024, Statement of the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Öncü Keçeli in Response to a Question Regarding the Situation of Turkish Citizens Working in the Khor Mor Natural Gas Field in the Chamchamal District of Sulaymaniyah No: 73, 27 April 2024, Regarding the Visit of H.E. Mr. Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign ...
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Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur throughout Türkiye. Avoid showing signs of affluence. Ensure that your belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times. If travelling by car, keep valuable belongings out of sight, windows closed and doors locked.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore
Travel Advisories and Notices; Visitors. COVID-19 Information; Visa Information; Passport Matters; ... Singaporeans in Turkey who require consular assistance are advised to contact the Embassy in Ankara, Honorary Consulate-General in Istanbul, or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at: ... MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS. SINGAPORE. 14 NOVEMBER 2022 . Back ...
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mfaturkey is the official Twitter account of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey in English. Follow mfaturkey to get the latest news, statements and updates on Turkish foreign policy and diplomacy.
Turkey issues travel alert for citizens in Europe
Turkey issues travel alert for citizens in Europe 01/29/2023 January 29, 2023. Ankara cited recent anti-Muslim and anti-Turkish activities in Europe as reasons for the travel warning.
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Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dr. Sadık Ahmet Cad. No:8. Balgat / ANKARA, 06100. Tel: +90 (312) 292 10 00. Write to us. Kindly send your feedback and requests by filling up the form here. Ministry Organization Chart Turkish Representations List of Former Ministers of Foreign Affairs Brief History of the Ministry of.
Turkiye
For consular assistance and protection while in the Republic of Turkiye, you may contact: • Embassy of the Republic of Serbia in Ankara (address: YazanlarSokakNo. 1, P.K.28, 06691 Kavaklidere, Ankara, Turkiye), at the following number: 00 090 31 24 26 02 36 and e-mail address: [email protected], • Consulate General of the Republic of ...
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Turkey Travel Advisory: Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution: July 26, 2023: Turkmenistan Travel Advisory: Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: January 22, 2024: ... Saba Travel Advisory: Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: October 16, 2023: Take 90 Seconds for Safer Travel. Travel Advisory Levels.
Questions / Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye has all along been actively raising the issue with the European Union Commission as well as European Union member states both on multilateral and bilateral platforms. ... Türkiye has also taken steps to meet EU conditions for visa free travel of the Turkish citizens to EU countries ...
U.S. tourist faces 12 years in prison after taking ammunition to Turks
The vacation came to an abrupt end when airport staff members found a zip-close bag containing bullets in the couple's carry-on luggage. Watson said it was hunting ammunition he had accidentally ...

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