Write About Cyprus and a Greek Respond When I wrote my latest article, “Reality Behind Greek Cypriot Mischief.” There was no round of applause for me as a hero, nor did letters pour in from patriotic souls.
Now you really know the truth! Very few people in Europe want Turkey in the EU…and yes that is why they allowed Cyprus into the union. But…what they did not realize was that Mr.Papadopoulos so loves his country (where there would be NO FOREIGN TROOPS and the people could live in freedom and go and live in ANY PART of their country ) that he does not stick to his right to a veto or brings along a Greek veto. Let’s bring on a truly united Cyprus free of ALL troops, then Turkey may join the West. But if you want to continue this division of a democratic country that was achieved by a barbarous and murderous means, then you should try looking east for the west is not really for you. Thank you, Louis Nikolaou UNDER THE NİCK NAME: Write About Cyprus and a Greek Respond It is a shame in your article that you never, as a Turk, take any blame or responsibility for anything. I am an American and as an American I have seen this same epidemic in my own country. There is always a tendency for people to look to anyone but themselves to blame for the circumstances that they find themselves in. As someone who has lived in Turkey for 5 years, I have witnessed very, very seldom anyone that would admit fault or wrong. It goes all the way down to the basics of “asking for directions.” I have never met a person here that could just say, “I do not know.” Never can anyone admit they are without the answer. Never can anyone admit they are incorrect. Never can anyone admit they are at fault. Never can anyone admit they need to change. It comes back to responsibility. The rational says that from your article you must believe Turkey has no blame, not even the slightest amount, in any of the issues that you mention with the Greeks or whoever the case may be, or you, as so many other people in Turkey that I have met, are unable to take any responsibility for the less than perfect way Turkey has handled itself in the past. No one expects perfection. Not the EU, not the United States, not the Greeks and even the Cypriots. Most people just want you to be able to admit that you aren’t perfect and then they could probably move forward. I believe as a human we must take responsibility for our actions. Now I am sure as an editorialist, like so many I have seen in Turkey, you could ignore my comments and say ugly things about the United States and its faults or continue your rant about the Greeks and the EU. But I hope you can take a deep look at yourself and just admit things here are not perfect and neither is its past. Take responsibility. Oh and P.S. Why so much self pity over the sacrifices that are having to be made to join the EU? If they aren’t worth it then don’t do it. Many other countries have gone through the process and have made similar sacrifices. Again as Americans are so often accused, quit making everything about you. Get over it and do it or don’t. Billy No sooner was the English translation of the column was placed on the web’ an avalanche of derogatory letters from the Greeks began to pour in. “When will you talk about Turkish mischief?” some said, while others called me a nationalist and a provocateur. How ironic it is that these two traits are loved by our academicians and columnists! I was, frankly speaking, moved by the “politeness” of the people who referred to my column as “sounds of dog barking,” and others who offered the advice: “Drinking and writing do not mix, you drunken writer.” I have witnessed how the Greeks use the Armenian allegations of genocide as weapon against Turkey. They attribute Turkey’s independence success to assistance from Western countries rather than to the leadership of Ataturk. Greeks must be suffering from amnesia, to not remember that it was the Western countries that invaded Anatolia. They are too vein to admit plain truths. I advise those who insistently call Turks “nationalists,” to investigate the evidence of Greek and Armenian nationalism. One Greek claims, “Show me a country that borders Turkey is not at war with Turks.” He is convinced that we are embroiled in conflict with the Greeks, Bulgarians, Russians and Iranians. Our refusal to take sides with the US, our 40-year allies, in the Iraq war is ignored. As far as I understand, the Greeks, who referred to the Ottoman state as “a bunch of murderers,” never think of critiquing themselves, whereas, Westerners always tell us to face “the facts” in the Armenian and Kurdish issues. There are those who claim we Turks set Izmir on fire. Let’s read what American Donald Whitthal and the commander of USS Arizona say on this subject, “From where I stood — between customs building and Palace Hotel — I witnessed the killings of thirty people with their hands handcuffed and on their heads. This atrocity was the work of Greek soldiers They add, as soon as Greek soldiers landed, they killed the civilians they came across. The commander relating how civilians were stabbed with bayonets, states, “Most of the cruelty took place while Turks were under arrest.” A British officer notes in his report, “Greeks plundered Turkish villages, killing villagers trying to escape.” The Allied Investigation Commission states that Greek soldiers and civilians alike caused chaos in the city, committing assaults, murder and robbery. The Greeks attacked the Ottoman state without any legal grounds and were defeated. Why are they angry? The Greek cruelty was not only to Muslims but also to the Jewish population of Izmir. Since Jews were seen as Turkish allies, many of them were killed or exiled while hatred was fanned by anti-Semitic prejudices. It is an historical fact that the Greeks at times raided Jewish camps searching for “child-eating” Jews. Thanks to the British and other western allies, we have records of these bloody events. The principal reason for the Cyprus conflict is blunder committed by the European Union by admitting Greek Cyprus to the union at the expense of its own laws. Without touching this main reason, the EU is dancing syrtaki with the Greeks and wants us to dance with them If the West so respects its laws, then why should it grant membership to a ‘country’ beset with border conflicts? Because it will serve to block Turkey’s entry to the union. Now, the EU is beating around the bush. It cannot steer clear to keep a straight path. An expert on hypocrisy and double standards, the West is playing the three monkeys and not keeping its promises. Those who read-only my column superficially may conclude that Greeks are our enemies, and that Turkey should not join the EU. These are emotional reactions. The fact is that we are not enemies of anyone and have an optimistic view of things, but we pay a heavy price for our good intentions. Secondly, joining EU is our right, thus we should do so. It is now the Union’s move, after long years of our sacrifice to meet the criteria put to us, including customs agreement. However, if. June 21, 2006 I admired Greek nationalists really! Without name! All this meddling in Cyprus by the USA,England,Greece and Turkey has to come to an end .The 1974 troubles started off by the junta backed by the Americans and the Turkish invasion.We have had enough of all of you !!! Leave us in peace take your armies , weapons and military bases and use them in your own countries . Stop writing about Cyprus as if you own it .Cyprus belongs to us greek and turkish cyproits.You media have created an emotional bonding which is used by governments to stir up feelings among the people .Stop using us !!! Firstly the British with their huge antennas that spy on people all over the world and their military bases which are used to attack Iraq can pack up and the turkish army with it’s American tanks and 60000 soldiers can also leave . Cyprus is part of the EU and all minorities are protected and all people have the same rights!!! I would also like to add that Your writings are not as nationalistic as others. Dear Nevval Your article “Cyprus and Greek respond” is a great article for the ignorant Turkish Masses. However, to someone who knows Ottoman and Turkish history it is an insult to their intelligence. We know very well the process of Turkification the indigenous inhabitants of Anatolia have been victims of over the centuries. This process was accelerated in the last years of the Ottoman empire and in the beginning years of Ataturk’s reign. Cyprus and Anatolia are historically non-Turkic, yet within 1000 years of Turkic conquest both occupied Cyprus and Anatolia have become almost 99% Turkic (Kurds being considered Mountain Turks). I am not going to write what the Turks have done over the past 1000 years to the Greeks, Armenians, Assyrians and Kurds as you may need a lifetime to read it. However, what I expect from someone who considers themselves as a Turk such as yourself (A DNA test would probably prove you don’t have Turkish origins anyway) is to show some respect to those who are ‘indigenous’ to Anatolia and Cyprus. After all, Turks are unwelcome guests in Anatolia, you have not respected the lives, monuments and culture of those who were there before you. The current Turkish penal code which makes it a crime to “degrade Turkishness” shows how fearful the Turkish government is of anyone who speaks about the subject of ‘Turkification’. There will be a time when Turks who seek the truth will realise how conditioned their ancetors have been, and will decide to revert to their pre-Turkic ancestors who were Armenian, Greek or Assyrian. Regards David The First Armenian Free Email http://www.namag.com Two wrongs don’t make a right RE: “Write about Cyprus and a Greek Respond” Two wrongs don’t make a right. Right ? When asked why he committed atrocities against Muslims in the former Yugoslavia, Milosevic political supporters responded with instances where other countries have done the same or worse. Similarly, it appears that your article “Write about Cyprus and a Greek Respond” recites the wrongs of others but barely traverses the accusation. I’m neither a journalist or a politician, but from a common sense perspective it seems to me that the journey that the Turkish people wish to take, and I believe they have the will to succeed, cannot properly begin until the Country frees itself from the past. When the time is right, Turkey will acknowledge that there is a reasonable body of credible evidence that Turkey turned a blind eye to the events leading to the death of hundreds of thousands of people from Armenian origin. Turkey will withdraw its military occupation of Cyprus and rely upon existing safeguards such as the UN to protect the interests of the minorities there. Turkey will reform its political system and relieve itself of corruption and bias. In fairness, Greece also has it’s own journey and must also admit to it’s past wrongdoings including the atrocities it has visited on Turks and must take steps to reform it’s political system. But to reiterate – two wrongs don’t make a right. I am mindful about media censorship in Turkey and that journalists need to be careful about what they publish and I can only hope that you can find the balance and weave integrity and truth within the constraints placed upon you. Kind Regards, Michael Panayi. Dear Mrs Sevvindi ! Though a Greek myself, I like to read your vehemently anti-Greek articles in “Zaman on line”. This is sort of exploration for me as how the “other side”, i.e. the Turks, view us. It is pretty interesting and enlightening to do this. Regarding your a/m titled article dd June 24 2006 though, I have a fundamental question to you. You state that “the EU is dancing syrtaki with the Greeks and wants us to dance with them ” and you imply that the E.U. take sides against your country. Should this be the case, why is Turkey so adamant to bear all humiliation and second-class treatment in order to join the Club ? Wouldn’t it make more sense for your country to jump out of the E.U. bandwagon for good ? At any rate, I wouldn’t like myself to join a Community where I might be unwelcome. Regards hotgrig Nevval Regarding the conclusion to your last article in Zaman You ignorant Turk! Joining the E.U. is not a right. The E.U. is an organization that has rules and regulations for those who wish to join. This is not a right but a privilage for those who want to do so. Whether or not Turkey chooses to meet the reguirements is a choice thet Turks must make. If you don’t like the club, don’t join. And is it so much sacrifice to meet the criteria with efforts that improve a problematic country? If you think the few paper changes and window dressings you made were difficult – the rest of your vain attempts to enter the E.U. will be pure torture for a country that still doesn’t seem to realize that the TRNC is not recognized by any other nation in the world. Greece and Cypress are already in the E.U. and if you don’t like the games they play maybe you should look for another club. Give your head a shake before you write next time and try to be more objective. -oh!…sorry, you do write for Zaman don’t you? B.Mayes (Canadian) Istanbul Turkey And you call yourself a social scientist and a person who builds bridges. For every story of Greek brutality in Anatolia, there is a Greek to provide a story of Turkish brutality. In relation to your evidence of Greek guilt for the burning of Izmir and killings, there is others who state that the Turks are at fault. And the vicious cycle continues, with the focus on the past and not on the future…..nothing will ever change…. Sahan Alpay’s article in my opinion, is much more constructive Evan Dear Miss Sevindi, No nation has a weaker case than Turkey to complain about atrocities. Your history is a never-ending litany of atrocities against minority groups. You can complain all you want about acts commited by Greeks and others against Turks, but for every Turk who was a victim there were a hundred victims of Turkish crimes. You know that and we know that. Phil Vorgias Mrs NEVVAL SEVINDI 24.06.06 As I was surfing the Internet and looking for articles describing the Turkey’s opinion regarding the EU process, I found the Zamans site. I am very surprised that one person could write in such a way an article [Greek Cypriot Spoilness, Greek villagers and gangs, religion-based nationalistic uprising, Muslims were also massacred, Cypriot disease], and talk about my country [Greece] like this, whereas at the same time you’re asking for my government’s vote so as to enter the EU. But I think you’re doing this for your duty [grey wolves] and living [great european journalism]. So I send you this letter for your archive. Byzantine period Militarily, Greece declined allowing the Romans to conquered the land (168 BC onwards). Greece became a province of the Roman Empire, but Greek culture continued to dominate the eastern Mediterranean. When the Roman Empire finally split in two, the Eastern Roman Empire, known as the Byzantine Empire, centered around Constantinople (known in ancient times as Byzantium), remained Greek in nature, encompassing Greece itself. During the period of the Byzantine Empire Greece experienced fluctuating fortunes, but it succeeded in Hellenising and institutionalising most of its new invaders. From the late 8th century, the Empire began to recover from the devastating impact of successive invasions, and the reconquest of Greece began. Greeks from Sicily and Asia Minor were brought in as settlers. Slavs were either driven out or assimilated. By the middle of the 9th century, Greece was dominated by those of Hellenic heritage once more, and Greek cities began to recover due to improved safeguards against barbarous incursion and restored central governance. A number of contemporary Greek historians have chronicled those centuries. The invasions of the Turks after the battle of Manzikert in 1071 and the ensuing civil wars largely passed the region by, and Greece continued its provincial existence unharmed. When the Byzantine Empire was rescued by the resolute leadership of the three Comnenus emperors Alexius I, John II and Manuel I Comnenus, Greece prospered. Archaeological evidence tells us that many of the medieval towns, including Athens, Thessaloniki, Thebes and Corinth, experienced a period of rapid and sustained growth, starting in the eleventh century and continuing until the end of the twelfth century. The growth of the towns attracted the Venetians, and this interest in trade appears to have further increased economic prosperity in Greece. The 11th and 12th centuries are said to be the Golden Age of Byzantine art in Greece. During the Crusading epochs between 1204 to 1458, Greece was hit by a series of western European armies in the name of religion. The end of an era arrived with the Constantinople fell on May 29, 1453 to the Ottoman Empire. The empire had been for centuries the center of Christendom from the ancient classical world of the Roman Empire to the dawn of the Renaissance. Throughout this medieval era it had remained a source of constancy. But during the 15th century, Greece was gradually conquered by the Ottomans. Ottoman period While the Ottomans were completing the main conquest of the Greek Mainland, two Greek migrations occurred. The first saw the Greek intelligentsia migrate to Western Europe — especially to Italy — and contribute to the advent of the Renaissance. The second migration of Greeks left the plains of the Greek peninsula and resettled in the mountains, the islands and Greek regions outside Ottoman control. In the mountainous regions, the Ottomans were unable to create a permanent military and administrative presence. As a result some Greek mountain clans across the peninsula, as well as some islands, were able to maintain a status of independence. The millet system contributed to the ethnic cohesion of Orthodox Greeks by segregating the various peoples within the Ottoman Empire based on religion. The Orthodox Church, a religious institution with a keen sense of its national character, contributed to the Greeks from all geographical areas of the peninsula (i.e. mountains, plains, and islands) to preserve their ethnic, cultural and linguistic heritage during the years of the Ottoman rule (although at the time it was not strictly speaking a “Greek” church — the Greek Church was instituted after the liberation). Eventually, religion played an integral part in the formation of the Modern Greek and other post-Ottoman national identities. Creation of the modern Greek state The Ottomans ruled Greece until the early 19th century. On March 25, 1821 the Greeks rebelled and declared their independence, which was finally recognized in 1829. The elites of powerful European nations saw the Greek War of Independence, with its accounts of Turkish atrocities, in a romantic light (see, for example, the 1824 painting the Massacre of Chios by Eugène Delacroix). Scores of non-Greeks volunteered to fight for the cause. In 1830, the Russian ex-minister of foreign affairs, Ioannis Kapodistrias, himself a Greek noble from the Ionian Islands, was chosen as President of the new Republic following Greek independence. Modern Turkey Democracy Following years of decline, the Ottoman Empire entered World War I in an alliance with Germany in 1914 where it was ultimately defeated and occupied. Western powers sought to partition the empire through the Treaty of Sevres, Greece had occupied İzmir as provided for in the Treaty. On 19 May 1919 prompted the beginning of a nationalist movement under the command of Mustafa Kemal Pasha, a military commander who had distinguished himself in the Battle of Gallipoli. Kemal Pasha sought to revoke the terms of treaty signed by the Sultan in Istanbul, this involved mobilizing every available part of Turkish society in what would become the Turkish War of Independence (Turkish: Kurtuluş Savaşı). Mustafa Kemal Atatürk – Founder and first President of the Republic of Turkey By 18 September 1922 the occupying greek army was repelled and the country saw the birth of a Turkish state. On 1 November 1922 the Turkish Grand National Assembly formally abolished the office of the Sultan, ending 631 years of Ottoman rule. In 1923 the Treaty of Lausanne recognized the sovereignty of the new Republic of Turkey. Kemal Atatürk became the Republic’s first President. He instituted far reaching reforms with the aim of modernizing the new Republic from the remnants of its Ottoman past. Cyprus A separation of the two ethnic communities inhabiting the island began following the outbreak of communal strife in 1963; this separation was further solidified after the Turkish intervention in July 1974 that followed a Greek JUNTA-supported coup [with the involvement of Britain and USA] attempt gave the Turkish Cypriots de facto control in the north; Greek Cypriots control the only internationally recognized government; on 15 November 1983 Turkish Cypriot “President” Rauf DENKTASH declared independence and the formation of a “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (TRNC), recognized only by Turkey. CONCLUSION Its very clear that the Greek people along with the other Balkans were fighting for their Freedom. You are inhabited our ancient territories, we were in Asia Minor before you and our civilization is over there. I have to admit that you’ re excellent warriors and I am not that person who is crying for Our Lost Fatherlands. You defeated and destroyed us so let it be. But what were the beliefs of Mr Kemal Ataturk [=Father Of Turks] and the secularists? One Nation One Religion One Culture And the consequences? 1) 1.500.000 Armenians massacred 2) 300.000 Greeks from Pontus massacred 3) No rights for the 15.000.000 Kurds and other minorities 4) Total destruction of the greek civilization around the Izmir area in 1922 5) In 1955 150.000 Instanbul Greeks fled the town, as a secret Turk agent, that he is now living near Izmir, installed a bomb in Attaturk’s home in Salonica so as the sworm of barbarians from Anatolia to get the green light and destroy and thieve all the greek business stores and property in the city. 6) The creation of a military and fascist regime 7) Violation of the International Law and Human Rights, acting as a gang state [supported by the Big Brother] So is Turkey a European country? I DON’T THINK SO !!!! PS 1: I am very surprised that the Turkish people honor the Saint Nicolas [I think so]. I saw a TV report in which thousands of Turkish people visited a monastery. PS 2: When you massacred the Greeks of Pontus [the adults] the Turkish paramilitary took with them the Greek children. So I wonder, how many Turkish people are descendants of these children? PS 3: Also in the TV I saw a report in which a few people in Pontus spoke little Greek, but they are forbidden to do so. Response to your June 13, 2006 articleKostas Babaniotis [kosbaban@otenet.gr] Many times every day I say a prayer to the Lord Jesus to allow you and other Turks drowning in Mohamed’s cult to come out into the Light of the Lord Jesus. Leni Zaris Hi, Thanks for sending me that piece, though I was lucky enough to have read it already (yesterday). It has a detectably pro-Turkish bent, but still it is not a bad commentary, and more in line with what I have come to expect from _Zaman_. I don’t want to be mean, but your latest piece is shameless one-sided propaganda that just demonizes peoples. For a moment there I got confused and thought I was reading one of the virulent nationalists from _Turkish Daily News_ or _The New Anatolian_ (though I note that not all the journalists at these papers are nationalistic, but a number of them seem to be). Anyway, have a good rest-of-the-week. Kind Regards It is well known that Turkish national identity has never had any room for Kurds, despite a third of Turkey’s population having Kurdish blood. The country’s constitution, along with various other decrees and government policies, clearly aims to eliminate Kurds and their culture. Of course, to establish and maintain one’s identity, one must recognise what they are not. Through oppressing and exterminating Kurds and other ethnic groups, ‘true’ Turks can come to the fore and assert their ‘national identity’. Despite the 1924 Constitution’s claim that “in Turkey, from the point of view of citizenship, everyone is a Turk without regard to race or religion”, an official decree in March 1924 banned all Kurdish schools, organisations and publications. The use of the words “Kurd” and “Kurdistan” were banned, and references to them were removed from official and unofficial documents, such as Turkish books and other publications. Celebrating the Kurdish New Year of Newroz was made illegal. Kurdish folklore was banned and gramophone recordings of Kurdish music were destroyed. From 1938 onwards the Kurds were referred to only as “Mountain Turks” – primitive, redundant, irrelevant. These are, of course, are crimes against humanity which the democratic world supports. In short, Turkey has decided that Kurds do not exist. This has had far-reaching consequences. Turkish crimes against Kurds are rarely investigated by the international community because the country’s racial genocide corresponds to Turkish law. International politicians never mention Kurdistan: it would seem that Kurds are Turkey’s problem and it is up to them to do what they see fit. Today, the Turkish constitution pivots on the fear of Kurds and Kurdistan. It prevents Kurds from having, pursuing or gaining any civil or ethnic rights. In fact, as we have already seen, the Turkish constitution would have it that Kurds do not exist. But they evidently do, for the humiliation and demonising of ‘undesirables’ (i.e. Kurds) is at the centre of the country’s constitution – the document that forms and regulates Turkish national identity. The Turkish constitution denies not only Kurds and their rights, but the sheer existence of Kurds without even mentioning them. Referring to anything Kurdish in the constitution implies that Kurds do exist. Kurds or any characteristics of Kurdish people are too dirty to be put into the Turkish constitution. In this way, the name of the “superior race” – Turks – does not get mixed up with the “inferior” – Kurds. The constitution states “Turkish” 206 times. It is also for this specific reason the country is called “Turkey” and not a neutral name such as the case in the name of “Iraq” or “Iran”. The constitution uses an insulting language to undermine Kurds. For example, everything has to be in accordance to the Ataturk’s teachings, using the name Ataturk 16 times. Perhaps this is not so much love for Ataturk; it symbolises the superiority of Turks over Kurds. Ataturk was successful in oppressing Kurdish national movements, banning Kurdish language and hence making Turks a superior race over Kurds. By frequently mentioning the name of Ataturk (which literary means the ‘father of Turk’), the constitution (the supreme law of Turkey) continually reminds Kurds and other oppressed ethnic and religion groups that Turks are the superior race. The constitution also emphasises exaggeratingly the “integrity and sovereignty” of Turkey. If any method is used to undermine the integrity and sovereignty of Turkey, heavy penalties are imposed. For example the constitution states “integrity” 20 times and states “sovereignty” 10 times. This is stated only to remind Kurds that there is no such thing as Kurdish homeland or Kurdistan. Kurds are also without any civil liberties. Kurds don’t have to be violent to be persecuted by the state; they just have to be themselves. To be a Kurd is a crime in Turkey. What is a “Kurd”? A Kurd is a member of a group of people that have their own characteristics, which may be common a language and culture. If a people cannot practice their culture and language, theoretically they do not exist. The constitution diffused to all aspects of the Penal Code. For example, a Kurd is not only persecuted for speaking Kurdish, but using a Kurdish sound, such as “W” (a sound that does not exist in the Turkish language). This is law is not applied for every language. One can use English, French or Japanese sounds and their representations in writings without being persecuted. In this sense, Turkish state is constitutionally racist. This is a slow form of genocide, which slowly and painfully makes Kurds disappear as a people, language, culture and homeland. Lastly, and perhaps the most damning systematic policy that the Turkish state practice is the humiliation and dehumanisation of Kurds. Whatever a Kurd does, he cannot become equal to a Turk. This creates a mentally that Kurds want to be assimilated with Turkey. Kurds are “Mountain Turks”, but if they are civilised, the core of the constitution suggests, they become civilised. As it is, Kurds in Turkey have to think twice before saying that they are Kurds. The education system, devoid of all hints of Kurdistan, force children to learn and adapt to Turkish language and culture. The Turkish constitution is a remedy to silently genocide Kurds, their language, culture and their homeland, Kurdistan. It is probably the most racist official document in Europe. The Turkish constitution creates a racist Turk, whether he or she likes it or not. Don’t judge Turkish constitution by its European cover RB [rose-marie.blomkvist@tele2.se] Unbelievable for its narrow-mindedness and one-sidedness. Would you have the world believe that the Turks are capable of nothing but good, and everybody else evil? It’s amazing just how low-quality some material can be nowadays and still get published. Shame on _The New Anatolian_ for lowering its standards so… Well, this is an Armenian responding. In 1915, your countrymen tried to wipe out mine in the first Genocide of the 20th Century. Today, your country is blockading Armenia. That is certainly not an act of peace. The reasons given by your government are the Armenian Genocide recognition issue and the Karapakh conflict. If Turkey can cutoff Armenia because of the Karapakh conflict, it’s more than acceptable for Greece and the EU to cutoff Turkey with the Cyprus issue still unresolved. Turkey should look at itself and come to terms with its past. Perhaps more Orhan Pamuk’s are needed in Turkey. Re: Write About Cyprus and a Greek RespondsH M [hyehosting@hotmail.com] AND he is not greek….. Merhaba Mrs. Sevindi, I just wanted to let you know that I simply adore your editorials as they offer a point of veiw that a lot of people do not see or simply shun. That explains why people meet the remarks you state with such disbelief as they challenge the stereotypes they have of Turks. I am very pleased that you stand up and offer your point of views and present the facts in a clear coherent manner that delivers your point across well. Don’t be intimidated by the pathetic amount of hate e-mails that you receive as most of them are low lifers that lack any sense of respect and toleration. Failing to show any of these characteristics goes to show how “civilized” many of them like to pride themselves at being. Keep writing whatever you desire and be assured of the fact that many out there greatly look forward to what you have to say. All the best, Ahmet M! Dear Ms Sevindi Well done for your articles highlighting the truth about Greeks’ anti-Turkish policies. You are quite right – Turkish people are not as vocal as Greeks, when it comes to responding to newspaper arcticles or general protests. We find this is the case in the UK, where Greeks tend to complain more via telephone or letter or email. One other example of Greek racism against Turks is Cyprus. May I refer you to a Turkish Cypriot association which helps organise our voices and highlights the injustices of Greeks against us in Cyprus : http://www.atcanews.org/ Keep up the good work in highlighting the truth about these bigoted and blinkered people, who bring their children up to hate Turks. Regards Kiran Eyyup London Dear Ms Sevindi Congratulations, I read your column with interest, and you had the courage to write about the truth. About the atrocities that Cypriot Greek and Greek armies from Greece done to Cypriot Turks at Cyprus and Turks during the occupation of Izmir, when they were encouraged by British, France and other European countries to occupy Aegean coast ( Izmir ) Turkey. . The response that you have received for your article from Greeks are typical, Greeks are always right all the wrong doing is done by some body else. Greek always accuse other nations, specially Turks. A good example is the “Cyprus problem” Greek Cypriots broke the 1960 Cyprus agreement and not the Cypriot Turks. And for this they blame to Cypriot Turks and Turkey. As you will know there are many examples like these. They distort the truth. Turkey should start to develop a document to expose the Greece’s atrocities against Turkish civilians when they occupied the Izmir. Keep up the good work. Sevgi ve selamlar Errol Dear Neval As one of your readers I apologise for not writing to praise you for your recent article, the same article which has roused a venomous response from the “Hellenic lobbyists” out there. It is hard to believe I know that there are Greeks in society whose sole object in life is to berate anyone in the free speaking world who might say anything positive about Turkish people or about Turkey. I am convinced that they proceed under the premise that if they continually express their vetted version of history to the world that it will become so. I have read two articles today where it seems this may have worked. One in THE WASHINGTON TIMES by Andrew Borowiec in his article Turkish land offer rejected by Greeks, dated June 26, Andrew writes ” The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is recognized only by Turkey, was established after Turkish troops invaded the northern portion of the island in 1974 and occupied about 40 percent of it.” No mention is made as to why Turkey had to send in her troops; neither the Koop being attempted by the Greeks on the Island to unite Cyprus with Greece, or the systematic murder of the Turkish population in an effort to “cleanse” the island of Turks. The second article in the Jerusalem Post titled The other side of Cyprus By JAY L. ABRAMOFF . Here Jay writes “North Cyprus – or the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus, which was declared in 1983 and is only recognized by Turkey – has been in political and economic isolation since 1974, when Turkish forces landed on the island. A cease-fire between the Turkish/Turkish Cypriot forces and the Greek/Greek Cypriot forces established the Green Line – a term that should also sound familiar to Israelis.” I am sure that both writers were only writing summaries of the facts and had no intention of portraying Turkey as an aggressor, but it may also be the case that all the facts were not to hand i.e. the source of the version of the facts to hand were perhaps influenced. The events in Cyprus of over 30 years ago leading to an intervention by Turkey are it seems a forgotten history. The acts or atrocities committed by the Greeks on the Island of Cyprus (or those on the Island of Crete and the Islands in the Aegean Sea) since the turn of the century towards Turkish people are overlooked. History in Cyprus seems to start on the 20th July 1974 and Turkey is portrayed as an indiscriminate invader by Greeks and this is all that seems to be remembered by the EU. Dare anyone say otherwise and the Greek propaganda machine will shout them down whether they are right or wrong, and the leaders within the EU who might have other agendas will choose to listen to the Greek version. I have tried for years to respond to biased articles, but as a Turk how can I be impartial? The fact is no one from an independent third party nation (if that is possible) will dare to respond to Greek articles more than once as they will receive the same response you will have received for your article. Congratulations once again on your column and don’t let them shout you down. Regards Ilker Unlusoyer London UK Dear Nevval, I liked your article “Write About Cyprus and a Greek responds”. Its writing about the bleeding obvious but what can you expect? The issue remains, that in the early part of the 20th century bad was committed by many, some committed more bad than others, some incidence are better recorded than others. To deny that much is a poor reflection of any moral code. You are surely not saying that one side did all and the other side was simple victims ? You are not saying that the Turkish state has difficulties with history. Turks should not take things so personally. It was not they who personally killed, invaded, occupied other peoples lands etc. Its like blaming the current Queen of England for the killing fields of Catholic Ireland or Scotland, or even blaming today’s German Chancellor for murdering the gypsies, Greeks, Serbs, Jews, French civilians etc. I suppose what I am saying is…………..get over it, come to terms with the past, learn from it, reduce the size of the military, take steps that have some meaning, but do not change who you are. Turks are unique with a history some good some bad. What better way to show the world you have moved on, leave Cyprus treat people with dignity apologise for the past and get on with. Take a leaf out of Pope John Paul’s visit to Athens, before the Greeks got stuck into him he apologised for everything, return the icons etc…….the rest is history. Cheers Michael PS : A reply would be great, and by the way I am not a Catholic _________________________________________________________________ Dear Nevval Hanim, The following message was rejected by zaman hub server. I found the above email address for you, and am forwarding my message to you Regards Ali ________________________________ From: Ali Uzel Sent: 27 June 2006 15:31 To: n.sevindi@zaman.com.tr Subject: Write About Cyprus and a Greek Responds Dear Navval hanim, I can speak Turkish but cannot write all that well in Turkish, hence the English. I hope you are well. I am a Turkish citizen who is a dual national – i.e. British as well. I have been living in the UK for 30 years now. The above article is exactly my understanding of how cruel the Greeks were to Turks during the war. Any Brit, Greek or an American who read the novel “Birds without Wings” by Lois De Bernieres would know how multicultural the Ottoman Turks were ! Today, the British people are getting wise and are beginning to realize that the real obstacle is created by the Greek administration in Cyprus not the Turkish side. Unfortunately, Turkish politicians appear weak on media and seem unable to exploit Greek weaknesses in the press and TV. They choose to be silent when they should express their feelings !! This is not helpful. I want to see more talented Turkish Women as political leaders, hopefully we will eventually get there with talent like you. I wanted to congratulate you and say that I am very pleased to read your articles, they are spot on. Keep up the good work. Never mind about the incorrect views and perceptions of these Toms, Dicks or Hary’s, remember there are many decent people with good sense of justice out there who would agree with you. Regards Ali Uzel Some “adult” thinking, please!! Neither Life nor History is black and white. There is a lot of grey. I am beginning to think that your deficient reporting has to do more with immaturity than subjectivity. John Gaularas I am a frequent reader of your newspaper. I am from Cyprus and I am a Greek-Cypriot. Personally I am not ashamed to say that I voted “Yes” in the referendum. Alas my compatriots chose to vote “No” at an overwhelming majority. I also agree that when a turkish writes something about cyprus or greece and does not agree with their opinion they are enraged. I would like to apologise on their behalf and say that comments such as “Drinking and writing do not mix, you drunken writer” are uncalled for. Yet I am utterly surprised that a journalist like you who is supposively a woman of intellect and letters would fixate so much on the Greek Invasion of Anatolia. I admit that there have been atrocities on our behalf during that war but i am shocked that you admit no attrocities on your behalf over many centuries of existence of the Ottoman Empire. Religious Persecution, Genocides, Torture and many other crimes have tainted the Ottoman History. A history that burdens you far more than ours. Moreover persecution, prejudice and fanatism is rampant in your country. The Kurds remain a highly surpressed people and it is not by far a small issue since they do make up a fifth of your population. Until very recently you have been denying them all basic human rights and now you are still denying them most of them. Needless to say that you have banished them in your own country in rural undeveloped areas which are forbidden to benefit from the turkish economic growth. Religious persecution concerning Christians is still exists and hate is ever growing. There have been numerous protests all over the country against the Orthodox Patriach in Constantinople (Istanbul) and many other fanatic anti Greek gatherings. Issues with neighbouring countries is also a problem. You have been embroiled or nearly have faced each neighbouring country in war over the past century and shockingly enough you claim you share land borders with Russia when you actually don’t. Yes you ally has been the USA for many years but at what cost? Large US bases and manipulation of your country by the US is evident and when you refused to grant access to US troops the trust between your countries was fractured. Finally although Ataturk has been the national saviour and historic figure for your country it is a fact that he supported extremist opinions such as that the whole human race originated from Turks. Such absurd opinions plague your national hero. The EU is not another small country that you and your US and British Allies can bully. The EU is an arising superpower that has close relations with another superpower, China. They wish to put an end to the US world rule and will inevitably succeed. Turkey has not fulfilled its EU obligations as you claim. You have not made any significant sacrifices. You do not recognise an EU member and cannot go on with this if you do not accept the realities and face the your problems. It would be wise for Turkey to solve the oustantinding issues of the Kurdish Problem, Armenian and Pontiac Genocide, Extremism, Military Control of Country, Religious Persecution and so on before it can focus on ambitious projects such as joining the EU. You seem be quick to hand out judgement before you have judged yourselves. It is with great sadness that I realise this and a tragedy to see this come out from the hands of an educated Turk. Best Regards, Andreas Andreou Dear Ms Sevidni, I read your article both with interest and amusement because you are committing the same generalizations you are accusing others with. I have no doubt that neither your side nor mine are totally innocent or totally guilty; however, if you truly wish to see both sides you have to read numerous books and accounts of various citizens and organizations of other nations to obtain a better picture. As a start I recommend “The Great Betrayal – A survey of the Near East Problem” by Edward Hale Bierstadt, New YorK, Robert M. McBride & Company, 1924. Mr. Bierstadt actually comments on the accounts of the gentlemen you have mentioned in your article. You might be interested in the arguments he puts forth to explain the discrepancies between accounts presented by different individuals. I am saddened by the negativity of your article as well as other articles in Greek and Turkish media. When are we going to stop living in the past? When are we going to realize that we are pawns in other peoples chess games? When are we going to stop spending billions and billions of dollars on weaponry that I pray to God will never have to be used and instead focus our attention on improving the standard of living of our peoples? How come Greeks and Turks can live together, work together and even party together when they immigrate to other lands? Whether we like it or not we have allot more things in common with each other then we have with the Germans, the British, the French and the English. You and reporters from both countries have tremendous power (the pen is mightier than the sword) and a responsibility to help change perceptions on both sides. I look forward to reading more positive articles from you. Regards, Nicolas C. Theodor I read your article and don’t know exactly what you were trying to achieve. My father was born in Turkey and served in the Turkish army. Yes he is Greek and moved to Greece immediately after doing his time in the military but your article only shows the stories from one side. Throughout the years, I have heard many stories, some good ones about Turks and some brutal ones. I have also had the opportunity to witness fanatical Greeks and fanatical Turks. We are not enemies but the fanatics are the ones that create the problems between us and opposition parties put the peer pressure on current/past governments to not yield or compromise with one another to avoid being called Traitors. As for the Armenian genocide it did happen. The exact numbers, I really don’t know how accurate. As for your alliance with America, it is there only because of America’s need to be close to the former Soviet Union during the cold war. I do not have the time to debate you but will say one comment my father always made about Turkish Foreign policy “They are brilliant when it comes to diplomacy”. Example: If someone does not comply with their rules or is any kind of threat politically or in any way. A notice would be nailed to their front door giving them 24 hours to pack up and leave the country or they would jail the individual(s). Greek diplomacy on the otherhand always tried to look good in front of the West and attempted to comply with Human Rights of individuals if there was a chance of being exposed. These examples need far more in depth explanations for you to understand and I do not have the time. And one last note, I had a great uncle(brother to my grandfather) do 7 years of military service. His military service was based on hard labour in a camp. This was pre-world war 2. This is another matter that requires in depth explanation as he did not choose a military career but instead was there to do 2 years. I do not hate Turks but the truth is that both sides have committed many faults. Regards, George Nikolaidis Dear Nevval I don’t have anything against my compatriots Turkish Cypriots who also suffered and are suffering much because of the situation and with whom Greek Cypriots may be are sharing much, including common genes, but in order to clarify thinks, I ask 6 simple questions: 1. If, from the very beginning, there were no Turkish Cypriots on the island and Turkey was not so close and strong, would the Greek Cypriots be in a better or worse situation? Would they become earlier or later a member of the European Union? 2. If, from the very beginning, there were no Greek Cypriots on the island, would Turkish Cypriots be in a better or worse situation? Would they become earlier or later (if ever) a member of the European Union? 3. If, from the very beginning, there were both Greek Cypriots as the 82% of the population and Turkish Cypriots as the 18% of the population, but Turkey was thousand kilolmetres away and not strong, would Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots cooperate better or worse? Would they become earlier or later a member of the European Union? 4.What benefits and what problems did the Greek Cypriots had because of Turkey? When happened that Turkey was not a handicap to their efforts for their progress and to the progress of the island in general, including the progress of Turkish Cypriots? 5. What will happen, if supposedly Turkey changes mentality and behaves like a European Union country? Will it be to the bettert or the worse for itself, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots? 6. Is Turkey prepared to give to the millions of Kurds the rights that so adamantly asks for the Turkish Cypriots (and the so many mainland illegal settlers on the island, now in majority to the Turkish Cypriots, who were purposely imported in order to change the demography of the island)? I repeat that I have nothing against the people of Turkey who also suffers a lot because of the policies of it’s Governments and who will benefit most from a change in mentality and the implementation of the European Union principles. Savvas Savvides Dear Ms Sevindi, I’m a Turkish Cypriot residing in the UK, at the moment. I appreciate your column; I read it as often as the time permits. The problem with the Greeks, and the Greek governments, is that they are brain washed, making it difficult for them to face today’s reality. They are brain washed by the way they are educated (See attached document for more details entitled “10 Greek Lies!” published in the Greek newspaper Vima). I’ll also mention to you a personal experience. Between 1963-65 I was doing my post-graduate work at the University of Arkansas, USA. On the campus there was only one Greek Cypriot called Nimo, and about 10 Greeks from Greece. On one occasion I was asked to discuss at the university, together with Nimo, about the Cyprus situation. Knowing that such a format be no mare than an argument, I agreed subject to the following: I suggested that Nimo speaks first giving his views and than I’ll do the same. After that we will take questions from the audience. IN a nutshell, Nimo’s main points were that when Greece was under the Ottoman empire they were not treated well. Being familiar with the American mentality (I was employed at the American Embassy in Ankara before I went to the USA) I put aside my pre-prepared speech and simply said this: “Nimo, let’s assume that what you said is correct, what did I have to do with it, you are fighting my generation.” Amazingly, by then Nimo and myself were almost friends on the campus; knowing me he did not respond directly to my question but, the other Greeks from Greece started shouting abuses at me along the lines of what they were taught at school as mentioned in the attached document. They would not stop shouting even after repeated requests from the Chairman of the meeting. I could have responded to whatever was meant by “we were not treated properly by the Ottomans” by drawing attention to the fact that during the Ottoman administration of around 500 years they were not forced to change their language or religion or anything else. The Ottomans were only interested in collecting taxes not forcing people to become Muslims or Ottomans. But this would have turned everything into a discussion and argument session. After the presentation, there was a buffet style of launch. No one joined the Greeks at their table whereas my table was most popular. Our problem is that we are very modest and proud; we do not talk about ourselves, our values and traditions. Greeks, on the other hand, talk about these things at every opportunity, including exaggerations and lies. That is why they are so good in retail and commerce. Kind regards N Osman I enjoyed your article and like the information that you bourght forward. this was the first time i read your paper. i shall read it more often. I was also wondering if there is a forum or group that discusses this issue. and would like to join. nabil Nevval Hanim, I had not read your column, “Reality Behind Greek Cypriot Mischief.” But rest assured that this “patriotic soul,” and millions more like me are with you 100%. Sevgiler, Ilyas Botas New Jersey, USA I thought your artical was great. even thou iam against the EU which i believe takes democrocy away from countries and most of them loss control of there indipendence. the way the EU have treated Turkey is criminal. the sooner they get out the mess the better. turkey should strive to be a self sufficient nation with trading partnerships with countries who want to participate. Robert Nevval Hanim, I had not read your column, “Reality Behind Greek Cypriot Mischief.” But rest assured that this “patriotic soul,” and millions more like me are with you 100%. Sevgiler, Ilyas Botas New Jersey, USA Dear Newal Thanks for your e-mail. I originally come from north- central India .My great great grand father …Allama Shibli Nomani ..had been to Turkey and tarvelled extensively to islamic world.If you will make search on google, you will come to know about him. I have flat in New Delhi where my parents and one of sisters live with them I moved to Kuwait to work along with my family (wife and two children), as I was denied a position of Assistant Professorship ..because I was a muslim and they do not wanted a muslim in the department.Things are changing .This was the effect of partition of India in 1947 and creation of Pakistan.Those muslims, who were left behind , had to suffer a lot .But as muslims continued to struggle and at same time contributed to every sphere of life in India ,things are changing for good.For example our current president is father of Indian Missile and Space programme,who is a muslim APJ Abdul Kalam. You are most welcome to visit New Delhi and be our honourable guest inshallah. As for your love for Indian food,I am pasting a site for you to go through.I am sure you might be knowing cooking ..lol Its in english and you can browse through it.Send me your mailing address I will send its video CD for you.
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