Ambassador hails Kuwait ties as celebrates National Day

By Ben Garcia

Kuwait Times: What is the plan of activities on National Day? MURAT TAMER: The Republic of Turkey was founded on October 29, 1923. This will be the 94th anniversary of the Turkish Republic. We have been celebrating since that day, and even in our missions abroad, we make sure we celebrate the event elaborately and with lots of respect to our national flag. In our missions abroad, we have var- ious activities to demonstrate our culture and tra- ditions. Traditionally, our reception is always held in our embassy compound. As during any other national days, it is a very colorful celebration. We Recep Tayyip Erdogan will be welcoming our counterparts from the Most powerful president since Ataturk ministry of foreign affairs of Kuwait. We also invite other friendly countries to celebrate with us. We ecep Tayyip Erdogan is the current President of Turkey, and he has held the position since invite local government officials, the business R2014. He previously served as Prime community and members of the Turkish commu- Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Minister of Turkey from 2003 to 2014 and as Mayor nity living side-by-side with Kuwaitis. At the of Istanbul from 1994 to 1998. Born: February 26, event, we showcase our culture and we see to it Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was a 1954 (age 63), Kasimpaga, Beyoglu, Turkey. It Murat Tamer, Ambassador of Turkey to Kuwait would not be an exaggeration to say that Recep that we serve our sumptuous cuisine. In Kuwait, Turkish army officer, revolutionary, Tayyip Erdogan is currently one of the most charis- we have noticed a boom in Turkish restaurants. and founder of the Republic of matic leaders in the world. Any talk about Turkey These eateries have promised to bring samples of Turkey, serving as its first President always includes a reference to Erdogan - this is the their recipes and we will share it with our visitors. growing community of personality - and in a from 1923 until his death in 1938. country that honors great leaders, Mustafa Kemal We don’t see Turkish children will present a cultural show on Ataturk, it is not surprising either. this day. The Turkish population in Kuwait is Turkey’s 61-year-old president has pushed Kuwaitis as tourists - around 4,000-5,000. We have people in business, • Born: May 19, 1881, Thessaloniki Turkey forward economically and politically to teachers, engineers, doctors, technicians, some extent, cutting military power into politics. It is not redundant to say that the army had a lot we see them mechanics and other professionals here in • Died: November 10, 1938, of power in Turkish politics. Erdogan is a polariz- Kuwait. Several Turkish women are married to Dolmabahce , Istanbul, ing figure. For many, especially in the more con- Kuwaitis. servative regions of , it has brought bet- as neighbors Turkey ter health care, given the increased representa- Continued on Page 6 tion of secular Turks and improvements in infra- structure. 02

urkey is a nation straddling eastern Europe and western Asia with cultural connections to ancient Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Cosmopolitan Istanbul, on the TBosphorus Strait, is home to the iconic Hagia Sophia, with its soaring dome and Christian mosaics, the massive 17th-century Blue Mosque and the circa-1460 Topkapi Palace, former home of sultans. Ankara is Turkey’s modern capital.

Turkey's Great History

he history of Turkey tells of a 10.000 year old civilization. Find out more about histo- rical timeline, prehistoric times, Anatolian civilizations, Roman period, Seljuk TEmpire, and modern Turkish Republic. At the end of the First World War, the Ottoman Empire, which had entered on the side of the Germans, was effectively occupied by the Allies. The Ottoman government was defeated and the sultanate had lost credibility.

Mustafa Kemal a popular young General in the Ottoman army, who had remained undefeated throughout the war, emerged as the leader to take Turkey forward into a new era.

During the War of Independence which lasted from 1919-1923, Mustafa Kemal was elected President of the Turkish Grand National Assembly which was inaugurated on April 23rd 1920. He successfully negotiated the Lausanne Peace Treaty which set Turkey's national borders and recognized Turkey's right of sovereignty. The Turkish Republic was proclaimed on October 29th 1923.

TURKISH CONSTITUTION According to the Constitution, Turkey is a republic, and at the same time it is a democratic, secular and social state gover- ned by the rule of law respecting human armaris is a Mediterranean resort town along the (also known as the rights and committed to Ataturk's princip- Turquoise Coast) with a busy, pebbly beach and long seafront promenade. It’s known for les and nationalism. its lively nightlife on Bar Street, which is home to open-air clubs and music venues. Secularism is the important principle sits in a valley between pine-forested mountains and clear waters, which are that the basic social, economic, political popular sailing and diving destinations. and legal order of the state may not rely, M even partially, on religious rules.

The Constitution of the Republic of Turkey guarantees the rights of Turkish FACTS ABOUT TURKEY citizens to lead dignified lives and develop their material and spiritual being. eneral information on facts about Area: 783.562 square kilometres Antalya, , Bursa, Kayseri, Samsun, Trabzon, Everyone is equal before the law and the Turkey, population, national anthem, Coastal Length: 7.200 km Erzurum, Eskisehir, Kocaeli, Diyarbakir, Sakarya, constitution does not allow any discrimi- founder, system of goverment, head of Coastal Borders: Mediterranean Sea at south, Mersin, Gaziantep goverment, language, currency, capital at west, Black Sea at north Hospitality: Hospitality is a cornerstone of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk nation based on language, religion, deno- G mination, race, skin colour, gender, politi- , religion, area, coastal length, coastal borders, Population: 79.51 million (2016) Turkish culture, and Turks believe that visitors cal opinion, or philosophical beliefs. and more. Capital City: Ankara should be treated as Guests sent by God. Language: Turkish Cuisine: Turkish cuisine is renowned as one of Official Name: Republic of Turkey Religion: Muslim 99% the world's best. National Anthem: Istiklal Marsi (Independence Neighboring Countries: Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Weather: It is said that all of the four seasons Turkish Historical Timeline () as an Anatolian power. March) Greece, Georgia, Iraq, Armenia, Iran, Syria exist in Turkey. Turkish historical timeline; a Neolithic city is Founder: Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Currency: Turkish Lira (TL) 1TL = 100 kr Tourism: Turkey has so much to offer her visitors, established at Catalhoyuk in central Anatolia, 129 BC: Anatolia becomes the Roman System of Goverment: Republican Number of : 81 therefore this country has recently become one the world's first known settlement date back Province of Asia, with its capital at Ephesus. Parliamentary Democracy Victory Day: 30 August of the world's most popular tourism destinations. to 6500 BC. The Republic of Turkey was foun- Prime Minister: Binali Yildirim Rebuplic Day: 29 October ded in 1923. This history timeline has been 64 BC - 38 BC: Antiochus I rules the President: Recep Tayyip Erdogan Largest Cities: Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Adana, developed to provide a snapshot of the famo- Commagene Kingdom and builds a temple as us people and events during this historical a monument to himself at the summit of time period of Turkey. Important dates in a Mount Nemrut. fast, comprehensive, chronological, or date order providing an actual sequence of impor- 56 AD: St.Paul stays in the city of Ephesus and tant past events which were of considerable writes his famous Epistles. significance to the famous people involved in this time period. 330 AD: Constantine chooses the minor town Welcome to Antalya of Byzantium as the capital of the Holy Roman 23000 BC: A cave at Karain, north of Antalya, is Empire, rebuilding it in the image of and inhabited by humans, the oldest known evi- renaming it . elcome to Antalya, dence of habitation in Anatolia. the paradise on earth, 537 AD: Inauguration of Hagia Sophia the pearl city of the 6500 BC: A Neolithic city is established at in Istanbul by the Emperor Justinian. Mediterranean, and Catalhoyuk in central Anatolia, the world's first the Turkish Riviera. known settlement. 570 AD - 622 AD: Birth of Muhammed. WWithin the wide boundaries of Revelation of the Kur'an. Muhammed's hejira Antalya there is history, natural 5000 BC: Stone and Copper Age. People have from Mecca to Medina. beauty and a rich variety of local already been living in Anatolia for 20,000 years. life style to be discovered. As 1037 - 1109: Turkish Empire of the Great the fourth most visited city in 2600 BC - 1900 BC: The Proto-Hittite Empire Seljuks in Iran. the world, Antalya is one of flourishes in Central Anatolia and the the world's foremost tourism Southeast. 1071 - 1243: Seljuk Sultanate of Rum, an offs- destinations, offers you a hoot of the Great Seljuk empire, established in peerless experience. 1900 BC - 1300 BC: The Hittite Empire flouris- Anatolia with its capital in Konya. Mystic poet Antalya is a typical hes, battles Egypt. Patriarch Abraham, who has and philosopher Jelaleddin Rumi, called Mediterranean city, which been dwelling in , near Sanliurfa. Mevlana, takes up residence in Konya, writes combines ancient cities his great works, and inspires the founding of whispering tales of histo- 1300 BC - 1260 BC: The Trojan Wars described the Whirling Dervish Sufi order. ry, myth and legend, by Homer in the Iliad. emerald green forests 1299: The Ottoman state is formed by Osman and the sparkling waters 900 BC - 800 BC: Rise of Phrygian, Lydian and Bey from whom it takes its Turkish name of the Mediterranean. Carian cultures. Osmanli. Antalya is the largest city on Turkey's Mediterranean 725 BC: King Midas rules the Phrygians from 1453: Fatih Sultan Mehmet conquers Istanbul, coastline, classically beauti- his capital of . bringing the Byzantine age to an end, and ful and stylishly modern. renames it Istanbul. This great city is full of places 561 BC - 546 BC: Croesus rules the Lydians until to go and world famous sea- his defeat by the Persian Empire. 1520 - 1566: Reign of Sultan Suleyman the side towns to stay for local and Magnificent, the great age of the Ottoman international tourists. 353 BC: The death of , ruler of the Empire. The sultan rules most of North Africa, Antalya offers plenty of things Hectamonid clan, who built his famous tomb most of Eastern Europe and all of the Middle to see for everyone. In Antalya, at . East. everywhere you turn there is going to be something bright and shiny that 334 BC: Alexander the Great crosses the 1571: Ottomans conquer Cyprus. grabs your attention. See Antalya's must- from Macedonia and sweeps dos to check off your list when planning a across Asia Minor. 1914: Ottoman Empire enters the First World War on the side of the Germans. trip to city. Visit Antalya, the main city of the 279 BC: Celts invade and establish the king- Mediterranean to see its charming old town, dom of Galatia near Ankara. 1923: Mustafa Kemal Ataturk founds the Kaleici, or play a round of golf at one of the superb Republic of Turkey. courses at nearby Belek. 250 BC: Rise of the Kingdom of Pergamum 03

Kuwait International Airport Terminal 4 “FAST-SMART” PROJECT The Kuwait Support Terminal, recently renamed satellite building, six ancillary facilities support- Kuwait Airways fleet expansion strategy. Terminal 4, is projected as a solution for the ing operations, and the associated access roads The T4 terminal building design is based on increasing traffic that the existing Terminal 1 is and utilities. achieving volume simplicity through the archi- handling, which has reached more than 11 mil- The T4 terminal building is designed to han- tectural quality of the construction, solutions lion passengers a year. dle 4.5 million passengers per year and planned and materials, attention to detail, and integra- The Directorate General of Civil Aviation per IATA 10th Edition “Overdesign” Level of tion into the environment. The design strives to (DGCA) of Kuwait with the determination and Service (LoS B per 9th Edition) guidelines and provide a pleasant and relaxing passenger the plan to solve the terminal capacity problem, DGCA requirements by considering the project- experience avoiding overly formal and unjusti- awarded the design/build contract for Kuwait ed annual and peak-hour forecasts, terminal fied solutions. Support terminal to CENGIZ, one of the major operations, security requirements, apron config- The construction is a perfect example of how Turkish contractors, with their local partner First uration and type of aircraft. a public structure can encompass elements Kuwaiti and AECOM , the Spanish branch This resulted in the need for a 55,000 m2 ter- from the local culture through processes of of the US-based architecture and engineering minal building, with 14 gates, divided in two intuitive customization work. The main objec- firm as their lead designer, to achieve the lofty main levels, five of them in the ground floor tive of the building is to project a strong and goal of improving Kuwait’s aviation infrastruc- served by buses and nine in the departures lev- iconic image that enhances the sense of arrival, ture through this facility. el served by passenger boarding bridges. welcoming everyone to Kuwait. In addition, the The T4 Terminal at Kuwait International Departure level gates consist of two closed tessellations and geometry of Al Sadu weav- Airport is a multifaceted project with a complex gates (one code C and one code E), one open ings, a traditional Kuwaiti pattern, were incor- design/build scope. In addition to the T4 termi- code E gate and three open gates with multiple porated into several design features such as nal building, other infrastructure included in the aircraft receiving stand (MARS) parking posi- exterior façade panels, custom interior ceiling project are the new staff car park with 650 addi- tions that allow for either two code C, or one and custom wood wall panels to define the dis- tional spaces, a new pedestrian bridge connec- code E type aircraft at each providing the gate tinct local image, celebrating the beauty of tion between the existing car park and the allocation and operation flexibility based on Kuwait’s traditions. The terminal has three main levels which are different in use and form: ground floor, arrivals corridor and departures level. On the ground finally rest and take in their surrounds, observ- • His Excellency Sheikh Salman Sabah Al- floor, arrivals and departures are located sym- ing planes or arriving passengers’ movements Salem Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah, President of The metrically, reducing the complexity of the build- through the glazed façade. For this reason, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of ing. Access to the terminal is situated in the cen- areas are designed as quiet spaces with double Kuwait, tre of the building arriving in the main hall from height ceilings reflecting a harmonious relation- • His Excellency Engineer Yousef Sulaiman Al the satellite building via the enclosed pedestri- ship between the building and its setting. Fouzan, Director General of DGCA, an bridge providing a conditioned connection The true challenge for the team has been to • His Excellency Engineer Emad Faleh Al to the car park. convert the fast track process into a ‘fast smart’ Juluwi, Deputy Director General for Planning The terminal is designed with a clear and project, optimizing construction activities, solv- Affairs and Projects of DGCA, and the entire on- direct passenger circulation system, minimizing ing complex problems, developing innovative site Project team of DGCA, the excellent dynam- turns and decision points and travel distances, and flexible solutions, and at the same time ic created between DGCA and us, has made this always avoiding cross-flows and conflicting pas- delivering a state-of-the-art design. unique project a reality, awaiting its first passen- senger movements. There is no doubt that a complex airport gers in Spring of 2018. The arrivals corridor is on the middle level design and construction project is not a simple Finally, CENGIZ is very proud to be a part of and collects all disembarking passengers and task to complete, much less with an extremely this important project and also bringing his directs them to the ground floor. This corridor is limited schedule; however, the Kuwait T4 extensive experience and knowledge to Kuwait visually connected to the bus gates area, and is Terminal project demonstrates that it is achiev- from the execution of Istanbul Grand Airport light, transparent and bright. Passengers transi- able. Thanks to the leadership and continuous which is designed for 180 million passengers tion from the arrivals corridor to the baggage support of with 6 runways and terminal building with 1.3 claim or connecting flights through the corre- • Her Excellency Mrs. Hind Sabeeh Barak Al- million sqm. as one of the biggest airports of sponding security control. Sabeeh, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor and the world. Departure halls are where passengers can Minister of State for Economic Affairs, 04 Republic Day of Turkey

Established 1961 Special Supplement

elcome to Istanbul, the city of the past, the present and the future. Istanbul not only joins continents, it also joins cul- tures and people. Close your Weyes, imagine yourself in a city. Istanbul is one of the most visited and important places in the world, a central hub connecting Asia and Europe, blending the past and the future, bringing together cultures and people from all over the world. Enjoy city shopping and tourist attractions, experience the colorful daily life and dynamic nightlife, or visit museums, historical and reli- gious sites in Istanbul. Catch a glimpse of Istanbul's ancient city walls, enchanted churches, Ottoman and spiritual mosques, savor the delightful flavours of the city's rich cuisine. Fascinating stories in amazing locations. Come find yours in Istanbul. For a real shopping experience in Istanbul, visit the historical bazaars, traditional markets and antique stores, where a myriad of objects wait to be discovered. Istanbul has everything for all traditional shopping enthusiasts.

fought is situated in a small village Tevfikiye of Canakkale in western Turkey. Gaziantep Turkey, Discover the Potential 18. One of the first most accurate world maps were drawn by the well known Welcome to Gaziantep, the magical stop of historical Silk Road, the masterly Turkish cartographer and navigator Piri Reis in 1513. spirit of Turkey. Gaziantep is the sixth largest Turkish city, one of the oldest settle- 19. Sanliurfa is known to be the City of the Prophets where Prophet Abraham, More about Turkey ments in Anatolia, located in Southeastern Anatolian region of Turkey. Gaziantep, Prophet Job, Prophet Elijah and Prophet Jacob lived. a city whose roots go back more than ten thousands years, that reflects the Learn all about what the weather is like, useful Turkish words and phrases, 20. Gobeklitepe Temple complex in southeast Turkey, is the oldest ancient general information power of Mesopotamia. It is not just history, it is a vibrant gastronomy. temple built by mankind anywhere in the world. Gaziantep is one of the top destinations in Turkey's southeastern region. How much information you have about Turkey? Turkey is a land of contrasts 21. Kayseri derives its name from Augustus Caesar, when it was called bringing together a mixture of East and West has so much to offer her visitors. Standing at the crossroads of major north-south and east-west routes, Gaziantep Caesaris. is an important settlement. This historic old city is full of places to visit for local 1. Istanbul is the only city in the world located on two continents, Europe and 22. The first coinage in human history began in Anatolia. Asia. and foreign tourists. 23. 300 years ago somebody flew from in Istanbul. There are a number of exciting things to do in Gaziantep. From historical sites 2. Catalhoyuk is known as one of the earliest settlements in the Neolithic Age. 24. Turkey is one of the world's largest yacht manufacturers. 3. Two of the world's seven wonders are located in , Turkey; Temple of to cultural attractions, explore all unique places to see in the city of Gaziantep. Artemis, Halicarnassus Mausoleum. 4. Virgin Mary in Selcuk, is a very popular pilgrimage site for Christians. Turkey's Weather and Climate Conditions Some of Touristic Places 5. Delicious reputation of the Turkish coffee spread all around Europe in the Turkey has a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine, mild temperatu- Bodrum 17th century. res and a limited amount of rainfall. It is said that all of the four seasons exist in 6. The word turquoise comes from Turk, meaning Turkish, and was derived Turkey. from the perfect blue of the Mediterranean Sea on the southern Turkish coast. Bodrum is a district and a port city in Muğla Province, in the southwestern Spring season (March, April, May) is very well for visiting Turkey to experience Aegean Region of Turkey. It is located on the southern coast of Bodrum 7. The world's greatest mosaic museum is and second greatest mosa- beautiful nature, local life, mild temperatures and smaller crowds. ic museum is Antakya in Turkey. Peninsula, at a point that checks the entry into the Gulf of Gökova, and is also the Summer season (June, July, August) is the highest season for visiting Turkey to center of the eponymous district. The city was called Halicarnassus of in 8. The most valuable silk carpet in the world is in the Mevlana Museum in experience warm summer temperatures, swimming, sun bathing, seaside restau- Turkey. ancient times and was famous for housing the Mausoleum of Mausolus, one of rants and rich nightlife. the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built by the in the 9. Church of St.Peter is widely considered to be one of the earliest Christian Autumn (September, October, November) is very nice for visiting Turkey to houses of worship. 15th century, Bodrum Castle, overlooks the harbour and the marina. The castle experience discovering historical sites, comfortable temperatures, local life and grounds include a Museum of Underwater Archaeology and hosts several cultu- 10. Anatolia is the birthplace of many historical figures such as Phrygian King unique nature. Midas, Herodotus and St.Paul. ral festivals throughout the year. Winter season (December, January, February) is one of the best times to visit During the 20th century the country's economy was mainly based on fishing 11. Yoghurt is one of the healthiest foods in existence and is derived from the Turkey, to experience authentic local life, skiing and other winter sports. original Turkish Yogurt. and sponge diving. Over the years, tourism became one of the major activities in Explore Turkey's Destinations Bodrum. 12. St.Nicholas was born in Patara and served as the Bishop of Myra on the Explore Turkey's most popular holiday destinations and unique Turkish cities. Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Find your way around Turkey's regions and get a snapshot of Turkey's beautiful Fethiye 13. Mugla has the longest coast in Turkey, streching from Bodrum to Fethiye coastline and spectacular icons. Discover beautiful islands, experience slow tou- and beyond. Fethiye is a port city, and district, on Turkey's southwestern Turquoise Coast. rism or visit the cultural treasures. Turkey, with its cosmopolitan cities and quaint It's known for its natural harbor, blue waters and numerous rock tombs inclu- 14. According to the Legend of Great Flood told in both the Quran and the villages is one of the world's most fascinating destinations. Old Testament, Noah's Ark landed on Mount Agri in eastern Anatolia. ding the 4th-century B.C. Tomb of Amyntas, carved into a bluff overlooking the Guide to Turkish Cities city. Near-shore islands are popular for day trips by boat. In the south, the 15. The seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation; Ephesus, Turkey has 81 main cities for you to explore. From these you can plan your trip Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, , Philadelphia and Laodicea are all found in beach at Ölüdeniz is sheltered by a lagoon, and Butterfly Valley is a designated to iconic destinations. Every city has some unique characteristics, attractions and nature reserve. Turkey. festivals. Turkey is a country of great diversity, in terms of both culture and eco- 16. Tulips were first introduced to Europe by the Ottomans and quickly beca- nomics. Big Turkish cities usually enjoy a more modern, western style culture and me all the rage over there. a wide array of economical options. 17. Troy where the Trojan wars recounted in Iliad by Homeros of Smyrna were

Welcome to Adana

dana is a major city in southern Turkey. The city is situated on the Seyhan river, 35 km inland from the Mediterranean, in south-central Anatolia. It is the administrative seat of the Adana Province and has a population of 1.7 million, making it the fifth most pop- Aulous city in Turkey. Adana is one of the first industrial cities, as well as one of the economically developed cities in Turkey. The city was medium- sized until the middle of the 19th century, attracting European traders after the United States, a major supplier of cotton, was involved in its civil war. Cukurova farmers first exported agricul- tural products and thus started to build capital. Republic Day of Turkey 05

Established 1961 Special Supplement

Welcome to Izmir

Kuşadası wide beaches lined with hotels include Cleopatra Beach, Regions Welcome to beautiful Izmir, the frontier where the Egyptian queen reputedly swam. Castle, a Turkey is separated into seven geographical regions, Kuşadası is a beach resort town on Turkey’s western giant Seljuk-era fort turned open-air museum, stands on a which are, in order of size: Eastern Anatolia, Central city of Turkey. Izmir, with its 8,500 years Aegean coast. A jumping-off point for visiting the classical rocky bluff above the beachfront, alongside red-tile-roofed Anatolia, Black Sea, Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara and of history, is gloriously situated on the ruins at nearby Ephesus (or Efes), it’s also a major cruise ship Ottoman villas and the octagonal Red Tower, a symbol of Southeastern Anatolia. the city dating to 1226. western edge of Turkey, the bountiful, destination. Its seafront promenade, marina, and harbor are lined with hotels and restaurants. Just offshore on Pigeon Also Turkey has been chosen second in the world in 2015 Landscapes the fruitful and the beautiful. Izmir, the Island is a walled Byzantine castle that once guarded the with its 436 blue-flagged beaches, according to the Turkey is bordered to the north by the Black Sea, to the city of olives, figs and grapes, the land town, connected to the mainland via causeway. Chamber of Shipping. west by the Sea of Marmara and Aegean and to the south by the Mediterranean. Due to its position and the fact that of the natural, organic and fresh. Izmir Çeşme Turkey's Geographical Features Turkey is at the meeting point of three different climatic offers visitors many options for a unique Çeşme is a Turkish resort town west of Izmir, on the Turkey is geographically, politically and officially part of zones, it is home to a tremendous variety of landscapes and holiday experience. Aegean Sea. Overlooking the harbor is Çeşme Castle, a res- two continents Europe and Asia. The smaller northwestern plants so being a paradise for travellers and naturalists. tored military fortress. It now houses the Çeşme portion is part of Europe, while the larger portion is part of Izmir, known as the pearl of the Archaeology Museum, with displays of marble busts, metal Asia. Coastline Aegean, lies on the west coast of Turkey, coins and artifacts from nearby excavations. On the east You will find the beaches of Turkey to be some of the Geography of Turkey most beautiful in the world. It is along these long shores is more than welcoming with its Aegean side of the Çeşme peninsula is sandy Ilica Beach, with warm thermal sulfur springs. Around Çeşme are clear waters and Turkey occupies a rectangular shaped peninsula of land where you there are so many great beaches to choose from. ambience, blue flag beaches, beautiful accessible dive sites. at the crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa; home to nature, lovely villages and world famous countless civilizations and a crossing point between the Turkish Culture and Art Didim continents over several ages. Turkish culture is unique in the world. Turkey may be the ancient sites. There are a variety of places Didim is a small town, popular seaside holiday resort, only country that contains every extreme of Eastern and to go, many traditional districts and and district of Aydın Province on the Aegean coast of wes- Lakes and Rivers Western culture. Highlights some of the distinct characteris- Turkey has large number of lakes; most notable is Lake tics and qualities of Turkish culture and art. coastal towns to discover in Izmir tern Turkey, 123 km (76 mi) from the provincial capital city of Aydın. Didim is the site of the antique city of Didyma with Van, the largest natural lake, covering as much area as an province of Turkey. its ruined Temple of Apollo. inland sea. Dam lakes are also a common site in Turkey. The Turkey's Musical Tradition country's longest river is the Kizilirmak, which flows into the Turkey has a rich musical tradition of varied and often Alanya Black Sea. The Euphrates and Tigris both originate in Turkey, contrasting styles. Turkish music forms great examples of Alanya is a resort town on Turkey’s central flow through other countries before reaching the Persian such a mix of cultural influences. From Turkish folk, classical Mediterranean coast (also known as the Turkish Riviera). Its Gulf. and pop music to military and mystical sounds. 06 Republic Day of Turkey

Established 1961 Special Supplement

By Ben Garcia is good, but our neighbors are Kuwaitis, so sometimes we face complaints,’ Baykus free school - from kindergarten, pri- told Kuwait Times. ‘If we get a bigger place Free school for all mary and secondary levels - is for our students, it will help us a lot. Abeing operated by the Turkish However, I do not want to impose my will Embassy in Kuwait. The school is similar to on this - we have the embassy for help various Turkish schools all over the world, and the Kuwait government to see our with the primary objective to provide plight. We really thank them for the place proper and basic education to Turkish stu- provided to us for our kids’ education,’ he dents. Located in the Kuwaiti neighbor- noted. Turkish students hood of Adan in Mubarak Al-Kabeer gov- The school is managed and run by the ernorate, the school is currently hosting Turkish Embassy based on the Turkish around 300 Turkish students. educational system and curricula. ‘The The student population is growing school is currently hosting 300 students almost every academic year, so Principal with two classes in KG, five classes of ele- Talat Baykus is seeking the Kuwaiti gov- mentary and five classes at the secondary ernment’s assistance for bigger and level, plus five primary classes. Around 29 school-like environment facilities, as class- teachers provide the services needed by es are currently being held in a villa. The students. The school was primarily estab- school started in the comfort of the lished to cater to the needs of Turkish peo- embassy compound in Dasman in 2006. ple - from education and culture to But as it grew, it needed larger facilities. tourism, sports, arts and information,’ ‘We need a bigger space as our student Baykus said. population in Kuwait has continued to ‘We are using the as grow, especially with the onset of con- the medium of instruction, and my mis- struction of Kuwait International Airport. sion here is to prepare our students for More people from Turkey are expected to reintegration classes back in Turkey if their join the growing number of Turkish work- parents decide to go back home. We are ers in Kuwait, as a private company from doing our best here with the help of my Turkey won the bid for building the new co-teachers to provide the best standard- airport in Kuwait. I have no complaints ized education to our students,’ he said. (about the facility), only the size. The place

Ambassador hails Kuwait ties as Turkey celebrates National Day

Continued from Page 1 I do not claim the credit, because this is a project of a Kuwait Times: Turkey is the number one tourism Turkey. John the Baptist’s house, the Trojan Horse, private company from our country. It is a pleasure to see destination for Kuwaitis - can you cite a figure? Mount Ararat and Noah’s Ark are in Turkey. The rich, On the economy the granting of this project to one of our companies. TAMER: From 2013, we have been receiving around ancient history of civilization is in Turkey. Limak, a Turkish company, won the $4.6-billion proj- Many companies are coming to Kuwait to invest - you 140,000-150,000 visitors from Kuwait. In 2016, this ect of Kuwait International Airport. Because of this, can see the continuous development and infrastructure reached a benchmark of 200,000, and this is continuing. Kuwait Times: What about the field of education? many qualified Turkish workers will be added to the work going on. Huge hospitals and long bridges are In fact, if we count Kuwaiti transit passengers, around What is the level of cooperation between the two Turkish population here. Construction will continue for being built, and these are part of HH the Amir’s Kuwait 500,000 Kuwaitis used airports in Istanbul to travel to countries? How many Kuwaiti students are you cur- six years, but I am sure it will be completed even before 2035 vision. Kuwait is doing all it can to achieve its goal other countries. We do not see Kuwaitis as tourists - we rently hosting at universities in Turkey? five years - maybe even four years. One year is already to be the new economic hub of the world. Kuwaiti peo- see them as neighbors, so probably this is the reason TAMER: We have a good relationship in this field, but over, and a temporary terminal building is set to open in ple deserve the best and every single fils spent is used why we have very close ties with this nation. Our culture it needs improvement - education is free for all Turkish May 2018 so work can begin on the new one. When properly to make it better for future generations. is almost similar - we have lots of famous Turkish restau- students. Right now, we barely have about 100 students completed, the new building will accommodate 20-25 rants here. from Kuwait. So we need more promotion when it million passengers per year unlike the temporary one, Kuwait Times: Can you tell us about the Turkish comes to the field of education. We have excellent uni- which can only accommodate 5-6 million passengers. economy and relations with Kuwait? Kuwait Times: What keeps them coming back to versities - many of our universities are among the top in The terminal will be the most beautiful one in the TAMER: The proof is there to speak for itself. Turkey? the world. Gulf region. It’s really a big project. Two weeks ago, the Politically, we have perfect political relations between TAMER: Not only because we are neighbors, but a company poured 5,800 tons of cement in one night - Kuwait and Turkey. Our economic relations however combination of many factors. Traditionally, since hun- Kuwait Times: Do you have a military agreement the largest in history. This is true all over Kuwait - Kuwait need improvement - statistically, we still have a small dreds of years, we have been friends. Leaders of both with Kuwait? is turning into a construction zone. Look at the infra- share; we haven’t reach full potential yet. For a long countries have strong bonds of friendship. Our leaders TAMER: We have a good military agreement with structure projects all over Kuwait. They are making a time, our balance of trade was only $500-600 million, have been visiting each other. Turkey’s leader has called Kuwait, especially in the field of training and continuous great effort to improve the living standard in Kuwait for but in 2016, we reached $1.2 billion, minus the Limak the Kuwaiti leader a negotiator and a wise man. Since military technology transfer programs. We are sharing the Kuwaiti people. I am sure all this is not a waste of project. We have cooperation over agricultural and daily the Ottoman period, they were regarded as negotiators. our expertise with them as well as arms. We are open to money. Kuwait will be different when everything is com- products, steel and machinery. Turkey determines the We have a very good chemistry as people. any suggestions militarily and whatever we have in our pleted. price of iron and steel because we are the strongest in Istanbul was the capital of the Ottoman Empire - it is weaponry, it is for them to come and learn and choose There are many good things happening in Kuwait. this. Kuwaitis have acquired several farms in Turkey to a city with a history of 8,500 years. This is where you can what they want. Remember, we helped Kuwait during We are glad that a Turkish company won the project. We plant vegetables and fruits. One Kuwaiti has a very large get whatever you want in the world, but you cannot get the Iraqi invasion and stood side-by-side with them. thanked them for trusting our company, and luckily, it farm in Turkey to raise cattle. He also has poultry and Istanbul outside Turkey. We have everything - ruins of Currently, we are ready to stand in front of them to pro- happened during my tenure as Turkish ambassador, but dairy farms. past civilizations; even the house of the Virgin Mary is in tect this country. Turkey aims to Republic Day of Turkey 07 Special Supplement Established 1961 support Kuwait develop its 2035 vision

‘An interview with Limak officials on the future growth of Kuwait’s economy’ By Faten Omar

he Turkish Embassy in Kuwait is celebrating the country’s National Day on 29 October. To mark this occasion, TKuwait Times spoke with Limak Construction, the leading Turkish company in Kuwait that is constructing Kuwait International Airport’s new terminal. This Contract is the largest tender won abroad in a single package by a Turkish contractor. Mr. Kayihan Bagdatli, General Manager of Limak Insaat Kuwait, extended congratulations to the Republic of Turkey and the Turkish Embassy in Kuwait on the occasion of the 94th National Day of the Republic of Turkey. He praised the rela- tionship between Kuwait and Turkey, which has been getting closer in recent years. Mr. Bagdatli pointed out that Turkey enjoys excellent and multidimensional relations with Kuwait based on common cultural and historical ties. In recent years “Turkey’s bilateral ties with Kuwait have gained momentum through high-level visits as well as numerous agreements signed during those visits” he said. Mr. Feyiz Genc, Board Director at Limak, told Kuwait Times that Limak Construction, which was established in 1976, has specialized in all types of infrastructure and superstructure projects, including airports, ports, expressways, dams, hydro- electric power plants, treatment plants, factories, Industrial facilities, food facilities, pipelines, mixed-use complex build- ings, and hotel constructions. The company has combined its technical ability and experience over many years, with quality, Mr. Genc affirmed that Limak’s support for female under- more about Limak’s projects both in Kuwait and overseas. subcontractors from across the globe for Terminal 2 Project to speed, advanced technology, innovativeness, social responsi- graduate engineers in Kuwait is part of the Company’s greater “Limak Construction, which recently won a number of large construct this iconic building, which will become an unforget- bility and has successfully completed many major projects of regional efforts to add permanent value to Kuwait’s society by tenders abroad, especially in Middle Eastern markets, has table hub for air passengers from around the world. The entire strategic significance. Many of these followed an EPC model supporting education and learning opportunities in the fields climbed to 85th place in the ENR rankings of top construction design has been carried out in 3D and Building Information and were completed prior to the foreseen date. of construction, engineering, architecture and project man- companies” he said. Model (BIM) coordinating the designs of the various disci- He added, “We opened a Kuwait Branch office in the mid- agement. Mr. Meredith noted that in parallel with construction of the plines and helping the construction progress swiftly with dle of 2016. Our plan is to be involved in developing Kuwait In this regard, Dr. Amani Bu-Qammaz, Assistant Professor at Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2 project, Limak also has highest quality and standards. “ through ‘Kuwait 2035’ vision, which includes various mega the Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering several other ongoing airport projects. “Istanbul Grand Airport Regarding state-of-the-art technology, Terminal 2 will projects”. and Petroleum at Kuwait University, said “Limak signed an in Turkey, Dakar Blaise-Diagne International Airport project in install the latest baggage handling system, which can track Mr. Genc noted that the Kuwait Government has now agreement to establish Limak’s ‘Kuwait’s Engineer Girls Senegal and Volgograd and Rostov airports in Russia are bags from check-in to the flight, reducing the chances of made it easy for foreign firms to invest in Kuwait where it has Programme’ in collaboration with Kuwait University and among the many projects currently being undertaken by misdirected baggage to zero. The passenger bags will be lowered the obstacles for new companies that want to be Bogazici University. 35 students enrolled in their senior year at Limak” he said. screened using latest Level 3 machines, ensuring the highest established in Kuwait. “This is the new Kuwait; the platform is Kuwait University’s College of Engineering and Petroleum Regarding the Kuwait Airport, Mr. Meredith said that the level of safety and security of not only the passengers but changing. They have introduced new attractive regulations.” have joined the training program. The project-based learning procurement process for the 711,000 square metre terminal also airport staff. Terminal 2 has a roof area of 310,000 m2; Adding “besides working on Kuwait International Airport’s programme trains these undergraduate seniors over the building is ongoing. “Construction is progressing in all of the the majority of this roof will be fitted with photovoltaic pan- Terminal 2 construction, which will be one of the most mod- course of the 2017 fall semester. The course consists of 200 elements of the project which include Terminal 2, a 3 km utili- els to generate renewable energy. The roof will also incorpo- ern and technological constructions in the world, Limak is also training hours.” ty tunnel and associated ancillary buildings. We have substan- rate nearly 8,000 skylights, which will make use of natural working on other projects in Kuwait including the “Infectious She added that the programme aims to empower students’ tially completed earthworks for the project by moving nearly light during day time thus reducing the overall power con- Diseases Hospital”. leadership and management skills and help them envision 3 million m3 of soil. 25% of the terminal building’s foundation sumption. He explained that Limak has undertaken a Corporate Social their future careers in engineering “It is a strong and long- works have been completed. Work is ongoing day and night Mr. Meredith added “Limak like challenging projects like Responsibility programme in Kuwait. For this initiative the term advocate of the advancement of women in the engineer- with over 2,500 direct and indirect manpower. The Terminal 2 Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2. We are also working Company has signed a protocol with Kuwait University to train ing and construction sector in the Middle East.” Building is targetting to achieve LEED Gold Certification. on Istanbul Grand Airport. This is a complete international air- more than 40 female engineering students to empower and Dr. Qammaz noted that the Kuwait programme is mod- When this is achieved it will become the 1st Terminal Building port under construction in the Arnavutkoy district on the encourage Kuwait women to work in the construction field. eled on a successful programme launched by Limak in with this accreditation. Terminal 2 is supposed to open official- European side of Istanbul, Turkey. The airport is planned as the Selected graduates will be given the opportunity to continue Turkey in 2015. ly in 2022, however, Limak is working hard with the largest airport in the world and is being constructed in a to work at Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2 Project, as Meanwhile, Mr. Richard Meredith, Limak’s Project Director Government to accomplish it sooner”. record time.” they will be invited to apply for internships. for Kuwait International Airport Terminal 2 Project, explained He added “We have employed the best staff, designers and