The 4th Public Sports Games in Ardahan Concluded with the Volleyball Final

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

The 4th Public Sports Games held in Ardahan have concluded with thrilling volleyball final matches. Ardahan Governor Ömer Hilmi Yamlı attended the closing ceremony held at the Kazım Karabekir Pasha Indoor Sports Hall.

Governor Yamlı watched the competitive volleyball final match played between the Ardahan Governorate 1 team and the Provincial Gendarmerie Command team. Congratulating the athletes who ranked in the tournament, Governor Yamlı presented medals and trophies to the successful teams.

 

 

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No to Censorship, Freedom for News" Marches Held Across 10 Cities

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Supported by various trade unions, "No to Censorship, Freedom for News" marches took place in 10 cities across Turkey, including Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Diyarbakir.

In a joint statement, the Journalists' Union of Turkey (TGS), Journalists' Association of Turkey (TGC), Press Council, DISK/Basin-Is, Haber-Sen, and the Contemporary Journalists' Association (CGD) demanded the immediate release of imprisoned journalists.

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Fatal Firedamp Explosion at Private Coal Mine in Zonguldak's Kilimli District

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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ZONGULDAK – A tragic accident occurred in northern Türkiye as a firedamp explosion rocked a privately operated coal mine in the Kilimli district of Zonguldak province.

Emergency response teams, including medical crews and search-and-rescue units, were dispatched to the site immediately following the underground blast. Official reports confirm that 3 miners lost their lives in the disaster. Five other workers sustained injuries, with 2 currently in critical condition, and all have been rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

We express our deepest condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families of the victims, and offer our wishes for a speedy and complete recovery to those receiving treatment. Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the incident.

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Financial Probe Expands: Politician Native to Ardahan Ertan Aydın Taken into Custody

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Total Number of Detainees Reaches 31 in High-Profile Istanbul 

Ertan Aydın 

A major financial fund investigation conducted by the Istanbul Chief Public Prosecutor's Office has entered a crucial phase with the detention of five remaining suspects, bringing the total number of individuals in police custody to 31. Among those recently apprehended is Ardahan-born academic and politician Prof. Dr. Ertan Aydın, a prominent former parliamentarian. The latest police operations also resulted in the detentions of Abdullah Dal, Fahri Uğur, Hakan Eryılmaz, and Seda Tarım.

Background of Ertan Aydın: Born in Ardahan in 1971, Aydın completed his early education in Germany and high school in Istanbul. After graduating from METU's Sociology Department, he earned his master's and Ph.D. at Bilkent University and conducted research at Harvard and Dartmouth. Appointed as Senior Advisor for Political Affairs to Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in 2012—a role he  maintained under Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu—the former AK Party MP currently serves as a professor at Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University.

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Critical Away Victory for Galatasaray in France

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Galatasaray secured their first victory of the UEFA Champions League campaign with a decisive away win in France on Matchday 3. The Yellow-Reds defeated Lille 4-2 in a hard-fought contest.

Foto Galatasaray

After taking an early lead, Galatasaray fell behind 2-1 following consecutive goals from the home side. Head coach Okan Buruk’s team managed to normalize the score before halftime, ending the first period at 2-2. Delivering a dominant performance in the second half, Galatasaray scored twice to seal a memorable 4-2 victory.

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Visit from Ardahan University Rector Prof. Dr. Öztürk Emiroğlu to Posof District Governor İsa Bertan

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Prof. Dr. Öztürk Emiroğlu, Rector of Ardahan University, paid a visit to Posof District Governor İsa Bertan in his office. During the meeting, initiatives to enhance the educational and accommodation facilities of Posof Vocational School, alongside inter-institutional cooperation processes, were discussed.

The discussions also focused on potential joint projects through which the university can contribute to regional development and the advancement of agricultural production in Posof. Emphasizing the importance of continued inter-agency coordination, Rector Emiroğlu thanked District Governor Bertan for his warm hospitality and ongoing support for the university. District Governor Bertan expressed his pleasure in hosting the Rector. The visit concluded with mutual goodwill wishes and a souvenir photo session.

 

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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to Visit Türkiye in Historic First

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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October 22, 2026 – ANKARA / ISTANBUL

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will arrive in Türkiye today (on October 22, 2026) for a three-day official visit. The trip will mark a historic milestone as the first official visit to Türkiye by a sitting Canadian Prime Minister."

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Source: Wikipedia

Key Meetings in Ankara and Business Summit in Istanbul

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan will officially receive Prime Minister Carney as part of the diplomatic program. High-level discussions in Ankara are expected to focus on bilateral diplomatic relations, regional stability, and global economic cooperation.

Following his official contacts in the capital, Prime Minister Carney will head to Istanbul to meet with leading figures of the Turkish business community to explore avenues for enhancing bilateral trade and investment.

Who is Mark Carney?

Born on March 16, 1965, Mark Joseph Carney is a prominent Canadian politician, economist, and former central banker. He previously served as Governor of the Bank of Canada (2008–2013), Governor of the Bank of England (2013–2020), and a UN Special Envoy. Carney became leader of the Liberal Party on March 9, 2025, and has been serving as Prime Minister of Canada since March 14, 2025.

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Visit to Our Provincial Directorate of National Education by Ardahan Chief Public Prosecutor Murat Yavuz

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Ardahan Chief Public Prosecutor Murat Yavuz visited our Provincial Director of National Education, Kenan Kaya, in his office.

During the courtesy visit, evaluations were made regarding the educational activities in our province, ongoing projects, and opportunities for inter-institutional cooperation. Expressing his satisfaction with the visit, our Provincial Director of National Education Kenan Kaya thanked Chief Public Prosecutor Murat Yavuz for his polite visit and support.

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Extended Provincial Security and Public Order Meeting Held in Ardahan

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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An Extended Provincial Security and Public Order Meeting was held at the GAMER Meeting Hall under the chairing of Governor Ömer Hilmi Yamlı.

During the meeting, which evaluated the security and public order activities conducted in the first 9 months of 2026, the Provincial Gendarmerie Command and the Provincial Police Department delivered comprehensive presentations. The ongoing efforts and prospective measures aimed at ensuring the peace and safety of the province were thoroughly reviewed.

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World Food Day Panel in Ardahan: Focus on Food Loss and Waste Prevention

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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A panel discussion was held in Ardahan to mark World Food Day, focusing on safe food, conscious consumption, and local agricultural products.

Speaking at the event, Governor Yamlı highlighted that 25% to 40% of food produced in Türkiye is lost on its journey from farm to table. Stressing the critical need to reduce food waste, officials emphasized the importance of supporting local production and raising consumer awareness to ensure a sustainable food system.

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Breaking News in Money Laundering Investigation: Ömer Sarıgül and Aylin Kotil Arrested

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Ömer Sarıgül, son of New Party MP Mustafa Sarıgül, and Aylin Kotil, who were detained as part of an investigation into alleged money laundering, have been referred to court. Following police procedures, 15 suspects brought to the courthouse—including Ömer Sarıgül and Aylin Kotil—were remanded in custody by the court and sent to prison. Two other suspects were released under judicial control.

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Kurdish Language Courses Opening at Esenyurt Ardahan Cultural Center

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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In collaboration with the Esenyurt Şerife Bacı Public Education Center, the Istanbul Ardahan Cultural Center is opening Kurdish Language Education classes as part of its course programs. Announced with the motto "Improve Your Language, Keep Your Culture Alive...", the program aims to enhance listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in Kurdish.

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Citizens who wish to enroll in the Kurdish language education program can apply directly to the administrative department of the Cultural Center.

• Contact: +90 535 456 76 03 – +90 (212) 428 42 75

Visit to Provincial National Education Directorate from Ardahan Public Education Center

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Administrators and master instructors from the Ardahan Public Education Center visited Kenan Kaya, the Provincial Director of National Education, in his office.

During the visit, consultations were held regarding the educational activities conducted within the institution, course projects, and planned initiatives under the scope of lifelong learning.

Expressing his satisfaction with the visit, Provincial Director of National Education Kenan Kaya thanked the administrators and instructors for their efforts in bringing lifelong learning to all segments of society and wished them success in their work.

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Tragic Event in Ardahan: 25-Year-Old Youth Ends His Life

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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It has been learned that 25-year-old Baran A., residing in the Kaptanpaşa neighborhood of Ardahan and originally from Gölgeli village, has tragically taken his own life.

While the exact reason behind the incident remains unknown, a formal investigation has been launched by the prosecutor's office. Authorities are actively continuing their inquiry into the details of the event.

The untimely passing of Baran A. has brought deep sorrow to his family, friends, and local community. Further developments regarding the case are expected to be clarified following the ongoing investigation.

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Muğla Metropolitan Mayor Ahmet Aras Resigns from CHP

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Ahmet Aras, the Mayor of Muğla Metropolitan Municipality, has announced his resignation from the Republican People's Party (CHP). Stating that he will continue his duty as an independent mayor, Aras becomes the latest addition to the metropolitan mayors who have recently parted ways with the party.

Born in Bodrum in 1970, the former military officer and politician was elected Mayor of Bodrum in the 2019 local elections with 45.69% of the vote. In the 2024 local elections, he was elected Mayor of Muğla Metropolitan Municipality with 55.03% of the vote.

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Black Eagles Soar in Germany: Beşiktaş Secure Thrilling 3-2 Away Victory Over Hoffenheim

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Beşiktaş produced a memorable performance on Matchday 2 of the UEFA Europa League, overcoming German side Hoffenheim 3-2 in an action-packed encounter.

The match truly came alive in the second half. In the 60th minute, Miretti took a short corner to Trossard, whose low cross found Murillo amidst chaos in the penalty box to break the deadlock for the visitors. Hoffenheim responded in the 68th minute through Asllani, who showcased great skill by turning past defenders before placing a low shot right into the corner.

However, the Turkish giants quickly regained control. In the 73rd minute, Olaitan split the defense with a sharp line-breaking pass to Oh, who calmly finished to make it 2-1. Just six minutes later, İlhan set up Oh with a slick low cross, allowing the striker to double his tally and extend Beşiktaş's lead. Despite a late push by the hosts, Beşiktaş held firm to secure all three points.

Quick Club Overview:

Beşiktaş JK, founded in March 1903, holds the distinction of being Turkey's oldest registered sports club. Sporting iconic black and white colors, the team is famously nicknamed the "Black Eagles". Their iconic home ground, Tüpraş Stadium, is situated directly on the banks of the Bosphorus in Istanbul.

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Flash Floods in Istanbul Leave 4 Dead: Former Association President from Ardahan Turgut Dursun Remains Missing

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Istanbul – Severe torrential rainfall in Istanbul has triggered devastating flash floods across the city, claiming 4 lives so far. Authorities and search-and-rescue teams continue their urgent efforts to locate missing individuals.

Turgut Dursun

Former Ardahan Association President Turgut Dursun Missing

Turgut Dursun (born 1960), a native of Ardahan and former president of the Ardahan Çegilli (Revas) Village Association, went missing in Kağıthane after his vehicle was swept away by floodwaters. Search teams are actively working to locate him.

Identity of Victim Confirmed

A body recovered near the bridge pillar by Sadabat Park in Kağıthane has been identified as 56-year-old Ahmet Usta. It was reported that his family had filed a missing person report in Sarıyer a day prior to the discovery.

Meanwhile, official identification procedures are ongoing for another male body found in Kağıthane. Additionally, rescue operations are focused on finding 5 individuals reported missing in the Ayazağa neighborhood of Sarıyer.

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Rain Holiday in Istanbul: Schools Suspended for One Day

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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The Governorship of Istanbul has announced that schools across the city have been suspended for one day due to severe weather conditions.

According to the official statement, heavy rainfall continuing locally across the city is expected to remain effective on October 15, 2026. The intense downpour caused localized flooding in several districts. While drivers experienced severe difficulties navigating through flooded roads, citizens trapped in water accumulations were rescued with ropes by emergency teams. Additionally, numerous homes and business premises were flooded.
 

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Trustee Appointed to Halk TV, Broadcast Suspended

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Following an early morning police operation targeting Halk TV, detention w

arrants were issued for 17 people, including Chairman of the Board Cafer Mahiroğlu, while a trustee was appointed to the channel and all broadcasts were suspended. Founded on January 10, 2005, by businesspeople close to Deniz Baykal and acquired by Cafer Mahiroğlu in early 2020, the channel had gained widespread recognition through its continuous live coverage during the 2013 Gezi Park protests. Having its contracts terminated by the CHP in July 2023, Halk TV was also previously hit with a 10-day broadcast suspension by RTÜK following statements made on the program "Sansürsüz" on June 26, 2025, on charges of "inciting the public to hatred and hostility."

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Ardahan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Election Results Announced: Sebahattin Gündoğdu Wins by Lot

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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The thrilling race in the Ardahan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ATSO) elections has concluded. White list candidate Sebahattin Gündoğdu won after a tie-breaking draw

Exciting Race Concludes in Ardahan Chamber of Commerce Elections: Sebahattin Gündoğdu Wins via Draw

According to unofficial results, the election for the presidency of the Ardahan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ATSO) has come to an end. The close race between the blue list candidate Çetin Demirci and the white list candidate Sebahattin Gündoğdu drew significant attention.

The voting took place across five ballot boxes with the following results:

• Ballot Boxes 1 & 4: Won by white list candidate Sebahattin Gündoğdu.

• Ballot Boxes 2 & 5: Won by blue list candidate Çetin Demirci.

• Ballot Box 3: Resulted in a 57-57 tie.

Following the tie in the 3rd ballot box, a lot was drawn to determine the winner. The draw favored Sebahattin Gündoğdu, officially declaring him and his team the winners of the ATSO presidential election.

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Sezen Taş, Daughter of Singer Atilla Taş, Laid to Rest in Mersin

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Sezen Taş, the 34-year-old daughter of singer Atilla Taş, tragically lost her life on October 8, 2026, after falling from the 14th floor of an apartment building in the Erdemli district of Mersin.

Following the completion of the autopsy and forensic procedures at the Mersin City Training and Research Hospital morgue, Sezen Taş's remains were received by her family. Transported by a funeral vehicle to the Mezitli Cemetery, she was laid to rest in a ceremony attended by her family, relatives, loved ones, and numerous citizens who gathered to offer their condolences to the grieving family.

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Ardahan Castle: History, Architecture, and Location

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Located on the banks of the Kura River in northeastern Turkey, Ardahan Castle (Georgian: არტანის ციხე) stands as one of the most prominent medieval fortifications in the region.

1. When Was Ardahan Castle Built and Who Built It?

The exact construction date and builder of Ardahan Castle remain unknown. However, historical evidence confirms that the fortress was originally constructed by Georgians during the Middle Ages.

Historical Names: Prior to Ottoman rule, the castle and its surrounding settlement were known as Parakani (ფარაკანი). In the 1595 Ottoman tax register (Defter-i Mufassal-i Vilayet-i Gürcistan), it was recorded as "Rabat-i Kala-i Parakan".

Ottoman Conquest & Restoration: The Ottoman Empire captured the region in 1551. An Ottoman inscription on the fortress reveals that it underwent a major restoration in 1556 under Ottoman rule. During this period, an earlier Georgian church inside the complex was dismantled, and its stones were reused in the curtain walls. Georgian inscriptions written in the Hutsuri script remain visible on the walls today.

2. Where Is Ardahan Castle Located?

Ardahan Castle is situated in the heart of Ardahan city center, on the left bank of the Kura River, directly opposite the Halil Efendi district. Its central location makes it easily accessible on foot for visitors exploring the city.

Architectural Highlights

• Construction: Built using rough-cut stones bound with traditional Horasan mortar. The corner towers feature larger, finely dressed ashlar blocks.

• Dimensions: The internal layout stretches up to 268 meters east-to-west and spans between 119 and 170 meters north-to-south.

• Topography: Built on sloped terrain, the elevation difference between the highest northern wall and the lower southern wall near the river reaches 35 to 37 meters.

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Major Political Shift: Izmir Mayor Cemil Tugay Formally Joins the Ruling AK Party

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Cemil Tugay, who parted ways with the CHP in June following the absolute nullity decision and had been serving as an independent, has officially joined the AK Party.

During the party's first parliamentary group meeting of the new legislative term, President and AK Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan pinned the official party emblem on Tugay.

Addressing the assembly after the ceremony, Tugay highlighted President Erdoğan's leadership and expressed:

"Our main objective in politics is to stand up for the forgotten poor in the peripheries of this country, the oppressed whose rights have been infringed upon, as well as our farmers and local merchants. The AK Party is unequivocally the refuge of the voiceless."

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Reaction from Azeri Leader Aliyev regarding the Karabakh War: "No One Helped Us When We Needed It"

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev made striking statements regarding foreign policy, national security, and external interference at the 8th Congress of the New Azerbaijan Party. Referring to the Karabakh war, Aliyev argued that his country received no external support during critical times, stating: “Whatever we bought, we bought with our own money. We purchased all weapons 

at world market prices, down to the last bullet.”

A Message Directed at Criticisms? Aliyev’s comments came following growing reactions in Turkish public opinion and social media concerning Azerbaijan’s close ties with Israel, defense industry engagements, and local decisions regarding headscarf regulations in certain schools.

Without naming any specific country, the Azeri leader firmly rejected external guidance on Azerbaijan’s domestic affairs and lifestyle choices:

“Everyone should know their place, not interfere in our internal affairs, keep out of our lifestyle, and stop lecturing us. Everyone should worry about their own people and state.”

Underlining that Azerbaijan’s ideological landscape must be protected from foreign influences, Aliyev emphasized that Bakü will maintain a strictly independent policy framework.

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The Ardahan Newspaper Makes History in Digital Media: The First Regional Press Power Publishing in 3 Languages

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Founded in 1995 by journalist Mehmet Ali Arslan, The Ardahan Newspaper continues to make pioneering achievements in the history of internet journalism in Türkiye. Adopting an impartial journalism approach at local, national, and international levels, the news outlet proudly holds the title of being the first newspaper in Türkiye to publish in Kurdish and English over the internet.

Continuing its publication life primarily in Turkish, Kurdish, and English, the press organization acts as a digital bridge carrying regional developments to the world and global news to Türkiye through its brands: Ardahan Gazetesi (Turkish), The Ardahan Newspaper (English), and Ardahan Rojname / Rojnameya Erdexanê (Kurdish).
 

A Publishing Journey From mIRC and ICQ Era to the Digital Age

Starting its broadcast at a time when internet journalism was taking its very first steps, The Ardahan Newspaper made press history by sharing its first news updates via legendary platforms of the period such as mIRC, ICQ, and IRC. Today, it delivers instant breaking news to its readers through an extensive web network, various digital platforms, and blogs.

With a vision focused on digital journalism, the organization also offers archival print editions periodically. These special printed copies serve as a summary and guide of the extensive work carried out in the digital environment

Global Journalism Based in Istanbul and Ardahan

Headquartered in both Istanbul and Ardahan, The Ardahan Newspaper continues to lead innovative steps in digital publishing with its strong news network and multilingual editorial team.

 

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Kylian Mbappé Strike Secures France Victory as Turkey Fall in Nations League Opener

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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Turkey kicked off their UEFA Nations League A Group 1 campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat against France at Kocaeli Stadium. A 54th-minute strike from Kylian Mbappé proved to be the difference in a tightly contested fixture. The home side’s night was further dampened in the 87th minute when goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır was shown a straight red card following a VAR review. Turkey will look to bounce back when they host Italy in Bursa on September 28, while France travel to face Belgium on the same evening.

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Ahagoodness / Ahily Week Commemorated with a Ceremony in Ardahan

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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A formal ceremony was held at the Atatürk Monument in front of the Ardahan Governorship to mark Ahily Week. The event was attended by Asım Özer, President of the Union of Tradesmen and Craftsmen Chambers of Ardahan, Candar Yılmaz, President of the Ardahan Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen, Gönül Cengiz, Provincial Director of Trade, along with board members and institutional staff. The ceremony commenced with the laying of a wreath at the monument, followed by a moment of silence and the recitation of the Turkish National Anthem.

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104th Anniversary of August 30 Victory Day Celebrated with Great Enthusiasm in Ardahan

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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The 104th anniversary of August 30 Victory Day was celebrated with high spirits in Ardahan through ceremonies and events attended by Governor Ömer Hilmi Yamlı and local protocol members.

The celebrations commenced in the morning with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Atatürk Monument, led by the Ardahan Governorate, Garrison Command, and Ardahan Municipality. Following the presentation of wreaths, a moment of silence was observed, followed by the National Anthem.

After the wreath ceremony, the protocol delegation proceeded to the Governor's office, where Governor Ömer Hilmi Yamlı accepted official congratulations. The celebrations then continued at Congress Avenue, the main venue for the events.

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AK Party Appoints New Provincial Chair in Ardahan and 3 Other Provinces

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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According to a statement released by the AK Party Headquarters, new provincial chairs have been appointed in four provinces, including Ardahan, with the approval of President and AK Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

The new appointments are as follows:

• Ardahan Provincial Chair: Hasan Şenel

• Tunceli Provincial Chair: Recai Hazar

• Karaman Provincial Chair: Adem Küçükyarma

• Afyonkarahisar Provincial Chair: Özgür Kavak

The statement expressed gratitude to the former provincial chairs for their dedicated service to date and wished the newly appointed leaders success in their new roles.

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Severe Hail and Storm Cause Significant Damage in Çıldır, Ardahan

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The Ardahan Newspaper | Since 1995 |

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A severe hail and storm struck the village of Öncül in the Çıldır district of Ardahan yesterday evening, causing extensive damage. The harsh weather conditions blew off the roofs of more than 20 houses and barns, leaving approximately 70% of the village's homes uninhabitable.

No casualties or injuries have been reported. Following the incident, AFAD (Disaster and Emergency Management Authority), gendarmerie, and local agriculture teams were dispatched to the area to initiate damage assessment and support operations.

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