With 12 million people, Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city, and also the country’s foremost business and financial center.
Istanbul is located on both sides of the Bosporus, a narrow strait that marks the border between Europe and Asia. Every day, millions of people cross the Bosporus using one of two bridges which were built in 1974 and 1985. Today, the bridges can no longer handle the increasing volume of traffic.
In order to reduce traffic congestion, the Turkish government intends to construct the Third Bosporus Crossing.
Because of its strategic location, Turkey is a trans-portation hub for goods and people as well as the abundant energy resources of Central Asia, the Middle East and Russia. Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) is now looking to become involved in various energy-related projects in the region.
Turkey has traditionally been a leading exporter of black tea and its çay tea is famous around the world. Çay is indeed an important part of daily life here; it is the very symbol of hospitality. These days, however, Japanese green tea has been gaining popularity here, attracting attention for its anti-cancer effects.
Many people in Turkey are interested in Japan and its culture. One MC employee in Turkey has been playing the ancient game of Go for 15 years. Go is a fascinating game of strategy with strong roots in Japan. In May 2005, this employee represented Turkey in the 26th World Amateur Go Championship in Nagoya, where national champions from 65 countries competed. He is one of the first players of Go in Turkey and he has been working to promote the game there by arranging tournaments and seminars.
This year, more than 20 million visitors are expected to visit Turkey and enjoy its beaches, culture and entertainment. In April, as the weather becomes increasingly pleasant, open air restaurants, cafes and clubs in Istanbul open all at once. Thanks to its open-air dance floor and breathtaking view of the Bosporus Bridge at night, "Reina" is one of the most famous of these clubs. Here, businessmen, famous soccer players, actors and actresses come to enjoy the great food and atmosphere of the club.
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