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Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20090526/wl_mideast_afp/turkeysyriaisraellandminepolitics_20090526034222
Israeli Link Holding Up Turkey Landmine Clean-Up
[AFP] Burak Akinci - Turkey's plan to rid its border area with Syria of landmines faces stiff political opposition over fears that an Israeli company stands to lease the land for four decades after clearing it of mines. After ratifying the Ottawa Treaty ban on anti-personnel landmines in 2003, Turkey has until 2014 to clear its border territories of mines. The government plan would allow the chosen mine-clearing company to rent the territory, turning it into agricultural land, for up to 44 years. Two unnamed Israeli companies are said to be strong contenders to win the contract.