In historic first, Turkish parliamentarian to lead pace

For the first time in history, a Turkish parliamentarian is slated to become president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). Mevlut Cavusoglu of the ruling Justice and Development (AK Party), who also heads the Turkish delegation at PACE, is expected to replace Lluis Maria de Puig of Spain during today's vote at PACE. Cavusoglu, who was nominated by the European Democrat Group, is the only candidate for the post. Turkey is one of the founding members of PACE, which was established in 1949. With the election of Cavusoglu, Turkey will take over the rotating presidency of the Council of Europe's decision-making body, the Committee of Ministers, for six months. Meanwhile, State Minister and Chief European Union Talks Negotiator Egemen Bagis is scheduled to come to Strasbourg to witness the vote and to hold a series of talks. He is set to meet with Cavusoglu and the secretary-general of the Council of Europe.