TRT set to launch new english-launge channel

The state-owned Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT), whose offerings range from TRT 6 in Kurdish to TRT Arabic, is preparing to launch an English-language news channel early next year. "Turkey has seen amazing growth and become an influential power in the region," said TRT General Manager Ibrahim Sahin over the weekend. "But we haven't been able to communicate these developments. Turkey can reach more foreigners through English, a universal language." Sahin acknowledged that Turkey is a bit late in starting the channel. "We've started so many channels (in recent years), but we lacked an English one," he said. "Though they lack our means, many of our neighbors already have English channels." But he added that the channel's launch was delayed by the wish to create the best possible product.