Time to make the most of the limelight

Delphine Strauss considers opportunities presented by the newly elected governments very strong mandate after the June 2011 general election in Turkey. Article forms the lead and overview article in the FT: Special Report 'Turkey 2011'.

Over features cover:

Kurds: Minority broadens its appeal at the ballot box. Delphine Strauss reports on BDP’s surprise gains

Economy: Revival masks a lack of reform. A growing current account deficit leaves the country vulnerable, writes Vincent Boland

Banking: Resilient sector faces different set of stresses. Vincent Boland reports on the uncertainty that is clouding prospects

Istanbul bourse: ISE banks on technology to strengthen its business. Jeremy Grant talks to the chief executive about his regional ambitions

Column: Cold reality of confrontation with the neighbours
Turkey has become an important rival – and alternative role-model – to Iran in the region, writes David Gardner

Politics: Fresh blood set to cement party power. Delphine Strauss takes a look at the new faces in parliament

Istanbul: Something for the urban global elite. Vincent Boland reports on an ancient city’s modern attractions

Consumer habits: Wealth leads to a boom in spending at the mall. Vincent Boland reports on a byproduct of urbanisation

Bosphorus canal: Questions raised over a ‘crazy but magnificent’ project. Robert Wright reports on Erdogan’s big idea for Istanbul