The European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group convened a press conference focusing on Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace regarding the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Speakers from various political groups emphasized the unique opportunity for Turkey to advance democracy and recognize Kurdish rights. They called upon Turkey to act decisively in response to these calls, framing it as a historical moment for peace and justice in the region.
A press conference organized by the European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group addressed Abdullah Öcalan’s recent call for peace and a democratic solution to the Kurdish issue in Turkey. The title of this gathering was “After Mr. Öcalan’s Call: Peace and Democratic Resolution to the Kurdish Issue in Turkey.” Esteemed participants included Per Clausen from The Left Group, Andreas Schieder from the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, Leoluca Orlando from the Greens Group, along with Evin Incir also from the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, and Fayik Yağızay from the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party).
The speakers emphasized that Öcalan’s call presents a pivotal opportunity for the resolution of the Kurdish issue through a peaceful, democratic framework. They asserted that the potential for transforming this call into an effective peace initiative hinges on proactive measures by Turkey and other states. They underscored that this initiative is not only a chance for peace but essential for democratic advancement and the affirmation of the Kurdish people’s right to self-governance. Öcalan’s prominent role in this process was acknowledged as vital.
Andreas Schieder articulated that Öcalan’s appeal represents a critical opportunity for both Turkey and the broader region, urging for a decisive response from Turkish authorities. He asserted, “This call is a unique opportunity for peace, democracy, and the Kurdish people’s right to self-governance. Turkey must respond to this call in a profound and decisive manner.” Schieder connected the plight of the Kurdish populations in Syria, Iraq, and Turkey to this favorable moment, calling for concerted pressure from the European Parliament on Turkey to commence a peace process.
Per Clausen emphasized the need to end the long-standing conflict, asserting that true peace cannot exist without justice. He stated, “A true peace is one where human rights are not denied. There can be no peace without justice.” Clausen highlighted the necessity of ceasing political turmoil and military actions in the region, stressing that real peace requires the acknowledgment of the rights of marginalized groups. Öcalan’s call is viewed as a historical opportunity for democratic progress and peace within Turkey and beyond.
Leoluca Orlando drew attention to the struggles faced by the Kurdish people, declaring that Öcalan’s call has opened a path to peace. He remarked, “Now, we are waiting for the Turkish state to say either ‘yes’ or ‘no’.” Orlando emphasized Turkey’s obligations as a NATO member to uphold human rights and declared that the parliamentary process has commenced. He urged that the opportunity for change should not be squandered.
Evin Incir found that Öcalan’s call provides Turkey with a significant chance to embrace its commitment to human rights and international law. She noted, “The Turkish state must recognize oppressed peoples and ethnic groups within a democratic framework.” Incir reflected on Turkey’s historical reluctance to acknowledge ethnic diversity and asserted that there is now a momentous occasion for the state to recognize oppressed communities within a democratic context. She also observed that this topic has increasingly garnered attention in the European Parliament and should be revisited during Turkey’s European Union accession discussions.
The press conference underscored the importance of Abdullah Öcalan’s appeal for peace and democratic resolution concerning the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Key speakers reiterated the historical opportunity this presents for Turkey to implement meaningful change by recognizing the rights of diverse ethnic groups. The responses from various parliament members collectively indicate a strong call for Turkey to engage earnestly with this initiative, emphasizing the urgent need for justice and human rights. Their insights underscore that this moment requires proactive engagement from Turkey and the international community to foster a lasting peace and democracy.
Original Source: anfenglish.com
