EP Kurdish Friendship Group Advocates for Peace Following Öcalan’s Call

A press conference organized by the European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group discussed Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace and a democratic resolution to the Kurdish issue. Key speakers emphasized the urgency for Turkey to embrace this opportunity to address human rights and self-governance. The dialogue highlighted how this moment could transform Turkey’s political environment and promote peace in the region.

The European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group recently hosted a press conference titled “After Mr. Öcalan’s Call: Peace and Democratic Resolution to the Kurdish Issue in Turkey.” This event occurred during a plenary session and featured notable participants including Per Clausen and Andreas Schieder from the Progressive Alliance, as well as Leoluca Orlando from the Greens Group and Evin Incir from the Progressive Alliance. The discussion centered on Abdullah Öcalan’s appeal for peace and a democratic approach to resolving the Kurdish issue in Turkey.

Speakers asserted that Öcalan’s call represents a unique opportunity to address the longstanding Kurdish issue within a peaceful and democratic framework. The presenters emphasized that successful implementation of this call hinges on positive actions taken by Turkey and surrounding nations, advocating for both peace and the Kurdish people’s right to self-governance under Öcalan’s esteemed leadership.

Andreas Schieder from the Progressive Alliance underscored the significance of Öcalan’s message, declaring it an unprecedented opportunity for Turkey and the region. He remarked, “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 asserted the interconnectedness of the Kurdish situations in Syria, Iraq, and Turkey, making a compelling case for European Parliament members to pressure Turkey towards engagement in peace endeavors.

Per Clausen from The Left Group highlighted the necessity of ending the long-standing conflict, stating, “A true peace is one where human rights are not denied. There can be no peace without justice.” He called for an end to political chaos and military actions across the region, emphasizing that genuine peace requires recognition of oppressed people’s rights. Clausen urged that Mr. Öcalan’s clarion call epitomizes a momentous opportunity for democratization and lasting peace.

Leoluca Orlando from the Greens Group acknowledged the Kurdish people’s struggle, asserting that Öcalan’s call has opened paths to peace. He projected that it is now incumbent upon Turkey to respond decisively. Orlando remarked that Turkey, as a NATO ally, must honor fundamental human rights, declaring, “Turkey, which claims to be a NATO country and a friend of the West, must face reality.” He confirmed intentions to raise parliamentary questions aimed at supporting this vital process.

Lastly, Evin Incir from the Progressive Alliance accentuated the importance of Öcalan’s call, suggesting that it represents a critical juncture for Turkey. She stated, “The Turkish state must recognize oppressed peoples and ethnic groups within a democratic framework.” Incir reminded attendees of Turkey’s historical neglect towards ethnic diversity, advocating for a newfound acknowledgment of this diversity in light of its European Union aspirations. She asserted that this moment enables the Kurdish people to flourish within their native lands, celebrating their culture and language.

The press conference organized by the European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group emphasized a historic opportunity presented by Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace and democratic resolution of the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Prominent speakers urged Turkey to seize this moment for human rights and self-governance for oppressed peoples, calling for immediate action and support from the international community. The dialogue highlighted the potential of this opportunity to transform Turkey’s political landscape and forge lasting peace in the region.

Original Source: anfenglish.com