A European Parliament press conference discussed Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace and democratic solutions regarding the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Speakers, including members from various political groups, stressed Turkey’s responsibility to respond positively. They emphasized that the call represented a significant opportunity for peace and the recognition of Kurdish rights.
During a recent European Parliament plenary session, a press conference focused on Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace and a democratic solution to the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Organized by the Kurdish Friendship Group, the event featured speakers from various political groups emphasizing the call’s potential to foster dialogue and resolution. Key participants included Per Clausen, Andreas Schieder, Leoluca Orlando, Evin Incir, and Fayik Yağızay, who underscored the importance of Turkey’s response to this opportunity for peace and self-governance for the Kurdish people.
Andreas Schieder from the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats highlighted Öcalan’s call as a pivotal moment for Turkey and the wider region. He asserted that Turkey must respond decisively, emphasizing that, “This call is a unique opportunity for peace, democracy, and the Kurdish people’s right to self-governance.” Schieder called on European Parliament members to pressure Turkish officials to engage in a peace process, framing it as an essential step towards a stable future.
Per Clausen from The Left Group stressed the intrinsic link between justice and peace. He articulated that true peace can only exist where human rights are respected and insisted that the ongoing conflict must end. Clausen remarked, “A true peace is one where human rights are not denied. There can be no peace without justice,” advocating for recognition of the rights of oppressed communities in the region.
Leoluca Orlando from the Greens Group recognized Öcalan’s message as a call for transformation in Turkey. He urged the Turkish government to affirm its commitment to human rights as a NATO member, stating, “Now, we are waiting for the Turkish state to say either ‘yes’ or ‘no.’” Orlando emphasized the critical juncture for change and the need for Turkey to seize this moment while he announced intentions to raise parliamentary questions to bolster support for the peace process.
Evin Incir, also from the Progressive Alliance, reinforced the significance of this moment for Turkey, urging the state to acknowledge oppressed groups within a democratic context. She said, “The Turkish state must recognize oppressed peoples and ethnic groups within a democratic framework,” while reflecting on the historical context of Turkey’s refusal to embrace its ethnically diverse population. Incir noted that this opportunity aligns with Turkey’s EU accession discussions, calling it a chance for the Kurdish people to reclaim their cultural identity and linguistic heritage.
The press conference in the European Parliament highlighted Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace as a critical opportunity for Turkey to advance a democratic resolution to the Kurdish issue. Leading representatives underscored the interconnection of human rights and peace, advocating for Turkey to recognize ethnic diversity and engage in dialogue. This moment presents not only a chance for Turkey to commit to international norms but also for the Kurdish community to attain recognition and self-governance within their ancestral lands.
Original Source: anfenglish.com
