The European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group held a press conference addressing Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace, highlighting its potential to resolve the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Various speakers, including Andreas Schieder, Per Clausen, Leoluca Orlando, and Evin Incir emphasized that Turkey must take decisive actions to engage with this historic opportunity for peace and democratic recognition of Kurdish rights.
During a recent European Parliament plenary session, a press conference organized by the Kurdish Friendship Group focused on Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace. Titled “After Mr. Öcalan’s Call: Peace and Democratic Resolution to the Kurdish Issue in Turkey,” this event included key participants such as Per Clausen, Andreas Schieder, Leoluca Orlando, Evin Incir, and Fayik Yağızay. The objective was to discuss the potential for peace and democratic progress in Turkey regarding the Kurdish issue.
The speakers emphasized that Öcalan’s call is a pivotal moment to resolve issues facing the Kurdish population through peaceful means. It was stated that any advancement toward peace hinges on proactive measures taken by Turkey and regional governments. The overarching sentiment was that this represents a crucial opportunity for Turkey to embrace peace and acknowledge the Kurdish people’s right to self-governance.
Andreas Schieder termed Öcalan’s plea an unmissable opportunity, stressing its significance for Turkey and the wider region. 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 called upon European Parliament members to encourage Turkey’s government to engage in peace process initiatives.
Per Clausen articulated that enduring conflict must conclude, proclaiming, “A true peace is one where human rights are not denied. There can be no peace without justice.” He highlighted the necessity of recognizing the rights of various ethnic groups, maintaining that Mr. Öcalan’s proposal symbolizes a historic opportunity for peace and democracy in the region.
Leoluca Orlando underscored the critical moment for Turkey, stating, “With Öcalan’s call, the path to peace in Turkey has been opened. Now, we are waiting for the Turkish state to say either ‘yes’ or ‘no.’” He pressed Turkey, as a NATO member, to prioritize human rights and urged the Council of Europe to support the peace initiative being proposed.
Evin Incir asserted that Öcalan’s plea serves as a crucial opportunity for Turkey to demonstrate a commitment to human rights. She noted, “The Turkish state must recognize oppressed peoples and ethnic groups within a democratic framework.” Incir remarked on the historical context of Turkey’s reluctance to recognize diverse ethnic identities, positing that this moment is critical for fostering democratic values and cultural acknowledgment for the Kurdish community.
In conclusion, the press conference underscored the significance of Abdullah Öcalan’s call in promoting peace and democratic resolution. The emphasis on Turkey’s responsibility to engage positively serves as a crucial reminder of the region’s need for justice and recognition of ethnic diversity. Leaders from the European Parliament reaffirmed their commitment to advocating for these pivotal changes in Turkey, marking a potentially transformative moment in the ongoing struggle for Kurdish rights and democracy.
The press conference organized by the Kurdish Friendship Group in the European Parliament brought significant attention to Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace. It highlighted the imperative for Turkey to engage proactively with this initiative, acknowledging the rights of the Kurdish people through a democratic framework. The remarks made by various speakers emphasized the need for justice, the importance of human rights, and the pivotal moment Turkey faces in potentially transforming its political landscape regarding ethnic minorities.
Original Source: anfenglish.com
