European Parliament Press Conference: A Historic Call for Peace in Turkey
The European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group held a press conference to discuss Abdullah Öcalan’s call for a peaceful resolution to the Kurdish issue in Turkey. Key speakers, including Andreas Schieder and Per Clausen, emphasized the importance of Turkey seizing this opportunity for peace and justice. The discussions focused on the potential for democratic progress and recognition of the Kurdish people’s rights under a democratic framework.
The European Parliament (EP) Kurdish Friendship Group convened a press conference during a plenary session to discuss Abdullah Öcalan’s call for peace and a democratic society. Titled “After Mr. Öcalan’s Call: Peace and Democratic Resolution to the Kurdish Issue in Turkey,” this conference included notable participants such as Per Clausen from The Left Group and Andreas Schieder from the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats, among others. The primary focus was on Öcalan’s call as a potential means to peacefully address the Kurdish issue in Turkey.
During the conference, speakers underscored the importance of Turkey’s proactive response to Öcalan’s call as an unprecedented opportunity for reconciliation and democratic progress. They articulated that this moment could lead to tangible advancements in the Kurdish people’s right to self-governance. Furthermore, Öcalan’s pivotal role in this process was widely acknowledged, as his leadership is seen as essential to moving forward with peace initiatives.
Andreas Schieder remarked that Öcalan’s appeal symbolizes a historic opportunity not just for Turkey, but for the entire region. He urged that the Turkish government must respond decisively, stating, “This call is a unique opportunity for peace, democracy, and the Kurdish people’s right to self-governance.” Schieder further emphasized the need for the European Parliament to apply pressure on Turkish authorities for constructive engagement in this peace process.
Per Clausen stressed the critical connection between justice and peace, asserting, “There can be no peace without justice.” He called for an end to political turmoil and military actions in the Middle East, asserting that true peace is contingent upon the recognition of human rights for all oppressed peoples, including the Kurds.
Leoluca Orlando of the Greens Group pointed out the urgency for the Turkish state to respond to Öcalan’s call. He emphasized Turkey’s obligations as a NATO member to uphold human rights, stating that the nation must face the reality of its situation. Orlando announced plans to address the Council of Europe, encouraging support for this peace initiative.
Evin Incir reinforced that Öcalan’s call signifies a pivotal opportunity for Turkey. She articulated the necessity for the recognition of oppressed peoples within a democratic society, asserting that this moment could enhance Turkey’s commitment to human rights. Incir noted the relevance of this discussion in light of Turkey’s European Union accession process, advocating for Kurdish rights to be recognized as part of their cultural heritage in their ancestral lands.
The press conference organized by the European Parliament’s Kurdish Friendship Group highlighted Abdullah Öcalan’s call as a significant opportunity for Turkey to engage in peace and democratic resolution of the Kurdish issue. Key speakers from various political affiliations underscored the necessity of Turkey’s active participation in this process, emphasizing the intertwining of justice, human rights, and the potential for a peaceful future for all ethnic groups in the region. It is crucial for Turkey to seize this historic chance to acknowledge and support the rights of oppressed communities.
Original Source: anfenglish.com
