Ankara, December 22 – CHP (Republican People’s Party) Leader Özgür Özel held a meeting with a delegation from the DEM Party (Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party) today at the CHP Headquarters. The discussions, which lasted approximately 1.5 hours behind closed doors, focused on the ongoing process of the National Solidarity, Brotherhood, and Democracy Commission in the Turkish Grand National Assembly.
CHP Leader Emphasizes Peace and Brotherhood
Following the meeting, during a joint press conference, Özel expressed his hopes for peace, brotherhood, and democracy to prevail in both Turkey and Syria. “We hope for the establishment of full peace in both countries, good relations between Turkey and Syria, and for the brotherhood on both sides of the border to enable the two countries to confidently step into the future together,” Özel stated.
Condemnation of Hateful Rhetoric
Özel also strongly condemned the abusive chants directed at former MP Leyla Zana during a football match, calling the incident “unacceptable.” He emphasized that such an attitude, targeting a woman and a mother, is not fitting for the region. “We absolutely do not accept such an act in Anatolia. It is contrary to both our beliefs and our culture. I would like to state that it is not possible for any of us to open the door to an understanding that tries to use stadiums for political events targeting a politician,” he added.
DEM Party Highlights CHP’s Constructive Role
Pervin Buldan, Deputy Speaker of the Turkish Grand National Assembly and DEM Party Van Deputy, thanked Özel and his team, describing the meeting as productive. Buldan underscored the significance of the CHP’s constructive role during this critical historical juncture. “We attach great importance to the CHP’s constructive role at such a historical turning point. The Kurdish issue is an issue above politics, and it is the duty and responsibility of all of us to solve this issue,” Buldan remarked.
Dialogue and Negotiation for the Future
Mithat Sancar, DEM Party Şanlıurfa Deputy, conveyed that during the visit, they mutually shared their concerns, criticisms, and objections. He further stated that they agreed on the importance of continuing the process through negotiation, dialogue, and mutual discussions.
After the press conference, Özel and the DEM Party delegation posed for a commemorative photograph before the delegation departed.
Commitment to a “Turkey Without Terrorism”
CHP Leader Özel reiterated his commitment to a “Turkey without terrorism” and emphasized the importance of democracy throughout the country. His statements underlined a vision for a peaceful and democratic future for the region, fostering strong relations and mutual respect across borders.
The meeting signifies ongoing efforts within the Turkish political landscape to address complex national and regional issues through dialogue and cooperation. Both parties expressed a willingness to continue these discussions, highlighting the importance of parliamentary commissions and inter-party communication in resolving critical challenges.
This engagement between the CHP and DEM Party comes at a time when political discourse in Turkey is often polarized. The emphasis on shared values such as peace, brotherhood, and democracy by both leaders suggests a potential for broader consensus-building on sensitive topics. The condemnation of political exploitation of public spaces like stadiums further reinforces a call for civility in political expression.
The National Solidarity, Brotherhood, and Democracy Commission, which was a central topic of discussion, plays a crucial role in facilitating dialogue on national unity and democratic principles. The commitment from both sides to continue engaging in this process bodes well for future political developments in Turkey.
The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on future interactions, as evidenced by the joint press conference and the commemorative photograph, symbolizing a step towards continued political dialogue and cooperation.
