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Discussion with conflict resolution specialists underway for a non-violent Turkey initiative

Parliamentary committee on terror-free Turkey resolving to disarm PKK accepting researchers working on...

Expertise in conflict resolution convened for Terror-free Turkey initiative
Expertise in conflict resolution convened for Terror-free Turkey initiative

Discussion with conflict resolution specialists underway for a non-violent Turkey initiative

In a significant development, the National Solidarity, Brotherhood and Democracy Committee of the Turkish Parliament held its 10th meeting in Ankara on Wednesday. The session was presided over by Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmuş.

The committee, which was originally launched by the leader of the government ally Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), Devlet Bahçeli, in 2024, aims to establish a uniquely Turkish model for conflict resolution. The ultimate goal is to create a successful Turkish example that will contribute to democratic history.

The committee has been making steady progress, with every decision made so far being unanimous. This reflects the collective commitment of its members to the cause.

During the meeting, Kurtulmuş emphasized the importance of transparency and mutual negotiation in the discussions within the commission. He also acknowledged the crucial role of strong public support, stating that without it, the commission wouldn't have been able to meet even for a single minute. The commission values the public support it has received.

The terror-free Türkiye initiative, which aims to end more than 40 years of violence committed by the PKK terrorist group, was a key topic of discussion. Kurtulmuş stressed that the PKK must immediately declare that it has fully disarmed and heeded the call from Imralı, where the group's jailed leader, Abdullah Öcalan, urged them to do so.

The meeting also saw the attendance of the Turkish Ambassador to Skopje Fatih Ulusoy and Humanitarian Aid Foundation (IHH) Deputy Chair Hüseyin Oruç. Oruç and Ulusoy were actors in the process of ending the longstanding conflict between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippine government, providing valuable insights into conflict resolution.

The meeting hosted academics specialized in conflict resolution, who shared their expertise with the committee. Kurtulmuş expressed confidence that the perspectives shared during the hearings would help advance peace and unity in Türkiye. He also emphasized that they can learn from other processes around the world while understanding that no example perfectly mirrors another.

Kurtulmuş concluded by stressing urgency and purpose, stating that they are compelled to secure lasting peace and build lasting brotherhood as soon as possible. The commission's goal is to create a successful Turkish example that will serve as a beacon of hope for peace and unity around the world.

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