Turkey, currently navigating a turbulent, elite-driven "peace process" with Kurdish factions, has allowed representatives from the pro-Kurdish DEM Party to visit Abdullah Öcalan, the jailed leader of the PKK, an armed Kurdish group active in Turkey for over four decades.Important note:&nbsp;Öcalan has been serving a life sentence on Imralı Island, south of Istanbul, since his capture 25 years ago. The visit is the first of its kind in over a decade. Turkey and its Western allies designate the PKK as a terrorist organization.The Quote:&nbsp;"I have the competence and determination to make a positive contribution to the new paradigm started by Mr Bahçeli and Mr Erdoğan. In light of this, I am ready to take the necessary positive steps and make the call." Öcalan said, according to a DEM statement Sunday.The backstory:&nbsp;The new paradigm refers to an unexpected call by Devlet Bahçeli, the ultranationalist government partner, inviting Öcalan to parliament to renounce terrorism and disband the group. The so-called "peace process" seeks to build on past failed attempts, addressing decades-long grievances and current practical concerns regarding Kurds in Turkey.Recommended read:&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://aposto.com/s/kurdish-problem-on-the-eve-of-a-new-peace-process" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="color: rgb(9, 9, 9); text-decoration: none; background-color: transparent; outline: none; cursor: pointer; transition: color 0.3s; touch-action: manipulation; user-select: auto; box-sizing: border-box;" target="_blank">'Kurdish problem': On the eve of a new peace process?</a> | Aposto World

Aposto World

The peace process now has the support of Abdullah Öcalan, the jailed PKK leader. A rare visit by leaders of the pro-Kurdish DEM Party to Öcalan paves the way for further dialogue.

Imralı Island ile ilgili hikayeler