N. Iraq’s ruling KDP leader Barzani voices support for Türkiye’s peace process

Masoud Barzani, leader of Iraq’s Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), expressed hope for a successful peace process in Türkiye, emphasizing the need for unimpeded progress in resolving regional tensions.

Speaking at the 10th International Mesopotamia Medical Congress in Erbil, Barzani addressed several issues, highlighting both regional cooperation and internal unity within Iraq’s Kurdish Regional Government (KRG).

Barzani on Türkiye’s peace process

Barzani commented on recent initiatives in Türkiye aimed at establishing peace, stating, “It is pleasing for us to hear about initiatives for a peace process in Türkiye. I hope no one will obstruct this progress.” His remarks come amid renewed talks around potential resolutions in the region, seen as crucial by many stakeholders.

What to know about Türkiye’s potential peace process

The Nationalist Movement Party’s (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli’s call on Oct. 22 for the terrorist group PKK and its imprisoned ringleader Abdullah Ocalan to lay down arms and speak at Parliament created shockwaves across the Turkish political landscape. Terrorist organization PKK’s ringleader Abdullah Ocalan has been imprisoned since February 1999.

Bahceli’s statement is seen as the beginning of a peace process in Türkiye, although commentators opine that it is too early to regard it as a concrete initiative.

President Erdogan recently stated, “Turks and Kurds should love each other,” underscoring this principle as both a religious and political obligation. In his recent address, he called for a national embrace, urging Kurds to refrain from engaging with provocations from those who serve imperialism and Zionism.

Erdogan emphasized the critical importance of solidarity in the fight against terrorism, asserting that collaboration among all citizens is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in Türkiye.