Message to Turkey from PYD terrorist organization leader Salih Muslim: 'It must withdraw from Syria'

Salih Muslim, a leader of the Syrian PKK branch PYD, made assessments regarding Turkey. Addressing the AKP, Muslim stated that concerns about PKK terrorists joining the PYD were "baseless." Arguing that the PYD's current strength is sufficient, Muslim expressed that they do not need any outside participation.

EMPHASIS ON THE MARCH 10 AGREEMENT

Referring to the agreement signed between Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the SDF in Syria on March 10, Muslim said that the future of the deal is directly linked to Turkey's stance in Syria. Muslim stated that the sustainability of the agreement depends on Turkey withdrawing from Syria and the extent to which the Damascus administration distances itself from Turkey's influence.

"WE HAVE HAD NO HOSTILITY TOWARD TURKEY"

Speaking to bianet, Muslim claimed that they have never harbored hostility toward Turkey and have not carried out any actions against Turkey. Arguing that opening the Turkey-Syria borders would benefit both sides, Muslim stated that their goal is to reach an agreement with the Syrian administration.

"WE WOULD LIKE TO COME TO TURKEY"

In his statements, Muslim also expressed a desire to come to Turkey, saying there was no need for them to make a special request regarding this. Calling for talks in a peaceful environment, Muslim stated that they have advocated for this approach since 2013. Claiming that they were previously invited to Turkey by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Muslim alleged that Turkey did not act sincerely at that time.

"ÖCALAN IS IN COMMUNICATION WITH SDF LEADERS"

Muslim said they are aware that PKK terrorist organization leader Abdullah Öcalan is in communication with SDF leaders. Stating that he believes this communication involves sharing information regarding the process being conducted in Turkey, Muslim conveyed that Öcalan is of the opinion that the process in Turkey and developments in Syria should be evaluated separately.

Touching upon the process the government is conducting under the name "Terror-Free Turkey," Muslim stated that the success of the process depends on Turkey's own internal dynamics. Expressing that they want this process to have a positive outcome, Muslim argued that the most correct step Turkey could take would be to withdraw from Syria.

Responding to the AKP's concerns that PKK members who lay down their arms would join the PYD, Muslim said these concerns were groundless. Emphasizing that the PYD's own military strength is sufficient, Muslim stated that they do not need any participation not only from the PKK but also from other structures in the region. Referring to the period of the Kobani defense, Muslim said that that process is in the past and the PYD's current capacity is sufficient.