Özgür Özel reacts to Erdoğan in Brussels

CHP Chairman Özgür Özel criticized the British Labour Party's relations with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan during his speech at the Party of European Socialists (PES) Leaders' Meeting in preparation for the EU Summit. Speaking at the meeting held in Brussels, Özel stated, "The fact that we are sister parties is clear. However, it is unacceptable for the British Labour Party to be in such a greater-than-expected solidarity with Erdoğan."

In his speech, Özel expressed his doubts regarding the capacity of authoritarian regimes to solve problems, stating, "The solutions offered by authoritarian leaders do not promise real stability. A country that possesses democracy can establish lasting and healthy relationships."

Özel also noted that the European Union must decide whether it wants a democratic Turkey or an authoritarian administration on its border. He concluded his remarks by asking, "Will it be preferred that social democrats are in power in a democratic Turkey, or will you turn a blind eye to an authoritarian leader crushing your sister party? These questions need to be answered correctly."