First reaction from the Palace to the Öcalan message! 'Terror poisons democratic politics'

Following the calls from MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli and the subsequent visit by the DEM Party to PKK terrorist organization leader Abdullah Öcalan, as well as the messages from Öcalan, the first comment from the Palace front has arrived.

Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz, regarding the DEM Party delegation's visit to İmralı, said, "The presence of terror poisons democratic politics; we desire a democracy that is not in the shadow of terror."

The economic management met with journalists following the New GAP Action Plan Consultation and this year's final Economic Coordination Council (EKK) meetings to answer questions regarding the agenda.

"BAHÇELİ'S PERSPECTIVE IS VERY CLEAR"

When asked about MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli's statements and the DEM Party delegation's meeting with PKK terrorist organization leader Abdullah Öcalan on İmralı Island, Yılmaz stated the following:

Mr. Bahçeli's perspective is very clear. A Turkey without terror and at peace. You also know the vision put forward by our President. One of its most important elements is the title 'The Century of Turkey will be the century of peace.' We are in favor of all our citizens living as equals and with dignity in a democratic country in the way they feel most comfortable. The presence of terror poisons democratic politics.

"WHERE TERROR BEGINS, DEMOCRATIC POLITICS ENDS"

Where terror begins, democratic politics ends. As long as the shadow of terror hangs over political parties, it is not possible to speak of true democratic politics. We desire a democracy that is not in the shadow of terror. We believe that Turkey deserves this as well. Turkey will continue on its path with an inclusive understanding of the nation that embraces all these differences, along with the richness it harbors. We never have an approach that would leave the security of our own country under the control of others.

"WE WILL FOLLOW THE DEVELOPMENTS ALL TOGETHER"

The Republic of Turkey will continue its fight against terrorism decisively and uninterruptedly in every way; let no one have any doubt about that. Of course, the heart desires that there be no terrorist organization left before us, and that the need to fight it also disappears; who would not want that? We will follow the developments all together in the coming processes."

Stating that they have always been in favor of democracy and development, Yılmaz said that terror is an enemy of both democracy and development. Yılmaz said, "An environment where terror is eliminated will create a much more positive atmosphere for our country, as well as for Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia, both in terms of democracy and development."

News Source: 12punto