Özgür Özel speaks at SPD Congress: 'Social democracy is the primary tool to help humanity overcome challenges'

Speaking at the Social Democratic Party (SPD) Congress held in Berlin, the capital of Germany, Özel addressed Israel's attacks on Gaza.

Stating that what is happening in Gaza is contrary to the principles that social democratic and socialist parties have defended for over a century—principles aimed at human rights, the welfare of those in need, and the protection of the innocent—Özel said, "It is precisely for this reason that we must take action to stop this tragedy."

Emphasizing that as the CHP, they support the stance put forward by Pedro Sanchez, President of the Socialist International family to which they belong, Özel stated, "We reiterate our call for compliance with United Nations resolutions and international law, the immediate cessation of attacks leading to civilian deaths, and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire. We believe that the solution to problems and conflicts everywhere in the world lies not in violence and war, but in dialogue and cooperation."

Recalling that German Chancellor Olaf Scholz used the term "zeitenwende" (turning point) after Russia launched its war on Ukraine, Özel noted that the world and Europe are indeed at a turning point.

Pointing out that the SPD Congress is taking place at a very critical time for Europe and the entire world, Özel made the following assessment:

"Our continent, our region, and the whole world are facing significant tests. Human tragedies experienced in the shadow of conflicts, war, and terror; economic problems born of the neoliberal system; social injustices; gender inequalities; the rise of racism and the far-right; the migration crisis; the global climate crisis... All these problems and dangers appear before us simultaneously and feed off one another. Social democratic politics, especially we European social democrats and socialists, must produce strong and decisive responses to all these challenges. As the Republican People's Party (CHP), we believe that social democracy is the primary tool that will enable humanity to overcome all these difficulties."

Noting that as the CHP, they will continue to take initiative to further develop relations between Turkey and Germany in every aspect, increase cooperation, and produce responses to global and regional problems through these collaborations, Özel shared the view: "Likewise, we will not allow Turkey's goal of full membership in the European Union to be sacrificed to realpolitik developments."

News Source: AA