Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan sent a message to the rally held in Istanbul on the occasion of the International Day of Peace under the motto “Democracy and Peace Will Prevail Against War and Exploitation”.
The message from the Kurdish leader reads as follows:
“To those fighting for peace and democracy…
Our call for peace and a democratic solution is not a mere political maneuver, but a strategic step and a historic turning point. With this call, the doors to a new era have been thrown wide open, both in Turkey and across the Middle East, where wars and destruction will be replaced by a democratic life based on peace.
This is not merely a wish; it is a concrete reality that must be built with strong potential and serious practical steps. Because true peace is not merely the silencing of weapons or the end of conflicts. True peace is possible only when freedom, democracy, and social justice are embodied in all areas of life. This social transformation is not only a right for our peoples; it is also the fundamental task of the new era ahead.
Through the struggle of our people, the values of peace, democracy, and freedom will surely take root and find their place in social life. This country will now be the homeland of those who see peace and democratic life as both their right and their duty.
On the occasion of September 1, I call on our peoples to embrace this historic duty and to further expand the march for peace and freedom.
With my belief that everyone will recognize the seriousness of this era, reflect on themselves, and act in accordance with the spirit of peace, I greet you all with my endless love and respect.
Abdullah Öcalan
Imrali Island.”