The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) President Bafel Jalal Talabani sent a message to the Newroz celebration attended by hundreds of thousands in Amed (tr: Diyarbakır).
In his video message, Talabani stated:
“Greetings to the Kurdish people and Kurdistan, greetings to dear comrades, greetings to the children and youth gathered there, greetings to heval (comrade) Abdullah Öcalan, greetings to the Chairman. Happy Newroz to you all. I hope you will be able to celebrate many more holidays. In this sensitive period, what is valuable is our unity—the unity of all four parts of Kurdistan.
I extend my special greetings to everyone and all circles who have joined the process initiated by Mr. Abdullah Öcalan. Hopefully, I will soon come into the service of heval Apo [Abdullah Öcalan]. Hopefully, we will complete the program together. Hopefully, we will see each other in a free environment as soon as possible.
As you all know, the PUK has always existed for you. Here, I once again promise that it will always be with you and will work for you. As you know, I have a particular trait. I am fulfilling it here as well. I promise you all that next year you will not watch me on video. Next year, I will be at your service in person, at your disposal.”