Sergei Stanishev – Statement on the escalation of violence in Turkey

Party of European Socialists President Sergei Stanishev reacted to the news of an escalation of violence in Turkey, including an arson attack on the headquarters of PES sister party Halkların Demokratik Partisi (HDP) in Ankara and vandalism by pro-government demonstrators on the newspaper Hurriyet.
‘I am appalled by the recent attacks against civilians in Turkey, including socialist comrades the Kurdish HDP party. I wish to offer my sincere condolences to the victims’ families. I strongly condemn these attacks and appeal to the Turkish authorities to protect the freedom of press and to ensure the safety of all political parties which are key components of any healthy multi-party democracy.’
‘Terrorist attacks have intimidated civilians and military personnel alike. A renewed ceasefire, with cross party support is urgently needed to ensure that upcoming elections can take place in a fair, and secure environment.’
‘For a sustainable and long-lasting peace, the resumption of the Kurdish peace process is an urgently needed step to put an overdue end to this conflict which has, and sadly continues to, claim many lives.’