Kurdish Deputies Meet Öcalan on Imrali Island
A delegation of 3 deputies from Peace and Democracy Party met PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan on Imrali island yesterday as part of the ongoing peace talks between Turkey and PKK.
In early morning yesterday, Peace and Democracy Party deputies Pervin Buldan, Sırrı Süreya Önder and Altan Tan reached the island by a Coast boat of Coastal Security Directorate that left from Ataköy Marina in Istanbul.
Kurdish deputies reportedly carried along two parliament commission reports on Turkey's military coups history and comparative studies of various state constitutions after an appeal made by Öcalan.
Two Turkish Intelligence Agents also escorted the delegation during the entire trip.
In early evening, the delegation returned from the island, conveying Öcalan's brief message on the peace process.
"First of all, I am sending my kind regards to media workers with all my respect. The ongoing talks are a historical step towards peace. Both parties must be very vigilant and sensitive. Turkey has certain prisoners, so does PKK. PKK must treat its prisoners [from Turkish security forces] well. I hope they will meet their beloved ones soon," Öcalan said in a statement.
Another delegation of Kurdish deputies met Öcalan on Imrali island on January 3 as part of the ongoing peace talks between Turkey and PKK. (BM/HK/EA)