Demirtas says reason to contact Ocalan is “initiative to stop conflict”

Demirtas says reason to contact Ocalan is “initiative to stop conflict”
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"There is not the slightest indication or information that a new resolution process will begin," imprisoned Kurdish leader Selahattin Demirtas said.

Former HDP (Peoples’ Democratic Party) Co-Chair Selahattin Demirtas explained why he demanded an online meeting with PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan who is currently serving in Imrali Prison “to avoid speculations over the matter” in a written interview with Turkey’s Halk TV.

"There is not the slightest indication or information that a new resolution process [for the Kurdish question] will begin," Demirtas said, adding that neither him nor any other official from the HDP “had any contact, communication or meeting with Imrali.”

Demirtas said the reason why he wanted to contact Ocalan was an initiative to stop the conflict.

“We do not want to just sit and share the pain and condolences while the clashes take lives every day. We are making these applications to prevent conflicts,” Demirtas said.

Demirtas said the government considers it legitimate to talk and make peace with everyone from Assad to Morsi, but when it comes to Kurds it “imposes only the option of weapons and operations.

Demirtas gave the example of politician Dogu Perincek from Patriotic Party who recently said they were ready to go for talks with Syrian leader Bashar al Assad.

“For the same reasons, we want to meet with Ocalan in Imrali. The situation is just that,” Demirtas concluded.