Sinn Féin's former president, Gerry Adams, has signed a public statement, along with over 200 international political leaders, human rights campaigners, women’s activists, artists, academics, and journalists, urging all parties to the conflict in Turkey to "take decisive steps towards a lasting peace."

In an article in the Andersonstown News, Adams wrote that Öcalan has become a "voice for peace, a leader willing to offer the hand of friendship to enemies. Despite decades of incarceration, he has forged a road map to peace that commits the Kurdish people to democracy and freedom and tolerance, stating that it is time to ‘silence the weapons and let the ideas and politics speak’."

Öcalan’s call, added Adams, "follows months of recent negotiations that have revived regional peace talks. As we said in the joint letter, Ocalan’s statement is a pivotal moment for Turkey and the Kurdish people, aiming to end decades of conflict and pave the way for a democratic society. This call represents a vital opportunity to bring stability to Turkey and the Middle East, protect human rights and facilitate reconciliation."

Adams continued: "The Good Friday Agreement negotiations underpin the importance of all political representatives being involved in the process and that dialogue is essential. As in our own situation and that of the Basque Country, South Africa and other conflicts, the international community can play a very constructive role in supporting political agreement and a peaceful outcome. I would urge the international community to grasp this opportunity. A successful peace process would be a huge encouragement to increase efforts in other parts of the region.

I want to commend Abdullah Ocalan for his leadership and vision and urge the Turkish government to release him."