The Kurdistan National Congress (KNK) held its 23rd Ordinary Congress in Venlo, Netherlands. Delegates from across Kurdistan attended the congress, where Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan’s February 27 ‘Call for Peace and Democratic Society’ and the status of Kurds in the Middle East and unity among Kurds in the coming period were discussed. The Executive Council of the KNK was expanded from 19 to 21 members, while Ahmet Karamus and Zeyneb Murad were re-elected as co-chairs.

Speaking to ANF after the elections, Ahmet Karamus emphasized that an important process was underway and that they would carry out more comprehensive work. Noting that all segments of Kurdistan were represented in the administration, Karamus emphasized that they had important responsibilities in the new period, which, he said, entrusted the KNK with an important mission.

‘A new strategy is needed to protect the values and gains’

Karamus stated that the Kurds have taken responsibility through their organized structures despite the instability in the region, saying, "The unity of the Kurds is very important in such a process. We are aware that a new strategy is needed to protect the values and gains of the Kurdish people. The role and mission of the KNK are growing both nationally and internationally. The newly elected administration is aware of this responsibility."

‘The process will not be limited to Northern Kurdistan’

Recalling Abdullah Öcalan’s “Call for a Democratic Society and Peace” shared with the public on February 27, Karamus continued: "We know that a process is ongoing between the Kurds and Turkey. This process may also affect other parts of Kurdistan. It will not be limited to Northern Kurdistan but will pave the way for other parts to gain status. The KNK can play an important role in creating these conditions."

‘KNK’s mission is to ensure political and social unity in the four parts of Kurdistan’

Highlighting the importance of Öcalan’s call to the KNK, Karamus said that this call has given them a mission. The KNK Co-Chair added: "The role and mission of the KNK is to ensure political and social unity in the four parts of Kurdistan. It was necessary to discuss and agree on a common strategy. If Kurds address the international community with this stance, we can achieve significant gains. During this period, we will work tirelessly to ensure absolute Kurdish national unity."