The PKK announced that it held its 12th Congress between May 5–7, following Abdullah Öcalan’s historic call on 27 February, and that they will share details of the congress and its "historically significant decisions" in the coming days.

Speaking to ANF regarding this historic step, Pervin Buldan, a member of the Imralı Delegation of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party), thanked everyone who contributed to the process. She said that the one who deserved the most thanks was Sırrı Süreyya Önder, adding: "I wish he could have seen this moment and witnessed it. But unfortunately, Sırrı Süreyya Önder left us at the end of the road. I am sure he is feeling this moment where he now rests."

The statement alone is a victory

Pervin Buldan emphasized that they witnessed a historic day with the PKK’s announcement and said: "This is a territory where years of suffering, heavy prices paid, and mothers’ tears have been shed. Now, a new door is opening, a new process is beginning, and a fresh atmosphere will bring a breath of relief to everyone. Even the PKK announcing that it held its congress is, in and of itself, historic and important. It is also, in fact, a victory.

During our meetings in Imralı, Mr. Öcalan constantly emphasized that this period should mark the beginning of a new era, a democratization process should begin, the war must end, and the environment of conflict must cease. Now we are seeing the results of that. Bringing peace and democratization to this country and region is undoubtedly of great importance to all of us. Therefore, everyone must now focus on peace.

Regardless of who did what or gave what, everyone must feel peace in their hearts. That is what matters to us. We trust and believe in this process and this period. We know that this time has brought great peace to the peoples of Turkey, and it will continue to do so. That’s why I describe this period as a historic one."

Everyone must focus on peace

Buldan continued: "We will focus on peace. Steps will be taken in the name of democratization, of course. The issue of mutual distrust must now be eliminated. Everyone must form a circle around peace and share this process. From now on, every step taken in the name of democratization is a victory, a success. I believe that  mothers in Turkey who have experienced pain, who have lost children, who have been burying their sons and daughters in this land for 40 years, will feel a great sense of relief and satisfaction from this victory and success. I say this is a blessing for all of us. I hope and wish that this land, which has had its fill of blood, war, and tears, will now experience beautiful springs and better days."