Artist Farqin has been issued an arrest warrant for "being member of the organization" and "making propaganda for the organization" while welcoming the Peace Groups coming from Maxmur and Kandil to Turkey two years ago.

Diyarbakýr 6. High Criminal Court has opened a file against artist Farqin because of the words he said: "Welcome to the city of hearts" during the welcoming ceremony held for the Peace Groups coming from Maxmur and Kandil camps to Turkey on 19 October 2009.

The charge of "membership of an illegal organization" carries a 20 years jail sentence.

Concerning the case and the arrest warrant against him, artist Farqin said the followings; "As reflected in the media, the prosecutors and judges also said "Welcome" to the groups before questioning them at Habur Customs Gate. However, this case against me is opened for saying the same words. The legal order in Turkey is governed by the government. As artists, we are ready to make every possible effort to enable a permanent peace and the brotherhood of peoples. We will not change our attitude until these conditions are met." (B.O.)