Kurdistan calls for dialogue with Turkey

Before a group of Turkish journalists, Qubad Talabany, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Representative to the U.S., called for dialogue between the KRG and Turkey, Today’s Zaman reported. Tensions between the two governments have risen recently over the Kurdistan Worker’s Party’s (PKK) actions in southeast Turkey. The upcoming Kirkuk referendum has also raised concerns that regional powers may attempt to intervene in the process, as indicated by recent remarks of governmental officials on both sides.

“If we don’t sit down and speak to each other as Turks and Kurds we will never be able to resolve the PKK problem, the Kirkuk problem, nor our future strategic problems that may lie ahead,” Talabany said. “All we seek is a reciprocation of our affection, reciprocation of that brotherly relationship where Turkey continues to help Kurdistan’s economic development. Hundreds of Turkish companies have been party to Kurdistan’s development. We have seen what a good and solid relationship can do for our economy and yours. ”

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