We will see sincerity of talks with PKK leader, Turkish president says

ISTANBUL

Turkish President Abdullah Gül. AA Photo

Terrorism in Turkey could end if the Turkish government and the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) do what is necessary for peace amid talks with the group’s jailed leader, Turkish President Abdullah Gül has said, according to daily Hürriyet.

“There are several ways to end terrorism. Any of them can be used. [You] respond with a gun if one appears with gun. That is the state’s job. The state does not surrender. Everyone should know this,” Gül said. “Now, there is something else we are witnessing. Those who are assuming a role [in the present effort] know what they should do. If they behave honestly and do what they should do, then these pains will come to an end.”

The government’s goal is to eliminate the problem standing before Turkey, Gül added.

“Anyone can speak in Turkey, but there are those who should not speak – people who should work instead of speaking,” Gül said. “If there is sincerity, we will see.”