The President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, Bafel Talabani, confirmed on Friday that disarming the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) is a historic step and marks the beginning of a new phase.

In a statement, Talabani said:

"Disarming members of the PKK in Sulaymaniyah Province is a historic move and the start of a new phase in Northern Kurdistan and Turkey through dialogue and peace."

He added:

"The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan firmly believes that bloodshed only deepens problems. Now is the time to silence the guns and sit at the dialogue table to secure the legitimate rights of all parties."

He also noted:

"While we continue our efforts to push the peace process forward, we also take pride that the foundation for peace laid by President Mam Jalal is now being practically implemented."

He concluded:

"We hope this step marks the beginning of a new phase in normalizing relations between the parties and has a direct impact on enhancing stability in the Kurdistan Region."