27/06/2024 | 20:39:48 (Undelivered speech, Rules of Procedure Art. 31.2) Dear President, Dear Colleagues, The right approach to the issue of Varosha would be within the framework of information and facts that are based on the recent history. First and foremost, the Cyprus problem started in 1963 and not in 1974 as the Greek Cypriots claim. From December 1963 to 1974, Turkish Cypriots had to seek survival in violent and traumatic conditions due to the attacks of the EOKA, which aimed unification of the Island... 25/06/2024 | 11:06:40 Dear President, dear colleagues. Today, it is apparent that we stand at a critical junction in the history of democracy both in Europe and globally. We cannot ignore the stark realities before us: democratic backsliding, diminishing civic spaces and the growing disillusionment among citizens, as well as the blatant violation of international humanitarian law right before our eyes, most recently in Gaza and Ukraine. We can bridge the gap between the governors and the government, ensuring that... 18/04/2024 | 19:21:32 Distinguished colleagues, Unfortunately, today, we are here to discuss one of the most complex and devastating catastrophes in modern history: the massacre of Gaza. As the Assembly, it is pivotal to address these issues with empathy for the innocent civilians and develop a sustainable solution. Since the beginning of the conflict on 7 October, more than 33 000 people have been killed, and the number is still rising. As the representative of the Council of the Europe member states, we are... 15/04/2024 | 17:34:39 (Undelivered speech, Rules of Procedure Art. 31.2) Dear President, Dear Colleagues, Parliaments are the cornerstone of democracies, embodying the essence of representative governance and promoting the principles of accountability, transparency and inclusiveness. Nevertheless, for parliaments to effectively and efficiently fulfil all their roles and functions and safeguard democratic processes, they need a strong institutional structure, efficient working procedures and constructive... 25/01/2024 | 20:03:08 (Undelivered speech, Rules of Procedure Art. 31.2) Dear President, Dear Colleagues, Freedom of expression and the safety of journalists are important pillars to protect and promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. I would like to underline that member States must be vigilant to safeguard and uphold freedom of expression and information. I also would like to emphasize that media freedom is guaranteed by the constitution in Türkiye. Article 28 of the Turkish constitution states... 23/01/2024 | 20:18:38 (Undelivered speech, Rules of Procedure Art. 31.2) Dear President, Dear Colleagues, The report, including its title, does not accurately reflect the truth and reality. It is inconceivable that our Assembly, with human rights as one of its core values, should turn a blind eye to what is happening in Gaza. The reality is that Israel is occupying Palestinian territories, and its longstanding occupation policy and inhumane actions have intensified notably in the last three months. Since 7 October...