SULAIMANI (ESTA) — Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) Bafel Talabani conveyed a statement on Sunday to mark the conclusion of his party’s fifth congress.
In a statement, Talabani expressed gratitude to various groups, including PUK members, families of martyrs, valiant Peshmerga fighters, disabled veterans, and political prisoners, for their dedicated efforts that contributed to the success of the fifth PUK congress.
“Today, we proudly honor the courageous souls of the martyrs, our esteemed leader President Mam Jalal, and all the late leaders. Rest assured, all PUK members and our beloved people, that the PUK will persistently strive to foster prosperity and advance various sectors of society,” he said.
Talabani emphasized that this marks a significant new beginning aimed at rejuvenating their unity and serving the resilient Kurdish population, according to the statement.
“We were born from the people, and we shall remain steadfastly devoted to our rich history,” he added.
Talabani also stressed the importance of unity and highlighted the valuable contributions of PUK’s seasoned veterans and the boundless energy of the youth, recognizing them as the “nation’s greatest assets” and “the future of Kurdistan.”
Talabani paid tribute to martyrs, including the late President Mam Jalal, and assured all PUK members and the beloved Kurdish population that the party would continue its efforts to promote prosperity and development in various sectors of society.
The PUK’s commitment to pursuing an “appropriate” and “modern policy” to advance national interests was reaffirmed as well.
Talabani emphasized cooperation with other political forces and parties to achieve common goals and build a brighter future, emphasizing the importance of responsibility and unity among Kurds.
“We firmly believe in the power of coordination and collaboration with all political forces and parties. Our goal is to deliver exceptional services and contribute to the creation of a prosperous future in a Region that remains stable. Together, let us fiercely fight for our shared destiny as Kurds and etch a proud history for both ourselves and our parties.”
He also underscored the party’s commitment to a strong vision and strategy in Baghdad, inspired by Mam Jalal’s policy of genuine partnership, peace, and coexistence.
“The PUK will steadfastly pursue its policy in Baghdad with unwavering determination and a clear vision. Our strategy is robust, aimed at fostering genuine partnership, upholding peace, and promoting coexistence,” Talabani stressed.
“We will always remember and be grateful for the invaluable support of our friends in Baghdad, who have played a crucial role in securing Kurdish rights. Their efforts are deeply appreciated,” Talabani continued.
Talabani extended his appreciation to the various security forces that ensured the safety of the congress, apologizing to the people of Sulaimani for any inconvenience caused during the event.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Peshmerga forces, anti-terrorism, commando, security, operations, police, and traffic police for their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and safety at the congress hall during our event.”
“To the people of Sulaimani, I offer my sincere apologies if we have caused any inconvenience in the past days. Rest assured that you are our people, and we will always remember your support,” Talabani concluded the message.
The congress in Sulaimani, which was held over the weekend, brought together PUK members from across Kurdistan and abroad to discuss the party’s future direction and elect a new leadership.
Talabani was re-elected as party president, while several new faces were added to the party’s leadership council.
The PUK, which was founded in 1975 by Talabani’s father, Jalal Talabani, has been a major player in Kurdish politics for decades.
