SULAIMANI (ESTA) — Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) President Bafel Talabani on Wednesday said holding Congress marks a new phase in our journey towards reconciliation, unity, and progress.
The fifth Congress of the PUK commenced in Sulaimani on Wednesday. The Congress is expected to be a significant event for the party that taking place in the Talary Hunar Great Hall and attended by 600 members of the party.
“Today, we mark a new phase in our journey towards reconciliation, unity, and progress. As the PUK, we are determined to make any sacrifices necessary for the betterment of our nation,” PUK’s Talabani said at the Congress speech.
“We extend the hand of peace and brotherhood to all political parties of Kurdistan, and any parties that are dedicated to unity and freedom,” he added.
Talabani further stated, “We will maintain and strengthen our relations with our sisters and brothers in Baghdad, and further develop and enrich the strategic agreement between the Kurds and Shiites.”
“Our Sunni and Christian brothers are embraced with open arms, as are any parties that are committed to serving, creating peace, and striving for freedom and democracy.”
He emphasized also that “holding our congress prior to two forthcoming elections, amid this economic crisis, confirms how much we trust each other, our cadres, and our nation.”
“Our mission is to defend our nation, make Kurdistan a haven for freedom, and enable people to express their ideas without fear.” “We must defend women’s rights and protect the components,” Talabani stressed.
“I demand that a new program for youths be initiated in this congress.” “Although Kurdistan possesses oil and gas, we firmly believe that our real wealth lies in the youths who stand in the sky like stars and shine.
“We must defend our nation’s security and dignity, and maintain peace and unity in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. PUK’s work has just begun, and we will stand shoulder to shoulder, no matter what challenges we may face.”
“I pledge to never leave you to let the enemies prevail. We are the PUK, the heroes and strugglers, and the party that topples dictators. We only bow to God,” Talabani continued.
