Bafel Jalal Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), stated on Friday that the PKK’s disarmament is “a historic step towards a new phase” in North Kurdistan and Turkey, expressing hope it will mark a turning point in normalized relations among the parties.

Talabani said in a statement that the disarmament in Sulaymaniyah signifies a crucial advancement toward establishing a new phase centered on dialogue and peace.

He noted that the PUK “firmly believes that bloodshed will only deepen the problems, and now is the time to lay down arms and go to the negotiating table to achieve the legitimate rights of all parties.”

Talabani further emphasized that while efforts to advance the peace process continue, they are proud to see President Mam Jalal’s peace foundation being realized today.

“We hope this step marks the beginning of a new phase in normalizing relations between the parties and directly strengthens the stability of the Kurdistan Region,” he added.

The first group of PKK members, including some party leaders, laid down and burned their weapons during a ceremony today at Jasana Cave near Sulaymaniyah. This action follows a recent call from Abdullah Ocalan, the group’s imprisoned leader, who urged his followers to embrace “the power of politics and social peace” instead of armed conflict.