The Sur Municipality of Diyarbakır (Amed), governed by the Peoples’ Equality and Democratic Party (DEM), and the Fındıklı Municipality of Rize, led by the Republican People’s Party (CHP), have signed a ‘Sister Municipality’ agreement aimed at improving cooperation between their municipalities. This development is particularly significant in the current political climate in Turkey, where racism is being incited, hostility between communities is being fuelled and the Kurdish language and culture are under severe pressure.
The signing ceremony was attended by Sezgin Tanrıkulu, a CHP deputy in Diyarbakır, Adalet Kaya, a DEM deputy, Fatma Gulan Önkol and Adnan Örhan, co-presidents of Sur Municipality, and Ercüment Şahin Çervatoğlu, mayor of Fındıklı Municipality.
Fatma Gulan Önkol of the Sur Municipality expressed the hope that the agreement would help promote solidarity between peoples, saying: “Our intention is to demonstrate the unity of communities in a polarised Turkey. In defiance of racism and fascism, we stand for cooperation and collaboration”. She stressed the importance of reflecting this spirit in local government policies and called for a harmonious atmosphere across Turkey.
Ercüment Şahin Çervatoğlu of Fındıklı Municipality emphasised the unifying power of cultural differences: “We are here for the unity of horon and halay. We will rebuild in the spirit of our ancestors’ struggle against imperialism”. He reiterated the importance of cultural exchange and solidarity and invited the Sur community to feel at home in Fındıklı.
Adnan Örhan, co-chair of Sur Municipality, described the sister municipality initiative as a platform for social peace and solidarity. He said: “This cooperation is not just a project or an aid programme; it is a platform that strengthens social peace and solidarity”.
The event culminated in a traditional dances in front of the historic Ulu Mosque, symbolising the cultural link forged by the new partnership.
Commenting on the significance of the day, Sezgin Tanrıkulu said: “Today presented a vibrant picture for the whole of Turkey. Despite the divisive political rhetoric, there is a local sense of unity and peace. I hope this protocol marks the beginning of greater cooperation between our peoples”.
