Whilst operations launched by Turkey in the Zap, Metina, and Avashin regions in Iraqi Kurdistan have been continuing since late April, Sweden’s Foreign Minister Ann Linde answered a question raised by Left Party Foreign Affairs spokesperson Hakan Svenneling regarding Turkey’s operations and the claims of the use of chemical weapons.
In her response to the motion, Ann Linde stressed the importance of initiating an inclusive and credible peace process between the Kurdistan Worker’s Party (PKK) and Turkey, while underlying that Iraq’s sovereignty should be respected and civilians should be protected.
The Foreign Minister pointed out that Iraq has been severely affected by conflicts in recent years and stated that in her meetings with both Turkish representatives and EU officials, she repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining a credible and inclusive peace process between the PKK and the Turkish Government.
She also expressed her concerns about Turkey’s actions in its surrounding regions, including Iraq, and pointed out the importance of all parties in avoiding conflict and acting in accordance with international law.
Linde stated that the military operations of Turkey are affecting civil security and stability in the region and speaking about the claims of Turkey’s use of chemical weapons, she emphasized that, in any case, the use of chemical weapons is prohibited under international law.