Turkish President Abdullah Gul has said, "we are proud of our different elements in our nation. We consider those different elements as our assets."
President Gul paid a visit to the municipality of the southeastern province of Diyarbakir as part of his two-day visit to the province.
Gul said at the meeting, "this is my second visit to Diyarbakir since I was sworn in as the president. Diyarbakir is one of the most significant provinces in Turkey. The province has also been the one of the biggest centers not only in Anatolia, but in the Middle East throughout the history. Diyarbakir is Turkey’s open air museum."
"Today, Diyarbakir is of great importance. I believe that the province will further develop. Each province has its own characteristics. Turkey is a big country. We are a great nation. We are proud of our different elements in our nation. We consider those different elements as our assets," the President added.
DIYARBAKIR MAYOR SAYS KURDISH PROBLEM IS BIGGEST PROBLEM OF TURKEY
Mayor of southeastern province of Diyarbakir said on Thursday that Kurdish problem was the biggest problem of Turkey.
Diyarbakir Mayor Osman Baydemir made a presentation to President Abdullah Gul who visited his office.
Metropolitan Municipality of Diyarbakir released a statement about the presentation of Baydemir and said, "Baydemir stated that Diyarbakir hosted many civilizations and continued to be an important culture, science and trade center."
Baydemir also gave information to the President about the problems of the city, the statement said.
Baydemir was reported as saying, "Mr. President, as you have also stated, Kurdish problem is the biggest problem of Turkey" and added that there were proper conditions for the solution of the problem.
"Demands of Kurdish politicians on mother tongue and democratic autonomy can not be endured. This is very worrisome," Baydemir said while referring to the recent discussions on mother tongue and democratic autonomy.
Baydemir said, "we should not forget that we can only restore peace by listening and understanding each other and by getting free from prejudices."