Cavusoglu becomes first-ever Turkish president of pace

For the first time in history, a Turkish parliamentarian yesterday was elected president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Councıl of Europe (PACE). Mevlut Cavusoglu of the ruling Justice and Development (AK Party), who also heads the Turkish delegation at PACE, succeeded Luis Maria de Puig of Spain at the post. Cavusoglu was nominated by the European Democrat Group and was the sole candidate. Chief Negotiator for European Union talks Egemen Bagis, Parliament's Foreign Relations Committee head Murat Mercan, and Ankara Greater Municipality Mayor Melih Gokcek were present to witness the historic vote. Addressing the general assembly afterwards, Cavusoglu underlined the importance of Europe respecting differences, opposing all kinds of discrimination, and rejecting fear and enmity. Calling on PACE to resolutely fight racism, Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, and all sorts of intolerance, Cavusoglu also said migration should not be seen as a threat but an opportunity. Gul congratulated Cavusoglu on his victory, saying that he sees the first election of a Turkish parliamentarian to PACE's helm as an important success and source of pride for the Turkish nation.