Erdogan: "The democratic initiative aims to strengthen Turkey's integrity"

In a televised address to the nation last night, Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan underlined the permanent and unconditional sovereignty of the nation as well as Turkey's territorial integrity. Stressing that he would determinedly continue efforts to improve education and the economy, Erdogan devoted the bulk of his speech to the government's democratic initiative to solve the so-called Kurdish question or southeastern Anatolia issue through expanding democratic rights and freedoms. Stating that the initiative isn't just focused on the problems of Turkey's citizens of Kurdish origin, Erdogan said that it also seeks to help open up for discussion all problems that trouble the nation. Stating that it is very important for the initiative that every sector of society voices its opinions openly and sincerely, Erdogan said, "Let us find a common path, and no longer allow shadows to be cast on that path." Erdogan also stressed that under the initiative, the integrity of Turkey is not and will not be called into question, warning that no one should try to exploit the well-intentioned initiative for political gain. "Everyone should remember that this is a national issue and that it should be tackled with the earnestness and seriousness that it deserves. It is our debt to find a solution to Turkey's long-festering wounds." Erdogan said. "All we want is to strengthen that integrity." He also commented on Turkey's ongoing rapprochement with Armenia, saying Turkey had no prejudices against any country. "It is true that we have certain unresolved issues with Armenia," he said. "But we think these are issues that can be solved with good intentions." He said he believes a protocol Turkey plans to sign with Armenia would bring the countries closer to solving their problems, adding that while doing so, Turkey would also protect the interests of Azerbaijan. He also touched on the economy, saying the country has no cause for worry. "We're not saying we haven't been affected by the global economic crisis. We have, but we have felt it the least," he said, adding that a rapid recovery is underway. Touching on Ankara's European Union bid, Erdogan said Turkey sees its ties with the EU from the perspective of peace and civilization. Stating that the government places great importance on the bid, Erdogan said they would continue determined efforts towards full membership. Calling his government's foreign policy vigorous, assertive, and peaceful, Erdogan said, "Turkey has eliminated the dimmed mentality that has for years painted impasses as solutions, and put a number of issues it has failed to solve for years on the right track," citing Turkey's policy on the Cyprus issue as an example of this. "Thanks to this policy, Turkey is now seen by the international community as the party sincerely seeking a solution to the (Cyprus) issue," he added.