Erdogan: Anything contrary to law is unacceptable

Following the Central Executive Board (MYK) of his ruling Justice & Development Party (AKP), Erdogan said that they debated the Semdinli, Yuksekova and Hakkari incidents, and expressed decisiveness to illuminate these incidents.

Erdogan indicated, “there is no doubt that Turkey is a state of law, and therefore, nothing can legitimize an unlawful behavior of a public official.”

Erdogan stated that those who tried to deteriorate stability and peace in Turkey would pay the price.
Urging the people to await the completion of the legal process in calm, without allowing themselves to be carried away by provocations, Erdogan said that they should not believe propaganda claiming that there would be a cover-up.

“Meanwhile, it is certain that the terrorist organization is making use of these incidents, trying to cause a pessimistic
atmosphere, and harm our security forces by a disinformation campaign. Our security forces are taking action to protect everybody's security,” said Erdogan.

Erdogan also urged media organs to refrain from publications and broadcasts that could have a negative impact on the legal process. PM Erdogan called on citizens to be calm and reasonable, and hinted that government members might visit the region if necessary.

GUL'S MEETINGS

Referring to Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul's one-day visit to Syria and meetings in Bahrain, Erdogan said that Gul met U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice as well as foreign ministers of Middle Eastern and North African countries as a part of the Broader Middle East & North Africa Initiative meeting in Bahrain.

Erdogan stated that Turkey undertake the role of co-chairmen together with Italy and Yemen in the mentioned project.

Noting that the aim of this initiative was to improve democracy, peace, prosperity, peace and freedom in the mentioned region, Erdogan said that Turkey would continue to do its best to this end.

In the meantime, a group comprised of members of Democratic People's Party (DEHAP) staged a march in Suruc town of southeastern city of Sanliurfa to protest the Semdinli and Yuksekova incidents. The group dispersed peacefully following the protest march.