Ankara: Trkiye's Communications Director, Fahrettin Altun, announced that the country is committed to ensuring the smooth progression of the disarmament and dissolution of the terrorist group PKK, marking a pivotal moment for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's "Terror-Free Trkiye" initiative.

According to Anadolu Agency, Altun made a statement on X, emphasizing that the PKK's decision to dissolve and lay down its arms signifies a significant milestone in the initiative led by President Erdogan. He noted that this development reflects the strengthened momentum of the "Terror-Free Trkiye" process, which has reached a critical stage.

Altun highlighted the heavy toll Trkiye has borne over the past four decades, including the loss of many lives, and paid tribute to the nation's martyrs. He stressed that the initiative is not a short-term project but requires sustained effort to achieve lasting peace and stability.

He stated that the Republic of Trkiye will leverage its knowledge, capacity, and experience to foster an environment free of terrorism, violence, and chaos. Altun assured that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure the process progresses smoothly, with a focus on sensitivity, transparency, determination, and precision.

The decision by the PKK to dissolve and disarm follows a call from its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, and is seen as a significant step towards a "terror-free Trkiye," according to Omer Celik, spokesperson for the ruling Justice and Development (AK) Party. Celik remarked that if fully implemented, the decision could mark a turning point by shutting down all PKK branches and illegal structures.

Ocalan, who is serving a sentence in Imrali prison, had urged the dissolution of the PKK and its affiliated groups in February, calling for an end to their decades-long terror campaign. The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Trkiye, the US, and the European Union, has been responsible for the deaths of over 40,000 people, including women and children, during its 40-year campaign. The YPG/PYD is recognized as the PKK's Syrian offshoot.