Seoul: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday hailed parliament's passage of the National Solidarity and Social Cohesion Bill as a 'historic step' in efforts to achieve a Terror-Free Trkiye. The Bill on Strengthening National Solidarity and Social Cohesion, adopted on Monday, sets out procedures for suspending investigations, prosecutions, convictions and related proceedings once authorities determine that the PKK/KCK terrorist organizations and affiliated groups have ended their activities and surrendered their weapons.

According to Anadolu Agency, speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Gendarmerie and Coast Guard Academy in the capital Ankara, Erdogan emphasized the importance of achieving the vision of a Terror-Free Trkiye and a Terror-Free Region. He described the bill, which was adopted by parliament with 467 votes, as a crucial step towards this goal.

Erdogan expressed hope that with the cooperation of the state and nation, the issues of terrorism that have claimed tens of thousands of lives and consumed 40 years of the country's time would be permanently resolved. He envisions a new era for Trkiye, where terrorism no longer poses a threat.

Addressing the graduating officers and non-commissioned officers, Erdogan underscored their role in maintaining national security and stability. He assured that security forces would persist in their efforts against various threats including terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking, human smuggling, and cybercrime, all while upholding the rule of law.

Erdogan also highlighted Trkiye's advancements in military and diplomatic spheres, noting the country's strategic diplomatic initiatives and partnerships that enhance military deterrence. He mentioned the development of Trkiye's defense industry through domestic resources and the country's aspiration to be a leading force in the emerging global order.

Additionally, Erdogan pointed out Trkiye's proactive role in resolving international conflicts peacefully, asserting that the country stands for the rights of the oppressed and remains on the right side of history. This was further demonstrated by the recent Joint Defense Agreement signed by Trkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan during a trilateral summit in Mecca, aiming to bolster regional security and cooperation.