AK Party Vice Chairman Zafer Sırakaya highlighted the importance of not forgetting the solidarity shown by Asian countries towards the Palestinian people. Speaking at the 12th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), he said, “It is noteworthy that, among the states participating in this General Assembly, 27 out of 31 countries have recognised the State of Palestine at various times. We hope this number will continue to grow.”

Attending the 12th General Assembly of ICAPP, held in Cambodia, Sırakaya remarked in his address that AK Party views ICAPP as a crucial forum for promoting peace, security, and stability across Asia. He added that the AK Party remains an active supporter and participant in ICAPP’s initiatives.

The 12^th General Assembly titled: “The Quest for Peace”

Recalling that ICAPP’s 11th General Assembly took place in Turkiye under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan from the 17^th – 19^th November 2022, with over 70 political parties and various international organisations from 35 different countries in attendance, Sırakaya commented:

“The theme of the 2024 General Assembly, ‘The Quest for Peace,’ is a critical topic, especially as the Asia-Pacific region is once again becoming the centre of global politics and economics. To better harness the opportunities and cooperation potential arising from developments in Asia, the ‘Asia Anew Initiative’ was announced in Turkiye in August 2019. This initiative aims to strengthen relations with Asian states through a comprehensive approach.”

Sırakaya emphasised Turkiye’s commitment to fostering dialogue, effective multilateralism, and development-focused regional cooperation through platforms such as ICAPP.

He stated:

“The principles of the Asia Anew Initiative align closely with ICAPP’s approach to building a harmonious community in Asia and contributing to the pursuit of global peace and prosperity.”

Within the framework of the theme “The Quest for Peace,” Sırakaya drew attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza:

“The humanitarian tragedy in Gaza has reached horrifying levels. Approximately 2 million people have been displaced, over 100,000 have been injured, and 44,000 have lost their lives. Women and children account for 70% of those who have died. What we are witnessing is not just a conflict but a humanitarian disaster and genocide, where innocent lives are lost daily, and communities are torn apart. Achieving an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza must be a top priority. Turkiye’s primary goal is to ensure an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

Additionally, it is crucial to implement a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem recognised as the capital of Palestine. In this process, we deeply appreciate and closely monitor the support Asian countries provide for the Palestinian people’s struggle for existence.”

Noting that 146 out of 193 United Nations member states have officially recognised the State of Palestine, Sırakaya added:

“It is remarkable that, among the states participating in ICAPP’s 12th General Assembly, 27 out of 31 countries have recognised the State of Palestine at various times. We hope this number will continue to rise. I am confident that ICAPP will remain a key platform, not only for fostering a prosperous Asia but also in contributing to the ongoing efforts in creating a peaceful world.”