Yıldırım: extension of the state of emergency will be discussed in the parliament
Making a statement
after the group meeting, Prime Minister Yıldırım said, “The
parliament will discuss 3-month extension to the state of emergency
this week.”
Reina attack
Yıldırım also spoke about Reina attack, which left 39 dead.
“Given the timing and place, the purpose of the terrorist attack carried out in Istanbul is clear. This attack was intended to incite discrimination on the basis of ethnicity and belief. We should be careful not to be deceived by such provocative acts intended to separate as on the basis of our life styles.” Yıldırım stated that they are against all kinds of discrimination, hatred and hate speech.
Social media messages
“Inciting messages on social media unfortunately harm our country. I would like to warn the young people who uses social media: social media is not irresponsible media. Messages constituting an offense might cause you trouble. Judiciary stared to take action against such messages.”
Constitutional amendment
Yıldırım also spoke about the constitutional amendment that will be discussed at the parliamentary council on Monday. The amendment including the change in presidential system was passed by Constitutional Committee after 9 days of discussions. 21 articles were sent to the Committee. “Alternate MP” article was eliminated. Articles 14 and 15 on the decrees by the president were withdrawn, but added to articles 9 and 11. 2 rounds of voting will be held for passing the amendment. In order to hold a referendum, a minimum of 330 votes is required.
Yıldırım said: “Concerns about some issues had been expressed. Amendment includes 18 articles now. 2 articles are changed. Now, it is the parliamentary council's turn. We don't expect substantial changes in the council.”
Meeting with Iraq
Stating that Turkey started a process for improving the relations with Iraq, Yıldırım said: “We started a process to improve our relations with Iraq. Our president and Iraqi prime minister had a conversation on the phone. And this week, we will visit Iraq to express our solidarity and collaboration with Iraq in terms of combating terrorism.”
