The Syrian Vice President, Abdul-Halim Khaddam, met with the leader of the Kurdistan National Union, Jalal Talabani, who has been visiting Damascus since last Wednesday. They held talks twice during last Saturday and Sunday.
The Union’s office in Damascus confirmed that the discussions between Khaddam and Talabani addressed the situation in the region in light of the Iraqi crisis. It was noted that Talabani’s visit to Damascus aimed at strengthening the “old ties” he has with Syrian officials.
The office further clarified that Talabani also met with the Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab Socialist Ba’ath Party, Abdullah Al-Ahmar. In a press statement, Talabani affirmed his mediation in 1992 and 1993 between the Turkish authorities and the leader of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, Abdullah Ocalan, who is currently imprisoned in Italy. He mentioned knowing Ocalan when he was a refugee in Syria in the mid-1970s, referred to as “Apo.” Talabani added that Ocalan’s faction had disagreements with another Kurdish organization called “Kok,” and they reconciled during a meeting, revealing Ocalan’s presence in Syria for six months at that time, with his party being small.
Talabani mentioned meetings with Ocalan in 1980, but significant developments occurred in 1992 and 1993 when the current Turkish President Suleyman Demirel formed the government during Turgut Ozal’s era. Demirel summoned Talabani to inquire about his influence on Ocalan. Talabani confirmed his relationship with Ocalan and assured Demirel that Ocalan listens to him, and he would stop the fighting and give time for negotiations.
Talabani emphasized receiving encouragement for mediation from the strong personality in the Turkish army, General Asaf Batalli, of Kurdish origin. He explained that after arriving in Damascus, Ocalan visited him at his residence, and they discussed the cessation of hostilities. Ocalan expressed his readiness without conditions. Negotiations took place with Ozal, who welcomed the idea and asked Talabani to convince Ocalan to hold a press conference announcing his decision.