A delegation headed by the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) President Lars Klingbeil visited DEM Party Headquarters on Tuesday.

DEM Party Co-Chair Tuncer Bakırhan, Deputy Co-Chair Ebru Günay, MPs Saruhan Oluç and Ceylan Akça Cupolo welcomed the delegation.

During the meeting, various problems in Turkey, the Middle East and the world and political developments were discussed.

Bakırhan drew attention to the attacks against the DEM Party and emphasised that despite all the attacks, the DEM Party is waging a struggle for democracy, equality and freedom.

Klingbeil stated that they are aware of the attacks against the DEM Party and said that the DEM Party has an important place for democracy in Turkey.

Klingbeil said, “Despite all the pressure and attacks directed against you, everyone saw the success you achieved in the local elections. Still, we do not find it right that trustees are appointed to local governments and municipal councils are rendered dysfunctional. Local governments are the sine qua non of democracy.”