Barzani: 30-40 million cannot be resolved through denial
Dec 7, 2001
Translated By TDN

We live in uncertain area which could face either positive or negative developments.
Therefore we have to follow such developments very carefully and be very wary, because
we have as a priority, the security and interests of people of Kurdistan to consider. 

I would like to clearly say that we will not follow anyone blindly and not take any measures
which does not meet the interests of our people. We believe in the cause of our people and
have sacrificed a great deal for it. Therefore there should not be any perception that we will
sacrifice our cause and interests of our people for something else or others. 

The KDP will remain an element of prosperity for all of Iraq and especially for people of
Kurdistan. Rest assured that we will do all that is needed to secure the interests of the
Kurds.

On many occasions we hear wild statements from here and there, that in northern Iraq a
Kurdish state will be set up. We also hear many threats in the event this should come about.
We are not playing with the destiny of our people. We are very much aware of the
circumstances in the world and we are also aware of our present limits. Its very clear that the
elected assembly has expressed the will of the Kurdish people and has identified our motto,
which is a federal solution for the people of Kurdistan within a democratic Iraq. We feel that
this aim is achievable, and this is why it has been adopted. 

We have not asked for an independent state, not because its not our right, but because we are
aware of global realities. Expressing such sensitivities are nothing more than provocations of
the Kurdish sentiments. When the Kurds have not asked for it themselves, why others have
to accuse Kurds of doing so and threaten them. We are a peaceful nation and do not want to
be threatened, since we are not of any threat to others. Those who feel that they can impose
their will upon us and force us with threat to do something which might be against the
interests of Kurdish people, they are making a big mistake. If we are forced to defend Kurds
and Kurdistan, we are always ready to do so and offer all kinds of sacrifices.

Will not be provoked by statements of this and that, but the reality must be known that we
will never surrender to the will of anyone. 

The problem of the Kurdish people can not be resolved by denial of ever existing and of the
fact that the Kurdish issue remains unresolved. Any of the countries which has a Kurdish
problem within their borders, will benefit, if they resolve it. 

The problem of a nation of 30-40 million cannot be resolved through denial, use of force or
bloodshed. Such tactics have not worked, it has not worked in the past nor will they in the
future. It has not been done for a hundred years and cannot be done for next hundred and
further hundred years.

We as Kurds must also know very well that through terrorism and violence we will not
reach our aims. Through dialogue and peaceful means we can achieve our goals, even
though the road might be long and arduous, but we feel this is the only solution and the
problem has to be solved, so that the Middle East can enjoy peace and stability.
I wish to emphasize another point which is very important, since the establishment of the
party, it has aimed at protecting the traditions and values of the Kurdish people. One of these
traditions is an anti-terror stance. Kurds are a nation who themselves have been victims of
terrorism.

Here I wish to repeat that we are against terrorism and terrorists. We have stood firmly
against them and will continue to do so in the future. This stance was not adopted after
September 11. Long before the events of September 11, the KDP had made clear its firm
opposition to all forms of terrorism." 

We as Kurds have had a large share of misery in our times. Thank God that today we have
progressed and the situation is much better. Peace process has developed a great deal, even
though it has not reached its final stages, but I hope that the remaining obstacles can be
resolved so that it can be concluded. I wish to underline that peace is our choice, we should
put the Kurdish house in order and this is the way to win.

Whenever the Kurdish people are under threat, all the internal problems must be uprooted
and the greater interest of our people must take priority. 
-------------------------------------------------