A delegation from the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party), also known as the Imrali delegation, is set to meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Thursday, April 10, to discuss reviving the Kurdish peace process and the potential disarmament of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).

The meeting comes in response to a request made by the delegation prior to the Newroz holiday to convey a message from jailed PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan and to discuss the next steps in the peace process. 

Erdogan reportedly agreed to the meeting on Tuesday but will not receive the full seven-member delegation.

According to Turkish media, only two members—Sırrı Süreyya Önder and Pervin Buldan—will attend the meeting. Ahmet Türk, another prominent figure in the delegation, will not participate due to health concerns.

Observers consider the meeting significant, as the DEM Party is seeking clarity on whether the PKK’s disarmament will be unconditional or if Erdogan intends to introduce related legislation in the Turkish Parliament. 

Erdogan’s stance is expected to be clarified during the talks.

On Wednesday, Erdogan addressed the peace process during his Justice and Development Party (AKP) parliamentary group meeting, stating: “We have issues that hold great importance for the future of our country, including the goal of a ‘Terror-free Turkey.’ As the People’s Alliance, we will carry out the peace process, which we are managing with great care, in a way that will be beneficial for our country.” 

He confirmed that the DEM Party delegation would be received on Thursday, reaffirming his government’s commitment to achieving a “Terror-free Turkey.”

He further emphasized inclusivity, saying, “We will continue reviving and rebuilding our country and our region. Together with our Kurdish, Arab, Alevi, and Sunni brothers, we will intensify our efforts to sow peace on our country’s soil.”

On February 27, Ocalan, who is imprisoned on Imrali Island, issued a written message through the delegation calling on the PKK to convene a congress, dissolve itself, and lay down arms. 

The move followed a speech by Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli in parliament, urging that Ocalan be brought to the assembly to publicly call for the PKK’s disarmament.

Ocalan’s message has since reignited debate on the Kurdish solution process, drawing significant attention in both Turkish and international media.