By Seval Ocak, Ahmet Bugra Olac
ANKARA (AA) - Turkish parliament speaker Numan Kurtulmus has held meetings with political party leaders regarding a new Constitution during visits to Mexico and Cuba.
Kurtulmus noted that parties he visited have welcomed constitutional work and had positive discussions.
Regarding constitutional matters in Türkiye, Kurtulmus underscored the importance of "inclusive discussions among political parties for a new constitution."
He expressed optimism about the prospects for fruitful discussions, emphasizing the need for "a methodological approach and consensus-building" within parliament, stating that the Turkish Grand National Assembly is the "right ground" for the efforts.
Kurtulmus also noted that everyone can express their opinion on the matter and "all segments of society" can express "a comprehensive idea" about the Constitution.
However, the "real debate" will emerge once the "method for constitutional discussions" is established, according to Kurtulmus.
In Mexico, he attended the MIKTA (Mexico, Indonesia, Korea, Türkiye, Australia) conference Monday and highlighted the importance of the parliaments, emphasizing the need for the organization to "reassess its objectives and work more intensively" toward them.
Although "a final communique" could not be issued due to disagreements, "productive discussions" were held on "various global issues," according to Kurtulmus.
He also visited Cuba on Wednesday where he had one-on-one meetings with Esteban Lazo Hernandez, the president of the National Assembly of People's Power, followed by inter-delegation meetings. He also met with Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz and Vice President Salvador Valdes Mesa.
Kurtulmus highlighted the significance of his two-day visit as the first Speaker of the Turkish Parliament to Cuba, detailing meetings with officials and the signing of agreements to establish "joint working groups" between the two parliaments.
He emphasized the growing economic cooperation between Türkiye and Cuba, particularly in the energy and health care sectors.
Furthermore, Kurtulmus addressed Türkiye’s stance on global issues, particularly its solidarity with Gaza and condemnation of Israel's actions, saying that he believes Türkiye's politics are being "pushed to change due to global and regional threats."
He praised "South Africa's initiative" to hold Israel accountable for crimes in Gaza at the International Court of Justice, highlighting the importance of "global solidarity against injustice."
Overall, Kurtulmus's discussions in Mexico and Cuba, along with insights on constitutional matters and international affairs, reflect Türkiye’s proactive engagement on the global stage and its commitment to democratic values and justice.
*Writing by Gizem Nisa Cebi in Istanbul