Tur Abdin - Kafro 2004

Turkish citizens of Assyrian origin who emigrated abroad on their own will as a consequence of intense terrorist activities in their region have reportedly been facing certain difficulties in returning to their homes in Turkey (...) It was also reported that they were not allowed to receive religious education and that foreigners were prevented from visiting Assyrian villages (...) Constitutional, legal and democratic rights of all Turkish citizens of Assyrian origin are under the full guarantee of the State. Our dear citizens who have settled in other countries for various reasons can return to our country and their villages without any difficulty or restriction.

                  [Press statement Turkish Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit, June 13, 2001]