No: 290, 15 September 2017, Press Release Regarding the Ruling of the Belgian Chamber of Accusation of 14 September 2017 Concerning 36 PKK-linked Individuals and Legal Entities

The ruling of the Belgian Chamber of Accusation of 14 September 2017, preventing the referral of the investigation that was launched by the Federal Prosecutor of Belgium in 2010 regarding 36 PKK-linked individuals and legal entities to the Criminal Court, is unacceptable.

This ruling, constituting yet another example of the support provided to the terrorist organizations that target the security and interests of Turkey, reveals once again the fact that Belgium is a weak link in countering terrorism in Europe and in the world.

There is an opportunity of appeal against this decision at the Belgium Court of Appeals and the legal struggle is not at a final stage. Turkey will also intervene as a third party in the appeal process against this unacceptable ruling.

This grave ruling clearly targets Turkey’s national security and will jeopardize the fight against the increasing terrorism threat in Belgium and Europe.