Durbin Statement on Continuing Unrest in Turkey
CHICAGO—U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) released the following statement on the continuing unrest and politically-motivated arrests occurring in Turkey:
President Erdogan, who made great progress in his first term as prime minister strengthening both Turkey's economy and standing in the international community, should not use this attempted coup as an excuse to tighten his grip on Turkish society by rounding up political opponents. This is a critical moment for President Erdogan to demonstrate leadership and bring his country together, not foment divisions. The Turkish people made clear last week that they prefer a democratic nation over one taken or ruled by force. As a member of NATO and a key ally of the United States, Turkey’s respect for democratic principles and freedom of the press are critically important.