CHP Leader Calls On Gov't To Suspend Relations With Netherlands

Main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu has called on the government to suspend relations with the Netherlands following an escalating diplomatic row over the country's refusal to permit a Turkish minister to enter the consulate in Rotterdam, showcasing the party's support for the government on the issue.

"Now, I am issuing a clear call to the government. If they do not allow Turkey's minister to enter the Netherlands or they cannot go to the embassy, please suspend our relationship with the Netherlands. We will lend any support" Kılıçdaroğlu told a rally in the southern province of Adana.

The CHP leader also said it was a common duty for all political parties to defend the country's interests in the face of such incidents.

"That issue has nothing to do with the referendum [April 16 referendum on charter amendments], and 'yes' or 'no' votes. This is a national issue. It is every political party's duty, regardless if you are rightist or leftist, to defend Turkey's rights. We are ready to fulfill our duty" Kılıçdaroğlu said.

The main opposition party had already announced that it was canceling the party's overseas meetings for the April 16 referendum on the constitutional amendments due to the cancelation of Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu's flight permit to Rotterdam, which was followed by the Dutch refusal to permit Family Minister Fatma Betül Sayan Kaya's entrance to the consulate building in the port city. - Adana