The Foreign Ministry expressed concern about the pro-PKK demonstrations taking place in the Austrian capital Vienna, as it criticized authorities for failing to take measures to prevent the protest by the terrorist group.
In a statement, the ministry said it condemns the Austrian police for injuring Turkish-origin youth and the damage inflicted on some businesses owned by the Turkish community during pro-PKK protests in Vienna.
Turkey has long criticized European authorities for tolerating PKK activities in the country and has pressured them to take stricter measures against the propaganda, recruitment and fundraising activities of the group.
Despite its status as a designated international terrorist organization, the PKK has enjoyed relative freedom in European cities and has a particularly strong presence in Germany.
PKK supporters have been allowed to hold rallies, recruit militants and collect funds in Germany, which is home to some 5 million people of Turkish origin, including Kurds.
In its more than 40-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK – listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S., and EU – has been responsible for the deaths of 40,000 people.
