Religious organization established in Turkish city of Mardin under the auspices of Democratic Society Party initiated "Mesopotamia: First religious congress" event. Newly appointed chairman of Kurdish Peace and Democracy party Selahattin Demirtas, party members, as well as Yazidis, Syrians, Armenians, Muslims -- Sunnis and Christians attended.

According to Turktime, Diyarbakir mayor Kurd Osman Beydemir delivered a speech at the congress. "Once Assyrians, Armenians and Kurds lived in Mesopotamia and this religious diversification symbolizes success, tolerance, peace and development. However, others came and ruled us for years; as a result people forcedly migrated from here. I am saying this with a sore heart. There are only several Armenian families in Diyarbakir, whereas 120 years ago they comprised 40% of the population. No apology can soothe this pain. You were through so many things, you forcedly left, but believe me you lost nothing, that's us--staying here who lost. You took with you peace and success," he outlined.

As NEWS.am reported previously, Osman Beydemir also sharply criticized Turkish authorities for banning to bury Armenian singer Aram Tigran died August 8, 2009 in Diyarbakir (which was last will of the deceased). Mayor ordered to hold a service in the city's Armenian cemetery and took the soil from the grave to Brussels where the singer was buried. Armenian cemetery of Diyarbakir was also cleaned and repaired at mayor's order. The restoration of St. Kirakos church in Diyarbakir is being carried out as well.

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