France has been recently witnessing street demonstrations in several cities, following an increase in fuel prices. Yesterday (24 November) there were severe incidents at the demonstrations in Paris. We are following these developments in France closely and with concern, where a Turkish community of around 700 thousand lives. The interventions of the French security forces, which are gradually becoming harsher, and the disproportionate use of force against the demonstrators are also sources of concern.

We believe in the necessity of dialogue in democracies and call for restraint in order to calm the tension as soon as possible.

We primarily expect the French authorities to take all necessary measures rapidly in order to return to a tranquil environment, to ensure that the demonstrations are held in a peaceful manner in line with democratic standards and to provide the security of Turkish community in France. We invite our citizens in France, to abstain from the demonstration areas and to avoid places that could endanger their safety.