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Ibrahim Burhanov: Georgian parliamentâ€™s decision on repatriation of Ahiska Turks is the result of the 63-year struggle

13 July 2007 13:33 (UTC +04:00)

â€œWe have been waiting for this bill for 63 years. But the returning will not be so easy. We do not know the details of the bill. I must say we are not satisfied with some items. So, the second stage of the struggle starts. The first stage marked achieving the right for returning, and second stage will mark the struggle for achieving progress in the returning process. It means we should settle in our original lands. There will be possibly obstacles on the way as some forces are against our compact settlement in Georgia,â€ the representative of Ahiska Turks underlined.
Burhanov said the term on necessity of knowing Georgian will not create problems for them.
â€œAccording to migration laws, a migrant is to know the countryâ€™s language. In this case, Georgian language is not problem for us. I would even say there was no need to include this item. Of course, we should know Georgian since we want to live, integrate into the society, work in Georgia. This item does not concern elder ones. It is not important for everyone to learn the language and history at the same time. As coming to settlement in Javakhetia, we have 21 villages there. We have never claimed on repatriation to Javakhetia. It will be possible after our people settle in Georgia, integrate into society gradually. We have 82 unpopulated, 70 partly populated villages and also occupied villages. There are even lands for sale in the occupied villages which we can buy. So, it is possible to settle in the populated villages and restore the rest ones,â€ he added.
The representative said the repatriation process will be regulated by the Georgian government, various international and non-governmental organizations.
â€œAhiska Turks should also take the initiative.
â€œThere will of course, problem in the repatriation of Ahiska Turks to Georgia after 63 years. We will raise necessary awareness in our people on the rights regarding repatriation. Though some of them do not need financial assistance, majority need. We will appeal to the Georgian government and some international organizations for help. There is no one among Ahiska Turks who do not want to repatriate. Some may happe to fear some problems. But patriots will sure return. This is volunteer returning. No one is forced. We should possess our lands,â€ he underlined. /APA/