The Kurds have presented a political problem in Turkey, Iran and Iraq. Their history has been one of warfare and revolt including rebellions against the Turks in 1832-47 and in 1925.

After the World War I the Treaty of Sévres (1920) provided for the autonomous Kurdistan, but the Treaty was never ratified.

The Treaty of Lausanne (1923) which replaced the Treaty of Sévres, made no mention of the Kurds. The Kurdish nation after the war was more fragmented than before. Short-lived armed risings occurred since that time in countries they settled in, such as Turkey, Iran and Iraq.

The Kurdish population provided substation support for the "Coalition of the Willing" in their effort to destroy Suddam Hussein's regime. What will they receive in return remains to be seen.

This event will be presented by Sasha DARIAN and followed by a reception.

I look forward to seeing you at this press meeting.