George Aslan, the only Christian member of Turkey’s Grand National Assembly, an ethnic Assyrian elected from Mardin representing the pro-Kurdish People’s Equality and Democracy Party (DEM), honored the victims of the Armenian Genocide. Aslan delivered a speech in Parliament, marking the 110th anniversary of the Genocide, reports Factor.am.

He stated that he «remembers with respect the Armenians, Syriacs, and all other peoples who lost their lives during those events.»

Addressing all political factions in Parliament, Aslan said: "Mr. Speaker, esteemed members of Parliament. Today marks the 110th anniversary of the events of April 24, 1915, which have left a dark stain on Turkey’s history. I respectfully remember the Armenians, Assyrians, and all other peoples who perished during these events. In 1915, Turkey’s population was 13 million, with 3 million Christians. Today, Turkey’s population is 86 million, but only 50,000 are Christians. I ask all political parties in Parliament: Why is it that today Turkey’s population is 86 million, but Christians number only 50,000? Democracy can only come to Turkey when you answer this question; otherwise, democracy will not come to this country."

Aslan’s speech was met with a reaction from Ünal Karaman, a Konya MP from the Justice and Development Party (AKP) and a former Trabzonspor footballer, who said: "Ask the historians, ask the historians."

According to Turkish media, Aslan’s microphone was turned off during his speech.

The central executive committee of Turkey’s pro-Kurdish People’s Equality and Democracy Party (DEM) also issued a written statement commemorating the 110th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide.