[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 12]
[House]
[Pages 16556-16557]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS IN TURKEY

  (Mr. TROTT asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. TROTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the upcoming 
Parliamentary elections being held in Turkey. With so much on the line 
for Turkey, both domestically and internationally, it is my sincere 
hope that the elections are held in an environment that is consistent 
with international standards on November 1.

[[Page 16557]]

  Free and fair elections are a fundamental part of any democratic 
society, and Turkish citizens of all backgrounds deserve to know that 
not only does their vote count, but it will be cast in a welcoming, 
safe and open atmosphere.
  Freedom of the press is also a crucial part of democracy and, with 
the future of Turkey at the forefront of the November elections, 
Turkish citizens deserve to hear every narrative, and journalists and 
reporters should not have to worry about intimidation or legal action, 
simply for doing their jobs.
  As Turkey enters a pivotal moment in its history, I wish them a safe 
and successful election day. And just like any democratic society, the 
real winners at the end of the day will be the citizens of Turkey.

                          ____________________