The United Nations has praised recent "historic" efforts by the Turkish government and the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to resolve their decades-long conflict, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution that benefits both sides and the wider region.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, acknowledged the progress during a press briefing on Monday, stating, "There have been historic steps taken between the government of Türkiye and the PKK. We hope that these talks and this discussion will evolve in a way that is mutually beneficial to both, but also beneficial to all people in Türkiye and the broader region."

The PKK announced in mid-May that it would dissolve itself and end its armed struggle against the Turkish state, nearly three months after its imprisoned leader, Abdullah Öcalan, urged followers to abandon armed conflict in favor of political solutions. However, the group has accused Ankara of failing to take concrete steps in response, while Turkey expects Kurdish fighters to disarm soon.

When asked about the UN Security Council's stance on the peace process, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, President of the Security Council for June and Guyana's Permanent Representative, expressed support for ongoing negotiations. "Once there are negotiations, there are talks ongoing, we must wish the parties well for this," she told Rudaw. "We encourage that the negotiations continue towards a peaceful settlement of the issues that are being dealt with."

The developments mark a potential turning point in one of the world's most protracted conflicts, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives since the PKK launched its insurgency in 1984. The international community continues to monitor the situation, urging both sides to sustain dialogue for lasting peace.