Turkish President Abdullah Gul has visited Tunceli (Dersim) after a 19-year interval. The people that gathered near the Governor’s Office received the Turkish leader with enthusiasm, carrying placards written upon: “Welcome to Tunceli, Mr. President”, “We respect Mr. President.” President Gul kissed the two children that presented him with flowers and greeted the people. The Turkish leader inquired about local residents’ problems and promised his help.

Numerous Kurds are residing in Tunceli and vigorous activities are carried out against the Kurdistan Workers' Party there.