ANKARA

The countries in the Black Sea region should solve problems through dialogue to ensure peace, the Turkish parliament speaker said on Thursday.

"Solving the problems in the region through diplomatic mechanisms and dialogue is essential for ensuring development, peace and stability not only in the countries of the region, but also in the European continent and on a global scale," Mustafa Sentop said at the 61st General Assembly of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC) in the capital Ankara.

Sentop said it is more vital than ever before to solve the problems in the region by showing a common will and acting in cooperation.

"Establishing peace and stability in our region and ensuring sustainable development depend primarily on building political trust. For this, it is necessary to prevent prejudices and misperceptions and to keep dialogue channels open," he added.

The role of parliaments and parliamentarians should be highlighted within the framework of changing global dynamics, Sentop said, adding: "We believe that our parliaments have additional roles and responsibilities that they can play in consolidating peace, prosperity and stability in our region."

He also urged for strengthening cooperation between parliaments since it is important in terms of establishing trust and cooperation between governments.

"The importance of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) for the peace and stability of our region is undeniable," Sentop said.

The 13-member BSEC aims to diversify and further develop bilateral and multilateral economic, technological and social relations among its member states.