Several Danish ministers sent their Newroz greetings to Kurds in Denmark after over 200 Kurds celebrated the occasion on March 27 at the Danish parliament in Copenhagen.

“For many years, we were persecuted in various countries for celebrating Newroz. Here in Denmark, we are being congratulated by ministers in the most prestigious place, the parliament,” said Danish-Kurdish journalist and author Deniz Serinci, who organized the event and recently published the book Learn Kurdish.

Denmark’s Minister of Children and Education Mattias Tesfaye sent a written message commemorating the Newroz celebration. “It is a great pleasure to send warm greetings to those of you who are celebrating the Kurdish New Year at the parliament today.

“Newroz marks the arrival of spring. That light triumphs over darkness. That there is hope for a new beginning. It is a celebration of community, freedom and resilience – values that are of great importance and that also touch us all deeply. Especially in this time when democratic principles are being challenged in many places around the world.

“Many Kurds have come to Denmark in recent decades. As a result, stories from Kurdish culture and history have also become part of reality in Denmark.

“I am delighted with all the Danish-Kurds who contribute positively to society. In their workplaces, as volunteers in associations and in our local communities. I wish everyone a happy Newroz with hope, joy, and progress.”

Furthermore, Denmark’s Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard sent a video greeting in which he congratulated all Kurds on Newroz. “I hope that Newroz will be a source of a happy and peaceful future for all Kurds in the world.”

As the Kurds left the parliament, they were joined by Minister of Foreign Affairs Lars Lokke Rasmussen, who also wished them a happy Newroz.

The celebration, which included music and dance, was also addressed by members of parliament Karsten Honge, Jan Jorgensen, Mette Reissmann, Zenia Stampe, Pelle Dragsted, Lasse Haugaard Pedersen, and Jens Joel, as well as member of the European Parliament Per Clausen and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Villy Sovndal. In addition, former member of parliament Lars Aslan Rasmussen and the Chairman of the State Audit Commission Serdal Benli spoke.