Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasizes strengthening relations between Iran and Turkey

In major play for Middle East future, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey seek closer ties - analysis

SETH J. FRANTZMAN

Iran is doing its utmost to reach out to Ankara during Turkey’s Republic Day. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi congratulated his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, on Tuesday on the occasion of Turkey’s national day, expressing hope for deeper cooperation between the neighboring countries, Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Iran’s official news agency, reported.

He praised the 102nd anniversary of the founding of the Turkish Republic. “I sincerely congratulate the friendly and neighboring government and people of Turkey, and my brother Mr. Hakan Fidan,” Araghchi said.

“He added that ties between the two Muslim neighbors, based on mutual interests, could further expand ‘in the light of realism and the policy of good neighborliness,’” IRNA reported.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also sent a message, indicating how seriously Tehran considers this issue. It wants close ties to Turkey and doesn’t want to be completely isolated in the region.

“President Masoud Pezeshkian has sent a message to his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, to congratulate him and the Turkish nation on the National Day of the Republic of Turkey,” IRNA reported.Pezeshkian spoke about the importance of bilateral ties and relations.

“The President emphasized that strengthening relations between Iran and Turkiye, undoubtedly, has become more important than ever in the current circumstances, noting that the enhanced cooperation will lead to the consolidation of stability, security, and development for the two countries and the region,” the report said. “Stating that there are many commonalities between the two neighboring countries, Pezeshkian stressed the need for joint efforts and continuous consultations in all economic, political, cultural, and international fields.”

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