Iran, Turkey enjoy strategic relations: Iranian official

TEHRAN,Dec.30(MNA) - Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast described the relationship between Iran and Turkey as a strategic one, saying that the two neighboring countries enjoy good political relationship. Mehmanparast made the remarks during a press conference at the Iranian consulate in Istanbul on Friday. “Iran and Turkey have a strategic relationship. The volume of our economic relations is increasing. We are two neighboring countries and always will be, and this is an opportunity to fulfill each other’s needs,” he said. In addition, Mehmanparast called the Western sanctions imposed on Iran “illogical” and “illegal”. Iran does not welcome any sanctions, but if it has to choose between the country’s independence and the sanctions, it will definitely choose its independence, he said. Commenting on Iran’s ongoing naval maneuvers in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman waters, Mehmanparast stated that in today’s world, only the strong can defend themselves. He added, “With the help of other regional countries, we are ready to provide the region with complete security, and we deem the presence of foreign countries in the region detrimental to security. “Therefore, Iran’ maneuvers in the Persian Gulf area are preventive measures, which remind enemy that if it makes a wrong decision (to attack Iran) it will have to pay heavy cost for it.” The Iranian official also noted that any military conflict, instability and unrest in the region is only to the interest of the Israeli regime, and that if any clashes takes place in the region, it can spill over into other countries as well, which is not beneficial to them.