Tehran says Iran-Turkey ‘strategic’ ties should not be undermined

TEHRAN, April 7 (MNA) – Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ramin Mehmanparast said on Friday that efforts should be made to prevent the “strategic” relations between Iran and Turkey from being damaged. Speaking to reporters, Mehmanparast said, “The Islamic Republic of Iran and the country of Turkey, as two powerful and influential countries in the region that have many historical, cultural, and religious affinities, have a strategic relationship and have common policies toward most of political and international issues.” Iran has adopted a clear stance toward various political issues, particularly regional developments, he stated, adding, “Having differing political views on certain regional issues is natural, and, through consultation and exchange of ideas, efforts should be made to help bring the countries’ stances closer and choose the best solution to ongoing crises. “The Islamic Republic of Iran has expressed its views clearly and with full honesty and has made effective efforts to help establish stability and security in the region and believes that regional cooperation and preventing extra-regional countries from interfering in the internal affairs of regional countries is an indisputable principle. “Remarks by various individuals in the two countries should not negatively affect the strategic relations between Iran and Turkey, and official stances of the relevant officials should be the criteria for making an assessment and taking action.” Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson commented on the meeting that Erdogan held with the Supreme Leader on March 29 and described it as “very positive” and “constructive”.