Turkey Stresses Value of Iran Relations Amid Diplomatic Dispute

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson highlighted the importance of relations with Iran amid a diplomatic spat. This follows remarks by Turkey’s Foreign Minister, who warned Iran against supporting groups that threaten Turkey. Iran’s response included summoning the Turkish ambassador, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue between the two nations.

On Tuesday, a spokesperson for the Turkish Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of maintaining strong relations with Iran amid a diplomatic confrontation. This dispute arose after statements made by Turkey’s Foreign Minister regarding Iran’s alleged support for the YPG, a group that poses a security threat to Turkey. The minister cautioned Iran against provoking Turkey by backing groups that may exacerbate tensions between the two nations.

In an interview, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan described Iran’s regional strategy of utilizing militias as proxies as dangerous, stating that it leads to higher costs for Iran. He warned, “You shouldn’t throw stones if you live in a glass house” when discussing Iran’s potential actions in Turkey’s vicinity. Following his comments, Iran summoned the Turkish ambassador to express its discontent.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry criticized the remarks made by Turkey’s Foreign Minister during a meeting with Turkish Ambassador Hicabi Kırlangıç. Director General for the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe Mahmoud Heydari stated the need for avoiding “wrongful comments and unreal analyses” that could harm bilateral relations. In response, Turkey summoned Iran’s charges d’affaires to convey similar sentiments about maintaining effective communication.

Recently, Iranian officials have increasingly voiced their criticisms of Turkey publicly, according to Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Öncü Keçeli. He remarked that foreign policy should not serve as a domestic political tool, emphasizing Turkey’s preference for direct communication in such matters. Keçeli reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to enhancing its relationship with Iran.

Historically, Turkey and Iran share a complex relationship, marked by both cooperation and conflict. While they have supported opposing sides in the Syrian conflict, they continue to engage positively on commercial and cultural fronts. This duality illustrates the challenges both nations face in balancing their interests and maintaining stability in their multifaceted relationship.

In summary, tensions have emerged between Turkey and Iran, triggered by comments from Turkey’s Foreign Minister about Iran’s regional actions and potential support for terrorist groups. Despite historical rivalries, both nations recognize the importance of dialogue to preserve their bilateral relations. Current diplomatic efforts aim to address these misunderstandings to prevent further escalation and maintain mutual interests.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com