Turkish FM: Iran-Turkey ties of importance for regional stability

Islamic Republic News Agency (Link) (January 18, 2011)

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said relations between Iran and Turkey were of high importance in sustaining stability in the region.

He made the remark here Tuesday morning in a meeting with the Caretaker of the Iranian Foreign Ministry Ali-Akbar Salehi.

Salehi arrived in Ankara Monday night at a head of a political delegation.

In a brief conversation with reporters after the meeting, Davutoglu pointed out that Iran�s talks with the 5+1 would start in Istanbul on Thursday, January 20.

He further noted that Turkey has had close contacts with Iran for a long time, saying Tehran Declaration was compiled through close cooperation of Salehi and his colleagues.

Believing that Salehi enjoyed very valuable and good experiences in nuclear negotiations, he said that given the historical background of bilateral relations, Iran-Turkey ties were of supreme importance for regional stability.

Salehi, for his part, said it was the second time he was visiting Turkey in his new capacity.

He pointed to the very long-standing relations between the two countries and noted that the volume of Iran-Turkey trade exchanges has already touched a level of dlrs. 10 billion.

He also said that apart from the ties between the two countries he will discuss the latest regional developments with Davutoglu as well.

Stressing that Iran opposed interference of ultra-regional forces in Lebanon�s affairs, the Iranian official said stability should be established in the country in the absence of such forces.

He further advised Lebanese groups, parties and factions to solve the existing problems through dialogue and cooperation.

Salehi will leave Turkey today for Africa. �