Iran, Turkey to Join Hands to Settle Problems: PM

“Iran and Turkey might have different opinions on certain cases, but the history of the two countries would never change, and the two neighbors’ geographies complement each other,” Davutoglu said in a joint press conference with Iranian First Vice-President Eshaq Jahangiri here in Tehran.

The talks between Iran and Turkey can contribute to regional stability, he noted, adding that the two countries can “definitely block the entry of foreigners to the region” through mutual cooperation.

“We stayed beside our Iranian brothers under difficult conditions, and now under the current circumstances, we will join hands to overcome problems and barriers,” he added.

Davutoglu pointed to the time when Iran was under international sanctions, and said his country never left Iran alone, and is now more than any country pleased with the removal of anti-Iran sanctions.

He described the sanctions as the only major obstacle for the two countries to increase their bilateral trade to $30 billion, saying that the grounds are now prepared for the expansion of bilateral ties between Iran and Turkey after the recent termination of sanctions.

Davutoglu is in Iran to hold talks with the country’s senior officials on various issues, including ways to deepen bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries.

Heading a high-ranking delegation, the Turkish prime minister arrived in Tehran on Friday night and was officially welcomed by Iranian First VP Jahangiri on Saturday.

During his trip to the Islamic Republic, Davutoglu is slated to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, and a number of other senior officials to discuss various issues, including the latest developments in the Middle East region.

The two countries also plan to sign several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) later today.