Nournews: Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, speaking at a joint press conference with the foreign minister of Turkey on Sunday, stated that although the volume of trade between the two countries is on an upward trajectory, it still remains below the target level.

He noted that Iran is considered one of the most reliable suppliers of energy to Turkey and has expressed its readiness to extend the gas contract and expand cooperation in the electricity sector.

The foreign minister added that Iran stands ready to renew its gas agreement with Turkey and broaden bilateral energy cooperation.

During the meeting, the two sides emphasized the need to remove existing obstacles to trade and investment and agreed that these issues would be closely followed within the framework of the High-Level Cooperation Council and the Joint Economic Commission.

The two countries also stressed the importance of connecting the railway lines in the "Cheshmeh-Soriya–Aralik" region and expressed hope that construction work on this rail link would begin as soon as possible.

Iran among the most reliable energy suppliers for Turkey

The Foreign Minister of Iran further highlighted at the press conference that Iran is considered one of the most reliable energy suppliers for Turkey, and Tehran has expressed its readiness to extend the gas contract and expand cooperation in the electricity sector. During the meeting, both sides emphasized the need to remove obstacles to trade and investment, agreeing that these matters would be addressed in detail within the framework of the High-Level Cooperation Council and the Joint Economic Commission.

He added that both countries stressed the importance of connecting their railway networks in the “Cheshmeh-Soriya–Aralik” region and expressed hope that construction on this line would begin as soon as possible. Iran also announced its readiness to develop relations in all areas, including the establishment of joint free zones and the activation of a new border crossing. It requested that expert-level meetings be held to negotiate the preferential trade agreement. Exchanges of delegations and high-level parliamentary discussions, as well as cooperation through friendship groups, have always been a priority for the two countries, and today’s talks reaffirmed their continuation.

Iran’s Consulate General in Van to open soon

The Foreign Minister noted that the opening of the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Van will soon take place. This new mission will expand the network of Iranian consulates in Turkey, providing new capacity for bilateral relations. In addition to consular duties, the consulate will play an important role in developing cooperation between the border provinces of both countries.

Iran and Turkey share many regional interests

Araghchi continued, stating that during the discussions with Mr. Hakan Fidan, both sides acknowledged their numerous shared interests and common concerns in the region. The situation in Palestine and the necessity of joint efforts to halt the killing of innocent civilians in Gaza were central topics. Repeated ceasefire violations in Gaza and recent Israeli attacks on Lebanon and Syria indicate that Israel is pursuing broader plans to destabilize the region.

The Iranian Foreign Minister emphasized that stability, security, and peace in Syria are directly linked to maintaining its territorial integrity. The main threat to Syria’s security and stability comes from Israel and its occupation, and it is the responsibility of regional countries to resist Israeli aggression and expansionism, including in Syria and Lebanon.

Iran opposes external interference in the Caucasus

The Foreign Minister added that Iran’s position is to maintain stability and security in the Caucasus through regional cooperation and avoidance of extraregional intervention. Terrorism remains a serious shared threat to both countries and the region. Iran reiterates its commitment to combat terrorism through mutual cooperation, supporting the disarmament of the PKK, ensuring a terrorism-free Turkey, and advocating for the dismantling of all terrorist groups to achieve a terrorism-free region.

US sanctions discussed in talks with Turkish counterpart

Seyyed Abbas Araghchi further stated that discussions during today’s meeting also covered the Iranian nuclear file and the issue of unjust US sanctions. He noted that explanations were provided regarding the snapback mechanism and recent Security Council developments. He expressed confidence that bilateral cooperation will continue on a positive trajectory, opening new horizons for both countries.

The Turkish Foreign Minister, speaking at the joint press conference, emphasized Turkey’s ongoing support for Iran, affirming that differences should be resolved within the framework of international law and through dialogue.

Energy cooperation on the agenda

Hakan Fidan, Turkish Foreign Minister, expressed his pleasure at visiting Iran and meeting with his Iranian counterpart. He thanked the Iranian hosts for their hospitality and noted that this is his fourth visit to Iran as Foreign Minister. He highlighted the continuous coordination between the two ministers in international forums, as well as ongoing discussions via phone, and described today’s bilateral and private meetings as highly productive.

Fidan stated that energy cooperation was a key part of the discussions, and both sides aim to continue consultations on issues affecting both countries. Challenges remain regarding border crossings, logistics, and transportation, requiring active engagement and expansion of border gates. He emphasized the significant interaction and trade between millions of people from both countries annually, noting that existing capacities should be expanded and focused on achievable projects.

Consulate in Van awaited

Fidan expressed anticipation for the opening of the Iranian Consulate in Van and confirmed that he would attend the inauguration if Minister Araghchi travels there for the ceremony. He noted that today’s discussions included cooperation in energy, gas, electricity, and addressing irregular migration, highlighting the need for bilateral efforts to manage this challenge.

The Turkish Foreign Minister added that the Ninth High-Level Cooperation Council meeting will be held in Iran, and today’s session served as preparation for addressing the relevant agenda items.

Expanding Israeli aggression a regional concern

Fidan affirmed Araghchi’s remarks, noting that Turkey and Iran are two major regional powers. The meeting also addressed issues related to the Gaza conflict, Lebanon, and Israel’s expanding aggressions in the region. Both countries agreed that these issues affect the entire region. The continuation of the ceasefire in Gaza and halting attacks in the West Bank and East Jerusalem were discussed. He emphasized that the international community must fulfill its responsibilities regarding the situation in Syria and Israel’s expansionist actions.

Unjust sanctions against Iran must be lifted

The Turkish Foreign Minister stated that the Iranian nuclear file was also discussed, reiterating Turkey’s ongoing support for Iran. He stressed that differences should be resolved under international law and through dialogue. Turkey advocates for Iran’s integration into the global community on economic and other issues, and that unjust sanctions should be removed, with Turkey committed to doing all it can to facilitate this process.

Fidan also noted that the Russia–Ukraine peace process is very important to Turkey, which supports all initiatives aimed at ending the war and establishing peace.

He concluded by saying that during his visit he will also meet with the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mr. Larijani, and President Medician, expressing hope that these meetings will foster beneficial and progressive cooperation between the two countries.

Fidan: We discussed joint measures to address migration from Afghanistan

Turkey’s Foreign Minister said that one of the most important areas of cooperation between Iran and Turkey is addressing irregular migration from Afghanistan and examining joint solutions to tackle this challenge.

He added that the two countries are also exploring ways to engage with the Afghan government on this issue. Both sides stressed the need to maintain the ceasefire in Gaza and halt attacks in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

According to Fidan, Iran and Turkey are two major regional powers, and the meeting also covered various regional issues, including developments in Gaza, Palestine, and Lebanon, as well as the aggressions of the Israeli regime, which he said pose a shared threat to all countries in the region.

He noted that the Ninth High-Level Cooperation Council meeting between Iran and Turkey will soon be held in Tehran, and today’s meeting served as groundwork for preparing its agenda.

Iranian, Turkish foreign ministers meet in Tehran

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan arrived in Tehran on Sunday morning for a significant diplomatic visit, during which he met with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi.

The meeting took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and focused on enhancing bilateral relations.

According to Spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Esmaeil Baqaei, Fidan’s visit includes discussions not only with Araghchi but also with several other senior officials from the Iranian government.

The agenda encompasses a range of topics, including the strengthening of bilateral ties and an exchange of views on regional and international developments.