Terrorism, extremism common enemies of Iran, Turkey: Zarif

Tehran, Dec 18, IRNA – Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Wednesday that extremism, terrorism and sectarian conflicts are common enemies of the nations of the region. He made the remarks in a meeting with his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu. Referring to enormous cultural and religious affinities between Iran and Turkey, Zarif said that differences over some issues are natural and can be removed through dialogue and cooperation. Zarif urged both Tehran and Ankara to more actively play their regional role and contribute to restoration of peace and security to the region. On the developments in Syria, Zarif reiterated that the Syrian people should be allowed to determine their own destiny without foreign intervention. Meanwhile, the Turkish foreign minister expressed hope that an upcoming visit to Tehran by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would lead to further enhancement of relations between the two countries and that the second session of Iran-Turkey Economic Commission, formed during President Hassan Rouhani's visit to Turkey last June, would be held soon. Cavusoglu referred to the crisis in Iraq and underlined the support of Iran and Turkey for the new government of Baghdad. He said that Daesh terrorist group poses a threat to the entire region and called for cooperation between Iran and Turkey in the campaign against terrorism. The two foreign ministers underlined the need to enhance the level of Iran-Turkey trade to $30 billion a year. /end