Foreign ministry spokesperson Marzieh Afkham has said differing views on some regional issues between Tehran and Ankara should not hinder cooperation between the two neighbors.
"Tehran and Ankara have differing view with regard to some regional issues; however, such differences should not in any way hamper cooperation and constructive talks between the two neighbors" Afkham told reporters in her regular press briefing on Wednesday, ISNA reported.
She also said, "Cooperation among regional countries can help prevent further complication of the situation."
Commenting on Turkish President Recep Tayyib Erdogan's recent remarks against Iranian officials, she said the foreign ministry has taken the necessary diplomatic measures in that respect.
According to Turkish media, Erdogan criticized Iranian officials' stance toward the Syrian conflict during an address last week in Marmara University.
Afkham noted that the US-led coalition that is fighting Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria should cut off the financial lifeline of the militants.
“The anti-IS coalition should take its first step by preventing financial support for IS and this is the expectation of the people in the region and world,” she said.
Riyadh Relations
On Tehran-Riyadh relations and the latest remarks by Saudi foreign minister on Iran's Syria policy, Afkham advised Saudi officials to avoid comments that could affect cooperation and partnerships among regional states considering the ongoing conflicts.
At a joint news conference with his German counterpart last week, Saudi Foreign Minister Saud al-Faisal described Iran as "part of the problem not solution" to the Syrian conflict and accused Tehran of interfering in the affairs of some Arab countries including Yemen and Bahrain.
FM to Visit China, Spain
Afkham also announced that Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif is scheduled to visit Spain and China next week.
She said the top diplomat is set to take part in a conference in China on Afghanistan's development.
Elsewhere, the foreign ministry spokesperson condemned Israel’s plan to divide Al-Aqsa Mosque, saying, “The Zionist regime has always held radical views toward the Palestinian people and upholds no right for them.”
She added Tehran considers “Palestine and Al-Aqsa Mosque the heart of the Muslim world,” emphasizing that such Israeli moves would not discourage the Palestinian people from pursuing their rights.
In conclusion, Afkham referred to Tehran-Moscow relations and said developing ties with Russia do not mean Tehran is distancing itself from Western countries.
