Tehran, November 30, 2025 – The Europe Today: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan have underscored the need to strengthen economic ties between the two neighboring countries by removing obstacles to bilateral trade and investment. The remarks were made during a joint press conference held in Tehran on Sunday as part of Fidan’s official visit.
Welcoming his Turkish counterpart and the accompanying delegation, Araghchi emphasized the deep-rooted ties between Iran and Türkiye, describing them as “not just two neighbors, but also two friendly and brotherly countries with very deep historical, religious, and cultural commonalities.” He noted that the countries’ shared borders have long symbolized peace and friendship, adding that the current year, designated as the “Iran–Turkey Cultural Year,” has featured numerous joint cultural initiatives.
Araghchi announced that both nations had agreed to address economic challenges through forthcoming meetings of the High-Level Cooperation Council and the Iran–Türkiye Joint Economic Commission. He said preparations were also underway for the 9th session of the Supreme Council of Cooperation, which will be co-chaired by the presidents of both countries in Tehran.
Highlighting the importance of economic cooperation, Araghchi stated that Iran continues to serve as one of Türkiye’s most reliable energy suppliers and is prepared to extend the existing gas contract and expand collaboration in electricity. He added that the countries have yet to fully capitalize on their economic potential, pointing to new initiatives—such as the “Cheshmeh-Seraya–Aralik” rail corridor, joint free zones, and a new border crossing—as practical steps toward boosting bilateral trade. The foreign minister also confirmed the upcoming opening of Iran’s Consulate General in the Turkish city of Van to further facilitate diplomatic and economic engagement.
Turning to regional developments, Araghchi praised Türkiye’s similar stance on key issues, including the situation in Palestine and what he described as the ongoing genocide in Gaza. He said the meeting addressed repeated ceasefire violations in Gaza, as well as recent Israeli attacks on Lebanon and Syria. Warning of broader destabilizing ambitions by Israel, Araghchi urged West Asian countries to form a united front against aggression and expansionism in the region.
The ministers also discussed Iran’s opposition to transregional intervention in the Caucasus, support for a terrorism-free Türkiye, the Iranian nuclear issue, and what Araghchi called the “cruel” U.S. sanctions imposed on Iran.
The meeting reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to deeper political, economic, and regional cooperation.
