Hakan Fidan: Iran's Security Has a Direct Impact on Regional Stability

Hakan Fidan, the Turkish Foreign Minister, emphasized the importance of Iran's security and stability for the entire region during a joint press conference with Jeyhun Bayramov, the Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan, in Baku. This meeting took place on October 30, 2023, and Fidan referred to recent developments in Iran's neighboring country.

The Impact of Developments in Iran on the Region

Fidan stated at this meeting: "Developments in Iran are closely related to Turkey and Azerbaijan, and Iran's security, stability, and prosperity directly affect our region." He stressed the need for diplomatic resolution of disputes and expressed hope that these issues would be resolved as soon as possible. The Turkish Foreign Minister added that recent reciprocal attacks pose a serious threat to peace efforts in the region and that these actions must come to an end.

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The Need for Safe Passage in the Strait of Hormuz

Fidan also emphasized the importance of ensuring safe and uninterrupted passage in the Strait of Hormuz and called for a return to the pre-war status. He also stated that Turkey continues its contacts with all relevant parties without interruption to end the current crisis and establish peace and security in the region.

Fidan further referred to the developments in the Russia-Ukraine war and said: "Since the beginning of this war, we have been trying to keep the Black Sea free from conflicts." He mentioned the close cooperation between Turkey and Azerbaijan, stating that the two countries have overcome significant challenges together, and their relations are based on the principle of "one nation, two states."

Appreciation for Historical Leaderships

During this meeting, the Turkish Foreign Minister also referred to the one hundred eighth anniversary of the liberation of Baku, saying: "We respectfully remember the martyrs of this event." He appreciated the historical leaderships of the Presidents of Turkey and Azerbaijan and emphasized that these relations have led to strengthened cooperation in the defense and security sectors.

Fidan pointed out the importance of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, stating that this line is the most important component of the middle corridor and called for its effective use. He also mentioned the joint military exercises of the two countries and said that these activities reflect tangible cooperation in the field.

In conclusion, the Turkish Foreign Minister referred to the developments towards achieving a final peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia and expressed hope that Azerbaijan's constructive position in this regard would contribute to regional stability. He also referenced the words of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the President of Turkey, who emphasized: "Even the worst peace is better than war itself."

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