TEHRAN – Turkey’s ambassador to Iran, Hicabi Kirlangic, has stated that Turkey's strategic objectives in the Caucasus region do not aim to compromise interests of other nations.

Ambassador Kirlangic underscored that Turkey's approach, as articulated by Turkish President Erdogan, is to ensure that the development of the Zangezur Corridor does not compromise the interests of any nation in the region. He emphasized the importance of securing the consent of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran in this process.

The ambassador, who has served in Tehran for approximately a year and a half, also spoke about Turkey’s perspective on the interests of its neighboring countries. "Turkey considers the interests of Iran and Azerbaijan as its own," he remarked, reflecting Turkey’s commitment to regional harmony and cooperation.

On the topic of the Zangezur Corridor, Kirlangic acknowledged the unresolved issues that persist in the Caucasus following the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He pointed out that the normalization of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as the establishment of the Zangezur Corridor, remain critical issues.

Kirlangic emphasized that Iran's approval is vital for Turkey, given Iran’s firm stance against any changes to the region’s borders or geopolitical status.

However, he expressed optimism that these sensitive issues would not lead to discord between Turkey and Iran, given Turkey’s commitment to considering the interests of both Iran and Azerbaijan.

Kirlangic also highlighted Turkey's positive approach toward Armenia. He noted that while previous diplomatic efforts to normalize relations had been stalled by external factors, Turkey remains committed to ensuring that any progress in the region is mutually beneficial and does not harm the interests of any involved party.

Reflecting on the broader relationship between Iran and Turkey, Kirlangic described the longstanding cultural and historical ties between the two nations as a stabilizing force that has prevented prolonged tensions.

He characterized the current bilateral relations as satisfactory, despite recent declines in trade volume. The ambassador also pointed to a growing curiosity among Turkish citizens about Iran, evidenced by a significant increase in tourism between the two countries.

Kirlangic addressed the potential for further enhancing cultural tourism, given the rich shared cultural and historical heritage between Iran and Turkey. He mentioned recent initiatives aimed at promoting this aspect of the relationship and expressed hope for continued progress, particularly as Iran’s new government settles in.

Finally, the ambassador turned to regional issues, particularly the ongoing situation in Syria. He stressed the importance of preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and highlighted the constructive role that Iran could play in normalizing relations between Turkey and Syria.

Kirlangic reiterated Turkey’s willingness to improve its relations with Syria, acknowledging the challenges but emphasizing the necessity of cooperation to ensure stability in the region.

Kirlangic, a seasoned diplomat and academic, has a long history with the Persian language and literature, having taught at Ankara University for many years. His deep cultural ties to the region are evident in his work, including translations of Persian literary giants such as Rumi, Saadi, Hafez, and Jami into Turkish. His academic background and cultural expertise have informed his diplomatic efforts, particularly in fostering stronger relations between Iran and Turkey.

The Nagorno-Karabakh region, officially part of Azerbaijan but inhabited by Armenian citizens, has been a source of friction between Baku and Yerevan for more than three decades.

Baku wrested control of a vast area in the region during a war in 2020. It claimed full control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region on September 20 after local Armenian forces there agreed to lay down their weapons following Azerbaijan’s latest military offensive.

The so-called Zangezur Corridor proposed by Azerbaijan and Turkey, aiming to connect Nakhjavan and Karabakh, would pass through the Armenian Syunik province and disconnect Armenia and Iran. Both countries have announced firm objections to such plans.

Turkey reiterates support for Palestinian cause

Kirlangic also addressed the ongoing crisis in Gaza, emphasizing Turkey's deep concern over the humanitarian situation in the region.

He highlighted Turkey's consistent support for the Palestinian cause and reiterated the need for international cooperation to address the challenges faced by the people of Gaza.

The ambassador underscored Turkey's commitment to playing a constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region, while also calling for an end to the violence and the lifting of blockades that have exacerbated the suffering of Gaza's residents.

The conflict in Gaza, which escalated on October 7 following Hamas's surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, has resulted in devastating casualties.

Israel's subsequent military response has killed over 40,000 Palestinians, primarily women and children, and left tens of thousands more injured. Thousands of others remain missing and are feared dead under the rubble of destroyed buildings.

Over ten months into the Israeli war, vast tracts of Gaza lie in ruins amid a crippling blockade of food, clean water and medicine.