TEHRAN- In a recent phone conversation, Iranian Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Seyyed Abbas Salehi addressed concerns regarding statements made by certain Turkish media officials that have caused disquiet among the public in Iran. 

"Such statements should be avoided," Salehi stated, emphasizing the urgency of unity among Muslim nations amid regional developments and the escalating crimes of the Zionist regime, Mehr reported on Wednesday. 

Salehi welcomed Turkey's commitment to enhanced cultural relations, noting that "the Islamic Republic of Iran's fundamental foreign policy principle is strengthening relations with its neighbors, and among them, Turkey holds a prominent and significant position." He highlighted the existing strong political and cultural ties and the opportunities presented by the designated Year of Iranian-Turkish Culture for further collaboration. 

Salehi pointed out that culture provides a foundation for interaction and cooperation, stating, "Iran and Turkey share many cultural resources, and both countries should benefit from this shared potential." He also acknowledged recent initiatives in media cooperation, affirming that Iran is fully prepared to strengthen these ties in alignment with the interests and goals of both nations. 

In related developments, General Director of Turkey's state broadcaster TRT Mehmet Zahid Sobaci, made controversial remarks during an event last Thursday. Referring to the organization's actions, he claimed, "We are in a state of confusion and discomfort for Iran. We must do this," while announcing plans to launch a Persian-language broadcast by the end of the year as part of TRT’s expansion into 41 foreign languages. 

During the conversation, Turkey's Presidency's Director of Communications, Fahrettin Altun, expressed his country's commitment to strengthening political and cultural ties with Iran. He emphasized the importance of increased communication and mutual understanding between the two nations and referenced the recent meeting between the two presidents, where they highlighted the necessity to expand ties in all sectors. 

Altun regretted the recent statements made by the Turkish media official, clarifying that "any statement contradicting this has no connection with the thinking and approach of the Turkish President and government." He reiterated Turkey's steadfast approach to enhancing friendship and cooperation with Iran, noting that even if challenges arise, they can be addressed through dialogue and mutual goodwill.

The conversation concluded with a shared commitment to ongoing cooperation, underscoring the importance of maintaining a mindful approach toward media environments and public opinion, and ensuring that collaborative efforts serve the interests of both peoples.

SAB/