Turkey does not consider Iran a geopolitical rival

Just prior to his visit to Iran, Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmed Davidoglu stated that any kind of confrontation in the Middle East would be damaging for the entire region. The Turkish Minister stated that his country and Iran are connected by both the spirituality of their nations and their historical values, and is prepared to maintain its relations with Iran.

He also mentioned that relations between the two countries are in the form of a partnership, but that there is a certain level of natural competition there at the same time, however they should work together to prevent any kind of confrontation between Sunnis and Shiites in the region.

Relations between the two countries became slightly strained recently. Iran has been demanding that Turkey not get involved in any kind of provocation against Iran. At the same time Turkey must uphold its commitments towards its NATO alliance partners.