As neighbours, Türkiye and Iran have historically had a complicated relationship, one that stretches back to the days of the Ottoman and Safavid Empires. In the last decade, relations have been strained by several issues. Their opposing positions in Syria and divergent policies in Iraq are two of the key security-related concerns that both states have raised. On the one hand, as guarantor states of the Astana process, Ankara and Tehran, along with Moscow, have found areas where they can cooperate in combatting terrorism and preserving the territorial integrity of Syria. On the other hand, Türkiye’s military operations countering the PKK-YPG terrorist threat in Northern Syria have caused concerns for the Iranians. While security issues continue to be subject to disagreements, both sides are seeking to boost economic ties and increase trade. Türkiye’s opposition to US sanctions on Iran presents a window of opportunity for enhancing relations. In a time of regional détente, recent diplomatic contacts between Türkiye and Iran as well as President Erdogan’s visit to Tehran have opened the possibility of a new era in bilateral relations.

Moderator: Merve Akin, Deputy Researcher at the TRT World Research Centre

Guests:

Alex Vatanka, Director of the Iran Program, Middle East Institute

Kadir Üstün, Executive Director, SETA Foundation, Washington D.C.


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