Former Turkish president Suleyman Demirel: Iran and Turkey have common interests. This article affirms Turkey's posture of welcome toward Iran.

In a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki, Demirel said that Mottaki's visit to Turkey is a good opportunity to develop relations on mutual respect and common interest.

Mottaki, who was formerly Iranian ambassador to Ankara, recalled the term of Demirel's presidency and said that the former president played key role during his term to boost Iran—Turkey relations.

Mr. Mottaki was asked to leave Turkey in 1989

"when he was Iran's ambassador in Ankara after his role in several terrorist incidents in Turkey became known."

Is this what Europe can expect once Turkey is admitted into the EU — that former assassins, kidnappers and terrorists will be welcomed into the fold?

Eric Schwappach   12 02 05