WORLD
IRAN DISSATISFIED WITH TURKISH PRICE FOR GAS TRANSPORT
"The Turkish prices are two times higher compared to other offers. If the prices are at the same level, then we will give Turkey priority," Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Mohsin Eminzade told Iranian Sark daily, according to the Anatolia news agency.
However, the Iranian official did not sound pessimistic at all, saying though no result was achieved, it was also important to have a general understanding during the talks.The deputy minister said transporting Iranian gas to Europe through Turkey was already a complex issue, emphasizing there were also some circles opposing plans to transport Iranian gas to Europe through Turkey.
The United States, which considers Iran a rogue state, is reportedly unhappy with Ankara's efforts to forge cooperation with Tehran. Turkish media quoted a U.S. official as reminding Ankara that business deals with Iran worth more than $20 million would draw U.S. sanctions.
Following allegations over U.S. uneasiness over a possible deal between Turkey and Iran on the issue, Erdogan said efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation with Iran were not against any other country, and defended them by saying better ties with Turkey's neighbors were meant to support peace in the region and improve the well-being of Turkish people.