Türkiye urged Iranian officials in June 2006 to make the most of available diplomatic opportunities regarding the country's nuclear program, according to Ankara sources. Foreign Minister Abdullah Gül traveled to Tehran to deliver what officials described as sincere messages emphasizing the value of a negotiated settlement.
Diplomatic sources said Gül's visit was well timed, as a series of significant meetings on the matter were expected in July. They noted that the European Union's proposal to Iran carried no threat language, and that the United States had signaled willingness to engage Tehran directly for the first time in 27 years. Both developments were viewed as positive signs for the process.
Officials underscored the importance of the G-8 foreign ministers meeting scheduled for 29 June. Gül's talks in Tehran left Ankara with the impression that Iran held a genuine interest in reaching a diplomatic compromise.
Sources were careful to clarify that Türkiye was not acting as a messenger for other parties, but rather drawing its own conclusions from the discussions. They argued that Türkiye's geographic proximity and long historical ties with Iran give it a clearer view of Iranian decision-making than most other countries possess.
Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad told Gül that Iran had never doubted Türkiye's sincerity, and the Iranian foreign minister also expressed appreciation for Ankara's contributions. Officials said Türkiye intends to continue its facilitating role going forward.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in June 2006, in its own words.