“Development of relations between Iran and Azerbaijan in the area of culture is a priority area for us,” Ebrahimi Turkman said, adding that “development of cultural relations will benefit both countries.”
He also expressed regret that some persons commit crimes under the pretext of religion, which leads to emergence of violence and radicalism in the region.
“At the moment it is very important that Azerbaijan and Iran cooperate closely in the area of religion. Expanding this cooperation, we will be able to fight against radical groups,” Ebrahimi Turkman said.
He further noted that Iran and Azerbaijan have similar fates.
"We must be aware of this and put aside all the insignificant problems that arose in the past, so that they don’t stand in the way of our future cooperation,” he said.
He added that the radicalism in the region is a problem of both Azerbaijan and Iran, and if the two countries aren`t persistent in this matter, they may suffer from it.
Ebrahimi Turkman said Iran has for many years conducted researches with regard to radical movements and books have been published on this topic.
“We stand ready to share our experience with Azerbaijan in this area,” he said, adding that aside from that Iran can hold joint conferences with the State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations of Azerbaijan.
Ebrahimi Turkman further said Islam is a religion of mercy and love, noting that the radical groups introduce in society their ideas under the guise of religion.
“First, we need to inform our peoples and the youth about the true essence of these groups, and explain them that what these groups preach is not a religion,” he said. “We must inform them that the radical groups are toys of the great powers.”
“We need to protect our values,” Ebrahimi Turkman said, adding that traditions and spiritual values of the Azerbaijani and Iranian peoples are the greatest legacy left by ancestors, which shouldn`t be forgotten.
Ebrahimi Turkman also said he does not believe that the great powers can’t liberate the Syrian town of Kobani from radical groups, and thinks that this issue was delayed for political reasons.
“Who would believe that the great powers can’t liberate Kobani? Anything is in the power of these states. How come they can’t liberate the Syrian town from a small radical group? It means that, there are political interests behind this issue,” he said.
Ebrahimi Turkman also urged the media in both countries to fight against the dangers posed to the region and said the media outlets should enlighten the young people and reveal the true face of radical groups.
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