Turkey, Iran discuss joint anti-terror op. against PKK

ANKARA

Turkish and Iranian officials on Wednesday discussed the recently-launched joint operation against PKK terrorists on Turkey’s eastern border over the phone.

Turkey’s Deputy Prime Minister Muhterem Ince and Iranian counterpart Hussein Zulfiqari expressed pleasure for reaching an agreement on launching simultaneous operation against terror groups that threaten the security of both countries, Turkish Interior Ministry said in a statement.

The deputy ministers also stressed importance of the cooperation in fight against terrorists and drug smugglers for the peace of two nations.

In an earlier phone call on Wednesday, Turkish and Iranian military officials said the simultaneous and coordinated operation would continue for “some more time.”

The two sides said they are determined to continue counter-terrorism fight.

On Monday, Turkey announced that it launched a joint operation with Iran against the PKK terrorist group.

“We will announce the outcome of the operation later. We will eliminate [terrorist PKK]," Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu.

In its more than 30-year terror campaign against Turkey, the PKK -- listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the U.S. and the EU -- has been responsible for the deaths of nearly 40,000 people, including women and children.

*Writing by Sena Guler