Devletabadi: We Are Ready To Defend Iran, If Necessary

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ANKARA - Iran's Ambassador in Ankara Firuz Devletabadi has indicated that his country is ready to resolve disputes through negotiations and dialogue. ''Yet we are ready to defend Iran (militarily), if necessary.''

The Iranian Embassy in Ankara held a national day reception at the Hilton Hotel this evening.

Devletabadi noted that Iran's stance on the nuclear issue is clear. ''There is no change of attitude on Iran's part. We are ready to provide all assurance and security on nuclear energy which we plan to utilize for peaceful purposes. It is out of question for Iran to give up peaceful efforts,'' said ambassador Devletabadi.

Meanwhile, Turkish State Minister Kursad Tuzmen was one of the prominent guests at Iran's reception. Tuzmen stressed that Turkey has good commercial ties with Iran.

Turkish Press