US sanctions make strong point for Iran, Russia, Turkey cooperation: Khamenei

TEHRAN

The United States' sanctions on Iran, Russia and Turkey make a strong point for the three countries to expand political and economic cooperation, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamanei said Sept. 8.

"U.S.'s sanctions on Iran, Russia and Turkey make a very strong mutual point for expanding political and economic cooperation. While emphasizing on making economic transactions without dollar, the 3 countries should seriously follow up on the agreements made in Tehran summit," Khamanei tweeted.

In a series of tweets on Sept. 8, Khamanei also referred to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), also known as the Iran nuclear deal.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran has so far abided by its JCPOA commitments; but the Europeans have not fulfilled their duties. This is not acceptable that we fully abide by our commitments regarding JCPOA, while they do not abide by their commitments," he said.

"The Russian President's viewpoint regarding the JCPOA is benevolent; the Islamic Republic of Iran will take a stance on the JCPOA that is in line with the interests and dignity of the country and the nation," Khamanei added.

Khamanei's tweets came a day after his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Iranian capital Tehran to discuss joint efforts as part of the Astana peace process and political efforts for finding a lasting solution to the Syrian conflict.