UPDATE - Turkish, Iranian chiefs of staff hold talks in Tehran

UPDATES WITH QUOTES FROM AKAR AND BAGHERI

By Mustafa Melih Ahishali

TEHRAN (AA) – Turkish military chief of staff Gen. Hulusi Akar held talks on Monday with his Iranian counterpart Maj. Gen. Mohammad Bagheri in Tehran.

Discussions between the two top commanders tackled a host of issues, including border security and counter-terrorism along with regional issues.

Speaking at a joint press conference following the meeting, Akar said both Turkey and Iran shared common values.

"In addition to our political and economic relations, we improve our military relations,” he said. “We have reached a consensus on the fight against terrorism and border security.”

Bagheri, for his part, said they discussed issues that pose a threat to both Tehran and Ankara.

"Both countries have developed a common attitude towards the illegitimate Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) referendum," he said.

Last week, the KRG held an illegitimate referendum on secession from Iraq, amid regional and international opposition and warnings that the vote would cause regional unrest.

Bagheri said both Iran and Turkey agree on the need to maintain Iraq’s territorial integrity.

The Iranian commander said his talks with his Turkish counterpart also focused on the fight against the Daesh terrorist group and the conflict in Syria.

Gen. Akar arrived in Tehran on Sunday upon an invitation from the Iranian chief of staff.

He is expected to meet with Iranian President Hasan Rouhani, Defense Minister Amir Hatami and head of Iran’s National Security Council Ali Shamkhani during the visit.