Stuart Levey, U.S. undersecretary for terrorism and financial intelligence, criticized Turkey and Azerbaijan, stressing that Baku and Ankara are expanding economic ties with Iran.

In an interview with the Voice of America, the U.S. official stated Iran’s neighbors, Turkey and Azerbaijan, are expanding economic relations with Iran that contradicts the UN sanctions.  He noted that Turkey and Azerbaijan oppose Iran’s nuclear program but stand for peaceful solution to the problem. He considers that being neighbors with Iran, Azerbaijan and Turkey do not want to damage relations, APA reported. They are expanding economic ties and trade with Iran, but are expressing concern over the Iranian issue, as any other solution may undermine stability in the region, he said.

In October Stuart Levey paid a visit to the South Caucasus.