Political and Economic Relations between Iran and Turkey during the Justice and Development Party Era

Iran and Turkey, as two powerful countries in the Middle East, are involved in a series of regional competitions that shape the political issues and trade exchanges within the framework of their relations. These dynamics create fluctuations in the relationship between Iran and Turkey. This research aims to examine the relations between Iran and Turkey and the issues that lead to opportunities and challenges in their political relations, as well as the impact of political issues on economic relations between the two countries. The article employs a quantitative and analytical approach, utilizing previously published articles and works in this field, and applies the theory of neo-functionalism to address the question: What opportunities and challenges have characterized the relations between Iran and Turkey during the era of the Justice and Development Party? The findings indicate that despite the challenging issues and regional competitions affecting the political relations between the two countries, Iran and Turkey are striving to reduce divergence and steer their relations toward convergence. The economy can play a role as either an opportunity or a challenge in the relations between the two countries. In conclusion, it is determined that factors such as sanctions and regional competition have negatively impacted the political relations and trade exchanges between Iran and Turkey