Turkey expects to know on Monday if has waiver for Iran sanctions

Turkish Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan said on Saturday that Turkey has received initial indications that it will be among eight countries to be granted a waiver from U.S. sanctions against Iran, but is awaiting clarification on Monday.

NATO member Turkey depends heavily on imports to meet its energy needs and neighbouring Iran has been one of its main sources of oil because of its proximity, the quality of its crude and favourable price differentials.

"Initial information coming in is that Turkey will be amongst eight exempt countries. But we don't know for sure yet. It will be clear on Monday," Pekcan told reporters in Ankara.