Putin: “We See Turkey as a Trusted and Proven Partner”

Kokcha News Agency – Speaking at the 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, China, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of Turkey as a strategic partner during his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Putin stated, “We see Turkey as a trusted and proven partner both in bilateral relations and on the international stage. I am confident that Turkey’s special role in these matters, particularly in Russia-Ukraine negotiations, will continue to be in demand.”

Putin highlighted the positive dynamics in trade and economic cooperation between the two countries, noting that trade volume increased by 6.6% last year and by nearly 3% in the first half of this year. He pointed out that large-scale investments are being made mutually, with Russian companies leading major projects in Turkey’s metallurgy and automotive sectors, while Turkish companies are actively involved in Russia’s machinery, metallurgy, and wood processing industries.

The Russian leader also underscored the strategic partnership in the energy sector, stating, “Russia is one of Turkey’s most important natural gas suppliers. Currently, uninterrupted exports are being carried out through the Blue Stream and TurkStream pipelines across the Black Sea.”

Putin mentioned the ongoing construction of Turkey’s first nuclear power plant, Akkuyu, by Russia’s Rosatom, with preparations underway to soon launch the plant’s first power unit.

In addition, Putin praised Turkey’s hospitality towards Russian tourists, noting that over 6.7 million Russian citizens visited Turkey last year, a 6.3% increase from the previous year. He credited President Erdoğan for creating a welcoming and safe environment for Russian visitors.

On the international front, Putin expressed gratitude for Turkey’s efforts in mediating the Ukraine crisis, stating, “Since May of this year, three rounds of direct Russia-Ukraine negotiations have been held in Istanbul, leading to progress in resolving a number of practical humanitarian issues. I am confident that Turkey’s special role in these matters will continue to be sought after.”

Putin also highlighted the deep, concrete, and beneficial cooperation between Russia and Turkey in regions of mutual interest, including the Middle East, North Africa, and the South Caucasus.