A meeting of Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan took place recently in Moscow, where they discussed the Syrian conflict and a number of issues of bilateral cooperation.
"They expressed their viewpoints. But there are still differences in approaches. Both sides are deeply concerned about the situation in Syria. Unfortunately, the current state of things is far from being able to enter the path of normalization. On the contrary, the situation is worsening," the press secretary of the Russian president Dmitry Peskov said.
He noted that the heads of state discussed the gas issue. "The agenda was extensive. The situation is slowing down due to the parliamentary elections in Turkey on November 1st," Peskov said.
According to him, work is continuing, we have a common understanding. "This is rather complicated and complex work,’’ RIA Novosti cites the press service of the Kremlin.
At yesterday's meeting, Erdogan said that Turkey expects to achieve a level of trade with Russia amounting to $100 billion. "As you know, our goal is to reach the level of $100 billion. We have set such an aim by 2023," he said, noting that despite the difficulties in the global economy, the bilateral trade is characterized by positive trends. According to him, relations between the two countries have reached a very good level. Erdogan also thanked Putin for his personal contribution to the matter of the construction of the Moscow Cathedral Mosque.
Vladimir Putin said in his turn that Moscow is highly satisfied with the development of relations with Turkey. President also thanked Erdogan for attending the opening ceremony of the Moscow Cathedral Mosque and Turkey’s assistance in its construction.
In an interview with Vestnik Kavkaza Turkish political analyst Talat Cetin noted that it will be difficult for Turkey and Russia to achieve a trade turnover of $100 billion under the current conditions. ‘‘The currency rate in Russia, as well as the war in Syria can change this figure a little. It wouldn’t be difficult to reach the amount of $100 billion if it weren't for these events."
