Ties with Russia crucial for region: Turkish FM

ANKARA

The Turkish foreign minister on Friday stressed that bilateral ties with Russia were significant for the region’s security and stability.

“The contacts between the two head of states [Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Vladimir Putin] are very important for the security, welfare stability of the region, as well as for the two countries,” Mevlut Cavusoglu said in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan.

Cavusoglu made his remarks following a meeting with Rustam Minnikhanov, the president of Tatarstan, located in the southwest of the Russian Federation.

Earlier, Cavusoglu met Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Sergey Lavrov in Moscow for what he called “fruitful” talks.

Improving bilateral relations, Syria and other regional issues were on the ministers’ agenda, Cavusoglu said.

He also emphasized that Russia is an important partner for Turkey.

Minnikhanov also underlined the importance of Turkey-Russia relations.

“I am glad that the Turkish and Russian leaders have similar perspectives and are strategic partners,” he said.

Minnikhanov also thanked Turkey for investments in Tatarstan.

“I am sure that we will launch scores of joint projects in the upcoming period,” he said.

Reporting by Emre Gurkan Abay and Zuhal Demirci; Writing by Cansu Dikme