Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan engaged in discussions on the sidelines of an international forum in Ashgabat, centering on bilateral cooperation and regional developments, including efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting commenced in an expanded format with delegations and emphasized Russian-Turkish relations, particularly in the areas of trade and economic cooperation. The Kremlin reported that major joint projects were a focal point, notably the continued construction of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant. The leaders also exchanged views on Ukraine and addressed various regional and international issues.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later joined the Russian-Turkish talks, further broadening the scope of diplomatic engagement at the forum.
In a separate development, Putin conducted a meeting with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, where he acknowledged the constructive development of relations between Moscow and Tehran. The discussions highlighted the growth in bilateral trade and progress on key joint projects, such as the Bushehr nuclear power plant and the North-South transport corridor. Putin emphasized Russia's ongoing coordination with Iran on crucial international matters, including the Iranian nuclear program, and reiterated support for Tehran at the United Nations. Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Russia's international backing of Iran's political positions and reaffirmed Tehran's commitment to the agreements under the comprehensive strategic partnership signed earlier this year.
Additionally, Putin held talks with Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov following the plenary session of the International Forum 'Peace and Trust: Unity of Goals for a Sustainable Future.' He congratulated Turkmenistan on the 30th anniversary of its permanent neutrality, describing this policy as a stabilizing factor for the region and a foundation for robust bilateral relations. The two leaders underscored the importance of growing economic cooperation and international coordination, agreeing to continue their discussions in the near future.