Secretary of the Russian Security Council Sergei Shoigu has stated that cooperation between Moscow and Ankara continues to develop successfully across various sectors, emphasizing that the two nations have consistently managed to find mutually acceptable solutions even during challenging periods.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing Turkey’s Anadolu Agency, that Shoigu made these remarks during a meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Moscow.
The Russian official highlighted the collaboration between the two countries in combating international terrorism in Syria as a prime example of their ability to form a common position and identify solutions, even in the most complex geopolitical circumstances.
During the discussions, Shoigu also addressed the situation in Ukraine, noting the ongoing cooperation regarding the return of Turkish vessels from Ukrainian ports, the organization of food supplies, and the facilitation of cargo transportation.
The Secretary of the Russian Security Council drew attention to the draft agreement prepared during the 2022 negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian representatives in Istanbul. According to Shoigu, significant progress had been achieved on certain issues during that stage of the diplomatic process.
Regarding the Black Sea Grain Initiative, Shoigu asserted that both Russia and Turkey had fulfilled their respective obligations. However, he alleged that the United Nations had not fully implemented its commitments within the framework of the agreement.
Context: The relationship between Russia and Turkey remains a critical axis in regional diplomacy, particularly concerning security in the South Caucasus, the Middle East, and the Black Sea region. Despite differing stances on several international conflicts, the two nations maintain high-level communication channels to manage regional stability and economic interests, often acting as mediators in complex geopolitical disputes.
