Lavrov: Russia engaged in preserving historical memory of Turkic peoples

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has highlighted Türkiye’s significance as an independent player in Eurasia and a partner for Russia in several strategic initiatives, in an interview with Turkish media published on January 29.

Lavrov stressed that, like any major country, Türkiye pursues its national interests while drawing on the historical memory of its people and the Ottoman Empire, Caliber.Az reports via the press service of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“We understand this,” he said, adding that Russia also participates in preserving the historical memory of Turkic peoples, using it to strengthen neighbourly relations.

The Russian minister outlined ongoing cooperation in the South Caucasus, particularly the “3+3” format, which includes Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, and three neighbouring states – Russia, Türkiye, and Iran.

“Two ministerial meetings have already taken place. A third is being prepared. Our Georgian neighbours have so far refrained from participating, but we constantly emphasise that the door is open for them. My colleague H. Fidan is actively supporting the third ministerial session. Its location is still being determined, and we hope clarity will emerge soon,” Lavrov said.

Lavrov also highlighted material cooperation in areas such as nuclear energy and hydrocarbons, including the Turkish Stream and Southern Stream pipelines.

He noted that Turkish Stream, alongside the Caspian Pipeline Consortium infrastructure, had repeatedly been targeted by Ukrainian provocations, which were successfully thwarted. He added that energy cooperation holds good prospects, alongside trade, and praised the quality of Türkiye’s agricultural products.

The “3+3” platform, proposed by Türkiye in 2020 with Russian backing, aims to foster regional cooperation by bringing together Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia with Russia, Türkiye, and Iran. It seeks to enhance dialogue on transport, trade, energy, and security while addressing regional challenges without external interference.

So far, Georgia has opted out due to lingering tensions with Russia following the 2008 conflict. The remaining five countries support continued engagement within the initiative.

By Aghakazim Guliyev