Russia, Türkiye set sights on $100 billion trade, resolve to overcome sanctions

During a meeting in Istanbul, Russian Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matviyenko delivered a personal message from President Vladimir Putin to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The discussions centered on strengthening bilateral ties, addressing international challenges, and advancing trade relations, with both sides committed to achieving a $100 billion trade turnover.

Erdogan welcomed the Federation Council delegation to Türkiye, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

"The Speaker of the Federation Council conveyed a verbal message from Russian President Vladimir Putin to the Turkish leader, addressing issues of bilateral relations and the current international agenda," the statement said.

She informed the Turkish President about the productive meetings held earlier in Ankara with Turkish parliamentarians and the agreement reached on working together to implement the decisions made by the leaders of both countries.

The discussion covered bilateral issues as well as challenges such as sanctions, restrictions, and pressure from certain Western countries. “The presidents have decided to reach a trade turnover of at least $100 billion, while it currently stands at $54 billion per year. If we remove obstacles to cooperation, this goal is achievable and would require only a short time to implement.”

Touching on the issue of the Ukraine conflict, Valentina Matviyenko expressed gratitude to Türkiye’s leadership for its efforts in mediation and for providing a platform for bilateral and multilateral talks. “I once again outlined our stance: without addressing the root causes, it is impossible to resolve the conflict.”

In response, Turkish President Erdogan asked Matviyenko to extend his invitation to Putin to visit Türkiye and referred to the Russian president as a "friend".

Matviyenko is leading a delegation from the Russian Federation Council on an official visit to Türkiye from February 26 to 27.

By Nazrin Sadigova