Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a congratulatory telegram to Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his re-election as President of Turkey. The text of the document is posted on the Kremlin website on Sunday.
"Dear Mr. Erdogan, dear friend, please accept my sincere congratulations on your re-election as President. The victory in the election was the logical outcome of your dedicated work as leader of the Republic of Turkey, a clear demonstration of the Turkish people's support for your efforts to consolidate state sovereignty and pursue an independent foreign policy," the Russian head of state said.
Putin assured that the Russian authorities highly appreciate Erdogan's personal contribution "to strengthening the friendly Russian-Turkish relations and mutually beneficial cooperation in various areas." "I would like to affirm our readiness to continue our constructive dialogue on topical issues of the bilateral, regional and international agenda. We attach great importance to the consistent implementation of planned joint projects, especially construction of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant and the creation of a gas hub in Turkey," he added.
In conclusion the Russian President expressed his warm wishes to his colleague. "From the bottom of my heart, I wish you new successes in such responsible activities as the head of state, as well as good health and well-being," he concluded.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan is leading in the second round of elections with 51.97% of the votes after processing almost 99.9% of ballots, while opposition candidate Kemal Kilicdaroglu is getting 48.03% of the votes.
Presidents' communication
Erdogan is one of Putin's most frequent interlocutors among the world leaders. This year alone, according to the Kremlin, they have held six such calls. The topics of developing bilateral trade and economic ties, the situation in Ukraine, the prospects for a Syrian settlement, and the situation with the grain deal were among the most frequently discussed.
The last face-to-face talks between the leaders took place in October last year on the margins of the Astana summits, and the presidents last spoke via videoconference a month ago - on April 27 - during the nuclear fuel delivery ceremony at the Akkuyu nuclear power plant.
Speaking last year at a plenary session of the Valdai International Discussion Club, Putin described Erdogan as a strong leader and a complex, but consistent and reliable partner who is guided by the interests of his country and does not allow anyone to "walk him over". He explained that many decisions "are born in long and difficult disputes and negotiations, but there is an aspiration of both sides to reach these agreements." Most importantly, the president added, if Moscow and Ankara "agree on something, then we can be sure that it will be done."
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS