Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is anticipating discussions with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in September. These talks are expected to occur before the commencement of the high-level week during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly, which is scheduled for September 19. A source within Ankara's political circles shared this information with TASS.
"Erdogan and Putin will convene their meeting prior to the commencement of the General Assembly. The specific date is yet to be confirmed, but it will definitely take place before the UNGA," the source stated. Additionally, the parties aim to engage in a thorough discussion concerning the potential for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Furthermore, the source revealed that Erdogan and Putin will also discuss the original grain agreement and explore potential alternatives for food supply. "Ankara's stance has been reiterated multiple times, with Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently stating in Kiev that the initial grain deal, in terms of delivery routes, remains the most favorable option as opposed to theoretical alternatives. The forthcoming talks between the leaders in Russia will primarily address the reinstatement of the agreement in its original format. However, the possibility of alternative routes for delivering grain to countries in need will also be part of the agenda," the insider shared.
Earlier, a diplomatic source from Turkey informed TASS that Putin and Erdogan were considering a meeting in Sochi, with September 4 being mentioned as a potential date. Although Bloomberg, citing Turkish officials, reported that Erdogan might visit Russia on September 8, there was no official confirmation from the Turkish leader's administration. Omer Celik, spokesperson for Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party, confirmed that the talks would indeed occur in Sochi, but he did not specify a date.
Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov had previously indicated that the meeting between the two leaders was imminent, without providing specific dates.
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Based on materials from TASS