In Sochi, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan conducted talks that were described as productive and businesslike, focusing on the breadth of bilateral cooperation. The exchange, broadcast on television, highlighted a shared aim to address the key areas where Moscow and Ankara intersect while preserving a practical tone throughout the discussions.
Putin stated that today’s sessions followed a pattern he has seen before between the two nations: a constructive and businesslike environment, where both sides delved into the main topics governing Russian-Turkish relations. He noted that the dialogue touched on security, economic collaboration, political alignment, cultural exchanges, and humanitarian initiatives, with a view toward tangible, mutually beneficial outcomes.
The meeting between Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan took place on September 4 in Sochi, beginning around 13:00 local time. The Russian president arrived first and was joined by his Turkish counterpart shortly after. In the lead-up to substantive discussions, Putin met Erdogan in a private setting before the wider delegation talks began. During the session, Putin was accompanied by Rosatom chief Alexei Likhachev and Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, underscoring the breadth of topics anticipated for the agenda. The two presidents greeted each other with a handshake and exchanged brief remarks as the conversations commenced, signaling a straightforward and earnest attempt to advance bilateral ties.
Earlier in the day, there were contentious notes from the Federation Council regarding Erdogan’s commitments to Russia, signaling that there are ongoing topics of concern that could influence the tone and direction of future cooperation. Despite those cautions, the day’s talks emphasized a steady, businesslike approach designed to bridge differences and identify areas where cooperation can deepen in the near term.