Russia hopes for steady development of relations with Turkey - Putin

SOCHI, May 3. /TASS/. Gradual restoration of the internal political situation in Turkey will create conditions for the steady development of relations with Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin said as he opened talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday. "We proceed from the understanding that the internal political situation will be eventually restored and this will create extra conditions for the steady development of Russian-Turkish relations," Putin said. Putin congratulated Erdogan once again upon the outcome of Turkey’s recent referendum that considerably expanded presidential powers. Putin said "many things we are doing together are of fundamental nature and require discussion in parliament." On April 16 Turkey held a referendum on amendments to the Constitution that introduced presidential rule. The changes were supported by 51.4% of the population. Although the supporters of amendments achieved victory by a very narrow margin, Erdogan has gained a far firmer foothold in Turkish politics. It is widely expected that on May 21 he will take the post of the ruling party’s leader. Read more