Erdoğan, Medvedev discuss economic relations by phone

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Putin’s Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov said the two prime ministers primarily discussed trade and economic relations during the phone conversation, which was also deemed to be in preparation for Medvedev’s visit to Turkey at the start of May. Diplomats and ministers of the two countries will meet in early May to discuss bilateral relations and conclude a strategic partnership deal. The most important article of the deal is believed to be the reciprocal elimination of visa requirements between the two countries. Nearly 3 million Russian tourists are expected to visit Turkey this year.

During Erdoğan’s visit to Moscow in January, officials pledged to reach $100 billion in trade between the two countries. The Turkish side believes the goal is not unattainable if Medvedev’s visit to Turkey is successful and if opportunities are created in the automotive, food, textile and construction sectors. Energy is undoubtedly one of the most important segments of relations between the two countries. The agreement to construct a nuclear reactor in Akkuyu, Mersin province, is also expected to be signed during the Russian president’s visit.