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The presidents discussed in detail issues of countering the spread of the coronavirus, expressing willingness to build up cooperation in this area, in part, in the context of supplies and potential joint production of the Russian Sputnik V vaccine.

President Erdogan spoke about the anti-epidemiological measures taken by the Turkish authorities. One priority is to ensure the safety of foreign tourists. The presidents agreed to maintain close contacts between the relevant agencies, in part, in order to protect the health of Russian tourists in Turkey.

They continued exchanging views on a number of urgent international issues.

Discussing the situation in Libya, the two leaders were pleased to note the observance of a ceasefire by the sides and the successful formation of transitional government bodies. They reaffirmed their reciprocal desire to facilitate the peace process and the restoration of national unity.

Discussing the situation in Syria, the presidents emphasised the important role of Russia and Turkey in stabilising the situation and facilitating inter-Syrian talks. They noted the topicality of joint efforts to counter terrorism, particularly in Idlib Province, in line with the provisions of the 2018 Sochi Memorandum and the relevant Additional Protocol of March 5, 2020.

At President Erdogan’s request, Vladimir Putin described Russia’s approaches to resolving the domestic crisis in Ukraine. President Putin emphasised that the 2015 Minsk Package of Measures has no alternative as a foundation for a settlement. He expressed concern that Ukraine is dodging the implementation of the Minsk agreements and has recently resumed dangerous provocations on the contact line.

The conversation touched upon issues regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement. President Erdogan highly praised Russia’s efforts to promote stabilisation there and to ensure step-by-step implementation of the trilateral agreements of November 9, 2020, and January 11, 2021. Vladimir Putin told his Turkish counterpart about the results of his recent contacts with the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan. Both leaders emphasised the need to restore the transport infrastructure in the South Caucasus.

In the context of Turkey’s plans to build the Istanbul Canal, the Russian President noted the importance of preserving the 1936 Montreux Convention Regarding the Regime of the Straits with a view to ensuring regional stability and security.

The leaders intend to continue their productive dialogue in diverse formats.