© Agenzia Nova – Reproduction reserved
Russia is “puzzled” by Turkey’s military-technical cooperation with Ukraine, given that Ankara wants to mediate in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, the Russian Foreign Minister said. Sergey Lavrov, interviewed by the Turkish newspaper “Hurriyet”. “Unfortunately, Ankara continues to cooperate with the Kiev regime in the military-technical sphere. Turkish weapons are used by the Ukrainian Armed Forces to kill Russian military personnel and civilians. This fact is perplexing, given the statements of the Turkish leadership about the readiness to provide mediation services,” the Russian minister said. Lavrov added that Russia appreciates Turkey’s efforts to help resolve the Ukrainian crisis. “It was the Turkish side that in the spring of 2022 provided a platform in Istanbul for consultations with Kiev representatives, contributed to the conclusion of the grain agreement,” Lavrov recalled.
Turkey could make a significant contribution to the development of BRICS, according to Lavrov. “We welcome Turkey’s interest in rapprochement with BRICS,” the minister said, reiterating that the work of the group, not being directed against third countries, is based on respect for the UN Charter and pragmatism. “I am sure that Turkey is capable of making a significant contribution to the further development of BRICS. The decision on the parameters of Turkey’s participation in the group will be made on the basis of consensus and in accordance with the sovereign choice of all BRICS countries and Turkey itself,” he added.
The United States is trying to impede bilateral trade between Russia and Turkey, the Russian Foreign Minister said. According to the minister, the prospects for cooperation between Moscow and Ankara depend on “mutually acceptable solutions” that need to be found “as soon as possible.” Lavrov reiterated that Russia is successfully resisting the pressure of sanctions and continues its economic development. Also, speaking about cooperation between Moscow and Ankara, Lavrov noted that the joint construction of the Sinop nuclear power plant in Turkey would benefit both countries. “The Turkish authorities need to decide how, on what basis and with what assistance the Sinop nuclear power plant construction project will be implemented. If it is possible to agree on the parameters of Russia’s participation, then, in our opinion, both sides will benefit,” the head of Russian diplomacy said.
Read also other news on Nova News
Click here and receive updates on WhatsApp
Follow us on the social channels of Nova News on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, Telegram
© Agenzia Nova – Reproduction reserved
