Türkiye-Russia cooperation deemed mutually beneficial, says Russian Federation Council Chairwoman

Cooperation between Türkiye and Russia continues to yield benefits for both nations, Russian Federation Council Chairwoman Valentina Matviyenko said Thursday during a joint press conference with Turkish Parliament Speaker Numan Kurtulmus.

Strengthening bilateral and regional relations

Matviyenko emphasized that Türkiye and Russia have made progress in strengthening inter-parliamentary dialogue, following an agreement reached during Kurtulmus’ visit to Russia last September.

She noted that bilateral and regional issues were effectively discussed during their latest meeting and that both sides share a mutual interest in elevating relations. “Efforts should be based on principles of mutual interests, respect, and a balance of benefits,” she stated.

Expanding trade and economic collaboration

Matviyenko highlighted the increase in trade volume between the two countries and the expansion of cooperation in multiple sectors.

She pointed to trade agreements allowing transactions in local currencies and the development of alternative payment mechanisms as areas of progress.

She also described the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant project in Türkiye as a “clear example” of commercial and economic cooperation between Türkiye and Russia, emphasizing that collaboration has reached a strategic level in sectors such as energy.

Türkiye’s role in Russia-Ukraine conflict

On Türkiye’s stance regarding the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Matviyenko praised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the government for advocating a peaceful resolution.

“They [Türkiye] are in favor of finding a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis. Serious steps are being taken for this,” she said.

She also referred to the 2022 negotiations held in Istanbul between Russia and Ukraine, claiming that an agreement was close but that Ukraine later stepped back from the deal.

Diplomatic engagements and strategic cooperation

Matviyenko conveyed a message from Russian President Vladimir Putin to President Erdogan, reiterating Putin’s willingness to visit Türkiye and highlighting their strong personal rapport.

She noted that the leaders’ close relationship has significantly contributed to strengthening cooperation in various fields. “It has successfully advanced in multiple areas and has now reached the level of strategic partnership, particularly in energy,” she said.

She also discussed Türkiye-Russia relations under the framework of international sanctions and emphasized the need to remove obstacles preventing further economic cooperation.

Russia’s position on global issues

Addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Matviyenko reiterated Russia’s support for a two-state solution for peace in the Middle East.

On Syria, she acknowledged that the new government in Damascus is facing difficulties but reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Additionally, Matviyenko expressed optimism about renewed diplomatic efforts, including recent meetings between Russian and U.S. officials in Istanbul, which she said could lead to a “return to civilized dialogue.”