Turkish President Erdogan hosts Putin
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Monday held talks in Ankara with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin aimed at boosting trade and strengthening relations, despite sharp differences over the crises in Syria and Ukraine, AFP reported.
Erdogan personally welcomed Putin for the one-day state visit at the gates of his controversial new presidential palace in Ankara and the Russian leader is only the second world dignitary to visit the grandiose complex after Pope Francis on Friday.
Talks were expected to focus on energy cooperation - with Ankara seeking not only a reduction in gas prices from Russia, but also greater import volumes ahead of the winter - as well key diplomatic issues.