On Monday, Russian President, Vladimir Putin met his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Sochi. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, as well as various international issues of mutual concern.
Speaking at a joint press conference following the meeting, Erdogan said, “I discussed with Putin the situations in the Caucasus, Libya, and Africa. Ankara is prepared to mediate regarding Ukraine.”
Erdogan emphasized the dire need to reach a comprehensive settlement in Libya, asserting, “We must prevent its collapse.”
Echoing Erdogan’s sentiments, Putin confirmed that their talks included discussions on potential pathways to resolve the ongoing Libyan crisis.
The meeting underscores the active roles both nations are taking in the quest for peace and stability in conflict-ridden regions.
According to AP, Putin said that a landmark deal allowing Ukraine to export grain safely through the Black Sea amid the war won’t be restored. This is until the West meets Moscow’s demands on its agricultural exports.
Ukraine and its Western allies have dismissed the Kremlin’s demands as a ploy to advance its interests.
Still, Putin’s remarks dashed hopes that his talks with Erdogan could revive an agreement seen as vital for global food supplies, especially in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Russia refused to extend the deal in July, complaining that a parallel agreement promising to remove obstacles to Russian exports of food and fertilizer hadn’t been honoured. It said restrictions on shipping and insurance hampered its agricultural trade, though it has shipped record amounts of wheat since last year.
Putin reiterated those complaints Monday, while also telling reporters that if those commitments were honoured, Russia could return to the deal “within days.”
Erdogan also expressed hope that a breakthrough could come soon. He said Turkey and the UN, which both brokered the original deal — have put together a new package of proposals to clear the issue.