Azernews.Az

By Gunay Hasanova

Turkey supports the development of mutually beneficial relations with Russia, and is determined in this direction, said Turkish Ambassador to the Russian Federation Huseyn Dirioz during a visit to "Anadolu" office in Moscow, Anadolu News Agency reported.

The relations between Moscow and Ankara periodically have faced undesirable events, but thanks to the position of the leaders of the two countries the crisis period is left behind, according to Dirioz.

“We are satisfied that the period of tension between the two states is left behind. We have taken a great responsibility in this matter. Therefore, we are ready to cooperate closely with the Russian authorities to ensure that the relationships are back to its previous level”, added the diplomat.

Moreover, the ambassador stressed that the abolition of the restrictions imposed by Russia unilaterally in respect of Turkey will also have a positive impact on the cooperation between the two countries.

The diplomat voiced hope for a push on the development of cooperation in tourism sphere in 2017.

Dirioz further drew attention to the opening of the Yunus Emre Center in Moscow, which will contribute to the development of relations between the Turkish and Russian peoples.

Relations between Turkey and Russia broke down for about seven months after Turkey shot down a Russian warplane in November 2015.

However, relations have improved since the August meeting of the two presidents. The August visit of Recep Tayyip Erdogan marked a first since last November when the crisis in relations between the countries started and is also Erdogan’s first foreign visit after a failed coup attempt in Turkey.

The last time the two leaders met on the sidelines of World Energy Congress on October 10 held in Istanbul.

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Gunay Hasanova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @gunhasanova

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