Putin and Erdogan discussed Russia-US dialogue and the "Black Sea Initiative"

The presidents of Russia and Turkey, Vladimir Putin and Recep Tayyip Erdogan, held a telephone conversation. This was reported by the Kremlin press service.

"The Russian president shared the results of the dialogue with the US regarding the peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and the normalization of Russia-America relations. The constructive nature of communications at high and other levels was emphasized," the statement said.

The presidents specifically discussed the results of consultations recently held in Riyadh by expert groups from both countries and the agreement reached to cease strikes on Russian and Ukrainian energy facilities for 30 days starting from March 18.

"At the same time, Vladimir Putin drew attention to the ongoing provocative attempts by the Kyiv regime to attack Russian energy infrastructure," the statement noted.

"Additionally, issues regarding the restoration of the 'Black Sea Initiative,' which was initially established in July 2022 with the mediation of Turkey and the UN Secretariat but has not been implemented in practice, were discussed, particularly concerning the removal of obstacles to safe maritime navigation and the export of Russian food and fertilizers," the report emphasized.

It was noted that Erdogan expressed support for the Russia-US dialogue and readiness to assist in promoting the 'Black Sea Agreement' from the Turkish side.

During the conversation, the presidents reviewed pressing issues for further developing mutually beneficial Russia-Turkey cooperation, including advancing strategic projects in various fields, particularly in energy.

"It was noted with satisfaction that bilateral relations are developing at a positive pace, and the volume of mutual trade is increasing," the statement concluded.