Putin Commends Erdogan on Election Victory, Supporting Independent Foreign Policy

Russian President Vladimir Putin extended his congratulations to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his successful presidential election, emphasizing that the Turkish people’s endorsement of Erdogan’s “independent foreign policy” was evident. The Kremlin conveyed Putin’s message, stating that Erdogan’s victory was a testament to his unwavering dedication as the leader of Turkey and their support for efforts to strengthen national sovereignty and pursue an autonomous foreign agenda.

Putin also expressed high regard for Erdogan’s personal contributions to nurturing friendly relations between Russia and Turkey, fostering mutually beneficial cooperation across various domains.

Despite differing geopolitical interests and varying levels of friction with the West, Putin and Erdogan have cultivated a close relationship over the years. As authoritarian leaders with long tenures, they have found common ground and fostered cooperation in multiple areas.

The development of their strong rapport can be attributed to shared leadership styles characterized by centralized power, media control, and crackdowns on political opposition. Additionally, both leaders have faced criticism and political pressure from Western countries concerning their foreign policies, fostering a sense of solidarity and prompting closer ties to counter Western influence while asserting their own geopolitical interests.

Strategic convergence between Russia and Turkey is evident, particularly in energy and defense cooperation. Russia serves as a significant energy supplier to Turkey, fostering economic interdependence and strengthening bilateral ties. Furthermore, the two nations have collaborated in defense, with Turkey acquiring advanced military equipment from Russia, such as the controversial S-400 missile defense system, despite objections from NATO and the US. These collaborations have not only enhanced their economic and military capabilities but also deepened their diplomatic relationship.