Putin hails closer economic ties with Turkey

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Squandering more of his influence, I guess.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Monday that his historic two-day visit to Turkey had strengthened economic and political ties between the two countries, and underscored their joint efforts to combat terrorism.

Putin, the first Russian head of state to visit Turkey in 32 years, told reporters after talks with his Turkish counterpart Ahmet Necdet Sezer, that flourishing commercial ties had resulted in the two countries' leaders forging a closer political relationship.

"The intense activities of businessmen from both sides and the millions of Russian tourists holidaying in Turkey impel the political leaders of both countries to further develop and strengthen ties," he said.

"Today, we have succeeded in accelerating bilateral ties."

Daily Star