Talks are expected between Putin and Erdogan amid tensions over the grain deal in the Black Sea

Baku/25.08.23/Turan: Russian President Vladimir Putin is poised to engage in direct talks with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in the coming days, the Kremlin announced on Friday, as Ankara seeks to convince Moscow to reinstate the Black Sea grain deal.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the forthcoming tête-à-tête meeting between the leaders. Responding to questions regarding Erdogan's invitation to Putin for discussions on the grain deal and other pertinent matters, Peskov emphasized, "There is an understanding that this meeting will take place in the near future."

"We usually coordinate announcements of such visits with our partner countries. We will divulge the specifics of the timing and location in the imminent future. The meeting is in the process of meticulous preparation," Peskov elaborated.

Earlier, Russia's state agency RIA disclosed that Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan is expected to embark on a visit to Russia, although specifics remain undisclosed at this juncture. The unfolding diplomatic efforts reflect the gravity of the situation as both nations seek to find common ground amidst concerns over the Black Sea grain deal and wider regional dynamics.

As part of joint efforts mediated by Turkey and the United Nations in July 2022 to address the global food crisis, an agreement was struck enabling the shipment of grain from Ukraine's Black Sea ports. The aim was to alleviate mounting concerns about food shortages.

Regrettably, Moscow withdrew from the accord last month, citing its dissatisfaction with the non-implementation of a related agreement aimed at facilitating Russian grain and fertilizer exports. The forthcoming talks bear the weight of pivotal diplomatic negotiations as both countries strive to navigate their differences and chart a path forward amid intricate regional considerations.