Lead

Russian Ambassador to Turkey Sergey Vershinin has said that Western sanctions against Russia are illegal and have a negative impact on the global economy, while also expressing satisfaction with the current state of trade and economic relations between Russia and Turkey. In an interview with the Haberturk television channel, Vershinin detailed the bilateral trade volume and outlined the strategic goals and upcoming diplomatic engagements between the two countries.

Coverage Comparison

The reports from TASS — English, based on the ambassador's interview, emphasize both the criticism of Western sanctions and the positive trajectory of Russia-Turkey trade relations. One report focuses on the ambassador's statement that the sanctions are illegal and detrimental, while the other highlights the successful development of economic ties and the ambitious target for increased trade. Both accounts draw on direct quotes from Vershinin, presenting his remarks without additional commentary.

Key Claims

  • Vershinin stated that Russia is pleased with the successful development of trade and economic relations with Turkey, noting that the current volume of bilateral trade is approximately $50 billion annually. He described this as not the limit of what can be achieved.
  • The ambassador affirmed that Moscow and Ankara have repeatedly stated a strategic goal to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion per year, a target set by the two countries' presidents.
  • Regarding sanctions, Vershinin said, "We hold a principled stance regarding these sanctions - they are illegal. The imposition of sanctions by a group of countries or individual states violates international law." He added that sanctions "will never contribute to the development of bilateral trade and economic relations, and they have a negative impact on the overall global economic situation."
  • Vershinin announced that the intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation, co-chaired by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak and Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat, is scheduled to meet in Turkey in November. He expressed expectation that the meeting would produce important decisions to boost comprehensive trade and economic relations, including in the tourism sector.
  • The ambassador also mentioned that approximately seven million Russians visit Turkey each year.
Note: All claims are attributed to statements made by Sergey Vershinin in his interview with Haberturk, as reported by TASS — English.