Turkey, Russia talk trade amid virus

Turkey and Russia on Friday sought new ways to facilitate trade and enhance cooperation on energy amid the pandemic.

Turkey's Trade Minister Ruhsar Pekcan held a video conference with Russia's Energy Minister Alexander Novak, according to an official statement.

During the meeting, issues related to the energy sector, which are an integral part of the Turkish-Russian economic relations were discussed.

Steps to be taken in order to put the first phase of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant Project into operation in 2023 were evaluated by the two sides.

Similarly, views were exchanged on trade of agricultural products and the removal of trade barriers.

Pekcan stressed the quota of tomato imports from Turkey should be lifted as it is contrary to the spirit of cooperation.

She also urged that Turkish companies on the waiting list for exporting animal products to Russia should be given a green light.

The Turkish minister also called for trade in local currencies between the two countries.

In 2015, in the wake of a crisis over a downed jet, Russia limited fruit and vegetable exports from Turkey, but since 2017, the exports' value has been climbing.