Kremlin announced on Wednesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will hold an extended meeting during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Speaking at a press briefing in Astana, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov outlined the agenda, which includes discussions on Ukraine, Syria, and bilateral relations between Russia and Türkiye.

"The bilateral meeting will be quite long, lasting at least an hour. All issues of mutual interest will be discussed, with a focus on bilateral relations. Naturally, the presidents will also address the situations in Syria and Ukraine," Peskov stated.

Regarding the impact of Western sanctions on Russian-Turkish relations, Peskov acknowledged challenges but emphasized the political determination of both countries to resolve them.

"In any extensive working relationship, various problems inevitably arise. This is an absolutely normal process. However, there is a political will to address them, and the necessary level of bilateral relations and trade and economic cooperation is present," Peskov emphasized.

Peskov mentioned that although the date for Putin's visit to Türkiye has not been set, it may be discussed during Wednesday's meeting.

"The topic of President Putin's visit to Türkiye remains on the agenda and will occur when possible. Today will be a good opportunity to discuss the prospects of such a trip," he added.

The meeting is planned in a delegation format, with the possibility of a one-on-one discussion if needed. Peskov also praised Türkiye's efforts to normalize relations with Syria, noting Russia's support for this process.

"We welcome contacts with neighboring states that will enable this process to develop successfully," Peskov remarked.

Addressing the possibility of informal meetings on the sidelines of the SCO summit, Peskov mentioned that while there is no scheduled event, Putin may have informal discussions with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who are also attending the summit.

Finally, Peskov dismissed media reports alleging secret talks between Putin and US presidential nominee Donald Trump on Ukraine, affirming that Putin is regularly briefed on all developments, including recent incidents involving Ukrainian actions against Russian territory.

Putin's participation in the SCO summit underscores Russia's active diplomatic engagement amid ongoing regional and global challenges. (ILKHA)