Talking to journalists, the Russian president recalled the joint project Blue Stream. "Turkey's demand for natural gas is 16 billion cubic metres. How much do you think Russia is supplying?" he inquired. And answered: "It is 16".
"But Turkey's requirements keep increasing", Putin said.
In his opinion, Turkey can be a transit country for others. "It is a very convenient place for the expansion of activities in the international energy arena", the Russian president said.
"The leadership of Turkey is also going to broaden the gas network inside the country", Putin noted. Russia is ready to cooperate with Turkey in that as well, he said.
Vladimir Putin also pointed to the possibility of diversification of tanker pilotage through the Turkish straits. "It is not only the Bosphorus and Dardanelles", Putin noted. "Generally speaking, Turkey is not only a neighbour but also a natural partner in the solution of such questions", the Russian president said in conclusion.
