Putin-Erdogan meeting in Sochi ends

Turkey and Russia agreed on the establishment of a weapons-free zone in Idlib.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan have met in the city of Sochi on Monday.

Speaking to the press after the meeting, Putin remarked that they have today tackled the search for a solution in Syria, continuing; “We have reached very important agreements. We have assessed in detail Russia’s concerns and the attack threat of the groups present in Idlib.”

Putin said they have decided on the establishment of a demilitarized zone extending between 15 to 20 kilometers by October 15. According to the Russian President, Al-Nusra and other opposition groups will withdraw from the weapons-free zone together with their heavy weaponry.

Putin argued that Russia and Turkey have confirmed their commitment to fight against terrorism, saying that acceleration of Geneva talks would contribute to peace in Syria.

Turkish President Erdogan stated that a weapons-free zone would be established in Idlib and “opposition will remain in the area where they are stationed".