Turkey’s top cleric receives Russia's grand mufti

By Jeyhun Aliyev

ANKARA (AA) - The head of Turkey’s religious authority met with Russia's grand mufti in the capital Ankara, officials said Wednesday.

Ali Erbas, the head of the Religious Affairs Directorate (Diyanet), expressed his happiness at meeting with Ravil Gaynutdin, head of the Russian Muftis Council, adding that the directorate always supports Russian Muslims with religious education and delivery of religious services, said a statement by the directorate.

Underlining close ties between Ankara and Moscow, Erbas said: "We need more than ever to develop unity, togetherness, and brotherhood."

He also added that the directorate is ready to help with this.

Gaynutdin, for his part, thanked Turkey and the directorate for their contributions to Muslims in Russia.

"Our regards, tribute, and prayers go to the Turkish nation, Turkey, and to our friend President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who helps us so much," he added.