Putin, Rouhani praise Erdoğan’s success in snap elections

ANKARA

Russian strongman Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani congratulated Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on his re-election on June 25.

Putin “stressed that the results of the vote fully speak of Erdoğan’s great political authority (and) mass support of the course conducted under his leadership to solve Turkey’s pressing social and economic tasks (and) strengthen the country’s position on the international arena,” the Kremlin said.

Rouhani congratulates Turkish counterpart

In a written statement released on the presidential website, Rouhani wrote: “I congratulate you [Erdoğan] with joy and happiness on your victory and renewed confidence in the presidential election.”

Referring to what he said are strong historic, cultural and religious ties between the two countries, he expressed hopes that friendly relations with Turkey would strengthen.

He added that he prays for the happiness of Turkish people.

Erdoğan secures presidency, AKP fails to grant parliament majority

Initial results from Turkey’s presidential election showed incumbent Erdoğan with a commanding lead, paving the way him to govern under a new constitution which grants the president new powers. His ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) failed to win majority of the 600 parliamentary seats, while the “People’s Alliance,” formed by the AKP and Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), was projected to win 342 seats.

Muharrem İnce, Erdoğan’s main opponent from the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), said he is yet to make a statement on the elections.

İnce said he is set to speak at noon in the Turkish capital.