Putin in energy talks with Turkey

Putin's visit is also expected to focus on Turkish support for a Russian natural gas pipeline project that Moscow wants to build ahead of a rival European Union-backed pipeline. Turkish support for the Kremlin-backed project, would ensure both delivery and supplies of Russian gas. That is a promise which the rival EU-backed Nabucco project, which is still searching for gas supplies, has yet to deliver. Ties between Turkey and Russia represent nearly $40 billion in mutual trade, while Moscow supplies Turkey with two thirds of its natural gas.

Analysts say the agreements being signed on Thursday reflect EU-member candidate Turkey's greater political ambitions within the region, expanding beyond its traditional Western allies. The agreement would mark a new victory for Russia in its fight to undermine the construction of the Nabucco pipeline.