Speaking in his own name and on behalf of the entire Turkish people, President Erdogan expressed his sincere sympathy and solidarity with the Russian President and people in connection with this act of international terrorism on Russian soil. He also spoke in favour of the resolution, passed by the UN Security Council, on the hostage taking in North Ossetia.
The Russian leader thanked Mr Erdogan and the Turkish people for their condolences and support.
Earlier today President Putin also held a telephone conversation with his Turkish counterpart Ahmet Necdet Sezer.