Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"During the phone conversation, Vladimir Putin congratulated President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan on his birthday, noting his great personal contribution to the development of Russian-Turkish relations. Some topical topics on the bilateral agenda were touched upon," the Kremlin said in a statement on its website.

Putin's congratulatory telegram was also sent to Erdogan.

"You rightfully enjoy high prestige among your compatriots and abroad. In this difficult time, in such a critical situation, when Turkey is overcoming the tragic consequences of the devastating earthquakes, your best qualities of a statesman and a person, courage, the ability to make balanced and necessary decisions are fully displayed," the telegram, published on the Kremlin website, reads.

"Russia appreciates your personal contribution to strengthening friendly relations and constructive cooperation between our countries," Putin said. "I am confident that we will continue to systematically implement mutually beneficial joint projects and continue to coordinate efforts in addressing important issues on the regional and global agenda.

The Russian president wrote, "I sincerely wish you, dear friend, good health, happiness, well-being and success," Interfax reported.