Mr Putin emphasised that Russia and Turkey were close, long-time neighbours. They are tied by centuries long political and trade bonds, as well as "the very destinies of our nations that are closely interrelated," said the president.
"We remember the tragic events of our common history, as well as our successes and mutual support," said Mr Putin.
The Russian leader noted the Turkish nation's successes in "the modernisation of the country and advancing daring initiatives and break-through solutions."
Turkey regards Russia as an important country and attaches great significance to friendship with it, Mr Sezer said at the reception in Ankara on Sunday night.
"We regard Russia as a member of the civilisation that has contributed to mankind's development virtually in all the spheres," said the Turkish president.
Mr Sezer emphasised that Turkey believes Pushkin, Tolstoi and Rachmaninov and many other representatives of that civilisation were a universal value that enriched the whole world, including Turkey.
Mr Sezer noted the growing importance of the Eurasian continent where the two countries had coexisted. He was positive "promoting peace, security, stability and economic development in this region of the world will bring mutual benefits and common responsibilities to Russia and Turkey."
Mr Sezer emphasised that bilateral relations had been developing rapidly in all spheres since the 1990s. Today, Russia is Turkey's second largest economic partner, while Turkey is a major economic partner to Russia, according to the Turkish leader.
The main events on Mr Putin's visit agenda will take place on Monday.
