Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Barack Obama may have finally hit a common chord following concerns over Syria. The recent Paris terror attacks have emphasised to world leaders at the G20 summit the urgent need to address the ongoing war, including the rise of the Islamic State.

Obama and Putin appeared willing to put aside their differences as they met over coffee and talked for more than 30 minutes in Turkey on Sunday. The two presidents, along with two associates, were seen huddled in a corner over a coffee table during the summit.


"President Obama and President Putin agreed on the need for a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition, which would be proceeded by UN-mediated negotiations between the Syrian opposition and regime as well a ceasefire," NBC quoted a White House official.

"As the diplomacy continues, President Obama welcomed efforts by all nations to confront the terrorist group (ISIS) and noted the importance of Russia's military efforts in Syria focusing on the group."

The meeting also reportedly explored two sensitive topics: Ukraine and the Islamic State. Regarding Ukraine, President Obama expressed his support for the Minsk agreements' full implementation. These include removing foreign fighters, releasing hostages, withdrawing heavy weapons and returning the Ukrainian side of the international border to Government of Ukraine control. The U.S. president also expressed his deep condolences on the Metro Jet crash.

"Strategic objectives relating to the fight against the Islamic State are, in principle, very similar, but there are differences on the tactics side," Russian media quoted top Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov.

Obama and Putin also agreed on establishing United Nation talks and ceasefire. Both world leaders expressed their support for a political solution over Syria's problems, according to Sky News. Nonetheless, the Kremlin did claim that despite the common goal, there are still "divergences" on strategies.

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