Merkel discussed with Erdogan the situation in Afghanistan

"We exchanged views on our negotiations with the Taliban * and, perhaps, we will continue to conduct these negotiations together," RIA Novosti quoted her as saying at a press conference in Istanbul.

Merkel noted that foreign countries must guarantee the provision of humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and prevent a humanitarian crisis in the country this coming winter.

Earlier, the German Chancellor said that there was no talk of recognizing the government formed by the Taliban.

* "Taliban" - the organization was recognized as terrorist by the decision of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation dated 02.14.2003