A meeting between Vladimir Golovkov, Minister of External Relations of the Astrakhan Region, and Gadam Ilamanov, Consul of Turkmenistan in Astrakhan, took place in Astrakhan. The parties discussed prospects for further strengthening trade and economic cooperation, as well as interaction in the fields of education and youth policy.

According to Vladimir Golovkov, this year Astrakhan resumed exports of frozen and dried fish to Turkmenistan, which had been temporarily suspended last year. In addition, wheat flour continues to be exported to the Turkmen market — more than 3,000 tons of products were shipped in the first three quarters of 2025.

Special attention during the meeting was given to humanitarian cooperation. Currently, 3,649 Turkmen citizens are studying in educational institutions of the Astrakhan region — 30% more than in the previous academic year. The educational programs cover a wide range of fields, from engineering and maritime studies to pedagogy.

The Consul of Turkmenistan in Astrakhan, Gadam Ilamanov, emphasized the active participation of regional universities in international initiatives. He noted the successful organization of the conference “UN model: Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security, and Sustainable Development,” held at the Caspian Institute of Maritime and River Transport named after Grand Admiral F.M. Apraksin.

The meeting also discussed preparations for the 3rd Astrakhan International Forum “North–South International Transport Corridor: New Horizons,” scheduled for November 26–28. A Turkmen delegation is expected to participate. The forum aims to expand economic relations, develop transport and logistics potential, and strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation among the Caspian region countries.

Both sides confirmed their commitment to further developing a partnership based on long-standing friendly relations and mutual trust between Turkmenistan and the Astrakhan region of the Russian Federation.