Russia's Astrakhan, Turkmenistan boost trade, education, and transport cooperation

A meeting between Vladimir Golovkov, Minister of External Relations of Russia’s Astrakhan Region, and Gadam Ilamanov, Consul of Turkmenistan in Astrakhan, has taken place to discuss new steps toward strengthening trade, education, and youth cooperation.

Golovkov noted that Astrakhan has resumed exports of frozen and dried fish to Turkmenistan this year after a temporary pause, while wheat flour exports remain steady, with more than 3,000 tons shipped in the first nine months of 2025, The Caspian Post reports via Turkmen media.

The discussion also highlighted growing humanitarian ties - currently, 3,649 Turkmen students are studying in Astrakhan’s universities, a 30 per cent increase compared to last year. These programs cover fields ranging from engineering and maritime studies to pedagogy.

Ilamanov praised the active role of regional universities in international initiatives, including the successful hosting of the “UN Model: Group of Friends of Neutrality for Peace, Security, and Sustainable Development” conference at the Caspian Institute of Maritime and River Transport.

The meeting also focused on preparations for the upcoming 3rd Astrakhan International Forum “North-South International Transport Corridor: New Horizons,” scheduled for November 26-28, where a Turkmen delegation is expected to take part.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening cooperation, emphasizing the long-standing friendship and mutual trust between Turkmenistan and the Astrakhan region.