Vladimir Putin and Gurban Berdymukhammedov exchanged warm congratulations on the coming New Year and wished the peoples of their countries stability, peace, and prosperity.
Both parties expressed confidence that the relationship between Russia and Turkmenistan would strengthen across the full spectrum of cooperation, including energy, a significant part of that partnership.
The Russian leader had previously sent a formal congratulation letter to Acting President of Turkmenistan Gurban Berdymukhammedov.
“Russia has always been a true friend of your country. We are very pleased to see that the people of Turkmenistan demonstrate honor and dignity at this difficult time following the demise of a long-time leader. The current leadership of Turkmenistan undoubtedly deserves credit for that.
“I hope that the constructive and fruitful relationship between our countries, based on equal partnership and mutual trust, will develop further in the coming year 2007, to the benefit of our nations, peace, and stability in Central Asia,” the congratulation letter says.