In their New Year's greetings to Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, St. Petersburg and Astrakhan Region Governors Alexander Beglov and Igor Babushkin expressed their readiness to implement joint projects and strengthen partnerships between the regions. The texts of the messages were published on the website of the State News Agency of Turkmenistan.

Beglov noted that in the coming year, the parties anticipate "important joint projects that will strengthen and expand existing partnerships and friendly ties." He added that this will contribute to "maintaining an atmosphere of mutual understanding and trust" between Russia's northern capital and Turkmenistan.

In his message, Babushkin emphasized the special status of relations with Turkmenistan. "Turkmenistan is a close friend, good neighbor, and reliable partner of the Astrakhan Region," the message stated.

He noted that over the years of cooperation, thanks to the President of Turkmenistan's attention, many joint socio-economic projects have been implemented. The Governor expressed confidence that in 2026, cooperation between the regions will be just as fruitful and will continue to develop.