Dmitry Medvedev and Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov mulled over the recent developments in Russia and also discussed preparations for Medvedev’s visit to the Turkmen capital, Ashkhabad, early in July.

Medvedev: Dear Gurbanguly Myalikkulievich, I am very glad that we meet again in St. Petersburg this time. Lately we have had many contacts. And I think today we will discuss the major milestones in our co-operation – such as the increase in trade volume and a number of new projects. And we could discuss things in detail during my official visit to Ashkhabad at the beginning of July. We could continue today’s discussion then.

Berdymukhamedov: Thank you, Dmitry Anatolievich. First of all, allow me to congratulate you once again with such a great beginning in the post of the President of the Russian Federation and wish you all the best, success and prosperity. Also I would like to congratulate you on the coming holiday – Russia Day and wish all the best.

Medvedev: Thank you.

Berdymukhamedov: I would like to point out that we see growth in the relations between Russia and Turkmenistan, and also that these relations are very good and constructive. And I would say that in the last year we have seen some very positive results. And again our governmental coalition played a major part. I mean the area of economy and trade, as well as the social sphere. We have signed some very good documents on the state and government level. If we look at specific sectors – the trade and economy volume has grown. This may not seem as something big to you – but in 2006 it was 3.5 BLN, and in 2007 – it reached 5 BLN.

Medvedev: This is good growth rate.

Berdymukhamedov: We have many areas of co-operation to develop, including transport communication. We are also working on urban development issues. A lot is being done in the social area. I would also like to thank you for accepting our invitation. Turkmen people are looking forward to greeting such a distinguished guest. And I think we will work on many co-operation documents at that time.

I would also like to emphasise that in the social, humanitarian sphere, in the area of education there is a lot I want to discuss. We have plans to open a branch of Gubkin’s Oil and Gas University.

Medvedev: Yes.

Berdymukhamedov: So that we can work together. Turkmenistan has always thought of Russia as a great country and it is the main strategic partner for Turkmenistan today.

Medvedev: Thank you.