As the Ashgabat correspondent of Turkmenistan.ru reports with reference to the press service of the head of state, the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, congratulated Turkmen President Saparmurat Niyazov on the 15th anniversary of state independence of Turkmenistan marked on October 27.

"Last years signify progressive development of mutually beneficial Russian-Turkmen cooperation based on the strong traditions of friendship and respect of each other's interests," the message of the Russian President says.

Vladimir Putin stressed "great positive experience" of cooperation between the two countries within the framework of CIS, UN and other international organizations.

"I am confident that neighborly relations between Russia and Turkmenistan will be further strengthened to the benefit of our states and in the interests of stability and security in the Central Asian region," Vladimir Putin emphasized in his message.

The Russian President wished Saparmurat Niyazov good health and successes as well as peace and prosperity to the people of Turkmenistan.