Alexander Krivenko, Russia's Consul General in Istanbul, said bilateral trade between Türkiye and Russia stood at $15.4 billion in 2005 and is on track to reach $18 billion by the end of 2006.
Krivenko made the remarks during a visit to Kocaeli Governor Erdal Ata in the northwestern industrial city. The two officials held talks on commercial ties between the two countries.
Krivenko highlighted Kocaeli's role as a significant trade hub, noting the importance of its seaport for international shipping, and expressed hope that Russian firms would establish a presence there.
Governor Ata described Russia as Türkiye's largest economic partner, citing deep historical connections and the countries' geographic proximity. He pointed to rapid growth in economic ties over the past 15 years and called for continued strengthening of both political and commercial relations.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in September 2006, in its own words.