CKE Restaurants Inc. on Wednesday said a franchisee will open 50 new Carl’s Jr. hamburger restaurants in Russia over the next eight years, with the first one expected to debut in early 2006.

Carpinteria-based CKE, which also operates the Hardee’s hamburger chain and La Salsa Fresh Mexican Grill restaurants, said Carl’s Jr. signed a franchising and development agreement with Bright Star LLC, a Russian food company.

CKE said the expansion into Russia was based on the country’s growing economic capability and its acceptance of Western goods and services.

“The Russian Federation is a dynamic, emerging market with a strong appetite for western food. Our premium burgers will be a perfect fit,” said Ned Lyerly, CKE Restaurants vice president, international.

As of the first quarter ended May 23, CKE had 3,165 franchised or company-owned restaurants in 44 states and in 12 countries, including 204 Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s restaurants outside the U.S.