ST PETERSBURG, 25 June (BelTA) – Sales of fertilizers on the international market were discussed among other things as Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko met with President of Russia Vladimir Putin on 25 June, BelTA has learned.
The Russian head of state said he intended to inform his Belarusian counterpart about progress and results of a recent discussion at a BRICS forum: “Many of the speakers expressed concerns due to disrupted deliveries of food and fertilizers, rising food prices on world markets. Since Belarus and Russia are major suppliers on the international market, I would like to talk to you to discuss the satisfaction of the world market's demand and demand of our constant clients.”
It is universally acknowledged that Belarus and Russia occupy a significant share of the world market. Their share reaches 25% in some kinds of fertilizers. “It is a very significant volume on world markets. Lower use of fertilizers certainly worsens prospects of next year's harvest. It is all very sad,” Vladimir Putin remarked. “You and I agreed we would do everything we could in order to satisfy the demand of our consumers and our clients.”
In his words, the Russian side keeps in touch with the relevant agencies of the United Nations Organization in matters concerning food security. “I'd like to also inform you how this work progresses,” the Russian president said.
“But we have no problems with sales of either grain or fertilizers on the market. There is no need to blame us for it,” Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed.
Vladimir Putin went on saying: “It is true. It is just what I wanted to talk about. Many partners of ours would like us to increase deliveries. We just have to discuss details relating to logistics. Russia sold over 40 million tonnes of cereals on world markets last year. During this agricultural year, before the next summer we will probably be able to export over 50 million tonnes. I know that Belarus is increasing production. Under your leadership Belarusian agriculture develops very confidently, successfully. As for fertilizers, we have to join efforts in order to help our traditional partners get what they need.”
The two leaders are also expected to discuss the ensuring of security in the region and the world as a whole. “There are a lot of issues. I will inform you about all these problems, with regard to problems in Donbass,” Vladimir Putin remarked.
“Certainly, matters concerning the construction of the Union State of Belarus and Russia remain on our radar,” he continued. “The relevant government agencies have reconciled virtually everything. We have to proceed with the realization of identified goals now. On the whole, we have quite a long list of matters we have to discuss.”
