Russia will supply grain to Jordan to make up for the shortfall that resulted from a grain export ban imposed last year as a result of a severe drought in the country, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said on Thursday.
“I want to assure you that we’ll do our best to remedy the situation on the grain market to make up for the deliveries in coming years and restore the country’s image as a reliable partner,” Putin said at a meeting with King of Jordan Abdullah II.
A prolonged heat-wave and drought in summer 2010 cut Russia’s grain production by 36% and forced the government to ban wheat, barley, rye, corn and flour exports for the first time in the post-Soviet period. The embargo was initially in force until December 2010, but was later extended to June 30, 2011.
The Russian authorities are considering extending the ban until the end of this year.
In turn, Abdullah II said Jordan was ready to cooperate with Russia in many spheres, from tourism to nuclear power.
“For Russian business, there are many areas for mutual cooperation: nuclear power engineering, various infrastructure projects,” Abdullah II said.
NOVO-OGARYOVO, April 7 (RIA Novosti)