Russia, Turkey may discuss grain exports after April 16

MOSCOW, Apr 4 (PRIME) -- Russia is likely to hold negotiations on grain exports to Turkey after April 16, Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich told reporters on Tuesday.

“The date has not been scheduled yet. But they have a referendum on the 16th, and it is difficult to negotiate the matter now. So I think that the negotiations will be held after the date,” he said, adding that the talks will be held in Russia, but possibly not in Moscow.

From March 15, Turkish authorities changed the rules of imports of some types of agricultural products for processing in the country, including wheat and sunflower oil. Russia was not listed as a country that has a right for duty-free supplies. The Russian Agriculture Ministry said the decision may lead to full suspension of exports of wheat, corn, beans and rice to Turkey and a redirection of these supplies to other markets.

On April 1, Dvorkovich said Russia received a letter from Turkey with a suggestion to meet and discuss the grain dispute.

End