Russia, Namibia have significant potential for cooperation in agricultural sector - FEDC

MOSCOW. March 16 (Interfax) - Russia's capabilities as one of the world's largest producers of grain and mineral fertilizers create significant opportunities for expanding cooperation with Namibia in the agricultural sector, the press service of Deputy Prime Minister and Presidential Envoy to the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev said following a speech given by the head of the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation (FEDC), Nikolai Zapryagayev, at the Russian-Namibian business forum in Windhoek.

"We see significant potential in cooperation in the agricultural sector. Firstly, Russia is one of the world's largest grain producers. And the actively developing port infrastructure of the Far East and the Arctic is a potential window for supplies to African countries," Zapryagayev was quoted as saying by the press service. "Secondly, with the application of state support measures, private investors are creating new large-scale fertilizer production plants." One such enterprise is the Nakhodka Mineral Fertilizer Plant in Primorye Territory, which is scheduled to reach its design capacity in 2027.

Noting that Russian fertilizers are already reaching Namibian farmers, Zapryagayev said that with the launch of new plants, there will be even more opportunities to supply mineral fertilizers for Namibia's agriculture.

Speaking about the potential for cooperation in the fishing industry, Zapryagayev recalled the historical experience of the Soviet fleet operating off the coast of Namibia, when the annual catch reached impressive levels. "Today, representing the interests of the largest fishing companies of the Far East, which have a modern fleet built at Russian shipyards under investment programs, the corporation is ready to offer partnership at a qualitatively new level," the press service said.

"Namibia has rich marine resources and a strategic location. Russia has the fleet, technology and experience. Together, we could maximize catch levels and expand processing. At the same time, Russian companies strive for responsible fishing, paying close attention to marine ecology and the reproduction of key fish stocks," Zapryagayev said.

The business forum was held as part of the 11th meeting of the Russian-Namibian intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation.