Russia ready to provide Africa with free agricultural products from its stockpile if Istanbul grain deal fails - Medvedev

MOSCOW. Nov 3 (Interfax) - The Russian side has reaffirmed its readiness to deliver agricultural products to Africa gratis in case of a failure of the Istanbul grain deal.

The issue was discussed at a meeting between Russian Security Council deputy chairman Dmitry Medvedev and South Africa's Deputy President David Mabuza in Moscow on Thursday, the United Russia party, which is chaired by Medvedev, stated on Thursday.

"Medvedev explained in detail the steps Moscow is taking, including strict adherence to the Istanbul package agreements to export Ukrainian grain and advance Russian foodstuffs and fertilizers to world markets. At the same time, Russia confirmed its readiness, in the event of unforeseen circumstances, to provide African partners with a part of the agricultural products it has free of charge," the statement said.

Mabuza in turn thanked Russia "for the steps undertaken to minimize provoked threats of famine."

Medvedev also informed Mabuza of Moscow's decision to name a square in the Russian capital after South Africa's first president Nelson Mandela.