Putin backs Uralchem's request to ask UN to help unblock fertilizers in European ports

MOSCOW. Nov 23 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has backed Uralchem's request to ask the United Nations and the African Union to help unblock fertilizers stranded in European ports.

Uralchem co-owner Dmitry Mazepin put forward the proposal at a meeting with Putin on Wednesday.

"I'd like to raise this question and receive your approval so that we can put forward the initiative and ask the United Nations and the African Union to help us unblock all 260,000 tonnes under the UN aegis. In coordination with the president of the African Union, they will represent the countries that have problems with fertilizer supply. We are ready to carry out these transactions for free," Mazepin said.

Putin supported the proposal.

"You certainly know that we stay in contact with the UN secretary-general, Mr. Guterres, and the respective entities. [...] Hence, this order will be given to all of our colleagues, so that they give you the necessary assistance," he said.

Putin said he had discussed the issue with a number of heads of state.

"The leaders of several African countries have contacted me directly. Indeed, they do not understand what is happening because the need for assistance to the poorest countries is discussed all the time, while these deliveries, even the gratis ones, are being blocked for reasons completely unrelated to food security. This is absolutely unacceptable, but is still happening," Putin said.