20 Mar 2023 15:58

Putin: Russia to supply grain to Africa free of charge if it decides not to extend Istanbul deal

MOSCOW. March 20 (Interfax) - Russia will be ready to supply grain free of charge to African countries in need in the amount equal to previous grain exports to these states under the Black Sea Grain Initiative if Moscow decides not to prolong this deal after the 60-day period expires, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

"If we make a decision not to extend this deal after the 60-day period expires, we will be ready to supply this entire volume previously sent to African countries with the largest needs to these countries from Russia free of charge," Putin said at the Russia-Africa parliamentary conference.