Minister of Rural Development Sándor Fazekas met with his Russian colleague Nyikolaj Fjodorov and discussed the options for further developing relations between the two countries. In 2011 Hungary’s food export to the Russian Federation reached 256 million forints, 16% higher than in the previous year, while exports further augmented by 6% during the first seven months of 2012, compared to the same period of 2011.

Minister Fazekas emphasised that Russia is a strategic partner of Hungary and the field of livestock breeding, plant and seed production, university student exchanges and rural tourism prove to be exceptional opportunities for cooperation. He also highlighted that at this year’s Golden Autumn agricultural exhibition in October, 40 Hungarian vendors will be present.

Minister Fazekas stated that Hungary has a strong tradition in sweet water fish breeding and rural tourism, which play a key role in improving the quality of life in the countryside and increasing the level of employment. The ministers proposed further bilateral discussions to map the possibilities of cooperation in these fields.

Following the meeting Minister Fazekas handed Minister Fjodorov an official invitation to next year’s National Agriculture and Food Exhibition (OMÉK) in Hungary, where the Russian Federation will be the honorary guest.

(Prime Minister’s Office)