Russia has reiterated its commitment to enhancing Bangladesh's food security and expanding bilateral trade, with a focus on supplying urea fertilizer at a reduced price. This was discussed during a meeting between a Russian delegation, led by Charge d'Affaires Vyacheslav Sentyurin, and Bangladesh's Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir. The meeting reviewed existing friendly relations and explored ways to strengthen economic partnership, particularly in food security, agricultural cooperation, and government-to-government trade.
During the discussions, Russia expressed interest in supplying around 280,000 metric tons of urea fertilizer to the Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) through JSC FEC Prodintorg. The offer includes supplying the fertilizer at US$10 less per metric ton compared to current prices from other exporters, aiming to reduce Bangladesh's import costs and ensure a reliable supply.
The commerce minister appreciated Russia's ongoing support in ensuring Bangladesh's food security through the supply of wheat and Muriate of Potash (MOP) fertilizer. He described Russia as a 'trusted friend' and expressed optimism about the expansion of bilateral trade and economic cooperation. The meeting also covered enhancing cooperation under the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) and Russia's JSC FEC Prodintorg for the supply of essential commodities.
In addition to urea fertilizer, Russia showed willingness to export sunflower oil, yellow peas, chickpeas, red lentils, green lentils, and other essential food items to Bangladesh. Both sides agreed to maintain regular communication to further strengthen bilateral trade, increase investment, and deepen economic partnership. This cooperation is expected to significantly benefit Bangladesh's food security and market stability.
