The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 21st Golden Autumn Russian Agricultural Exhibition.
Excerpts from the transcript:
Meeting with Director-General of the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Qu Dongyu
Dmitry Medvedev: Let me extend a warm welcome to you.
This is our
first meeting. I would like to take this opportunity to convey my sincere
congratulations on your election as Director-General of the UN Food and
Agriculture Organisation (FAO). Not so long ago, you received a mandate to
implement your programme of action by gaining a convincing victory in the first
round [of voting]. I would like to tell you at once that the Russian Federation
is ready to assist in implementing your programme with all the capabilities it
has at its disposal. On the other hand, we regard FAO as a key multilateral
organisation in the area of world agricultural production.
And, of
course, we share your organisation’s strategic goals such as fighting against
hunger and providing people with high-quality and affordable food as well as
sufficient and balanced nutrition. We are developing our agricultural sector to
achieve these aims as well.
I cordially
welcome you and thank you for accepting the invitation to attend our grand
annual Golden Autumn exhibition.
Qu Dongyu (via interpreter): First of all, Mr Prime Minister, let me express my respect for the Russian leaders. Today, Russia has two famous leaders – you and Vladimir Putin. You are quite popular in China. As a Chinese citizen, I greatly appreciate your support. Among other things, your country supported me and enabled me to win this convincing victory in the first round. This would not have been possible without the Russian Government’s support, and for this reason I greatly appreciate your help.
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