Viktor Zubkov and CME Group CEO Craig S. Donohue discussed the state of the Russian agricultural produce market and possible cooperation options in promoting new economic instruments making it possible to determine price parameters and delivery times, including the creation of futures trade mechanisms.

"Russia needs to form cost-effective agricultural produce price indicators. The Government constantly oversees agricultural exchange trade," the First Deputy Prime Minister noted.

Mr Zubkov and Mr Donohue discussed the issue of drafting common agricultural exchange trade regulations in Russia and the possibility of utilising CME Group experience in expanding the stock market infrastructure, including the clearing system, loan mechanisms, new exchange products and data networks.

Mr Zubkov expressed hope that the latest meeting was a step toward expanded cooperation between US and Russian exchanges. Specific mechanisms of such cooperation will be clarified after bilateral consultations involving specialised agencies and investors.

CME Group Chairman Emeritus Leo Melamed and top managers of leading Russian exchanges, including the RTS Stock Exchange, the St Petersburg International Commodity Exchange and the Moscow Inter-Bank Currency Exchange, attended the meeting.

CME Group Inc. is the world's largest futures exchange. It ranks among the most diversified commodity exchanges in the world, providing services to investors trading in currency and commodity markets.