First Deputy Prime Minister Viktor Zubkov received Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Gerry Ritz at the latter's request.
The meeting focused on pertinent issues for the two countries' commercial and economic relationship, including on progress in carrying out the decisions made at the latest session of the Russian-Canadian Intergovernmental Economic Commission (IEC), held on June 22 and 23.
Mr Zubkov and Mr Ritz focused on joint initiatives in agriculture, including interregional projects.
Mr Zubkov welcomed the Canadians' enthusiasm for expanding joint efforts to bring advanced Canadian animal husbandry methods to Russia, including genetics and veterinary technology
When discussing the export of Canadian agricultural products to Russia, Mr Zubkov noted the importance of Canadian companies' complying with Russian veterinary standards and requirements. "I am aware of the high level of cooperation between the experts of Rosselkhoznadzor (the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Supervision) and their Canadian counterparts," emphasized Mr Zubkov. "We expect the same level of responsibility from Canadian companies."