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In his opening remarks at the session, the President noted that livestock farming is currently a priority in developing the agro-industrial complex. Meat production declined during the 1990s, but thanks to a series of measures taken within the framework of a national project, production indicators for pork and poultry have begun to grow. However, the most part of beef consumed in Russia today is imported. The President stated that Russia must bring its meat production to the level sufficient for ensuring the nation’s food security.

Speaking about Russia’s accession to the WTO and the creation of the  Background information Customs Union between Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan Customs Union, Dmitry Medvedev emphasised that this should not worsen in any way the position of domestic producers. While it is important to accommodate our partner’s interests and to maintain balance in trade, it is more important to support domestic producers and maintain stable, predictable prices on the market.

During the discussion, particular attention was given to measures being taken to preserve the harvest in many regions during a period of drought.

Other speakers at the meeting included Minister of Agriculture Yelena Skrynnik and head of the State Council working group and Governor of Orel Region Alexander Kozlov.

In the Belgorod Region the President visited the production site of the EFKO group of companies, where he learnt about the technology used to produce sunflower oil, mayonnaise, and confectionery products, and found out more about the company’s research activities. Dmitry Medvedev also had a look at the production control centre and the laboratory that works on the nanocrystalline cellulose production technology.

The company’s director, Valery Kustov, drew the President’s attention to the fact that Russia has not yet set any limits for changes made to the chemical formula of oil, whereas such standards already exist abroad. Dmitry Medvedev instructed Minister of Agriculture Yelena Skrynnik to look into the issue of setting such a limit.

Before the [State Council Presidium] meeting, Dmitry Medvedev met with Governor of Belgorod Region Yevgeny Savchenko and discussed matters relating to building single-family housing in the region.