February 5., V.L. Vasiliev, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and other UN Agencies in Rome, in the videoconference format deposited with FAO Director General Qu Dongyu (PRC) the instrument of ratification by Russia of the Agreement on Port State Measures on 2009 prevention, deterrence and elimination of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Thus, the process of our country's accession to this important international treaty has been completed.

This step demonstrates Russia's commitment to the conservation and sustainable development of fish resources in the interests of ensuring nutritious and healthy nutrition, food security, economic growth and social welfare of the population, as well as preserving biodiversity.

During the conversation that followed, the Russian side and the Organization among other topical issues of cooperation discussed preparations for the UN Summit on Food Systems in 2021, the FAO Conference, our country's financial support for the activities of the Organization, including the implementation of joint projects in developing countries. Also the parties dwelled on Russia's upcoming chairmanship in the Arctic Council and implementation FAO Director General “Hand in Hand” initiative.