At his Friday meeting with the Russian president, Governor of the Krasnodar Territory Alexander Tkachev asked for the government's support in regulating grain prices, and also in leasing and provision of combustive-lubricating materials.
In reply, Mr. Putin promised to discuss these issues with Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov, and suggested that Mr. Tkachev speak to the agriculture minister.
Vladimir Putin said it was inadmissible to let grain prices fluctuate.
"We should avoid fluctuations in grain prices," said the Russian president.
Moreover, the head of state called for creating grain reserves.
Mr. Tkachev said winter was soft this year. "We have high enough expectations in terms of winter crop harvest. Hopefully, the harvest will be large enough to change the situation on the market, particularly in pricing terms," said the governor.
