ussAgriculture Minister Lal Kantha, expressing gratitude to the Russian Federation, announced the arrival of a consignment of 55,000 metric tons of Potassium Chloride fertilizer at Colombo Harbour yesterday. The shipment, granted as humanitarian aid, will be distributed promptly among Sri Lankan farmers to boost agricultural production.
Speaking at the handover event, Minister Lal Kantha emphasized the significance of the donation in aiding the country’s farmers during a critical time. Over 30,000 metric tons will be allocated to paddy farmers, while the remainder will be distributed to coconut cultivators.
“This fertilizer is an additional support to the fertilizer subsidy provided to farmers, and it comes at a crucial moment to bolster production. The Paddy Marketing Board will purchase a significant portion of the next season’s harvest, and we are preparing warehouse facilities to manage the stocks,” the Minister said.
He acknowledged the lack of government-owned paddy stocks and storage facilities upon assuming office. Plans are underway to use storage facilities from other government institutions and private companies, as well as to collaborate with small and medium-scale mill owners for drying harvested paddy.
Russian Ambassador Levan Dzhagaryan highlighted that this consignment is part of over 260,000 metric tons of fertilizers stranded at Riga port since 2022 due to Western sanctions. He commended the strong bilateral relations between Russia and Sri Lanka and reiterated Moscow’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid to its friends.
The Ambassador also expressed appreciation for the support from the Sri Lankan Government, UN agencies, including UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche, and Uralchem Group of Russia for facilitating this initiative.
This fertilizer grant represents a significant boost for Sri Lankan farmers, ensuring improved agricultural output and strengthening ties between the two nations.
