Address on Agriculture and Processing Industry Workers’ Day

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends,

Congratulations on Agricultural and Processing Industry Workers' Day.

Your hard and dedicated work on the land, in the fields, and at agricultural enterprises has always commanded special respect and esteem in Russia. It remains a steadfast pillar of our country's sovereignty, ensuring national food security and the wellbeing of millions of people.

In recent years, the achievements of Russia's agro-industrial complex have become a genuine source of national pride as well as an example of dynamic, forward-oriented development and the successful introduction of advanced, cutting-edge technologies.

Last year, Russia harvested record crops of rice and oilseeds, while the grain harvest ranked among the top five in the country's modern history. Livestock and poultry production also reached new highs, laying a solid foundation for continued progress in the current year.

Today, Russia is not only fully self-sufficient in food but also ranks among the world's leading food exporters. Our high-quality products - grain, vegetable oils, fish, confectionery, and many others - are known and appreciated in more than 160 countries around the globe.

Agritourism is also gaining popularity among Russians and foreign visitors alike. It offers guests the opportunity to discover Russia's vast traditions of bread baking, confectionery, dairy production, and winemaking, while deepening their understanding of our regions' history and the diverse cultures of the peoples of Russia.

The growth of production and exports, the upgrading of facilities, and the development of new, promising areas are, above all, the result of the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of those engaged in work in the fields, farmers, scientists, managers, specialists, and veteran workers of the agricultural enterprises.

We are committed to fostering the continued growth of Russia's agricultural sector, enhancing its competitiveness, and ensuring technological independence. We will also encourage domestic research innovations in breeding, genetics, agricultural machinery production, food processing technologies, and the development of new veterinary medicines.

Additionally, the national agro-industrial sector will need to extensively embrace digital technologies, automate production processes, and utilise advantages of artificial intelligence. These measures aim to boost efficiency of the sector and elevate its technological capabilities.

A key priority here is the training of skilled personnel in agriculture and agricultural science, as well as upskilling current professionals with new expertise. In order to achieve this, we will further advance the vocational education system, broaden opportunities for young talent in agriculture, foster career growth, and create modern, well-paid jobs.

Of course, it is essential to enhance the quality of life in rural communities by creating comfortable environment for work and leisure, as well as for educating kids. This also involves efforts to construct and modernise schools, kindergartens, outpatient clinics, medical and obstetrical stations, sports facilities, and community cultural centres, alongside the work to build high-quality housing and roads in rural areas.

Let me stress: these are essential goals for federal, regional, and local government bodies, as well as for businesses. They have a direct effect on the growth of the domestic agricultural sector, and we will work on them together with you.

Once again, friends, congratulations on your professional holiday. May you and your families enjoy success, good health, and happiness.