Measures taken by Russia to improve agricultural productivity will make the country a leading supplier of organic produce in the Asia-Pacific region, said President Vladimir Putin.

In an article published on the Kremlin website ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit, Putin suggests a common approach is needed to meet Asia’s rapidly growing demand for high-quality and healthy food.

“As a major Eurasian power with vast Far Eastern territories that boast significant potential, Russia has a stake in the successful future of the Asia-Pacific region, and in promoting sustainable and comprehensive growth throughout its entire territory.”

The Russian president said he supports the idea of forming an Asia-Pacific free trade area, saying that over the past five years, the share of APEC economies in Russia’s foreign trade has increased from 23 to 31 percent. Exports were 24 percent. “And we have no intention of stopping there,”said Putin.

“Russia is one of the world’s leaders in exports of grain, vegetable oils, fish, and a number of other foods. We expect to become the leading supplier of ecologically clean food to our neighbors in the Asia-Pacific region.” He added that measures are being taken to increase agricultural output and improve productivity.