help Russia in that process, and I believe that the hearings the 

 subcommittee will have this week can provide significant insight 

 into reaching conclusions toward this end. 



Our witnesses include several people who have spent time in 

 Russia and the other Republics of the former Soviet Union. Their 

 comments will be useful as we look at the status of agriculture in 

 Russia and the newly created Republics. The United States must 

 be responsible, as well as responsive, for meeting the needs of the 

 Russian people. 



I am particularly pleased that we'll have the opportunity to 

 speak with a Russian ag producer. I look forward to hearing his 

 perceptions of America's effort to this point. 



Furthermore, it is my hope that the administration's response to 

 the situation in Russia will include agricultural programs, particu- 

 larly, the credit guarantee programs, and commercial sales of bulk 

 commodities and value-added products. Over the past several 

 weeks, I've joined with Congressman Roberts, the ranking minority 

 member of the Agriculture Committee, and others to urge the ad- 

 ministration to resume agricultural sales to Russia. In meetings 

 with Russian officials, they have made clear their preference for 

 agricultural trade with the United States. Mr. Chairman, after 

 these meetings, it's my feeling that Russia has the natural re- 

 sources to be credit- worthy, they are illiquid. The natural and in- 

 dustrial resources of Russia are great, and they have the ability to 

 pay for United States agricultural products over time. 



Other countries are currently pursuing agricultural trade with 

 Russia, under far friendlier terms than are currently being ex- 

 tended by the United States. For example, it is my understanding 

 Canada has bartered wheat for timber and cotton with Russia, and 

 they are considering participating in a three-way sale of wheat for 

 Russian diamonds. Australia sold 1.5 metric tons of wheat to Rus- 

 sia this month for a combination of cash and aluminum. Additional 

 major purchases are currently under negotiation by other coun- 

 tries. 



I fear that if we don't proactively address ways to restart trade 

 with Russia, opportunities for access will be lost. Our farmers need 

 to have this market reopened. Exports, including sales to Russia, 

 are essential to the vitality of American agriculture. The adminis- 

 tration must be innovative in devising a plan to assist Russia and, 

 at the same time, maintain and expand markets for United States 

 agribusinesses. 



Thank you, Mr. Chairman. 



I'd also request unanimous consent that members be allowed to 

 insert their remarks in the record. 



Mr. Penny. Without objection, so ordered. 



[The prepared statement of Ms. McKinney follows:] 



