EMERSON LAUDS AID PACKAGE TO RUSSIA

WASHINGTON - An agreement to extend a $1.5 billion package of credit guarantees and food assistance for Russia was announced Monday by the Department of Agriculture.

Feed grains, protein meal and wheat are among the commodities to be shipped to the Russians.

U.S. Rep. Bill Emerson, ranking minority member of the Cotton, Rice and Sugar Subcommittee of the House Agriculture Committee, applauded the arrangement.

"Through these programs, we are taking the proper steps in opening these markets now, so that in the long run we will have established an ongoing, profitable trading arrangement with the new governments emerging in Russia," he said.

"Furthermore, increasing markets abroad enhance the economic opportunities of our farmers, ranchers, food producers and folks in other related industries in southern Missouri and throughout America," he said.