"The protocol, signed in Moscow on behalf of the United States by Ambassador Alexander Vershbow, is the culmination of more than three weeks of intensive negotiations between U.S. and Russian officials following Russia's decision to halt U.S. poultry imports effective March 10. Under the terms of the protocol, the Russian ban will be lifted by April 10.

"The agreement reached in Moscow establishes a framework for closer cooperation and communication between U.S. and Russian officials, and provides for improved certification and testing procedures.

"A team of Russian veterinarians will arrive in the United States today to learn more about the U.S. food safety system, which meets the highest safety standards for consumers around the world. We look forward to continued cooperation with Russia on this and other trade matters."