Russia has rejected recent media reports in Bangladesh alleging irregularities in government-to-government wheat imports from Russia and raising questions over major bilateral energy projects, terming the claims “biased and unsubstantiated.”

In a statement issued by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Dhaka, the embassy said that all wheat procurement between the governments of Bangladesh and Russia is conducted transparently and in line with international trade standards through designated state entities.

It said government-to-government agreements leave no scope for unauthorised third parties or intermediaries to influence pricing, as the execution of contracts remains under the direct supervision of the respective government authorities.

The embassy also rejected allegations that Russia has supplied substandard or compromised grain to Bangladesh.

“Consequently, assertions regarding the supply of substandard or compromised grain are entirely without foundation,” it said.

According to the embassy, all agricultural commodities exported from Russia undergo quality control in accordance with international phytosanitary standards and technical requirements set by Bangladesh.

It said wheat consignments are discharged only after being certified by competent Russian state inspection bodies and subsequently undergoing physical and laboratory testing by Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Food and port authorities upon arrival at Chattogram port.

The embassy also dismissed allegations concerning the origin of Russian grain shipments, describing them as “completely unfounded” and part of what it called a “politically motivated narrative.”

It said Russia exports grain sourced exclusively from its legitimate domestic agricultural sector and operates in accordance with international law.

On energy cooperation, the embassy said major projects between the two countries remain important symbols of their strategic partnership.

It said the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is being implemented by Russia’s state atomic energy corporation Rosatom and its associated contractors in accordance with international technological, financial and safety standards.

The embassy said the project leaves no room for unauthorised external involvement or financial irregularities.

It also highlighted the role of Gazprom EP International in Bangladesh’s energy sector, saying the company has supported the country’s domestic energy production since 2012.

According to the statement, Gazprom has completed more than 20 gas wells through drilling operations, including important fields in Bhola, contributing to increased domestic gas production and helping meet the country’s industrial and electricity demand.

The Russian embassy said Moscow continues to regard Bangladesh as a “vital, trusted strategic partner” and remains committed to supplying agricultural products and providing energy expertise to the country on what it described as equitable terms.

Against the backdrop of global economic adjustments and concerns over energy security, Russia would continue to ensure reliable supplies of agricultural products and energy cooperation with Bangladesh, it said.

The embassy urged Bangladeshi media outlets to exercise professional diligence and rely on verified facts when reporting on bilateral issues, saying this would help protect the long-standing friendly and commercial relations between the two countries.