BUENOS AIRES, June 9 (Xinhua) -- Controversial hikes in Argentina's grain export taxes, which have caused months of protests by farmers, would be used to fund social programs, President Christian Fernandez said Monday.

    She said the hikes would fund a national plan to build hospitals, houses and roads. It is the first time she has elaborated on how the extra revenue will be spent.

    "I ask that all Argentines commit themselves to the fight against poverty and the redistribution of wealth," Fernandez said.

    Argentina's farm union leaders urged their members on Sunday to end their strike against the tax increases and restart dialogue with the government.

    The farmers have withheld grain from the market in protest against the hikes, and Fernandez has refused to negotiate with them as long as they continue striking.

    Earlier on Monday, the Argentine government refused to attend a meeting called by the national ombudsman with leaders of the four main rural groups, saying no mediators are needed.

    The government, faced with soaring domestic and international food prices, raised soybean export taxes from 35 percent to 45 percent at current prices.

    Farmers opposed the tax jump and launched a three-month protest, complaining that the measure has boosted their costs and is pushing them out of business.

    Argentina is one of the biggest food producers in the world and is a leading soybean oil exporter. Agricultural products account for about half of the country's total exports, with a value of 55 billion U.S. dollars.