ISTANBUL, Aug 31 (Reuters) – Turkey has formulated a strategy aimed at ensuring the secure transport of grain shipments through the Black Sea, maintaining active communication with both Russia and Ukraine, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan announced on Monday.
Ankara has consistently signaled its readiness to resurrect the United Nations-brokered arrangement that previously facilitated the export of Ukrainian grain during the ongoing conflict.
“We have developed a comprehensive plan and are engaged in discussions with both parties concerning its implementation,” Fidan stated during a press conference held in Istanbul. “Should the appropriate circumstances materialize, we are particularly focused on securing a new agreement mirroring the framework of the original grain deal.”
Turkey and the United Nations played pivotal roles in mediating the Black Sea Grain Initiative, established in July 2022, which enabled the safe passage of approximately 33 million metric tons of Ukrainian grain across the Black Sea despite wartime conditions.
Moscow withdrew from the accord in 2023, citing significant impediments to its own food and fertilizer export operations.
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