Turkey prepares plan to restore safe grain exports via the Black Sea

Turkey has prepared a plan to ensure the safe passage of grain vessels through the Black Sea and is in talks with Ukraine and Russia on its implementation, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said.

According to Fidan, Ankara is maintaining contacts with both sides and working toward a possible new agreement similar to the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Implementation of the plan will depend on whether the necessary conditions for reaching an agreement emerge.

Turkey has repeatedly expressed its willingness to help restore a mechanism for the safe export of agricultural products through the Black Sea. Ankara, together with the United Nations, mediated the previous grain deal reached in July 2022.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative enabled the safe export of nearly 33 mln tons of grain and other agricultural products from Ukrainian ports during the war. Russia withdrew from the agreement in July 2023, bringing the initiative to an end.

The new Turkish initiative is aimed at restoring safe navigation and more stable grain shipments through the Black Sea. However, Fidan did not provide details of the proposed plan or indicate a possible timeline for reaching an agreement between the parties.

Tags: Ukraine, Turkey, export, grain, Black Sea