Summary:
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The UN-mediated agreement was signed in July to allow grain, oil, and other foodstuffs to leave the war-torn country for markets overseas, many of which are in desperate need of food from Europe’s “breadbasket” to stave off the threat of famine.
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A group of people carried out the agreement between Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey called the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC), which meets in Istanbul.
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In response to Russia’s claims that Ukraine attacked its military ships in Crimea, Russia said on Saturday that it was stopping work with Ukraine and would no longer make sure ships could pass safely through the humanitarian corridor in the Black Sea.
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“The pact is set to end this month, and the Secretary-General has been talking about it behind the scenes.
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The contract must be extended about 30% of the world’s wheat and barley exports, a fifth of its maize, and more than half of its sunflower oil come from Russia and Ukraine.
The UN-mediated agreement was signed in July to allow grain, oil, and other foodstuffs to leave the war-torn country for markets overseas, many of which are in desperate need of food from Europe’s “breadbasket” to stave off the threat of famine. A group of people carried out the agreement between Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey called the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC), which meets in Istanbul.
In response to Russia’s claims that Ukraine attacked its military ships in Crimea, Russia said on Saturday that it was stopping work with Ukraine and would no longer make sure ships could pass safely through the humanitarian corridor in the Black Sea.
Diplomatic effort
António Guterres thanked Turkey for its “diplomatic efforts” in a statement by his spokesperson. He also thanked UN Coordinator Amir Abdulla and his staff for their work to keep this critical food supply line open.
In a tweet this morning, Mr. Abdulla said he was excited to “work again with all parties in the Initiative.”
The pact is set to end this month, and the Secretary-General has been talking about it behind the scenes. On Monday, the UN Security Council spoke about Russia’s suspension, and senior UN officials stressed that it had “good effects all over the world.”
According to UN trade and development chief Rebeca Grynspan and relief chief Martin Griffiths, the shipments from Ukraine and Russia under the agreement have lowered grain prices, stabilized markets, and helped feed millions in areas where hunger is increasing; inflation is on the rise.
The contract must be extended
About 30% of the world’s wheat and barley exports, a fifth of its maize, and more than half of its sunflower oil come from Russia and Ukraine.
According to Ms. Griffiths, the initiative makes it clear that all member states must adhere to the requirements for Russian food and fertilizer exports to be accepted on international markets.
The UN head said in a statement that he would keep working “with all parties toward the renewal and full execution of the Initiative, and he also remains dedicated to reducing the remaining barriers to the exports of Russian food and fertilizer.”
Analysis by: Advocacy Unified Network