Moscow, Russia – In a move aimed at fostering continued collaboration and bolstering trade relations, UN Secretary-General António Guterres dispatched a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, July 11, containing proposals for an extension of the grain deal. The statement, delivered by the representative of the UN Secretary-General, Stephane Dujarric, outlined the key objectives of the proposal, focusing on enhancing the implementation of the existing memorandum of understanding while ensuring the preservation of the Black Sea initiative.
“The Secretary-General sent a letter yesterday to the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, outlining a proposal aimed at improving the implementation of the memorandum of understanding with the need to maintain the Black Sea initiative,” stated Dujarric.
Highlighting the significance of the proposal, Dujarric emphasized the aim to address concerns regarding financial transactions through Rosselkhozbank, a matter of considerable importance to Russia. Additionally, the proposal seeks to facilitate the uninterrupted export of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea, thereby securing vital trade routes and maintaining stability in the region.
Expressing his commitment to advancing the proposal, the UN Secretary-General expressed his readiness for “further interaction on his proposal” with Russia, demonstrating a desire for constructive engagement and collaboration in addressing the complexities surrounding the grain deal.
The grain deal, which has previously undergone multiple extensions, is set to expire on Monday, July 17, prompting efforts from various stakeholders to negotiate its extension. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed on July 12 that Ankara is actively engaged in negotiations to extend the agreement and is carefully examining the proposals put forth by the Russian side.
“Mr. Vladimir Putin also has a number of proposals, we have taken them into account and continue our efforts for negotiations,” Erdogan stated during a press conference following the NATO summit, as reported by RIA News.
However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov cast doubt on the prospects of improving the terms of the grain deal, asserting that the Russian part of the agreement had not been fulfilled in any of its aspects, as quoted by TASS.
Dmitry Peskov, the Press Secretary of the President of Russia, echoed this sentiment on June 21, stating that there were no preconditions for extending the grain deal from Russia’s perspective.
The UN Secretary-General, in earlier remarks made in July, underscored the importance of the grain deal in contributing to a sustained decrease in global food prices. These prices currently stand more than 23% below the peak levels attained in March of the previous year.
As discussions unfold and negotiations continue, the international community awaits the response from President Putin and the Russian government regarding the proposed extension of the grain deal. The outcome of these deliberations will have far-reaching implications for the stability of the grain market, regional trade dynamics, and global food prices.
Amidst a backdrop of economic complexities and geopolitical considerations, the commitment to sustaining productive dialogue and diplomatic engagement is paramount. The successful extension of the grain deal has the potential to reinforce international cooperation, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to global food security, thereby benefiting nations and populations across the world.
