Quadrilateral negotiations on the safe export of Ukrainian grain from ports blocked by the Russian army have ended in Turkiye. During this meeting, the parties agreed on the creation of a coordination center.
This was stated by Turkish Defense Minister Hulusi Akar, writes Anadolu.
Military delegations of Ukraine, Russia, and Turkiye, as well as representatives of the UN, were present at this meeting.
"As a result of the meeting, which took place in a positive and constructive atmosphere, the main technical issues were agreed, such as the establishment of a coordination center in Istanbul, where representatives of all parties will be present, joint control at the ports of departure and arrival, ensuring the safety of navigation on the departure routes", he noted.
According to him, the delegations of Ukraine and Russia will meet again next week. Akar also expressed hope that the corresponding document will be signed next week.
- Since the beginning of the invasion, Russian troops have been blocking exports from Ukrainian ports, as a result of which products have to be exported by rail and road. Western partners offered to build granaries near the border, negotiate with Russia, but they are not ready for military unblocking of roads. In the meantime, Russia continues to steal Ukrainian grain, exporting it to Crimea, Syria and Turkey, as indicated by numerous journalistic investigations.
- On July 5, Erdogan announced intensified negotiations on unblocking grain exports from Ukraine through the Black Sea. He expects progress within ten days. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba, warned against hoping for a quick solution to the problem, as the negotiations are focused on the routes and safety of ships.