The revival of the Black Sea grain initiative is expected to be a key focus during potential face-to-face discussions in August between Presidents of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russia Vladimir Putin. A diplomatic source from the region revealed this to TASS, highlighting that Ankara anticipates reaching pertinent agreements. Failing to do so could lead to further escalation in global grain prices.
"Clearly, a key focal point during the potential visit of the Russian president [to Turkey] will be the revival of the grain agreement. Advancements in this sphere would mitigate the risk of continued escalation in grain prices following the halt in the execution of the Istanbul accords. The prevailing circumstances impact nations that are most reliant on agricultural products, and resolving this concern should run parallel to addressing the stipulations Russia presents to the deal's participants," stated the source to the agency.
However, he refrained from disclosing the specific propositions under discussion between the Turkish side and representatives from the UN, Russia and Ukraine regarding the potential renewal of the agreement. He believed that a positive resolution to this matter would enhance the influence of both Ankara and Moscow across Africa and Asia.
Previously, Erdogan highlighted that grain prices had surged by 15% within the two weeks following the suspension of the grain deal. Conversely, during its active implementation, prices had experienced a 23% decline.
On August 2, the presidents of Russia and Turkey engaged in a phone conversation during which they agreed to prepare for a potential meeting. Putin underscored that Russia is committed to collaborating with Turkey and other concerned nations to devise strategies for providing grain to countries in need. Erdogan, on his part, assured that Ankara would persist in its active endeavors and employ diplomatic channels to extend the Black Sea initiative.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS