Erdogan Seeks Permanent Safety Mechanism for Black Sea Grain Trade

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has called for a permanent maritime safety mechanism in the Black Sea to prevent a looming grain crisis from escalating. The issue has resurfaced, particularly in Africa, where a food shortage is expected if action isn't taken soon. Erdogan emphasized that the safety of all civilian maritime transportation in the Black Sea is crucial and must be resolved.

Erdogan's comments come after talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Bishkek. Turkey, along with the United Nations, helped mediate the Black Sea Grain Initiative in July 2022, allowing for the safe export of nearly 33 million metric tons of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea.

However, Russia withdrew from the agreement in 2023, citing obstacles to its own food and fertiliser exports. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko stated on Wednesday that Moscow sees no grounds for the Black Sea grain agreement to resume.