ANKARA: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said that the revival of the Black Sea grain deal was the focal point of Türkiye’s diplomatic endeavors during the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Diplomatic efforts towards continuation of last year's landmark Black Sea grain deal remained on Türkiye's main agenda on sidelines of the 78th UN General Assembly, says Foreign Minister Hakan Fidanhttps://t.co/euL6flf6BO
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Speaking at a press conference in Türkiye’s southern Mugla province, Fidan highlighted the urgency of resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which he emphasized was crucial not only for the region but for the entire world.
“The war in Ukraine is causing significant harm to the region and the world. Stopping this conflict is our top priority as it has the potential to disrupt trade in the Black Sea region,” stated Fidan, underlining Türkiye’s commitment to efforts aimed at halting the conflict and providing humanitarian aid to the affected areas.
Concern Over Suspension of Black Sea Grain Initiative
Fidan expressed concerns about the suspension of the Black Sea grain initiative, stressing that it not only impacted the region but also had global implications, particularly for Africa. He recalled last year’s successful negotiation led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, brokered by the UN and Türkiye, which significantly lowered global food prices by allowing Ukraine to ship grain via the Black Sea.
However, the deal faced a setback as Russia refused to extend it, citing unmet Western obligations and restrictions on its own food and fertilizer exports. Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s dedication to continuing efforts to reinstate the grain deal, highlighting its importance for global food security.
Addressing the situation in Karabakh, Fidan commended Azerbaijan’s patient approach following the ceasefire agreement in November 2020. He acknowledged Azerbaijan’s efforts to engage in diplomatic discussions in the US, France, Belgium, and Moscow, aiming to resolve sovereignty issues in Karabakh and the Zangezur corridor matter.
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Fidan noted that Azerbaijan prioritized the removal of armed groups in Karabakh, a significant obstacle to sovereignty, and successfully implemented this step. He expressed optimism about the integration of Armenians into normal life under Azerbaijan’s constitutional citizenship, despite acknowledging the challenges of this process.
