The “Grain Initiative” should be continued – the President of the European Council
16.11.2022 - 10:45
One of the global consequences of russia’s war against Ukraine was the aggravation of the food crisis.
In order to solve the world food crisis, it is necessary to extend the Black Sea Grain Agreement. This was stated by the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, during a press conference within the framework of the G20 meeting.
“Before the war, Ukraine exported 45 million tons of agricultural products to the world market. Thanks to the EU’s “solidarity corridors”, we helped Ukraine export 15 million tons, and in addition another 10 million tons were exported thanks to the Black Sea Grain Initiative. It is important that this initiative of UN Secretary-General Guterres be continued,” said Michel.
The President of the European Council noted that russia’s war “against everyone” has led to many problems for the most vulnerable countries in Asia, Africa and the Middle East — they are suffering from a food crisis and rising energy prices. Around the world, the number of people on the brink of starvation is increasing.
“The Kremlin has decided to turn food into a weapon, provoking global consequences — hunger, poverty and instability, including here in Asia. I repeat once again: the sanctions that the EU adopted against russia are not aimed at agricultural and food products. They are not directed against the export of fertilizers from russia. On the other hand, russia imposed restrictions on the export of its own food. Even before starting the war, it was they who introduced restrictions on the export of fertilizers,” Michel emphasized.
Read also: Russia must stop using food as weapon – Borell
So far, EU countries have mobilized financial assistance of 8 billion euros to reduce the food security crisis in developing countries. The Union is also making efforts to reduce world prices for fertilizers.
“The only and best way to end the ongoing food and energy crisis is to end Russia’s senseless war and its respect for the UN Charter,” Michel added.
