UGA commented on the ceasefire negotiations in the Black Sea

The Ukrainian Grain Association commented on the negotiations to ensure free navigation in the Black Sea.

According to the statement, the UGA welcomed the agreement between Ukraine and the United States to ensure free commercial navigation in the Black Sea.

“From the very beginning of the full-scale invasion, the UGA called on the world community to restore free navigation in the international waters of the Black Sea to provide stable food supplies to countries in need,” the message says.

The work of the Ukrainian sea corridor has significantly improved the situation with food trade from Ukrainian ports, in particular grain. The restoration of free navigation in the international waters of the Black Sea will reduce risks for shipowners, and thus reduce costs for freight and insurance of vessels and cargo.

Reducing costs for export logistics will allow Ukrainian producers to have a better price for their products, and consumers around the world will have the opportunity to purchase affordable grain, the UGA noted.

At the same time, the association warns against rash decisions and the introduction of any mechanisms that would hinder or slow down navigation in the Black Sea.

“The introduction of unnecessary mechanisms that complicate navigation will not only nullify the principle of free navigation, but will also lead to the destabilization of world food security and will once again turn food into a weapon,” the UGA emphasized.

Read also: Truce in the Black Sea: how Ukraine, the US and Russia are negotiating a ceasefire (updated)