Ukraine called on the World Trade Organization to facilitate the restoration of shipping in the Black Sea

Ukraine has called on the World Trade Organization (WTO) to restore the safety of civil shipping in the Black Sea and guarantee global food security.

This was stated by the Permanent Representative of Ukraine to International Organizations in Geneva, Yevheniy Tsymbalyuk, during a meeting on Friday with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Ukrinform reports.

“The global system of civil shipping security is facing serious challenges today, whether around the Strait of Hormuz or in the Black Sea. Russian attacks on Ukrainian port infrastructure and foreign civilian vessels transporting Ukrainian agricultural products have recently intensified significantly,” he said.

Tsymbalyuk noted that Russia continues to use food as a weapon and a means of pressure on the international community.

“Despite this, Ukraine intends to continue to ensure exports through ports that remain open, as well as using the “Solidarity Routes.” The new Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine is taking decisive steps to this end. But the government’s efforts urgently need the support of the international community and interaction with key participants in international trade, including the WTO, to counter the existing threats,” the representative of Ukraine emphasized.

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He added that free and safe civilian shipping in the Black Sea is a key prerequisite for ensuring global food security and the proper functioning of the world trading system. And Russian attacks on civilian ships and port infrastructure must be stopped immediately.

In turn, the WTO Director-General expressed support for Ukraine, which “continues to contribute to food security under extremely difficult conditions.” According to her, uninterrupted exports of Ukrainian products will be crucial for ensuring global food security and maintaining the stability of product prices on world markets.

Okonjo-Iweala also noted that the WTO will remain an active participant in international interaction in formats aimed at ensuring shipping safety, food security, and trade facilitation.