A consensus on ensuring freedom of navigation in the Black Sea, aimed at safeguarding civilian vessels and port facilities, “will significantly enhance global food security and supply chains,” stated U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, the United States revealed distinct agreements with both Ukraine and Russia to temporarily halt their military actions in the Black Sea and against each other’s energy infrastructure. However, the statements from Moscow and Kyiv indicated that they still have considerable differences.
Dujarric noted that the United Nations has been actively addressing this matter, particularly since U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reached out to the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, and Turkey in February of the previous year to propose a plan for “safe and free navigation in the Black Sea.”
In July 2022, the United Nations, in collaboration with Turkey, facilitated the Black Sea Initiative, which allowed for the secure export of Ukrainian grain. As part of a related three-year memorandum of understanding, U.N. officials committed to assisting Russia in exporting its food and fertilizer to international markets.
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However, Russia exited the Black Sea Initiative in July 2023, citing significant challenges to its food and fertilizer exports.
Rebeca Grynspan, a senior U.N. trade official, has continued to engage with Russia regarding the implementation of the memorandum and recently met with Russian representatives in Moscow on Monday.
“The United Nations remains actively involved in the ongoing execution of the memorandum of understanding,” Dujarric remarked. “The Secretary-General’s good offices are available to facilitate all efforts toward achieving peace.”
