Fidan urges Russia and Ukraine to exempt energy and grain

Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said that if the war between Russia and Ukraine continues, the parties should exempt energy and grain from the conflict. He also called for an immediate ceasefire and safe navigation in the Black Sea.

Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan called on Moscow and Kyiv at a press conference in Istanbul following a meeting of the foreign ministers of four regional countries and their European counterparts to keep energy infrastructure and grain exports out of the conflict if the fighting cannot be halted.

“Either the war will end, or, if it does not, the parties must make an exception for energy and grain. As you know, Türkiye made this possible two and a half years ago,” Fidan said. He added that while the two countries are fighting in an effort to destroy each other, international markets and other countries should not suffer the same consequences.

Grain and the Black Sea

Fidan said the main issue now is how to bring grain held in Ukraine and Russia to global markets, adding that relevant proposals are being discussed with interested parties. He said participants in the meeting expected an immediate ceasefire and a peace agreement based on it. “I hope a ceasefire and peace will come as soon as possible and that this problem will be resolved at its root,” the minister added.

If a ceasefire cannot be reached, the safety and freedom of navigation in the Black Sea must be ensured as quickly as possible, Fidan stressed.

Türkiye’s foreign minister also said that military intervention against Iran “is in no way a solution” and called for the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened as soon as possible. Türkiye, Egypt, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, along with the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Italy, took part in the meeting in Istanbul.

Have a story, event or announcement of your own?Send us your news on WhatsApp

Spotted an error in this story?Report it on WhatsApp

Share on all social platforms