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U.N. chief delays travel to try to bring Russia back into grain deal

Antonio Guterres, U.N. Secretary-General

31 October 2022 01:13 (UTC +04:00)

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres voiced deep concern on Sunday over Russia's decision to suspend its participation in a U.N.-brokered deal that had allowed grain shipments from Ukraine, as he delayed a foreign visit to try to revive the agreement that was intended to ease a global food crisis, APA reports citing Reuters.

"The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the ongoing situation regarding the Black Sea Grain Initiative," U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in a statement, adding that Guterres was engaging in "intense contacts" aiming to end the Russian suspension of its participation in the agreement.

Guterres delayed his departure for the Arab League Summit in Algiers for a day to focus on the issue, according to the statement.

More than 9 million tonnes of corn, wheat, sunflower products, barley, rapeseed and soy have been exported under the deal, which was negotiated by Turkiye along with the United Nations.

The Turkish defence ministry said Minister Hulusi Akar was in talks with Russian and Ukrainian counterparts to resume the agreement and had asked the parties involved to avoid any provocation.

NATO said Ukraine's grain exports have helped reduce food prices the world over.

"We call on Russia to reconsider its decision and renew the deal urgently, enabling food to reach those who need it most," NATO spokesperson Oana Lungescu said.