In a resolute show of support, China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, Geng Shuang, voiced his endorsement for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ endeavors to hasten the resumption of grain and fertilizer exports from Russia and Ukraine. These exports hold vital significance in stabilizing global food prices, maintaining food security, and ensuring improved food supply for vulnerable countries.
China Emphasizes the Importance of Black Sea Grain Initiative
China, during the UN Security Council Briefing on Ukraine, emphasized the critical role played by the Black Sea Grain Initiative and the memorandum of understanding on Russian food and fertilizer exports. According to Geng Shuang, these agreements play a pivotal role in stabilizing global food prices and ensuring food security worldwide, especially for the most vulnerable nations. The Chinese representative stressed the urgent need for the international community to rally behind this initiative and act decisively to enhance dialogue and consultations among the concerned parties. He reiterated the significance of early resumption of Russian and Ukrainian grain and fertilizer exports for global food stability.
Urgent Call for Resumption of Package Agreement
With a sense of urgency, Geng Shuang called on the international community to intensify efforts to facilitate the early resumption of exports of Russian and Ukrainian grain and fertilizer. During the briefing, he urged all involved parties to engage in constructive dialogue and address each other’s concerns promptly. The Chinese representative underscored that the opportunity for a package agreement to be reinstated still exists and should not be squandered. Highlighting the critical importance of global food security, Geng Shuang pressed for swift action and cooperation among nations to ensure the smooth flow of grain and fertilizer exports between Russia and Ukraine, benefiting nations in need.
Guterres’ Call to Russia for Safe Black Sea Export
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, on Monday, called on Russia to adhere to the deal and enable the safe export of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea. Guterres presented his proposal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging Russia to resume the agreement. However, a week ago, Russia withdrew from the deal, citing unmet demands to improve its food and fertilizer exports and concerns about insufficient grain delivery to the poorest countries under the Black Sea deal. The Secretary-General’s call adds weight to the international community’s efforts in securing a swift resolution and renewed exports between Russia and Ukraine.
