As the Black Sea grain deal is set to expire on Saturday, Türkiye said on Tuesday that talks on its extension are still underway.
Turkish National Defense Minister Hulusi Akar and the relevant authorities continue to negotiate and coordinate to carry on with the grain deal’s activities and extend it in accordance with the agreement, with demands of the parties taken into account, the National Defense Ministry said in a statement.
“In these talks, the parties are reminded of the importance of continuing this initiative, which has a positive impact on humanity around the world and proves that all crises can be resolved with goodwill and dialogue,” it read.
24 million tons of grains exported so far
The statement noted that the Black Sea grain deal had allowed the export of 24 million tons of grains, adding that Türkiye will continue to do its part in ensuring peace in the region and humanitarian aid.
It also said, “The steps taken by the parties to extend the initiative are appreciated.”
The statement came a day after Russia said it backs a 60-day extension to the historic deal that Türkiye signed with the UN, Russia, and Ukraine in Istanbul last July to resume grain exports from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports paused after the Russia-Ukraine war began in February 2022.
However, Ukraine said Russia’s position to extend the deal “only for 60 days contradicts the document.”
The deal was extended for 120 days in November 2022.