The African Union welcomed the agreement signed by Russia and Ukraine on Friday that will allow Ukrainian freighters to once again transport grain across the Black Sea. The African continent is very dependent on Russia and Ukraine for food security, which is collectively referred to as the breadbasket of Europe.
The agreement allows the two countries to guarantee the export of grain from Ukrainian ports via the Black Sea despite their war. Together, the two countries produce about 30 percent of global wheat exports.
In a press release, the Union speaks of “a welcome development” for Africa. Partly as a result of the war in Ukraine, the continent is at an increased risk of a food crisis.
Chad’s government declared a state of emergency in early June. The African country decided to do this because it was unable to import enough wheat due to the war between Russia and Ukraine.
African Union President Macky Sall previously spoke with President Vladimir Putin and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky about the impending food shortage and the resumption of grain exports. He also underlined the importance of protecting the food supply in Brussels.
The UN plans to establish a coordination center in Istanbul. There, UN officials, along with envoys from Ukraine, Russia and host country Turkey, will monitor grain exports in the Black Sea and inspect the cargoes of the affected ships.
In the statement on the grain deal, the Union also calls for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. The Organization of African Countries also reiterates its call on Moscow and Kiev to start peace negotiations under the auspices of the UN.
Source: NU
John Cameron is a journalist at The Nation View specializing in world news and current events, particularly in international politics and diplomacy. With expertise in international relations, he covers a range of topics including conflicts, politics and economic trends.
