US Ambassador: I am confident that Turkey will continue to play a critical role in food security

US Ambassador Jeff Flake made a written statement on the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Ambassador Flake; Stating that with the agreement between Turkey, Ukraine, Russia and the United Nations (UN), some of the people in delicate situations on land have access to food, he said: “Since the departure of the first ship on August 1, 2022 , Hundreds of Ships have passed through the corridor and approximately 33 million tons of Ukrainian grain and food have been delivered to global markets. 65 percent of these agricultural products went to developing countries, supporting global food security and stability. The success of the Black Sea Grains Initiative, in addition to Turkey’s critical role in developments in the world; It also demonstrated Turkey’s willingness to step up and do the right thing for the world community.”

“THE BLACK SEA GRAIN INITIATIVE RELIEVED HUNGER”

Flake stated that Russia’s reasons for withdrawing from the Black Sea Grain Initiative were just excuses and made the following assessments:

* “Basically, Russia’s grain and fertilizer exports were at or near record highs when the Black Sea Grain Initiative was in force. Russia’s decision to abandon the Black Sea Grains Initiative raises the price of its own exported food and increases its income; it forces the rest of the world to deal with high food prices and puts the most vulnerable people at greater risk of famine. These are economic facts.

* There is great pain behind these events, which Russia recklessly manipulated to justify its attacks. The Black Sea Grains Initiative has alleviated distress and hunger around the world. The American people express their gratitude to Turkey, the UN, and the countries that are trying to ensure that there is enough food in the world for everyone. I am confident that Turkey will continue its critical leadership role in upholding global food security.” (DHA)