UN thanks Turkey for "Black Sea Grain Initiative"

In a statement made by the United Nations, it was stated that Turkey was thanked for the efforts it made for the Black Sea Grain Initiative and that the food products exported under the agreement continued to make significant contributions to global food security. Martin Griffiths, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator of the United Nations (UN), expressed his gratitude to Turkey for the "effort, energy and determination" it made for the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Griffiths spoke at the UN Security Council session where the humanitarian situation in Ukraine was discussed. Sharing the information that while Ukraine was coming out of a difficult winter, civilian casualties in the country had reached the highest level in recent months, Griffiths drew attention to the fact that according to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the civilian death toll had reached 23,600 since February 24, 2022, but the real numbers could be much higher. Griffiths stated that the humanitarian impact of Russia's attack on Ukraine was immense and that the UN and humanitarian workers and partners continued to provide life-saving aid. Noting that approximately 3.6 million people received humanitarian aid in the first quarter of this year, Griffiths stressed that they still face some obstacles to delivering aid and that “more” is needed. Griffiths said that food products exported under the Black Sea Grain Initiative continue to make a significant contribution to global food security. Stating that more than 30 million tons of cargo have been exported safely from Ukrainian ports thanks to the initiative, Griffiths noted that 55 percent of this has reached developing countries and 6 percent has reached the least developed countries. Griffiths stated that according to the latest data from the UN’s Rome-based Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), global grain prices have fallen by 20 percent in the last 12 months, and said, “This is undeniable progress, but more must be done. Predictable supply must be ensured for humanitarian food aid operations.” Griffiths, who stated that intensive talks have been held in recent weeks to extend the initiative and develop it for more effective operation, said, "The continuation of the Black Sea Grain Initiative is of great importance. We call on all parties to fulfill their responsibilities so that the operation runs smoothly and effectively. The world is watching us." Griffiths, who recalled that Turkey, which also played a key role in the launch of the initiative, hosted the last talks in Istanbul, said, "I would like to thank Turkey for the effort, energy and determination they have put into continuing this initiative."