Diplomats are attempting to coordinate the safety of trade routes and energy facilities
India has initiated negotiations with Ukraine and the russian federation regarding the resumption of agricultural exports via the Black Sea. The initiative aims to guarantee the safety of commercial vessels and infrastructure. This was reported by The Moscow Times citing Bloomberg, according to the portal PromPolitInform.
Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar stated that his country has entered a more active phase of mediation in resolving the conflict. In addition to maritime security, the parties are discussing energy supplies and methods for ending hostilities without the use of armed force.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha confirmed that the Indian plan is currently considered the most comprehensive among the four existing proposals. The initiative provides for a mutual cessation of attacks on energy infrastructure and the security of free passage for commercial vessels.
During the UN General Assembly in September, representatives from Turkey, the US, Egypt, and European nations discussed the format of a potential agreement. Turkey, in coordination with the UN, is preparing for new consultations involving the conflicting parties to reach an agreement on a ceasefire in the sea region.
Experts at CRM AgriCommodities point out that the diplomatic process could take several months. A full restoration of exports would help stabilize food prices, while continued blockades would keep wheat costs at a high level.
Illustrative photo: WeedNoon / CC BY-SA 4.0
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