Context :

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan on September 4 said he was confident Russia would “soon” revive the Black Sea grain deal, which was signed in July 2022 

Background: 

• Ukraine is a leading global exporter of food grains like wheat and corn.
• The country plays a significant role in the UN’s food aid programs.
• Russia’s attack on Ukraine and the blockade of its ports caused a surge in food prices.
• This situation has raised concerns about food security, particularly in poorer nations.
• To tackle the situation, the UN and Turkey, got Russia to agree to the Black Sea Grain Initiative.

The Black Sea Grain Deal :

• The Black Sea Grain Deal, initiated in July 2022, was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey. 
• Its primary objective is to address a global food crisis that worsened due to Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and the blockade of its Black Sea ports.

Key Provisions:

• Ports of Export: The agreement permits the export of food and fertiliser from three Ukrainian ports – Chornomorsk, Odessa, and Pivdennyi (Yuzhny).
• Coordination Center: A central control center, based in Istanbul and staffed by officials from the U.N., Turkey, Russia, and Ukraine, is envisioned to manage and coordinate the export process.
• Inspections: Ships are subjected to rigorous inspections to ensure they are not carrying weapons, ensuring secure transport.

Russia’s Concerns and Challenges: In July this year, Russia refused to extend the deal

• Unmet Promises: Russia argues that promises made under the Black Sea Grain Deal have not been fulfilled.
• Sanctions Impact: Western sanctions are said to be causing difficulties in exporting Russian agricultural products and fertilizers.
• Barriers to Exports: Although no direct restrictions exist on Russian agricultural goods, the country points to obstacles in payment platforms, insurance, shipping, and logistics that hinder its exports.

Global Impact:

• WFP Warning: The U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) warned that its ability to feed 125 million people was at risk because half of its grain supply comes from Ukraine.
• Dependency on Russia and Ukraine: Thirty-six countries, including some of the world’s most vulnerable, rely on Russia and Ukraine for more than half of their wheat imports. This dependence amplifies the consequences of disrupted grain exports from these nations.

Revival of deal : High Stakes for Both Nations

• Ukraine’s Vital Role: Ukraine’s grain exports are crucial for global food aid and maintaining stable food prices.
• Russia’s Dependency: Russia relies on agricultural exports and needs access to international markets.

Broader Implications and Hope:

• Global Food Security: Restoring the deal can alleviate food security concerns in regions like Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
• Reducing Tensions: It holds the potential to reduce Black Sea tensions, contributing to stability amid geopolitical complexities.

Conclusion:

The Black Sea Grain Deal’s future is uncertain. While Erdogan’s optimism is encouraging, addressing Russia’s sanctions concerns remains vital. The world closely watches, hoping diplomacy prevails for food security and regional stability.

News Source: The Indian Express